Matthew 13:5

KJV

Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

KJV (with Strong's)

Some {G1161}{G243} fell {G4098} upon {G1909} stony places {G4075}, where {G3699} they had {G2192} not {G3756} much {G4183} earth {G1093}: and {G2532} forthwith {G2112} they sprung up {G1816}, because {G1223} they had {G2192} no {G3361} deepness {G899} of earth {G1093}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Other seed fell on rocky patches where there was not much soil. It sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow;

Berean Standard Bible

Some fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly because the soil was shallow.

American Standard Version

and others fell upon the rocky places, where they had not much earth: and straightway they sprang up, because they had no deepness of earth:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:5 describes the second type of soil in Jesus' Parable of the Sower, where seeds fall on "stony places." This particular ground, characterized by a shallow layer of earth over bedrock, allows for immediate germination but prevents the development of deep roots. The rapid, yet ultimately unsustainable, growth of these plants serves as a vivid illustration of those who receive the message of the Kingdom with initial enthusiasm but lack the profound spiritual depth and enduring commitment necessary to withstand adversity and bear lasting fruit.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 13:5 is an integral part of Jesus' seminal [Parable of the Sower](/matthew/13-3-9 "Matthew 13:3-9 - The Parable of the Sower"), which opens a significant discourse on the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven. This chapter, often called the "Parable Chapter" in Matthew, features seven parables, each illuminating different aspects of the Kingdom. The Sower parable itself is foundational, detailing various responses to the "word of the kingdom" ([Matthew 13:19](/matthew/13-19 "Matthew 13:19 - Explanation of the Sower Parable")). Verse 5 follows the description of seeds falling by the wayside ([Matthew 13:4](/matthew/13-4 "Matthew 13:4 - Seeds by the Wayside")) and precedes the seeds falling among thorns ([Matthew 13:7](/matthew/13-7 "Matthew 13:7 - Seeds Among Thorns")) and on good ground ([Matthew 13:8](/matthew/13-8 "Matthew 13:8 - Seeds on Good Ground")). Jesus later provides a detailed [explanation of this parable](/matthew/13-18-23 "Matthew 13:18-23 - Jesus Explains the Parable of the Sower") to His disciples, revealing the spiritual significance of each soil type.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Palestine's agricultural landscape often featured thin layers of topsoil covering extensive limestone bedrock, particularly in hilly regions like Galilee. Farmers would sow seeds broadly, and some would inevitably land on these "stony places" where the underlying rock prevented deep root penetration. The sun's heat would warm the shallow soil quickly, causing rapid germination, but the lack of moisture retention and inability to anchor deeply meant the young plants would wither under the intense Mediterranean sun. This common agricultural reality provided Jesus with a highly relatable and powerful metaphor for spiritual receptivity. His audience, largely agrarian, would have immediately grasped the physical implications, which then served as a gateway to understanding the profound spiritual truths about the Kingdom.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 13:5 contributes significantly to several key themes within the Parable of the Sower and the broader book of Matthew. The primary theme is **Receptivity to the Word of God**, illustrating how different "hearts" or "lives" respond to the gospel message. The "stony places" highlight the theme of **Superficiality and Lack of Depth**, where initial enthusiasm for the word is present, but true commitment and internal transformation are absent. This leads directly to the theme of **Lack of Endurance**, as the plants with no deep roots cannot withstand the "tribulation or persecution" that arises "because of the word" ([Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Test of Tribulation")). The rapid, yet fleeting, growth also underscores the theme of **Impermanence versus True Fruitfulness**, contrasting with the enduring, fruit-bearing nature of the seed sown on "good ground" ([Matthew 13:23](/matthew/13-23 "Matthew 13:23 - The Fruitful Ground")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **stony places (Greek, _petrṓdēs'_):** This term (G4075) is derived from "rock" and "form," literally meaning "rock-like" or "rocky." It does not merely imply soil with loose stones, but rather ground where bedrock is close to the surface, forming an impenetrable barrier for roots. This physical characteristic is crucial for understanding the spiritual analogy: it represents a heart that, despite initial openness, has underlying hardened areas that prevent the word from truly taking root and transforming the inner person.
* **earth (Greek, _gē'_):** The word (G1093) refers to "soil" or "ground." In this context, it specifically denotes the thin layer of topsoil that covers the bedrock. The problem is not the absence of earth, but the *lack of much* or *deepness* of it. This highlights that while there might be some superficial engagement with the word, there isn't enough spiritual "soil" for genuine, foundational growth and nourishment.
* **deepness (Greek, _báthos'_):** This word (G899) signifies "profundity" or "depth." Its absence ("no deepness of earth") is the core issue for the seed on stony ground. Spiritually, it points to a lack of profound understanding, conviction, or commitment. It's not enough to have the word on the surface; it must penetrate deeply into one's being to withstand the pressures of life and produce lasting spiritual fruit.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Some fell upon stony places":** This phrase introduces the second category of soil, immediately drawing the listener's attention to a common agricultural challenge. The "stony places" are not just rocky fields, but areas where a thin layer of topsoil covers solid bedrock, presenting a deceptive appearance of viability.
* **"where they had not much earth":** This clause clarifies the nature of the "stony places." The issue is the limited quantity and depth of the actual soil. This thinness prevents the seed from penetrating deeply enough to establish a robust root system, which is essential for long-term survival and growth.
* **"and forthwith they sprung up":** The term "forthwith" (G2112, _euthéōs'_) emphasizes the immediate and rapid germination of the seeds. The shallow soil, being close to the warm bedrock, heats up quickly, providing ideal initial conditions for sprouting. This swift emergence symbolizes a quick, enthusiastic, but superficial reception of the word.
* **"because they had no deepness of earth":** This final clause provides the crucial explanation for the plant's ultimate failure. The lack of "deepness" (G899, _báthos'_) in the soil prevents the roots from growing down, accessing sufficient moisture and nutrients, and anchoring the plant firmly. This physical limitation directly parallels the spiritual reality of those who lack deep spiritual roots, making them unable to endure when trials or opposition arise.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus' use of the **Parable** in Matthew 13:5 is a masterful teaching technique, employing a simple, relatable agricultural scenario to convey profound spiritual truths about the Kingdom of Heaven. The verse is rich in **Symbolism**: the "seed" represents the word of the kingdom, the "sower" is Jesus (or anyone proclaiming the word), and the "stony places" symbolize hearts that receive the word superficially. The rapid "springing up" is a **Metaphor** for quick, emotional, but shallow conversion, while the subsequent wilting due to "no deepness of earth" is a **Metaphor** for a lack of spiritual root and endurance. There is also an implicit **Contrast** with the good ground mentioned later in the parable, highlighting the difference between fleeting enthusiasm and genuine, enduring faith that produces fruit.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 13:5, through its depiction of the stony ground, underscores a critical theological truth: genuine faith requires depth and perseverance, not merely initial excitement. It challenges the superficiality that can characterize religious experience, emphasizing that true spiritual life must be rooted in a profound commitment to God's word, capable of withstanding the inevitable pressures and persecutions of life. This passage serves as a warning against a faith that is merely intellectual assent or emotional fervor without the transformative work of the Spirit creating a deep foundation. The theological implication is that God desires not just a quick response, but a lasting, resilient relationship that produces fruit.

