### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb βαθύνω (bathýnō - `{{G900}}`) is derived directly from the adjective βαθύς (bathýs - `{{G901}}`), meaning "deep" or "profound." As a verb, βαθύνω carries the core meaning of "to deepen," "to make deep," or "to go deep." It denotes an action that increases the vertical dimension, pushing further down or extending to a greater depth. While in classical Greek it could be used in various contexts, including intellectual or emotional depth, its singular New Testament usage focuses on a literal, physical application, which then carries profound metaphorical implications. The word inherently conveys a sense of thoroughness and intentionality in reaching a lower, more secure level.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term βαθύνω (bathýnō - `{{G900}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 6:48]]**: "He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built."
In this verse, βαθύνω is used in conjunction with σκάπτω (skaptō - `{{G4626}}`, "to dig"). The phrase "ἔσκαψεν καὶ ἐβάθυνεν" (eskapsen kai ebathynen) describes the diligent action of the wise builder. He not only dug, but he "deepened" the excavation, ensuring that the foundation was laid firmly upon the underlying rock (πέτρα - `{{G4073}}`). The context is the parable of the two builders, where Jesus contrasts the one who hears His words and *acts* on them with the one who merely hears but does not act. The physical act of deepening the foundation serves as a vivid metaphor for the spiritual diligence required to build a life that can withstand the inevitable storms of life. The stability of the house is directly attributed to the depth and solidity of its foundation, which was achieved through intentional "deepening."
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root adjective βαθύς (bathýs - `{{G901}}`), meaning "deep." This connection underscores the inherent quality of depth that βαθύνω seeks to achieve. Other related concepts and words that illuminate the meaning of βαθύνω in its biblical context include:
* **σκάπτω (skaptō - `{{G4626}}`)**: "to dig." This verb frequently accompanies βαθύνω in [[Luke 6:48]], highlighting the physical labor involved in creating depth.
* **θεμέλιος (themelios - `{{G2310}}`)**: "foundation." The purpose of "deepening" is to establish a secure foundation, both literally for a building and metaphorically for one's life and faith.
* **πέτρα (petra - `{{G4073}}`)**: "rock." The solid ground upon which the deep foundation is laid, representing Christ and His unshakeable words.
* **οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō - `{{G3618}}`)**: "to build." The broader act of construction, for which "deepening" the foundation is a crucial first step.
The concept of superficiality stands as a stark contrast to the action of βαθύνω, as seen in the foolish builder who built "on the ground without a foundation" ([[Luke 6:49]]).
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, the theological significance of βαθύνω (bathýnō - `{{G900}}`) is profound due to its placement within one of Jesus' pivotal parables on discipleship.
1. **The Nature of True Discipleship:** The act of "deepening" is directly linked to hearing Jesus' words and *doing* them ([[Luke 6:47]]). This signifies that genuine faith and obedience are not superficial or casual but require intentional effort and profound commitment. Discipleship involves a diligent excavation of one's life, removing the shallow soil to rest one's spiritual foundation on the solid rock of Christ's teachings.
2. **Resilience in Adversity:** The deeply laid foundation ensures stability when faced with "a flood" or "torrent." Theologically, this points to the resilience of a faith that is truly rooted. Trials, temptations, and persecutions are the storms of life that will inevitably test one's spiritual house. A "deepened" faith provides the necessary stability to withstand these pressures and remain unshaken.
3. **The Cost of Commitment:** "Digging deep" implies labor, foresight, and perseverance. It is not an easy or quick task. This subtly underscores the cost of true discipleship, which demands effort and intentionality rather than a convenient or superficial adherence.
4. **Contrast with Superficiality:** The parable's contrast between the wise and foolish builders highlights the danger of a shallow faith. A faith that lacks depth, built without the diligent effort of "deepening," is ultimately vulnerable and prone to collapse when confronted with challenges. βαθύνω thus serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity of thoroughness in one's spiritual life.
### Summary
βαθύνω (bathýnō - `{{G900}}`) means "to deepen" or "to make deep," deriving from βαθύς (bathýs - `{{G901}}`). Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 6:48]] is highly significant, describing the wise builder's action of "digging deep" to lay a secure foundation on the rock. Theologically, this physical act serves as a potent metaphor for the nature of true Christian discipleship. It emphasizes the necessity of intentional, profound commitment to Jesus' teachings, moving beyond mere hearing to active obedience. This "deepening" of one's spiritual foundation ensures stability and resilience against life's inevitable trials, contrasting sharply with the vulnerability of a superficial faith. Thus, βαθύνω underscores the vital importance of building one's life on a solid, deeply rooted relationship with Christ, capable of enduring all storms.
TRV