### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekrizóō**, represented by `{{G1610}}`, means **to uproot** or **pluck up by the root**. It is formed from the Greek words ἐκ and ῥιζόω. This term appears only **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, indicating a highly specific and powerful meaning related to complete removal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1610}}` illustrates concepts of judgment, faith, and agricultural care. Jesus uses the term to declare that any plant not planted by the heavenly Father "shall be **rooted up**" [[Matthew 15:13]], signifying a divine removal of what is not of God. In the Parable of the Tares, caution is urged against gathering the tares prematurely, lest the wheat also be **rooted up** [[Matthew 13:29]]. The word demonstrates the power of faith in Luke's Gospel, where Jesus explains that faith could command a tree to be **plucked up by the root** [[Luke 17:6]]. Finally, it is used metaphorically in Jude to describe false teachers as fruitless trees that are "twice dead, **plucked up by the roots**" [[Jude 1:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the actions of uprooting and planting:
* `{{G5452}}` **phyteúō** (plant): Defined as to set out in the earth or implant. This word acts as a direct counterpart to `{{G1610}}`, establishing what can later be uprooted. For example, whatever the Father has not **planted** will be rooted up [[Matthew 15:13]].
* `{{G4816}}` **syllégō** (gather): Meaning to collect or gather. This word is used in close connection with uprooting, as in the Parable of the Tares where servants ask if they should go and **gather** the tares, but are warned not to root up the wheat in the process [[Matthew 13:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1610}}` is centered on the idea of definitive separation and power.
* **Divine Judgment:** The act of being "rooted up" is a powerful image for the final judgment and removal of all that is not of God, whether it be false teachings or ungodly people ([[Matthew 15:13]], [[Jude 1:12]]).
* **Sovereign Power:** The ability to **uproot** a deeply rooted tree is used as a metaphor for the immense power available through faith, capable of overturning what seems permanent [[Luke 17:6]].
* **Preservation of the Righteous:** The command *not* to **root up** the wheat highlights God's patience and desire to preserve His people, ensuring they are not harmed before the final harvest [[Matthew 13:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1610}}` is a potent term that conveys more than simple removal. It signifies a complete and final separation from a foundational source, whether that is the earth for a plant or God for a believer. Its rare usage in scripture underscores the gravity of its meaning, representing the absolute power of faith, the finality of divine judgment, and the careful preservation of the righteous.
TRV