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.
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.
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).
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.
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