### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phyteúō**, represented by `{{G5452}}`, means **to set out in the earth, i.e. implant** and is used figuratively to **instil doctrine**. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses, illustrating concepts of divine origin, ministerial work, and agricultural stewardship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5452}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Jesus uses it in parables, such as the story of a householder who **planted** a vineyard, built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]). It is also used to describe common activities of life, as in the days of Lot when people **planted** and builded [[Luke 17:28]]. Figuratively, the Apostle Paul uses it to describe his foundational ministry, stating, "I have **planted**, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase" [[1 Corinthians 3:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G5452}}`:
* `{{G5451}}` **phyteía** (plant): This noun form is used in conjunction with its verb counterpart. In [[Matthew 15:13]], every **plant** that the Father has not planted will be rooted up.
* `{{G290}}` **ampelṓn** (vineyard): This is the most common setting for the action of planting. The word is used repeatedly in parables where a man **planted** a **vineyard** [[Luke 20:9]].
* `{{G4222}}` **potízō** (to furnish drink, irrigate): This word is used in parallel with planting to describe different roles in ministry. One may plant, but another **waters** [[1 Corinthians 3:8]].
* `{{G1610}}` **ekrizóō** (to uproot): This action is the direct consequence for what is not properly planted. Anything not planted by the heavenly Father "shall be **rooted up**" [[Matthew 15:13]].
* `{{G837}}` **auxánō** (to grow): This describes the result that only God can provide. While humans may plant and water, it is God who "giveth the **increase**" [[1 Corinthians 3:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5452}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual principles.
* **Divine Initiative:** The word establishes God as the ultimate source of spiritual life. Jesus states that any **plant** not planted by his heavenly Father will be rooted up, linking legitimacy and endurance to divine origin [[Matthew 15:13]].
* **Ministerial Roles:** Paul uses the imagery of planting to define the work of evangelism and church-founding. He clarifies that the one who **planteth** and the one who watereth are one, but they are distinct from God, who is ultimately responsible for growth [[1 Corinthians 3:8]].
* **Stewardship and Fruitfulness:** In parables, the act of **planting** a vineyard serves as a setup to teach about responsibility and judgment. The right to enjoy the fruit of a vineyard is tied to the labor of planting it [[1 Corinthians 9:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5452}}` moves from the simple agricultural act of placing a plant in the ground to a powerful metaphor for spiritual work. It is used to describe everything from a fig tree in a vineyard [[Luke 13:6]] to the foundational "instilling of doctrine" by an apostle [[1 Corinthians 3:6]]. The word serves as a constant reminder that while human effort is involved in spiritual labor, the true source, authority, and power for growth rest with God alone.
TRV