ἄνηθον (anēthon)
anēthon
dill
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun anēthon refers to a plant known in English as dill or sometimes anise, used both as a spice and for medicinal purposes. It appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Matthew 23:23, where Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for tithing this small herb while neglecting more important matters of justice and mercy.
The word likely has a foreign origin, with ancient Greek dialects showing variations like anēson or anēton. Its singular occurrence highlights how even minor ritual observances could become a distraction from the weightier aspects of faith. Translators typically render it "dill," reflecting its common use in first-century Jewish households for flavoring and health.
This brief mention serves as a concrete example of Jesus’ concern with inner righteousness over external compliance. By naming such a specific, everyday item, the text underscores how spiritual priorities should guide even the smallest details of life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word anēthon refers to dill, a small herb common in first-century kitchens. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus mentions it alongside mint and cumin. The religious leaders of that time were meticulous about tithing even the smallest seeds from their gardens. They believed that strict adherence to these minor rules demonstrated their devotion to God.
This passage challenges us to examine our own priorities. It is easy to focus on visible acts of piety while neglecting the deeper call to justice and mercy. Jesus does not forbid caring for details, but He warns against letting them replace what truly matters. True faith integrates both obedience to God's commands and compassion for others.
When we feel overwhelmed by the need to be perfect in every small thing, this verse offers a gentle correction. It invites us to look at the heart behind our actions. We are called to balance our duties with love, ensuring that our spiritual practices lead to a life that reflects God's character to those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- dill1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἄνηθον1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 23:23
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cumin, and have left undone the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faith. But you ought to have done these, and not to have left the other undone.
This is the only New Testament occurrence of the word, where Jesus uses it to illustrate how meticulous attention to minor ritual details can distract from weightier moral obligations like justice and mercy.