* [Matthew 13:20-21](/matthew/13-20-21 "Matthew 13:20-21 - Jesus Explains the Stony Ground"): Jesus' own explanation of this soil type, revealing that it represents those who receive the word with joy but have no root, enduring only for a while until tribulation or persecution causes them to fall away.
* [Luke 8:13](/luke/8-13 "Luke 8:13 - The Stony Ground Explained"): Luke's parallel account further clarifies that those on the rock "believe for a while, and in time of temptation fall away."
* [Hebrews 3:12-14](/hebrews/3-12-14 "Hebrews 3:12-14 - Hold Fast Your Confidence"): This passage warns against an "evil heart of unbelief" and encourages believers to "hold fast the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end," directly addressing the need for endurance that the stony ground lacks.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:5 serves as a profound mirror for self-examination, prompting us to honestly assess the depth and resilience of our own faith. It challenges us to move beyond superficial engagement with the gospel and to cultivate a spiritual life that is deeply rooted in Christ and His word. Are we merely excited by the initial benefits or emotional highs of faith, or are we allowing the truth to penetrate the deepest parts of our being, transforming our character and worldview? The parable warns that a faith without deep roots cannot withstand the scorching heat of trials, temptations, or persecutions. True spiritual vitality comes from consistent nourishment from God's word, prayer, and community, allowing us to draw strength from unseen depths. This verse calls us to move from quick, ephemeral responses to a steadfast, enduring commitment that will bear fruit even amidst adversity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might my faith be "stony ground," lacking true depth and easily withered by external pressures?**
* **What practices can I cultivate to ensure my spiritual roots grow deeper, allowing God's word to truly transform me from the inside out?**
* **How do I respond when "tribulation or persecution arises because of the word"? Does my faith endure, or do I quickly become offended?**
* **Am I seeking genuine transformation and lasting fruitfulness, or am I content with a superficial, immediate experience of faith?**

