### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stáchys**, represented by `{{G4719}}`, refers to **a head of grain (as standing out from the stalk)**. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily in the Gospels. This term specifically denotes the part of a cereal plant that contains the kernels, a key stage in agricultural development.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4719}}` appears in two distinct contexts. First, it is used metaphorically in the parable of the growing seed, where it represents a crucial stage of maturation: "first the **blade**, then the **ear**, after that the full **corn** in the **ear**" [[Mark 4:28]]. Second, it is used literally in the accounts of Jesus's disciples walking through fields on the Sabbath. Being hungry, they began to **pluck** the **ears of corn** to eat, leading to a confrontation with the Pharisees about Sabbath observance ([[Matthew 12:1]], [[Mark 2:23]], [[Luke 6:1]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader agricultural and narrative context for `{{G4719}}`:
* `{{G4702}}` **spórimos** (a planted field): This word describes the setting, the "corn fields" through which Jesus and his disciples walked when they plucked the ears of corn [[Luke 6:1]].
* `{{G5089}}` **tíllō** (to pull off, pluck): This is the specific action the disciples performed on the **ears of corn** `{{G4719}}` when they were hungry [[Matthew 12:1]].
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): This word describes the disciples' purpose for plucking the ears, as they did so in order to **eat** [[Luke 6:1]].
* `{{G5528}}` **chórtos** (blade, grass, hay): This term denotes the initial stage of growth that comes before the **ear** `{{G4719}}` appears, as described in the parable of the seed [[Mark 4:28]].
* `{{G4621}}` **sîtos** (grain, wheat): This is the mature grain that fills the **ear** `{{G4719}}`, representing the final product of the growth cycle [[Mark 4:28]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4719}}` is primarily illustrative, used to teach about natural processes and spiritual principles.
* **A Symbol of Growth and Progression:** Its most powerful use is in the parable of the growing seed, where the **ear** is a vital intermediate step between the initial "blade" and the "full corn." This highlights a divine principle of gradual, orderly development in the kingdom of God [[Mark 4:28]].
* **Source of Physical Sustenance:** In the Sabbath narratives, the **ears of corn** serve as a direct source of food for the hungry disciples, demonstrating how the natural world provides for basic human needs [[Matthew 12:1]].
* **A Stage Before Harvest:** The **ear** represents potential and developing maturity. It is not yet the final harvest but is a visible promise of the grain to come, symbolizing a stage of spiritual development that precedes full fruitfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4719}}` is a specific agricultural term for a **head of grain** that carries both literal and figurative weight. It is used in narratives to describe a source of food and in parables to illustrate the non-negotiable stages of growth. Whether describing a literal meal for the disciples or the maturation of God's kingdom, **stáchys** effectively communicates a key moment of development between initial sprouting and final harvest.
TRV