Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for uncovering the full depth of meaning in scripture. The word κύμινον (kymīnon), first appearing in Matthew 23:23, is particularly significant because it represents more than just a common spice. It becomes a symbol of legalistic righteousness in the New Testament, where Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their overemphasis on minor laws, like tithing spices such as cumin, while neglecting weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Exploring the meaning of κύμινον not only gives us a glimpse into daily life and religious practices in ancient Judea but also deepens our understanding of the cultural and theological context of the Gospels.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κύμινον (kymīnon) [KOO-mee-non]
Etymology: The word κύμινον is derived directly from the Semitic languages, likely through Hebrew or Aramaic. It refers to “cumin,” a small herbaceous plant whose seeds were widely used in ancient cooking and medicine. The use of cumin in the Greek-speaking world came primarily from its association with trade and cultural exchange with the Eastern Mediterranean.

Part of Speech: Noun (neuter). κύμινον is a second-declension noun in Greek. It is often used to denote a concrete noun, referring specifically to a tangible item—the spice cumin. Its grammatical role in a sentence depends on its case, number, and function.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: Cumin (the spice)
The primary and most literal meaning of κύμινον is “cumin,” a small, aromatic spice commonly used in cooking and medicine in the ancient world. Cumin was highly valued for its pungent flavor and was considered an essential spice in many ancient Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.

Meaning 2: Metaphor for Minor Concerns
In a metaphorical sense, κύμινον is used in Matthew 23:23 to highlight the Pharisees’ focus on minute details of the Law, such as tithing cumin, while missing the more profound ethical requirements of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Here, κύμινον symbolizes a misplaced focus on minor religious duties at the expense of more substantial spiritual commitments.

Exploring Similar Words

ἄνηθον (anēthon) [AH-nee-thon]: Refers to “dill,” another plant whose seeds were used for tithing purposes in ancient Judaic practices. Like cumin, it is mentioned in the context of meticulous religious observance, but with a different flavor profile and cultural usage.

σῖτος (sitos) [SEE-tos]: Means “grain” or “wheat,” and while it is also a type of food item, its broader use in agricultural contexts contrasts with κύμινον, which is a more specific spice.

πήγανον (pēganon) [PAY-ga-non]: Refers to “rue,” a bitter herb also mentioned alongside cumin in the Gospels. It differs from κύμινον in that it was used more for medicinal than culinary purposes.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: κύμινον is a neuter noun following the second declension pattern. It appears in singular or plural forms and changes its ending based on its grammatical role in a sentence (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).
• Declension: The declension of κύμινον is as follows:

For a more detailed explanation of Greek declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term κύμινον is referenced across various Greek lexicons as a plant whose seeds were tithed in ancient Judaic law. The lexicons agree that κύμινον reflects the meticulous care given to minor legal requirements, contrasting with the neglect of more substantial moral obligations. In New Testament contexts, this word takes on a broader metaphorical meaning, critiquing religious formalism. Classical references to κύμινον highlight its economic and cultural value as a spice in trade and everyday life, which underscores its relevance in Jesus’ teaching about the Pharisees’ misplaced priorities.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 23:23: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin [κύμινον], and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κύμινον (kymīnon) provides a fascinating insight into the cultural and theological themes of the New Testament. As both a literal spice and a metaphor for misplaced religious priorities, it emphasizes the need for balance between religious observance and moral integrity. Understanding κύμινον in its biblical and classical contexts reveals its layered meanings, from an everyday commodity in ancient trade to a powerful symbol of Pharisaic legalism criticized by Jesus.

Did You Know?

• Did you know? Cumin was not only a common spice but also used in ancient medicine to aid digestion and treat ailments.
• Did you know? The tithing of cumin, along with other small herbs, was seen as a sign of meticulous religious devotion among the Pharisees.
• Did you know? Cumin is mentioned in ancient texts like the Septuagint, illustrating its long-standing importance in the Mediterranean diet and agriculture.