### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **spodós**, represented by `{{G4700}}`, is defined as **ashes**. It appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, yet it is used to convey two distinct and significant biblical concepts: deep repentance and ceremonial purification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G4700}}` is used as a symbol of profound repentance and mourning. Jesus pronounces a **woe** `{{G3759}}` upon the unrepentant cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida, stating that if the mighty works done there had occurred in Tyre and Sidon, "they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and **ashes**" [[Matthew 11:21]]. This is reiterated in a parallel account where they would have "repented, sitting in sackcloth and **ashes**" [[Luke 10:13]]. In contrast, the book of Hebrews presents **ashes** in a ceremonial context. It describes how "the **ashes** of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh" [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4700}}` in its contexts:
* `{{G4526}}` **sákkos** (sackcloth): This garment, worn as a sign of grief, is paired directly with **ashes** to illustrate an outward expression of repentance ([[Matthew 11:21]], [[Luke 10:13]]).
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (repent): This word, meaning to think differently or feel compunction, describes the inner state that is outwardly demonstrated by sitting in sackcloth and **ashes** ([[Matthew 11:21]], [[Luke 10:13]]).
* `{{G1151}}` **dámalis** (heifer): This is the specific source of the **ashes** used in the ritual described in Hebrews, which are used for ceremonial cleansing [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy): This is the result of the ceremonial act involving **ashes**, which serves to "purify or consecrate" [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4700}}` is expressed in its symbolic roles.
* **Emblem of Repentance:** The combination of **ashes** and sackcloth represents the ultimate physical posture of grief and a turning away from sin. It is the visible sign of one who has chosen to **repent** `{{G3340}}` in response to a divine call ([[Matthew 11:21]], [[Luke 10:13]]).
* **Agent of Ceremonial Cleansing:** In the context of the Law, **ashes** are not merely symbolic but are an active element in rituals for **purification** `{{G2514}}`. The **ashes** of a heifer `{{G1151}}` are shown to **sanctify** `{{G37}}` and provide for the purification of the **flesh** `{{G4561}}` for one who is ceremonially **unclean** `{{G2840}}` [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4700}}` is a term whose significance extends far beyond its simple definition of **ashes**. Though rare in scripture, it serves as a powerful illustration of two key spiritual themes. It embodies both the humble, outward sign of human repentance and a sacred component used in God's prescribed system of ceremonial purification.
TRV