### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhíza**, represented by `{{G4491}}`, is the word for **"root"**. It appears **17 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. It is used both literally to refer to the part of a plant and figuratively to denote a source, foundation, or ancestor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4491}}` is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Literally, it describes the physical foundation of plants, as when an axe is laid to the **root** of the trees as a sign of judgment [[Matthew 3:10]], or when a plant withers because it has no **root** [[Mark 4:6]]. Figuratively, it points to the source or stability of a spiritual condition. A believer who lacks **root** in himself may fall away during tribulation [[Matthew 13:21]]. The term is also a significant Messianic title, identifying Jesus as the **Root** of David [[Revelation 5:5]] and the **root** of Jesse [[Romans 15:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the meaning of `{{G4491}}`:
* `{{G2798}}` **kládos** (a twig or bough): This word is used in direct contrast to **root**, particularly in the illustration of the olive tree. If the **root** is holy, so are the **branches** [[Romans 11:16]], and it is the **root** that bears the **branches**, not the other way around [[Romans 11:18]].
* `{{G1186}}` **déndron** (a tree): This term is often paired with **rhíza**. Judgment is pictured as an axe laid to the **root** of the **trees** that fail to produce good fruit [[Luke 3:9]].
* `{{G1085}}` **génos** (offspring, stock): Meaning **kin** or **offspring**, this word is used with **root** to describe Christ's dual nature in His lineage. He is both the **root** and the **offspring** of David, signifying He is the source as well as the promised descendant [[Revelation 22:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4491}}` is significant, highlighting several key themes:
* **Spiritual Foundation:** Having a **root** is a metaphor for stable, genuine faith. Those who receive the word but have no **root** endure only for a while before they fall away in the face of temptation or persecution [[Luke 8:13]].
* **Source of Good and Evil:** A **root** is presented as the origin from which things grow. The love of money is called "the **root** of all evil" [[1 Timothy 6:10]]. Conversely, a "root of bitterness" can spring up and defile many [[Hebrews 12:15]], while a holy **root** ensures holy branches [[Romans 11:16]].
* **Messianic Identity:** The term is a crucial title for Jesus, identifying Him as the promised King. He is the "the **Root** of David" who has prevailed [[Revelation 5:5]] and the "a **root** of Jesse" in whom the Gentiles will trust [[Romans 15:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4491}}` is a term with deep literal and figurative meaning. It functions as the physical anchor for a fig tree [[Mark 11:20]] and as the spiritual anchor for a believer's faith [[Mark 4:17]]. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the source of both corruption, such as a "root of bitterness" [[Hebrews 12:15]], and life, as seen in the life-giving **fatness** of the olive **root** [[Romans 11:17]]. Ultimately, it culminates in a key messianic title for Jesus, the **Root** of David, the source and fulfillment of God's covenant promises [[Revelation 22:16]].
TRV