Matthew 13:6

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:6, a crucial verse within Jesus' Parable of the Sower, vividly illustrates the precarious fate of the seed sown on stony ground. It describes how plants, which initially sprout with surprising speed due to shallow soil, are unable to withstand the intense heat of the sun, ultimately withering away because they lack the necessary depth of root to draw sufficient moisture and nourishment. This imagery serves as a profound spiritual metaphor for those who receive the "word of the kingdom" with initial enthusiasm but fail to develop a deep, enduring faith capable of persevering through trials and adversity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 13:6 is an integral part of the Parable of the Sower, which begins in [Matthew 13:1](/matthew/13-1 "Matthew 13:1 - Jesus Teaches by the Sea") and is one of several parables Jesus uses in this chapter to explain the "mysteries of the kingdom of heaven" ([Matthew 13:11](/matthew/13-11 "Matthew 13:11 - The Purpose of Parables")). The parable describes four types of soil, each representing a different response to the "word" (interpreted as the word of the kingdom in [Matthew 13:19](/matthew/13-19 "Matthew 13:19 - Explanation of the Parable of the Sower")). Specifically, [Matthew 13:5-6](/matthew/13-5-6 "Matthew 13:5-6 - The Stony Ground") focuses on the second type of soil—the stony ground—where the seed quickly germinates because there is little depth of earth, but then faces immediate peril. This segment is paralleled in [Mark 4:5-6](/mark/4-5-6 "Mark 4:5-6 - The Stony Ground in Mark's Gospel") and [Luke 8:6](/luke/8-6 "Luke 8:6 - The Stony Ground in Luke's Gospel"), indicating its significance in the Synoptic tradition. The subsequent explanation in [Matthew 13:20-21](/matthew/13-20-21 "Matthew 13:20-21 - Interpretation of the Stony Ground") directly interprets the "scorching" as tribulation or persecution and the lack of root as a temporary, superficial faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israel was an agrarian society, and farming practices were well understood by Jesus' audience. The process of sowing seeds, the types of soil, and the impact of weather were common knowledge. In the Galilean region, where Jesus often taught, rocky terrain with a thin layer of topsoil was prevalent. Farmers would often sow seeds broadcast, meaning some would inevitably fall on such stony patches. The climate in the Middle East is characterized by intense sunlight, especially after the spring rains. For a plant to thrive, it needed deep roots to access moisture and nutrients from beneath the surface, particularly as the sun grew stronger. A plant with shallow roots, unable to draw water from below, would quickly succumb to the heat and dry out. This agricultural reality provided a powerful and easily graspable analogy for spiritual truths, making the parable highly relatable to the everyday experiences of the listeners.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 13:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Matthew's Gospel and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **superficial faith versus genuine endurance**. While there may be an initial, enthusiastic reception of the word, the verse warns against a commitment that lacks depth and resilience. This directly contrasts with the good soil, which produces lasting fruit ([Matthew 13:8](/matthew/13-8 "Matthew 13:8 - The Good Soil")). Secondly, it highlights the **importance of spiritual depth and rootedness**. The "root" symbolizes a profound, abiding connection to God's word and a firm foundation in Christ, echoing teachings like those found in [Colossians 2:7](/colossians/2-7 "Colossians 2:7 - Rooted and Built Up in Christ"). Without this spiritual grounding, faith cannot withstand the inevitable challenges of life. Thirdly, the "sun" serves as a powerful symbol for **testing, tribulation, and persecution** that arise because of one's faith. Just as physical plants need strong roots to survive heat, spiritual life requires depth to navigate hardship, a concept explored further in passages like [James 1:2-4](/james/1-2-4 "James 1:2-4 - Enduring Trials"). Finally, the verse powerfully conveys the necessity of **perseverance** in faith, not merely initial acceptance. Those with shallow roots "wither away," indicating a failure to endure to the end, a theme crucial to discipleship throughout the New Testament.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sun (Greek, _hḗlios'_):** From G2246. This word refers to the celestial body that provides light and heat. In this context, the "sun" is not inherently evil, but its intense heat becomes destructive to plants lacking proper root systems. Symbolically, it represents the external pressures, trials, and persecutions that test the authenticity and depth of one's faith. Just as the sun is a natural and unavoidable part of the environment, so too are trials an inevitable part of the Christian walk.
* **scorched (Greek, _kaumatízō'_):** From G2739. This verb means "to burn" or "to be intensely heated." It vividly describes the immediate and devastating effect of the sun's rays on the shallow-rooted plants. The passive voice ("they were scorched") emphasizes that the plants are acted upon by an external force beyond their control. Spiritually, it signifies the intense suffering, discomfort, or pressure experienced when faith is challenged, leading to a quick collapse for those without deep spiritual reserves.
* **root (Greek, _rhíza'_):** From G4491. Literally, this refers to the underground part of a plant that anchors it and absorbs water and nutrients. Figuratively, as used here with the negation "no" (G3361, _mḗ_), it signifies the lack of a deep, foundational connection or internal spiritual resource. The absence of "root" is the primary cause of the plant's demise, highlighting that superficiality, rather than external pressure, is the true vulnerability. In a spiritual sense, it points to a lack of genuine conviction, spiritual discipline, or a deep relationship with God's word.
* **withered away (Greek, _xēraínō'_):** From G3583. This verb means "to desiccate," "to shrivel," or "to dry up." It describes the final, irreversible outcome for the plants that were scorched and lacked roots. The immediacy ("they withered away") suggests a rapid decline and demise. Spiritually, it represents the ultimate failure of a superficial faith to endure, leading to apostasy or a complete falling away when faced with adversity, rather than growing stronger through it.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when the sun was up, they were scorched;":** This clause describes the immediate consequence of the sun's rising on the seeds sown on stony ground. The sun, a source of life for deeply rooted plants, becomes an agent of destruction for those without adequate foundation. The plants, having sprouted quickly due to the shallow soil (which allowed rapid initial warmth and germination), are now exposed to intense heat without the means to sustain themselves. The passive "were scorched" highlights their vulnerability and the external force acting upon them.
* **"and because they had no root, they withered away.":** This second clause provides the crucial explanation for the scorching effect and the ultimate demise. The "because" (G1223, _diá_) establishes a direct causal link: the lack of a deep "root" is the fundamental reason for their failure. Without roots, they cannot draw moisture from deeper soil layers to counteract the sun's heat, leading to rapid desiccation and death. This emphasizes that the internal deficiency (lack of root) is the true problem, making them susceptible to external pressures (the sun).

