### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phýllon**, represented by `{{G5444}}`, literally means **leaf**. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning to sprout, it refers to the leaf of a plant or tree.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G5444}}` is consistently associated with the **fig tree** `{{G4808}}`. In a parable, Jesus teaches that when a fig tree’s **branch** `{{G2798}}` becomes tender and **putteth forth** `{{G1631}}` **leaves**, it is a sign that **summer** `{{G2330}}` is **nigh** `{{G1451}}` ([[Matthew 24:32]], [[Mark 13:28]]). The word is also used to signify a lack of fruitfulness. Jesus approaches a fig tree with **leaves** but finds no **fruit** `{{G2590}}`, leading him to declare it will no longer bear fruit [[Matthew 21:19]]. In a parallel account, it is noted that when he found only **leaves**, it was not the season for **figs** `{{G4810}}` [[Mark 11:13]]. In Revelation, the **leaves** of the tree of life are for the **healing** `{{G2322}}` of the nations [[Revelation 22:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning of **phýllon**:
* `{{G1631}}` **ekphýō** (to sprout up): This verb describes the action of a branch that **putteth forth** leaves, directly linking the emergence of leaves to the arrival of a new season [[Matthew 24:32]].
* `{{G4808}}` **sykē** (a fig-tree): This is the specific type of tree on which **leaves** are observed in every Gospel account, serving as the subject of parables about signs and fruitlessness [[Mark 11:13]].
* `{{G2590}}` **karpós** (fruit): This word is frequently contrasted with **phýllon**. The presence of leaves without **fruit** is a sign of barrenness, as seen when Jesus found "leaves only" on a fig tree [[Matthew 21:19]].
* `{{G2798}}` **kládos** (a twig or bough): The **leaves** sprout from the **branch** of the fig tree, which serves as the direct indicator of the changing season [[Mark 13:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5444}}` is demonstrated through its symbolic use:
* **Indicator of Seasons:** The appearance of **leaves** on a fig tree serves as a clear, natural sign that **summer** is near, used as an analogy for discerning the signs of the times ([[Matthew 24:32]], [[Mark 13:28]]).
* **Symbol of Barrenness:** In the narrative of the fig tree, **leaves** represent an outward show of life that lacks substance or **fruit** `{{G2590}}`. The tree has the appearance of health but fails to fulfill its purpose [[Matthew 21:19]].
* **Agent of Restoration:** Contrasting with its use in the Gospels, **phýllon** takes on a powerful, positive meaning in Revelation. The **leaves** of the tree of life provide **healing** `{{G2322}}` for the nations, symbolizing ultimate restoration and life [[Revelation 22:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5444}}` moves beyond its literal meaning of **leaf** to become a potent biblical symbol. It illustrates the critical difference between outward appearance and true fruitfulness in the Gospels, while in Revelation, it points to the final, restorative **healing** available to the nations through the tree of life. The word demonstrates how a simple natural element can convey profound theological truths about discernment, judgment, and redemption.
TRV