θερίζω

I reap, gather

Definition

θερίζω means 'to reap' or 'to harvest,' referring literally to the agricultural act of cutting and gathering grain (Matthew 6:26). Figuratively, it describes the consequences of one's actions, especially in the principle of sowing and reaping: a person will harvest what they have sown in terms of spiritual or moral outcomes (Galatians 6:7-8). In eschatological contexts, it signifies God's final judgment, where angels or the Son of Man reaps the earth, separating the righteous from the wicked (Matthew 13:39, Revelation 14:15-16).

Biblical Usage

Used 17 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Paul's letters. In the Gospels, it appears in parables about stewardship and God's provision (e.g., Matthew 25:24, Luke 12:24). Jesus employs it metaphorically in John 4:35-38 to describe evangelistic work—'reaping' souls for eternal life. Paul uses it to illustrate the spiritual law of cause and effect in Galatians 6:7-9. The Book of Revelation applies it to the final harvest of judgment (Revelation 14:15-16).

Etymology

Derived from the noun θέρος (theros), meaning 'summer' or 'harvest time.' It is a primary verb for reaping crops, with cognates in other Indo-European languages. The meaning extended naturally from the literal agricultural act to metaphorical uses concerning outcomes and divine judgment.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects human responsibility with divine sovereignty. It illustrates the biblical principle that actions have spiritual consequences (Galatians 6:7-8) and underscores God's role as the ultimate judge who harvests humanity at the end of the age (Matthew 13:39, Revelation 14:15-16). Understanding θερίζω enriches reading by highlighting the link between earthly labor and eternal outcomes, particularly in missions and ethics.

In an agrarian society, reaping was a crucial, labor-intensive annual event determining survival. The harvest metaphor would be immediately vivid to original audiences, symbolizing both provision and finality. Unlike modern industrialized farming, reaping was a communal activity often associated with joy (Psalm 126:5) but also with God's timing and judgment.

συγκομίζω (sygkomizō, G4816) — to gather together, collect; often used for gathering crops or people. τρυγάω (trygaō, G5166) — to gather fruit, especially grapes; more specific to vintage harvesting.

Word Details

Scripture References