### FAQ
**What exactly are "stony places" in this parable?**

Answer: In the context of ancient Palestinian agriculture, "stony places" (Greek: _petrōdēs'_) refers not to soil merely mixed with loose stones, but to areas where a thin layer of topsoil lies directly over solid limestone bedrock. This underlying rock prevents the roots of plants from penetrating deeply into the earth. While the shallow soil might allow for quick germination due to rapid heating, it cannot provide the necessary moisture, nutrients, or stability for the plant to thrive long-term, especially under the intense heat of the sun. Spiritually, it represents a heart that receives the word with initial joy but lacks true depth of conviction or a firm foundation.

**Why did the plants on the stony ground "forthwith spring up"?**

Answer: The phrase "forthwith they sprung up" (Greek: _euthéōs exanatéllō'_) highlights the immediate and rapid germination of the seeds. This quick growth is a direct consequence of the physical conditions of the stony ground: the shallow layer of earth, being close to the underlying bedrock, heats up very quickly under the sun. This warmth provides ideal conditions for rapid sprouting. Spiritually, this symbolizes a swift, enthusiastic, but ultimately superficial response to the word of God. It suggests an emotional or intellectual acceptance without the deep, transformative work of the Holy Spirit that establishes true spiritual roots. Jesus' explanation in [Matthew 13:20](/matthew/13-20 "Matthew 13:20 - The Stony Ground Explained") clarifies that such individuals "immediately receive it with joy," but their lack of root prevents lasting endurance.

**What is the main spiritual lesson Jesus teaches through the "stony places" in the parable?**

Answer: The primary spiritual lesson from the "stony places" is the critical importance of deep spiritual roots and genuine, enduring commitment in one's faith. Jesus explains that this soil represents those who hear the word and initially receive it with joy, but because they "have no root in themselves," their faith is temporary. When "tribulation or persecution arises because of the word," they quickly fall away ([Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Test of Faith")). The lesson is a warning against superficial faith that lacks the depth to withstand adversity. It emphasizes that true, saving faith is not just an emotional response or a fleeting enthusiasm, but a deep, abiding conviction that perseveres through challenges and ultimately bears fruit for the Kingdom of God, as exemplified by the "good ground" in [Matthew 13:23](/matthew/13-23 "Matthew 13:23 - The Fruitful Ground").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 13:5 primarily illustrates the human response to the word, its deeper Christ-centered fulfillment lies in how Jesus Himself embodies the "good ground" and, more importantly, how He provides the "deepness" that enables true spiritual endurance. Christ is the ultimate "sower" of the word, and His own life demonstrates perfect receptivity and unwavering commitment, even unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience")). For believers, the solution to the "stony ground" heart is found in being "rooted and built up in Him" ([Colossians 2:6-7](/colossians/2-6-7 "Colossians 2:6-7 - Rooted and Built Up in Christ")). He is the "living water" ([John 7:37-38](/john/7-37-38 "John 7:37-38 - Rivers of Living Water")) and the true "vine" ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in the Vine")), through whom believers draw the spiritual nourishment and stability necessary to develop deep roots and bear lasting fruit. The "deepness of earth" that the stony ground lacks is ultimately provided by the indwelling Holy Spirit, who enables believers to comprehend the "depth and breadth and height and length" of Christ's love ([Ephesians 3:17-19](/ephesians/3-17-19 "Ephesians 3:17-19 - Rooted and Grounded in Love")), ensuring their faith is not superficial but firmly grounded in Him, the Rock of their salvation ([1 Corinthians 10:4](/1_corinthians/10-4 "1 Corinthians 10:4 - Christ, the Spiritual Rock")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 11:19

And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh:

Ezekiel 36:26

A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

Zechariah 7:12

Yea, they made their hearts [as] an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the LORD of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the LORD of hosts.

Matthew 13:20

But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

Amos 6:12

Shall horses run upon the rock? will [one] plow [there] with oxen? for ye have turned judgment into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into hemlock: