### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G3736}}` *orýssō* fundamentally means "to dig" or "to burrow." As a primary verb, its meaning is foundational and not derived from other words. It denotes the physical action of excavating or making a hole in the ground. The semantic range is quite narrow, focusing exclusively on this literal act of earth-moving. It implies an intentional effort to create an opening or cavity in the soil, whether for constructive purposes like building or for concealment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G3736}}` *orýssō* appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, primarily within the parables of Jesus, where its literal meaning carries significant symbolic weight.
1. **Matthew 21:33 and Mark 12:1 (The Parable of the Wicked Tenants):**
In both accounts, Jesus describes a landowner who "planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and `{{G3736}}` *dug* a winepress in it." Here, the act of digging is purposeful and constructive. The winepress is an essential component for processing the harvest, indicating the landowner's thorough preparation and investment in his vineyard. This action signifies diligence, foresight, and the provision of all necessary means for fruitfulness.
2. **Matthew 25:18 and Matthew 25:25 (The Parable of the Talents):**
In this parable, the servant who received one talent "went and `{{G3736}}` *dug* in the earth, and hid his lord's money" ([[Matthew 25:18]]). Later, he explains his action: "And I was afraid, and went and `{{G3736}}` *hid* thy talent in the earth" ([[Matthew 25:25]]). Here, the act of digging is not for productive purposes but for concealment born of fear and a lack of trust. It represents a failure of stewardship, a refusal to engage with the master's resources, and ultimately, a squandering of potential. The hidden talent yields no return, leading to the master's severe condemnation.
In all instances, *orýssō* refers to the literal act of digging. However, the *purpose* and *outcome* of the digging profoundly shape its contextual meaning, illustrating contrasting attitudes toward responsibility and divine provision.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{G3736}}` *orýssō* is quite specific in its physical meaning, it relates to broader concepts and other terms through its contextual application:
* **`{{G4626}}` *skaptō* (to dig):** This is a close synonym, also meaning "to dig." While both denote excavation, *orýssō* might imply a more specific or deeper hole, such as a pit for a winepress or for burying.
* **`{{G3799}}` *ocheō* (to hold, contain):** Related to the purpose of what is dug, such as a winepress designed to contain grapes or wine.
* **`{{G5007}}` *talanton* (talent):** Directly related to the object hidden by the unfaithful servant in the parable, emphasizing the value of what was buried.
* **`{{G2813}}` *klēronomos* (heir):** Connects to the theme of ownership and responsibility in the vineyard parable.
Conceptually, *orýssō* touches upon themes of:
* **Labor and Work:** The effort involved in digging.
* **Stewardship:** The responsible management of resources, whether a vineyard or talents.
* **Investment and Productivity:** The goal of the landowner's digging versus the failure of the servant.
* **Fear and Inaction:** The motivation behind the servant's burial of the talent.
* **Concealment and Revelation:** The act of hiding versus the expectation of return.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3736}}` *orýssō* is derived not from the word itself but from its strategic deployment within Jesus' parables, which serve as foundational teachings on the Kingdom of God and discipleship.
In the parable of the vineyard, the act of `{{G3736}}` *digging* a winepress symbolizes God's thorough and generous provision for His people. It speaks to the divine investment in humanity, creating an environment fully equipped for spiritual fruitfulness and worship. This act underscores God's expectation of a return on His investment, highlighting His diligent preparation for the harvest of righteousness from His vineyard (Israel/the Church).
Conversely, in the parable of the talents, the act of `{{G3736}}` *digging* to bury the talent is laden with negative theological implications. It represents a failure of faithful stewardship, motivated by fear and a misunderstanding of the master's character. This act symbolizes spiritual inactivity, a refusal to engage with the gifts and opportunities entrusted by God. The servant's action of burying the talent, rather than investing it, results in spiritual barrenness and severe judgment. It underscores the divine expectation that believers will actively employ their God-given resources for the advancement of His kingdom, rather than preserving them out of fear or apathy.
Thus, `{{G3736}}` *orýssō* serves as a powerful contrast: it can represent either diligent, purposeful preparation for divine productivity or fearful, unproductive idleness leading to spiritual loss. It challenges believers to consider the *purpose* behind their actions and the ultimate outcome of their stewardship.
### Summary
`{{G3736}}` *orýssō* is a Greek verb meaning "to dig" or "to burrow." While its literal definition is straightforward, its theological weight is profound due to its specific usage in two pivotal parables of Jesus. In the vineyard parable, the act of `{{G3736}}` *digging* a winepress signifies God's meticulous preparation and abundant provision, setting the stage for expected fruitfulness. In the parable of the talents, the act of `{{G3736}}` *digging* to bury a talent tragically symbolizes fearful inaction, a failure of stewardship, and the squandering of divine resources. Therefore, *orýssō* serves as a vivid illustration of contrasting spiritual responses: diligent engagement with God's purposes versus unproductive neglect. It calls believers to active, faithful stewardship, recognizing that even common actions can carry deep spiritual meaning and consequences when performed in relation to God's will and resources.
TRV