### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective G1721 ἔμφυτος (emphytos) is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐν (en), meaning "in" or "within," and a verbal root related to φύω (phyo), which signifies "to grow," "to bring forth," or "to produce." Thus, the literal sense of ἔμφυτος is "grown in," "innate," or "implanted." The base definition provided, "implanted (figuratively)," underscores its application in a non-literal, spiritual, or moral sense. It conveys the idea of something deeply rooted, inherent, or organically integrated into a person's being, as if it has become part of their very nature. The English translation "engrafted" beautifully captures this sense of being joined to something new and becoming an integral part of it, implying a vital connection and a transformative process.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1721 ἔμφυτος appears only once in the New Testament, in the Epistle of James:
* [[James 1:21]]: "Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls."
In this singular occurrence, James exhorts believers to "receive with meekness the implanted word." The context immediately precedes this statement with a call to divest oneself of "all filthiness and rampant wickedness." This juxtaposition highlights the transformative power of the "implanted word." It is not merely an external message to be heard, but something that is meant to take root and grow within the individual, displacing sin and fostering spiritual life. The word is presented as inherently potent ("which is able to save your souls"), implying that its efficacy is tied to its reception and its internal establishment within the believer. The metaphor of implantation suggests an organic process, where the divine word becomes an integral, living part of the person, leading to salvation and ongoing sanctification.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymology of G1721 ἔμφυτος connects it directly to the concept of growth and life:
* φύω (phyo): The root verb, `{{G5453}}`, means "to grow," "to spring up," or "to produce." This foundational meaning emphasizes the organic, living nature implied by ἔμφυτος.
* σπείρω (speirō): Meaning "to sow" or "to plant" (`{{G4687}}`), this verb shares a conceptual link with ἔμφυτος in that both involve the initiation of growth. However, ἔμφυτος focuses more on the *result* of being planted – the state of being deeply rooted and integrated.
* ῥιζόω (rhizoo): Meaning "to root" or "to cause to take root" (`{{G4492}}`), this word also speaks to the idea of being firmly established, similar to the enduring nature suggested by ἔμφυτος.
* ἐγκεντρίζω (enkentrizō): This verb, `{{G1458}}`, meaning "to engraft" or "to graft in," is used by Paul in [[Romans 11:17-24]] in the context of Gentiles being "grafted in" to the olive tree of Israel. This parallel is particularly strong, as it vividly illustrates the idea of something external becoming an integral and life-sustaining part of a new organism, mirroring the "engrafted" translation of ἔμφυτος.
The concept of the "implanted word" also relates to broader biblical themes such as:
* The indwelling of the Word of God.
* Spiritual growth and maturation.
* Regeneration and the new birth, where God's Spirit imparts new life.
* The transformative power of God's truth.
### Theological Significance
The single use of G1721 ἔμφυτος in [[James 1:21]] carries profound theological weight:
1. **The Nature of the Word:** It portrays the Word of God not merely as intellectual information or a set of rules, but as a living, dynamic entity capable of being internalized. It becomes an intrinsic part of the believer, akin to a spiritual seed that takes root and grows.
2. **Human Responsibility in Reception:** The imperative "receive with meekness" (πραΰτης, `{{G4240}}`) highlights the necessary disposition for the Word to take root. Meekness here implies humility, teachability, and a submissive willingness to be shaped by God's truth, rather than resisting it with pride or self-will. Without this receptive posture, the Word cannot be truly "implanted."
3. **Transformative Power for Salvation:** The phrase "which is able to save your souls" underscores the inherent efficacy of the implanted Word. It is not merely a guide for life, but the very instrument of salvation and ongoing spiritual deliverance from the power of sin. This suggests that genuine, internal reception of the Word leads to a saving relationship with God and a transformed life.
4. **Organic Metaphor for Spiritual Life:** The "implanted" or "engrafted" metaphor emphasizes the organic nature of the Christian life. Just as a plant draws life from its roots, or a grafted branch draws life from the host tree, the believer draws spiritual life and sustenance from the Word deeply embedded within them. This stands in contrast to a superficial or external adherence to religious practices.
### Summary
G1721 ἔμφυτος (emphytos) is a unique and potent Greek term meaning "implanted" or "engrafted," derived from ἐν (in) and a root signifying "to grow." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[James 1:21]] describes the "implanted word" that believers are commanded to receive with meekness. This word is presented not as external information, but as a living entity that, when humbly received, takes root within the soul, displacing wickedness and possessing the power to save. Theologically, ἔμφυτος emphasizes the Word's transformative, internalizing nature and the vital necessity of a meek and receptive heart for it to become a deeply rooted, life-giving force within the believer, leading to salvation and genuine spiritual growth. It beautifully illustrates the organic and dynamic relationship between the believer and God's living Word.
TRV