σπέρμα

seed, offspring

Definition

The Greek word σπέρμα (sperma) primarily means 'seed' in both a literal agricultural sense and a metaphorical sense of 'offspring' or 'descendants.' In its literal sense, it refers to the physical seed sown by a farmer, as seen in Jesus' parables about the sower and the weeds (Matthew 13:24, 13:27). Metaphorically, it denotes human progeny or lineage, such as in discussions about Abraham's descendants (e.g., Matthew 22:24-25). In some New Testament passages, it carries a spiritual or theological weight, referring to believers as the spiritual seed of Abraham (Galatians 3:29) or even to Christ Himself as the singular 'seed' (Galatians 3:16).

Biblical Usage

Σπέρμα appears 41 times in the New Testament, used across Gospels, Pauline epistles, and Hebrews. In the Gospels, it often appears in agricultural parables (e.g., Matthew 13, Mark 4:31) and discussions of levirate marriage (Matthew 22:24-25). Paul uses it extensively in theological arguments about Abrahamic lineage and promise, especially in Romans 4 and Galatians 3, to discuss physical and spiritual descent. The usage shifts from concrete (botanical seed, human offspring) to abstract (spiritual inheritance) depending on context.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb σπείρω (speirō, G4687), meaning 'to sow' or 'to scatter seed.' The noun σπέρμα directly relates to the act of sowing, encompassing both the sown material and the resulting produce or progeny. This root connection highlights the inherent potential for growth and multiplication embedded in the word's meaning, linking agricultural practice with concepts of lineage and legacy.

Semantic Range

Σπέρμα is theologically significant, especially in Pauline theology. It is central to the promise to Abraham, where Paul makes a crucial distinction between plural 'seeds' (physical descendants) and the singular 'seed' (Christ) in Galatians 3:16. This underpins the doctrine of justification by faith, showing that the blessing comes through Christ, the true heir, and extends to all who have faith as spiritual offspring (Galatians 3:29). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying the link between physical covenant and its Christocentric fulfillment.

In the ancient agrarian society, seed represented life, potential, and future sustenance. A family's 'seed' (offspring) ensured its name, inheritance, and survival. The concept of 'seed' as progeny was deeply tied to honor, covenant, and legacy, differing from modern, more biological understandings. In levirate marriage (Matthew 22:24), raising up 'seed' for a deceased brother was a sacred duty to preserve his lineage.

γένος (genos, G1085) — emphasizes race, kind, or family lineage in a broader sense. σπορά (spora, G4701) — a less common noun for 'seed' or 'sowing,' focusing more on the act or the sown field itself.

Word Details

Scripture References