Matthew 13:6

And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

And {G1161} when the sun {G2246} was up {G393}, they were scorched {G2739}; and {G2532} because {G1223} they had {G2192} no {G3361} root {G4491}, they withered away {G3583}.

but when the sun had risen, the young plants were scorched; and since their roots were not deep, they dried up.

But when the sun rose, the seedlings were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.

and when the sun was risen, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

Commentary

Matthew 13:6 is a pivotal verse within Jesus' Parable of the Sower, illustrating the fate of seeds sown on stony ground. It describes how plants, initially sprouting quickly, fail to endure when faced with the harsh realities of the sun's heat due to a lack of deep roots.

Context

This verse is part of the extensive teaching found in Matthew chapter 13, where Jesus uses parables to explain the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. The Parable of the Sower describes four types of soil, representing different responses to the "word of the kingdom." Matthew 13:6 specifically details the second type of soil—the stony ground—where seeds germinate rapidly because there is little earth, but cannot establish deep roots. This scenario is also recounted in parallel passages like Mark 4:5-6 and Luke 8:6.

Key Themes

  • Superficial Faith: The verse highlights the danger of a shallow or superficial commitment to faith. While there might be initial enthusiasm, the absence of depth prevents genuine endurance.
  • The Importance of Spiritual Roots: The "root" symbolizes a deep, abiding connection to God's Word and a firm foundation in Christ. Without this spiritual depth, faith cannot withstand adversity. This concept echoes the importance of being rooted and built up in Him.
  • Testing and Tribulation: The "sun" represents trials, persecutions, or difficulties that arise because of one's faith. Just as physical plants need strong roots to survive heat, spiritual life requires depth to navigate hardship.
  • Perseverance: The ultimate message underscores the necessity of perseverance in faith, not just initial acceptance. Those with shallow roots "wither away," indicating a failure to endure.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "they were scorched" comes from the Greek word ekaymatisthe (ἐκαυματίσθη), meaning to be burned or intensely heated. This vividly portrays the destructive power of the sun on plants without sufficient root systems. The phrase "no root" (ῥίζαν οὐκ ἔχοντα - rhizan ouk echonta) directly emphasizes the core problem: a lack of foundational depth. Their immediate "withered away" (ἐξηράνθη - exeranthe) signifies a rapid drying up and dying, illustrating the swift collapse of faith when it lacks true substance.

Practical Application

For believers today, Matthew 13:6 serves as a powerful call to self-examination. It prompts us to consider the depth of our faith. Are we simply responding emotionally to the Gospel, or are we actively cultivating a deep, resilient spiritual life? This involves consistent engagement with God's Word, prayer, and community, allowing our faith to become deeply rooted. When trials inevitably come, as James 1:2 reminds us, a deep root system enables us to endure, grow, and bear fruit, rather than withering under pressure. It encourages us to build our spiritual house on a firm foundation.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 13:21

    Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

  • James 1:11

    For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.

  • James 1:12

    Blessed [is] the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

  • Luke 8:13

    They on the rock [are they], which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.

  • Ephesians 3:17

    That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

  • Colossians 1:23

    If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and [be] not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, [and] which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

  • Isaiah 49:10

    They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.
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