### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **psṓchō**, represented by `{{G5597}}`, refers to the specific action to **rub**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term's base definition is to triturate, or to rub out kernels from their husks using one's fingers or hand, highlighting a simple, manual act of preparing grain for consumption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G5597}}` is found in a narrative where Jesus and his disciples are walking through corn fields on the Sabbath. His disciples `{{G3101}}` began to pluck `{{G5089}}` the ears of corn `{{G4719}}` and eat them. To prepare the grain, they were **rubbing** it in their hands `{{G5495}}`, an act which separated the edible kernel from the inedible husk [[Luke 6:1]]. This action, though simple, became a point of controversy regarding Sabbath observance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the context of this singular event:
* `{{G5089}}` **tíllō** (to pull off): This describes the initial action of the disciples. Before they could rub the grain, they had to first **pluck** the ears of corn from the stalks [[Luke 6:1]].
* `{{G4719}}` **stáchys** (a head of grain): This is the object that was both plucked and rubbed. It specifies what the disciples were harvesting by hand to eat [[Luke 6:1]].
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (the hand): The verse explicitly states that the disciples performed the rubbing action in their **hands**, emphasizing the manual and immediate nature of their work to satisfy their hunger [[Luke 6:1]].
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): This was the ultimate purpose of plucking and rubbing the grain. The disciples were not harvesting for storage but preparing a small amount to **eat** right away [[Luke 6:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5597}}` is derived entirely from its context. The simple act of rubbing grain becomes a focal point for a profound teaching moment.
* **Sabbath Controversy:** The act of **rubbing** grain was considered a form of work (threshing) by religious leaders, and doing so on the Sabbath `{{G4521}}` was seen as a violation of the law. This action by the disciples directly challenged a rigid interpretation of the Sabbath rules [[Matthew 12:10]].
* **Human Need over Ritual:** The disciples' action was prompted by hunger. The narrative uses this simple, physical need to illustrate a greater principle: divine laws like the Sabbath were established for humanity's benefit, not as an inflexible burden. As seen in a parallel account, "The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath" [[Mark 2:27]].
* **Action as Catalyst:** The specific action of **rubbing** grain served as the catalyst for a broader discussion on Jesus's authority and the true purpose of the Law.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5597}}` is a highly specific term whose importance is magnified by its singular, strategic appearance. While the word itself simply means to **rub**, its context in [[Luke 6:1]] places it at the center of a key conflict in Jesus's ministry. It demonstrates how a mundane, physical act can carry immense theological weight, sparking a crucial debate about the purpose of the Sabbath, the priority of human need, and the authority of Christ over religious tradition.
TRV