from πέτρα and εἶδος; rock-like, i.e. rocky:--stony.
Transliteration:petrṓdēs
Pronunciation:pet-ro'-dace
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective `{{G4075}}` (petrṓdēs) is a compound word derived from `{{G4073}}` (petra), meaning "rock" or "large stone," and `{{G1491}}` (eidos), meaning "form," "appearance," or "kind." Etymologically, it signifies "rock-like" or "having the form of rock." In its literal usage, it describes ground that is "rocky" or "stony," specifically implying a thin layer of soil covering underlying bedrock. It does not denote the rock itself, but rather the characteristic quality of the ground being impeded by rock close to the surface, rendering it shallow and unsuitable for deep rooting. Its semantic range is thus confined to this specific geological description, which then carries profound metaphorical weight in its biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G4075}}` appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically within the Parable of the Sower, where it describes one of the types of ground upon which the seed falls.
* In [[Matthew 13:5]] and [[Matthew 13:20]], Jesus describes seed falling "on the stony places" (ἐπὶ τὰ πετρώδη). The subsequent explanation in [[Matthew 13:20]] clarifies that this represents "the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while; and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he stumbles."
* Similarly, in [[Mark 4:5]] and [[Mark 4:16]], the ground is described as "rocky ground" (ἐπὶ τὸ πετρῶδες). Mark's interpretation mirrors Matthew's, emphasizing the lack of deep roots and the subsequent withering when affliction or persecution comes.
The consistent context reveals that `{{G4075}}` points to a superficiality caused by an underlying impediment. The shallow soil allows for quick germination due to immediate warmth, but the lack of depth prevents the development of a strong root system, leading to the plant's demise under adverse conditions. This geological reality serves as a powerful metaphor for a particular spiritual state.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G4075}}` is intrinsically linked to `{{G4073}}` (petra), the noun from which it is derived, meaning "rock" or "bedrock." While petra can signify stability and foundation (as in [[Matthew 7:24]] or [[Matthew 16:18]]), petrṓdēs describes a *condition* of the ground where this underlying rock acts as an impediment to growth. This contrasts with `{{G3035}}` (lithos), which generally refers to a smaller, individual stone or a building stone. The concept of "stony ground" stands in stark contrast to "good soil" (`{{G2570}}` kalos gē), which is able to receive the seed deeply and produce fruit. Key related concepts include:
* **Superficiality:** The primary characteristic of the petrṓdēs ground, indicating a lack of depth.
* **Rootlessness:** The spiritual consequence of superficiality, preventing endurance.
* **Perseverance (`{{G5281}}` hypomonē):** The quality lacking in those represented by the stony ground.
* **Tribulation (`{{G2347}}` thlipsis) and Persecution (`{{G1375}}` diōgmos):** The external pressures that reveal the shallow nature of faith.
* **The Condition of the Heart:** The parable ultimately speaks to the receptivity and preparedness of the human heart to God's Word.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4075}}` is profound, as it encapsulates a critical warning within Jesus' teaching on the reception of the Kingdom of God. The "stony ground" represents a heart that, while initially enthusiastic and joyful in receiving the Word, lacks genuine depth and commitment. This "rock" beneath the surface symbolizes an inner hardness, perhaps unaddressed sin, worldly attachments, or a lack of true repentance that prevents the Word from taking deep root.
The immediate joy followed by rapid fading highlights the danger of emotional or intellectual assent without a corresponding transformation of the will and character. Such individuals may respond positively to the *idea* of the gospel but are unwilling to undergo the costly process of discipleship, which involves enduring hardship. When faced with the inevitable challenges of tribulation or persecution that arise "on account of the word," their faith proves to be ephemeral, and they "stumble" or "fall away."
This imagery underscores the necessity of a deeply rooted faith that can withstand adversity, contrasting sharply with a superficial adherence. It calls believers to examine the true condition of their hearts, ensuring that the "rocky" impediments are removed, allowing the Word of God to penetrate deeply, nourish, and produce lasting fruit. It echoes Old Testament themes of a "heart of stone" being replaced by a "heart of flesh" ([[Ezekiel 36:26]]), signifying true spiritual regeneration and receptivity.
### Summary
`{{G4075}}` (petrṓdēs) literally means "rock-like" or "stony," describing ground with a shallow layer of soil over bedrock. Its sole biblical usage is in the Parable of the Sower ([[Matthew 13:5]], [[Matthew 13:20]]; [[Mark 4:5]], [[Mark 4:16]]), where it metaphorically represents a heart that receives the Word of God with immediate joy but lacks the necessary depth for it to take root. This superficiality leads to a quick falling away when tribulation or persecution arises, as the initial enthusiasm cannot sustain itself without deep spiritual roots. The term serves as a potent warning against a shallow, unexamined faith, emphasizing the critical need for genuine inner transformation and perseverance for enduring spiritual fruitfulness.
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