### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agrós**, represented by `{{G68}}`, denotes a **field**, **farm**, or the **country**. It appears 36 times across 34 unique verses. The term describes agricultural land, open country outside of a city, or a specific piece of ground, often in the context of property and labor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G68}}` is used in various literal and metaphorical settings. It frequently appears in Jesus' parables as a stage for spiritual truths. For instance, the kingdom of heaven is compared to a **treasure** `{{G2344}}` hidden in a **field** `{{G68}}` [[Matthew 13:44]], and also to a man sowing good **seed** `{{G4690}}` in his **field** `{{G68}}` [[Matthew 13:24]]. The word also signifies a literal place, such as the "**country** `{{G68}}`" from which Simon of Cyrene came before being made to carry the **cross** `{{G4716}}` ([[Mark 15:21]], [[Luke 23:26]]). Additionally, it represents earthly possessions, as seen when individuals are called to forsake "**lands** `{{G68}}`" for eternal life [[Matthew 19:29]] or when a man makes an excuse that he has bought a "**piece of ground** `{{G68}}`" [[Luke 14:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of place by contrast or association:
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city): This term for a town, often walled, stands in contrast to the open **country** `{{G68}}`. After the casting out of demons, the news was spread in both the **city** `{{G4172}}` and the **country** `{{G68}}` [[Mark 5:14]].
* `{{G2968}}` **kṓmē** (village): Representing a smaller settlement or hamlet, this word is often used alongside **agrós**. Jesus ministered in "**villages** `{{G2968}}`, or **cities** `{{G4172}}`, or **country** `{{G68}}`" [[Mark 6:56]], indicating the various settings of his work.
* `{{G5561}}` **chṓra** (region, ground): This refers to a larger expanse of territory. In the parable of the prodigal son, a **citizen** `{{G4177}}` of that **country** `{{G5561}}` sent the son into his **fields** `{{G68}}` to feed swine [[Luke 15:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G68}}` is most evident in its symbolic use within Jesus' parables.
* **The World as a Field:** Jesus explicitly interprets the parable of the tares by stating, "The **field** `{{G68}}` is the **world** `{{G2889}}`" [[Matthew 13:38]]. This establishes the **field** as the domain where both the children of the kingdom and the children of the wicked one grow together until the harvest.
* **The Locus of Kingdom Growth:** The **field** is the setting for the growth of the kingdom of **heaven** `{{G3772}}`. It is where a tiny **grain** `{{G2848}}` of **mustard seed** `{{G4615}}` is sown and grows into a large plant [[Matthew 13:31]], symbolizing the expansive nature of the kingdom from a small beginning.
* **A Symbol of Earthly Priorities:** The **field** represents worldly possessions and concerns that can hinder one's relationship with God. Forsaking "**lands** `{{G68}}`" is listed as a sacrifice for the kingdom [[Mark 10:29]], and the purchase of a **farm** `{{G68}}` is an excuse for rejecting a divine invitation [[Matthew 22:5]].
* **A Place of Judgment and Redemption:** The "potter's **field** `{{G68}}`," bought with betrayal money, was called the "**field** of **blood** `{{G129}}`" ([[Matthew 27:8]], [[Matthew 27:10]]). In prophecies of the end times, individuals are taken from the **field** `{{G68}}`, signifying a place of final separation [[Matthew 24:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G68}}` **agrós** transcends its simple definition as a plot of land. While it literally refers to a farm, field, or the countryside, its theological significance is profound. It serves as a powerful symbol in Christ's parables, representing the **world** `{{G2889}}` as an arena for spiritual conflict and growth, the value of the kingdom of heaven, and the earthly attachments that must be weighed against eternal rewards. It provides the backdrop for both everyday labor and eschatological judgment.
TRV