### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phthinopōrinós**, represented by `{{G5352}}`, describes something that is **autumnal**, as in stripped of leaves. Its base definition is translated as "whose fruit withereth." This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5352}}` is in Jude's sharp rebuke of false teachers. He describes them using a series of vivid metaphors, comparing them to "trees **whose fruit withereth**, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots" [[Jude 1:12]]. In this context, the word portrays these individuals as being like trees in late autumn, which not only have no fruit to offer but are in a state of decay, having passed the season of productivity and entered a phase of death.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its context in [[Jude 1:12]] help illuminate the meaning of `{{G5352}}`:
* `{{G1186}}` **déndron**: This is the word for a **tree**, the object being described as autumnal and fruitless [[Jude 1:12]].
* `{{G175}}` **ákarpos**: Meaning **barren** or **unfruitful**, this word immediately follows `{{G5352}}` to emphasize the complete lack of spiritual product from the false teachers [[Jude 1:12]].
* `{{G1364}}` **dís**: Defined as **twice**, this adverb is used to intensify the state of the trees as being "twice dead," suggesting a profound and irreversible spiritual death [[Jude 1:12]].
* `{{G1610}}` **ekrizóō**: This verb means **to uproot**. It completes the metaphor by describing the final state of these trees as being completely "plucked up by the roots," signifying their ultimate judgment and separation from any source of life [[Jude 1:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5352}}` is concentrated in its powerful metaphorical application.
* **Spiritual Barrenness:** The term vividly portrays the spiritual condition of false teachers. They exist within the community, participating in "feasts of charity" [[Jude 1:12]], yet they are like autumnal trees that produce nothing of value. They are **without fruit** `{{G175}}`.
* **Promise without Fulfillment:** Like clouds **without water** `{{G504}}` that are carried about by **winds** `{{G417}}`, these autumnal trees represent a failed promise. They have the appearance of teachers but offer no life-giving substance, only decay [[Jude 1:12]].
* **Irreversible Judgment:** The imagery progresses from barrenness `{{G5352}}` to being **twice** `{{G1364}}` **dead** `{{G599}}` and finally **plucked up by the roots** `{{G1610}}`. This indicates a state of finality, where there is no hope for future life or restoration.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5352}}` is a highly specific and potent word used once in Scripture to convey a powerful warning. While it literally means autumnal, its theological use in [[Jude 1:12]] paints a picture of false teachers who are spiritually dead, unproductive, and destined for judgment. It serves as a stark metaphor for a spiritual condition that is not merely lacking fruit, but is in an active state of withering and decay.
TRV