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 13:6, as part of the Parable of the Sower, primarily employs **Allegory** and **Symbolism**. The entire parable functions as an allegory, where each element—the sower, the seed, and the different types of soil—represents a distinct spiritual reality. Within this allegorical framework, specific elements in verse 6 are highly **Symbolic**. The "sun" symbolizes trials, persecution, or affliction that arise because of the word. The "root" symbolizes the depth of one's faith, spiritual foundation, and ability to draw sustenance from God's word and Spirit. The act of "scorching" and "withering away" symbolizes the failure of superficial faith to endure under pressure, leading to a spiritual decline or apostasy. There is also an element of **Contrast** implicit in the parable's structure, as the fate of the shallow-rooted plants is contrasted with the good soil, which produces abundant fruit precisely because it allows for deep roots and sustained growth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 13:6 profoundly teaches us about the nature of genuine faith and the challenges to its endurance. It reveals that an initial enthusiastic response to the Gospel, while positive, is insufficient without the cultivation of deep spiritual roots. True faith is not merely intellectual assent or emotional excitement, but a profound, abiding connection to Christ that enables one to withstand the inevitable trials of life. The "sun" represents external pressures—persecution, tribulation, or simply the daily grind of life—that expose the superficiality of a faith not deeply grounded. This verse serves as a sober warning against a shallow commitment that lacks the resilience to persevere, emphasizing that only a faith deeply rooted in God's word and Spirit can truly flourish and bear fruit.

