Topical Encyclopedia
The term "self-sown" refers to plants that grow naturally from seeds that have fallen to the ground without human intervention. In the context of the Bible, this concept can be understood both literally and metaphorically, reflecting themes of divine providence, natural order, and spiritual growth.
Biblical References and ContextWhile the specific term "self-sown" does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is implicit in various passages that discuss the natural growth of plants and the providence of God in creation. For instance, in the Parable of the Sower, Jesus describes seeds falling on different types of soil, illustrating how the Word of God is received in various hearts (
Matthew 13:3-9). Although this parable does not explicitly mention self-sown plants, it highlights the natural process of growth and the conditions necessary for it.
In Genesis, the creation narrative emphasizes God's provision and the natural order He established.
Genesis 1:11 states, "Then God said, 'Let the earth bring forth vegetation, seed-bearing plants and fruit trees, each bearing fruit with seed according to its kind.' And it was so." This passage underscores the idea that God designed plants to reproduce and sustain themselves, a principle that includes the self-sowing of seeds.
Theological ImplicationsFrom a theological perspective, the concept of self-sown plants can be seen as a reflection of God's sovereignty and the inherent order in His creation. It demonstrates how God has equipped the earth to sustain life through natural processes. This can be seen as an expression of His ongoing care and provision for His creation, as noted in
Psalm 104:14 : "He makes the grass grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate, bringing forth food from the earth."
Metaphorical ApplicationsMetaphorically, the idea of self-sown growth can be applied to spiritual life and the spread of the Gospel. Just as seeds can grow without direct human intervention, the Word of God can take root and flourish in hearts prepared by the Holy Spirit. This aligns with the principle found in
Isaiah 55:10-11 : "For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return without watering the earth, making it bud and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it."
Practical ConsiderationsIn agricultural societies, self-sown plants might be seen as a blessing, providing additional crops without the labor of sowing. This can be paralleled to the unexpected blessings and growth that occur in the life of a believer, often without direct effort, as a result of God's grace and provision.
In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly use the term "self-sown," the concept is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating God's providence, the natural order, and the potential for spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
Strong's Hebrew
5599. caphiyach -- outpouring... From caphach; something (spontaneously) falling off, ie A
self-
sown crop; figuratively,
a freshet -- (such) things as (which) grow (of themselves), which
...Library
The Chaff Driven Away
... You all know the difference between a tree that is planted and a tree that is
self-sown. The tree that is planted in the garden is visited by the husbandman....
Strong Faith in a Faithful God
... No one flower that God loves grows in the garden of our souls in the natural soil,
self-sown. The first trembling desire after God came from his Spirit....
The First Discovery of America
... They had foundself-sown corn too, probably maize. The streams were full of salmon.
But they had called the land Vinland, by reason of its grapes....
The First Discovery of America.
... They had foundself-sown corn too, probably maize. The streams were full of salmon.
But they had called the land Vinland, by reason of its grapes....
Thesaurus
Self-sown (1 Occurrence)Self-
sown. Self-seeking,
Self-
sown. Selfsurrender . Multi-Version
Concordance
Self-
sown (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 37:30
...Selfsurrender
Self-seeking (2 Occurrences)
Self-seeking. Self-same, Self-seeking.Self-sown . Noah Webster's Dictionary...
Self-same, Self-seeking.Self-sown . Reference Bible.
Spontaneous (5 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 37:30 -- And this to thee 'is' the sign, Food of the year 'is'self-sown
grain, And in the second year the spontaneous growth, And in the third year...
Growth (77 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 37:30 -- And this to thee 'is' the sign, Food of the year 'is'self-sown
grain, And in the second year the spontaneous growth, And in the third year...
Resources
What does the Bible say about self-gratification / self-pleasure? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the god of self? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about self-pity? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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