### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekdídōmi**, represented by `{{G1554}}`, means **to give forth, i.e. (specially) to lease:--let forth (out)**. It appears **7 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically describes the act of leasing or entrusting property to another for a period of time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1554}}` is found exclusively within the parable of the vineyard. A householder prepares a vineyard by planting it, building a tower, and digging a winepress, and then **lets it out** to husbandmen ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]). In Luke's account, a man planted a vineyard and **let it forth** to husbandmen before traveling to a far country [[Luke 20:9]]. The term is used again to describe the consequence for the wicked husbandmen, stating that the owner will **let out** his vineyard to others who will be faithful [[Matthew 21:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for the act of leasing the vineyard:
* `{{G1092}}` **geōrgós**: This word means a land-worker or **husbandman**. The vineyard is consistently let out to these husbandmen, who are entrusted with its care ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]).
* `{{G5452}}` **phyteúō**: Meaning **to set out in the earth, i.e. implant**, this word describes the foundational act of the owner who **planted** a vineyard before leasing it ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]).
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō**: This term, meaning **to be a house-builder, i.e. construct**, is used to describe the owner who **built** a tower as part of the vineyard's preparation ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]).
* `{{G5418}}` **phragmós**: This word for **a fence, or inclosing barrier** describes the **hedge** the owner put around the vineyard, signifying protection and completion before it was let out ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]).
* `{{G3736}}` **orýssō**: Meaning **to "burrow" in the ground, i.e. dig**, this verb details how the owner **digged** a winepress in the vineyard, making it a fully functional operation ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1554}}` establishes a clear thematic framework within the parable.
* **Entrustment and Stewardship:** The act of "letting out" the vineyard is an act of entrustment. The owner hands over a valuable, fully prepared asset to the care of the husbandmen, establishing their role as stewards ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Luke 20:9]]).
* **Basis for Accountability:** The lease initiated by `{{G1554}}` is the basis for the owner's expectation of a return. The husbandmen are accountable for rendering the fruits of the vineyard because it was leased to them [[Matthew 21:41]].
* **Transfer of Responsibility:** The word is used to show a transfer of responsibility. When the first husbandmen fail, the owner resolves to "let out" the vineyard to others, showing that the stewardship is conditional and can be reassigned [[Matthew 21:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1554}}` is a specific transactional term for leasing or letting out property. Its biblical application is focused entirely within the parable of the wicked husbandmen, where it serves as the crucial action that establishes the relationship of stewardship between the vineyard owner and his tenants. The word initiates the central theme of the parable: the responsibility and accountability that come with being entrusted with a valuable asset.
TRV