### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term hikmás (ἱκμάς), transliterated as hikmás (`{{G2429}}`), fundamentally denotes "dampness" or "moisture." Its etymology is noted as "of uncertain affinity," suggesting it does not readily derive from a clearly identifiable root, which contributes to its direct and singular semantic focus. The word refers to the presence of water in a subtle, pervasive form, such as humidity, dew, or the inherent moisture within soil or an object, rather than a large body of water. It stands in direct conceptual opposition to aridity, dryness, or desiccation. The core meaning emphasizes the life-sustaining quality of this moisture, crucial for growth and vitality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term hikmás (`{{G2429}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, making its single occurrence particularly poignant and significant.
* [[Luke 8:6]]: "And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture (ἱκμάς)."
This solitary instance is found within the Parable of the Sower, as recorded by Luke. Here, hikmás directly explains why the seed that fell on rocky ground failed to thrive. The shallow soil over rock prevented the roots from penetrating deeply enough to access sufficient moisture, leading to the rapid wilting and death of the plant. The absence of hikmás is presented as the critical factor leading to the plant's demise, underscoring the vital role of moisture for growth and endurance, especially in an agricultural setting.
### Related Words & Concepts
While hikmás (`{{G2429}}`) is unique in its specific nuance of "dampness," it relates to broader biblical concepts of water and sustenance.
* **Antonyms/Opposites:** The implied antonyms are "dryness," "aridity," or "desiccation," conditions that lead to barrenness and death, as seen in [[Luke 8:6]].
* **Related Terms:**
* hudōr (`{{G5204}}`): The general Greek term for "water," often used to denote living water or the Holy Spirit.
* drosos (`{{G1809}}`): "Dew," a specific form of moisture, often associated with blessing and refreshment.
* huetos (`{{G5205}}`): "Rain," another vital source of moisture for growth.
* pēgē (`{{G4077}}`): "Spring" or "fountain," a source of water.
* **Conceptual Links:** The concept of moisture is inherently linked to life, growth, nourishment, and fruitfulness. Its absence points to barrenness, decay, and death. This spiritual analogy is often drawn in Scripture, where "living water" is essential for spiritual vitality (e.g., [[John 4:10-14]], [[John 7:38]]).
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the theological significance of hikmás (`{{G2429}}`) in [[Luke 8:6]] is profound within the interpretive framework of the Parable of the Sower. Jesus himself explains that the seed is the Word of God ([[Luke 8:11]]), and the rocky ground represents those who "receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root; they believe for a while, but in time of testing they fall away" ([[Luke 8:13]]).
The "moisture" (ἱκμάς) in this parable symbolizes the necessary spiritual conditions for the Word of God to take deep root and endure. Its absence signifies a lack of spiritual depth, resilience, or sustained spiritual nourishment—perhaps the "living water" of the Holy Spirit, consistent communion with God, or a genuine, abiding faith that allows the Word to penetrate beyond superficial reception. Without this essential "moisture," the initial enthusiasm for the Gospel withers under the heat of trials and temptations. The term thus highlights that a superficial or shallow reception of God's Word, devoid of genuine spiritual depth and sustenance, cannot withstand adversity and ultimately fails to bear fruit.
### Summary
Hikmás (`{{G2429}}`) is a rare but highly illustrative Greek term meaning "dampness" or "moisture." Its sole appearance in [[Luke 8:6]], within the Parable of the Sower, carries significant theological weight. In this context, the lack of hikmás causes the seed on rocky ground to wither, serving as a powerful metaphor for the failure of the Word of God to take deep root and endure in those who lack spiritual depth or resilience. The word underscores the critical necessity of sustained spiritual nourishment and a receptive heart for the Word to flourish and bear fruit, contrasting sharply with a superficial faith that cannot withstand adversity. It implicitly points to the life-giving essence that enables growth, whether physical or spiritual, and warns that its absence leads to spiritual barrenness and a failure to persevere in faith.
TRV