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.
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.
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.
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.
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