### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ánthos**, represented by `{{G438}}`, is a primary word that means **flower** or blossom. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. In each instance, it is used metaphorically to represent something that is beautiful yet fragile and temporary, destined to fade away.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G438}}` consistently serves as a powerful symbol of the fleeting nature of human life and worldly status. Peter uses this imagery to contrast the temporary nature of humanity with the eternal Word of God, stating that "all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the **flower** of grass" [[1 Peter 1:24]]. Similarly, James employs the metaphor to illustrate the impermanence of wealth, explaining that the rich man will "pass away" like the **flower** of the grass [[James 1:10]]. This imagery is further detailed when James describes how the sun's burning heat withers the grass, causing the **flower** to fall and its grace to perish [[James 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help build the context for the fleeting nature symbolized by `{{G438}}`:
* `{{G5528}}` **chórtos** (grass): Defined as herbage or vegetation, this word is always paired with **ánthos** to create the image of the "flower of grass," emphasizing the flower's humble and temporary foundation [[1 Peter 1:24]].
* `{{G3583}}` **xēraínō** (withereth): This word, meaning "to desiccate," describes the action that leads to the flower's demise, as in "The grass **withereth**" [[1 Peter 1:24]], directly causing the flower to fall.
* `{{G1601}}` **ekpíptō** (falleth away): Meaning "to drop away," this verb describes the ultimate fate of the flower, completing the picture of its transient life. It is used in both passages to describe the flower's end ([[1 Peter 1:24]], [[James 1:11]]).
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (rich man): This word for a wealthy person is the specific subject James compares to the fading flower, highlighting that material wealth is as temporary as a blossom [[James 1:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G438}}` is centered on the theme of impermanence versus eternity.
* **The Frailty of "All Flesh":** The flower serves as a universal symbol for the temporary nature of all human life and "the glory of man." It reminds the reader that physical existence, like a blossom, quickly fades [[1 Peter 1:24]].
* **The Transience of Riches:** James specifically uses the flower to caution against placing hope in material wealth. The **rich man** `{{G4145}}` is told he will "fade away" in his pursuits, just as a flower perishes under the heat of the sun [[James 1:11]].
* **Fleeting Outward Beauty:** The "grace of the fashion of it" is said to perish along with the flower [[James 1:11]]. This highlights the idea that external beauty and appearance are temporary and lack eternal substance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G438}}` is far more than a simple botanical term. It is a consistent and poignant biblical metaphor for the brevity and fragility of human life, glory, and wealth. Through the image of a flower that blossoms and quickly withers, scripture teaches a profound lesson about the wisdom of valuing eternal things over the temporary beauty of the world.
TRV