### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bóthynos**, represented by `{{G999}}`, refers to a hole in the ground and is often translated as a **ditch** or **pit**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used both literally, to describe a physical hazard, and metaphorically, to signify the consequence of misguided guidance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G999}}` illustrates a place of falling or entrapment. Jesus employs it in a parable to warn against false teachers, stating that if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into the **ditch** ([[Matthew 15:14]], [[Luke 6:39]]). This highlights a spiritual danger. Separately, the term is used in a literal sense when Jesus poses a question about a sheep that has fallen into a **pit** on the Sabbath, illustrating a scenario that demands immediate rescue [[Matthew 12:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the danger associated with a **pit** or **ditch**:
* `{{G5185}}` **typhlós**: Meaning **blind**, either physically or mentally. This word is central to the parable where unqualified leaders cause their followers to end up in a ditch [[Matthew 15:14]].
* `{{G3594}}` **hodēgéō**: This verb means to **guide** or **lead**. Its use in the parable emphasizes the action that results in falling into the ditch when undertaken by the blind [[Luke 6:39]].
* `{{G1706}}` **empíptō**: This word means to **fall into** or be entrapped by. It is used to describe the action of a sheep falling into a pit, signifying an event that renders it helpless [[Matthew 12:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G999}}` is concentrated in its use as a powerful warning.
* **Consequence of False Leadership:** The **ditch** is the destination for those who follow spiritually **blind** `{{G5185}}` guides. It serves as a stark metaphor for the spiritual ruin and destruction that comes from heeding false teaching [[Matthew 15:14]].
* **A State of Helplessness:** In its literal use, the **pit** symbolizes a state of being trapped and in need of rescue. The sheep that falls into the pit cannot save itself, requiring an external act of compassion to be lifted out [[Matthew 12:11]].
* **Symbol of Inevitable Failure:** The term underscores the inevitable outcome of a flawed foundation. Whether it is a physical animal falling into a literal pit or a person following a blind guide, the result is a fall into a place of peril.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G999}}` is more than a simple reference to a hole in the ground. It functions as a crucial biblical symbol for hazard and negative consequences. From the literal danger posed to a helpless sheep to the metaphorical destination for those led astray by blind guides, the word **bóthynos** serves as a solemn illustration of the peril that awaits the unguided and the misguided.
TRV