### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **botánē**, represented by `{{G1008}}`, means **herb** or herbage, as if for grazing. It is a rare term in the New Testament, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, yet it carries significant weight in its single usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1008}}` is in a spiritual analogy in [[Hebrews 6:7]]. The verse describes the **earth** that receives **rain** and, in response, "bringeth forth **herbs** meet for them by whom it is dressed." In this context, the **herb** is the tangible, positive fruit produced by land that has been properly cultivated and has received what it needs to grow. This productive outcome is contrasted with land that yields only thorns and briers.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{G1008}}`:
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (earth): This is the soil or land which produces the **herb**. It serves as the foundation for growth and is the recipient of both the rain and the cultivation [[Hebrews 6:7]].
* `{{G5088}}` **tíktō** (bringeth forth): This word describes the act of production, as when the earth produces a plant. It highlights that the **herb** is a direct result of the earth's response to the rain [[Hebrews 6:7]].
* `{{G2111}}` **eúthetos** (meet): This describes the quality of the **herbs** as being "well placed" or appropriate. It signifies that the growth is not random but is fit for the purposes of the cultivator [[Hebrews 6:7]].
* `{{G5205}}` **hyetós** (rain): This is the essential element from heaven that the earth receives, enabling it to bring forth the **herb**. In the analogy, it represents a divine provision necessary for fruitfulness [[Hebrews 6:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1008}}` is derived entirely from its symbolic role in [[Hebrews 6:7]].
* **Symbol of Fruitfulness:** The **herb** stands for the productive and beneficial outcome of a life that properly receives spiritual nourishment. It is the evidence of a positive response to God's provision.
* **Condition for Blessing:** The earth that "bringeth forth **herbs**" is the one that "receiveth **blessing** from God" [[Hebrews 6:7]]. This directly links spiritual fruitfulness to divine approval and reward.
* **Purposeful Growth:** The **herbs** are specifically described as **meet** `{{G2111}}` for the cultivators. This implies that the resulting spiritual life is not only productive but is also useful and aligned with God's intentions.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1008}}` **botánē** is used only once, its placement in scripture is significant. It functions as a powerful symbol for the visible, worthwhile fruit of a receptive and cultivated heart. The word illustrates a key theological principle: that a life which absorbs God's grace (the rain) and submits to His work (being dressed) will produce results that are both appropriate and worthy of His **blessing** [[Hebrews 6:7]].
TRV