### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chamaí**, represented by `{{G5476}}`, is an adverb meaning **on (to) the ground**. It is derived from the idea of a fissure in the soil and is used to denote a position that is earthward or prostrate. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, making its every usage significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two biblical occurrences of `{{G5476}}` are both found in the Gospel of John, each illustrating a distinct context. In the first instance, when the guards confronting Jesus hear him say "I am he," they went backward and "fell **to the ground**" [[John 18:6]]. Here, the word describes an involuntary response of being physically overcome by divine presence. In the second instance, Jesus "spat **on the ground**" to make clay and heal a blind man [[John 9:6]]. In this context, the ground is used as the physical medium through which a miracle is performed.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the actions associated with `{{G5476}}`:
* `{{G4098}}` **píptō** (to fall): This verb is directly paired with **chamaí** in the account of the guards, who "fell **to the ground**" [[John 18:6]]. It describes the physical act of falling, whether from being overpowered, in an act of worship [[Revelation 19:10]], or in prayer [[Matthew 26:39]].
* `{{G4429}}` **ptýō** (to spit): This action initiates the miracle of healing the blind man. Jesus **spit** on the ground, using a common physical substance as part of a divine act [[John 9:6]].
* `{{G4081}}` **pēlós** (clay): This is the substance created when Jesus spat **on the ground**. The resulting **clay** was then used to anoint the blind man's eyes [[John 9:6]]. The power of the potter over the **clay** is also used as a metaphor for God's sovereignty [[Romans 9:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5476}}` is seen in the contexts where it appears:
* **A Place of Submission:** The ground is the place where those opposing Christ are brought low. Their falling **to the ground** is a physical posture of defeat or involuntary submission in the face of His divine authority [[John 18:6]]. This is reinforced by the related uses of `{{G4098}}`, to fall, in acts of worship or reverence ([[Revelation 5:8]], [[Matthew 2:11]]).
* **A Source for Divine Action:** The ground is also depicted as the humble source material for a miracle. Jesus uses earth itself, in the form of clay made from spittle **on the ground**, to bring sight to the blind [[John 9:6]]. This demonstrates His authority over the physical creation, using the most basic elements to perform a restorative act.
### Summary
In summary, **chamaí** `{{G5476}}` is a specific adverb that, while rare, provides a powerful physical anchor for theological concepts. Its use illustrates the ground as both the place where human pride is humbled before divine power and the elemental source from which divine healing can spring. The word vividly portrays a physical dimension to the authority and creative power of Jesus in the Gospel of John.
TRV