### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **spóros**, represented by `{{G4703}}`, refers to seed that is sown. Derived from the verb σπείρω (to scatter), it literally describes a scattering of seed. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses, often within parables to illustrate spiritual truths.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G4703}}` is central to the Parable of the Sower. Here, the **seed** is what a sower **went out** `{{G1831}}` to sow, with some being **trodden down** `{{G2662}}` and **devoured** `{{G2719}}` by **fowls** `{{G4071}}` [[Luke 8:5]]. The parable is later explained, clarifying that "The **seed** `{{G4703}}` is the word `{{G3056}}` of God" [[Luke 8:11]]. The term is also used to describe the kingdom of God, which is like a man who should **cast** `{{G906}}` **seed** `{{G4703}}` into the **ground** `{{G1093}}`, and it should **spring** `{{G985}}` and **grow up** `{{G3373}}` mysteriously [[Mark 4:26-27]]. Paul uses it to illustrate God's provision, stating that God will **multiply** `{{G4129}}` your **seed sown** `{{G4703}}` and increase the fruits of righteousness [[2 Corinthians 9:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G4703}}`:
* `{{G4687}}` **speírō** (to sow): As the root verb, this action is inseparable from **spóros**. It describes the act of scattering seed, which can be done sparingly or bountifully [[2 Corinthians 9:6]].
* `{{G4690}}` **spérma** (seed): A related noun for seed, often used to refer to offspring or a remnant, such as the **seed** of David [[Romans 1:3]] or the **seed** of Abraham [[Galatians 3:29]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): This term is explicitly identified with the **seed** in Luke's Gospel, making it the spiritual substance that is sown in the hearts of hearers [[Luke 8:11]].
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (ground): This is the soil or earth where the **seed** is cast, representing the recipient of the sown word [[Mark 4:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4703}}` is primarily found in its metaphorical use in parables and epistles.
* **The Word as Seed:** The most direct theological connection is its identification as the **word** `{{G3056}}` of God. This illustrates that God's word is a living agent meant to be planted and to produce growth [[Luke 8:11]].
* **Growth of the Kingdom:** The image of the sown seed that grows inexplicably highlights the divine, mysterious nature of the kingdom of God's expansion in the world [[Mark 4:27]].
* **Sowing and Reaping:** Paul connects the "seed sown" to the principle of generosity and divine return. God, the one who provides both **seed** `{{G4690}}` and **bread** `{{G740}}`, will **multiply** `{{G4129}}` the believer's sown seed, resulting in a harvest of **righteousness** `{{G1343}}` [[2 Corinthians 9:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4703}}` **spóros** provides a powerful agricultural metaphor for profound spiritual concepts. While its literal meaning is simply "seed as sown," it serves as a cornerstone for understanding how the Word of God is disseminated, how the kingdom of God grows, and how acts of faith and generosity can produce a spiritual harvest.
TRV