ξηραίνω

I dry up, parch, ripen

Definition

The verb ξηραίνω primarily means 'to dry up' or 'to wither,' describing the process by which something loses moisture and vitality. In the New Testament, it is used literally for physical drying or withering, such as plants without roots (Matthew 13:6, Mark 4:6) or a fig tree (Matthew 21:19-20). It also describes medical conditions, like a withered hand (Mark 3:1, 3) or a hemorrhage drying up (Mark 5:29). Figuratively, it can imply being wasted away or deprived of life, as in the case of a spirit causing a boy to become rigid (Mark 9:18).

Biblical Usage

This word appears 16 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke). It is used in various contexts: agricultural parables about plants withering (Matthew 13:6, Mark 4:6), miraculous healings involving withered limbs (Mark 3:1-3), the supernatural drying of a hemorrhage (Mark 5:29), and the cursing of a fig tree (Matthew 21:19-20). The usage often highlights contrasts between life and death, health and infirmity, or fruitfulness and barrenness.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek adjective ξηρός (xēros, G3584), meaning 'dry' or 'withered.' The verb form ξηραίνω literally means 'to make dry' or 'to become dry.' It is a common Greek term with cognates in other Indo-European languages, reflecting a basic concept of desiccation. In biblical usage, its meaning extends from physical drying to metaphorical withering or wasting.

Semantic Range

Ξηραίνω is theologically significant as it often illustrates the power of Jesus over decay and death. In healings (e.g., the withered hand in Mark 3:1-3), it demonstrates His authority to restore what is lifeless, symbolizing spiritual renewal. In parables (e.g., the withered plant in Matthew 13:6), it warns against shallow faith that cannot endure trial. The cursing of the fig tree (Matthew 21:19-20) uses withering as a sign of divine judgment on fruitlessness, enriching understanding of Jesus' teachings on judgment and faithfulness.

In the ancient Mediterranean, drying or withering was a direct threat to agrarian life, where crops and trees were vital for survival. A withered hand or limb in that culture often meant inability to work, leading to social and economic marginalization. The rapid withering of the fig tree (Matthew 21:19-20) would have been seen as a dramatic, supernatural sign, as fig trees were valued for their shade and fruit. This cultural backdrop amplifies the word's impact in narratives of healing and judgment.

αὐαίνω (auainō, G3583) — a less common synonym also meaning 'to dry up,' used in James 1:11 for grass withering; μαραίνω (marainō, G3133) — means 'to fade away' or 'wither,' often used figuratively for transience, as in James 1:11.

Word Details

Scripture References