* [Psalm 1:3](/psalm/1-3 "Psalm 1:3 - The Blessed Man Like a Tree")
* [Ephesians 3:17-19](/ephesians/3-17-19 "Ephesians 3:17-19 - Rooted and Grounded in Love")
* [Hebrews 10:36](/hebrews/10-36 "Hebrews 10:36 - The Need for Perseverance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:6 is a potent call to self-examination for every believer. It challenges us to look beyond the initial excitement of conversion or a mountaintop experience and honestly assess the depth of our spiritual foundation. Are we merely "surface-level" Christians, easily swayed by external pressures or quick to give up when difficulties arise? Or are we diligently cultivating a deep, resilient faith that can draw sustenance even in arid spiritual seasons? This verse compels us to prioritize consistent engagement with God's Word, fervent prayer, active participation in a supportive Christian community, and obedience to Christ's teachings. These are the "roots" that enable us to absorb spiritual nourishment, withstand the scorching heat of trials, and ultimately bear lasting fruit for the Kingdom. It reminds us that spiritual growth is not about quick sprouts, but about deep, enduring development that prepares us for the inevitable challenges of discipleship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "stony ground" might exist in my own heart that prevents the Word from taking deep root?**
* **What "scorching sun" (trials, temptations, persecutions) have I faced, and how did my faith respond?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate deeper spiritual roots in my life and ensure my faith is not superficial?**
* **How can I help others in my community of faith to develop deeper roots so they do not wither away under pressure?**

### FAQ
**What does "no root" mean in a spiritual sense?**

Answer: In a spiritual sense, "no root" signifies a lack of deep, abiding connection to God's Word and Spirit. It represents a faith that is superficial, based perhaps on fleeting emotions, external circumstances, or a desire for immediate gratification, rather than a profound, internal transformation. Such a faith lacks the spiritual resources—like understanding, conviction, perseverance, and a personal relationship with God—needed to draw strength and withstand the "scorching" trials of life. It implies that while the "word" may be heard and even initially accepted, it has not truly penetrated the heart and mind to establish a firm foundation, as described in [Matthew 13:20-21](/matthew/13-20-21 "Matthew 13:20-21 - The Interpretation of the Stony Ground").

**What does the "sun" symbolize in this parable?**

Answer: The "sun" in Matthew 13:6 symbolizes the various forms of adversity, trials, tribulation, and persecution that arise because of one's faith in the "word of the kingdom." Just as intense sunlight can destroy plants without deep roots, these difficulties expose the superficiality of a faith that lacks true depth and resilience. Jesus himself clarifies this in [Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Meaning of the Sun's Heat"), stating that when "tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles." It's not the sun itself that's bad, but its effect on inadequate soil, highlighting that the problem lies with the shallow foundation, not the external pressure.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 13:6, as part of the Parable of the Sower, does not directly prophesy Christ's atoning work, it profoundly illuminates the nature of the Kingdom He inaugurated and the kind of discipleship He calls for, which is ultimately fulfilled in Him. Jesus Himself is the "Word" ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")) and the ultimate source of life and endurance. The "root" that is lacking in the stony ground is, at its core, a deep connection to Christ Himself, who is our foundation ([1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ Our Foundation")) and the one in whom we are to be rooted and built up ([Colossians 2:7](/colossians/2-7 "Colossians 2:7 - Rooted and Built Up in Christ")). The scorching sun of trials, though it causes some to wither, ultimately points to the perseverance found only through the strength of Christ, who endured the ultimate trial on the cross ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")). His resurrection guarantees that true faith, rooted in Him, will never wither away but will lead to eternal life ([John 11:25-26](/john/11-25-26 "John 11:25-26 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")). Thus, this parable implicitly calls hearers to a faith that is not merely intellectual assent to a message, but a vital, life-sustaining union with the living Christ, the true source of all spiritual nourishment and resilience.

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

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.