### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phyteía**, represented by `{{G5451}}`, refers to a **plant**, such as a shrub or vegetable, and is derived from the concept of trans-planting. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G5451}}` is found in a declaration by Jesus in [[Matthew 15:13]]. Here, the word is used metaphorically: "Every **plant**, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up." In this context, the **plant** symbolizes something whose origin is not from God. Its fate is explicitly stated to be removal, establishing a clear distinction between what is divinely established and what is not.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the agricultural and spiritual context of **phyteía**:
* `{{G5452}}` **phyteúō** (to set out in the earth, i.e. implant; figuratively, to instil doctrine:--plant): As the root verb, it describes the action of planting. This is seen directly in [[Matthew 15:13]], where the Father has not **planted** the illegitimate growth, and in the ministry context of [[1 Corinthians 3:6]] where it is stated, "I have **planted**."
* `{{G1610}}` **ekrizóō** (to uproot:--pluck up by the root, root up): This word describes the consequence for the plant not set by the Father. It signifies a complete and forceful removal, as stated in [[Matthew 15:13]]: "shall be **rooted up**."
* `{{G3770}}` **ouránios** (celestial, i.e. belonging to or coming from the sky:--heavenly): This adjective specifies the origin of the one who does the legitimate planting. Authority for true growth comes from the **heavenly** Father, distinguishing His work from all others [[Matthew 15:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5451}}` stems entirely from its single, powerful use:
* **Divine Origin as Legitimacy:** The core teaching is that only what is planted by the **heavenly** Father (`{{G3770}}` `{{G3962}}`) is legitimate and intended to remain. Any other **plant** `{{G5451}}`, lacks a divine foundation.
* **Figurative Representation of Doctrine:** The related verb **phyteúō** `{{G5452}}` is defined as figuratively meaning to "instil doctrine." This suggests that the **plant** in [[Matthew 15:13]] can be understood as a teaching or tradition not sourced from God.
* **The Inevitability of Judgment:** The fate of the unauthorized **plant** is not decay but active removal. It "shall be **rooted up**" `{{G1610}}`, signifying a decisive act of divine judgment against that which is not of God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5451}}` **phyteía** is a term whose significance far outweighs its frequency. Used just once, it serves as a potent metaphor for that which lacks divine origin. Its meaning is framed by the actions of planting (**phyteúō**) and uprooting (**ekrizóō**), and its value is determined solely by its source: the **heavenly** Father. The word powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that only what God establishes will ultimately stand.
TRV