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G1816 · Greek · New Testament
ἐξανατέλλω
exanatello
Verb
to spring up; to shoot up; to rise above

Definition

Exanatello is a compound of ex (out), ana (up), and tello (to set/bear). It appears in Matthew 13:5 and Mark 4:5 in the Parable of the Sower: seed on rocky ground 'sprang up quickly' (exanetellen) but withered because it had no depth. The word captures rapid, surface-level growth that lacks root.

Usage & Theological Significance

The speed of exanatello is not its problem — speed without depth is. The rocky-soil hearer receives the word with 'immediate joy' (Matthew 13:20) — a genuine but rootless response. This is one of the most sobering warnings in the Gospels: impressive initial spiritual responses can mask absence of genuine transformation. True disciples are not known by the height of their first spring but by the depth of their roots in trial. Endurance, not excitement, is the mark of genuine faith.

Key Verses

Matthew 13:5 Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up [exanetellen], since they had no depth of soil.
Mark 4:5 Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up [exanetellen], since it had no depth of soil.
Matthew 13:21 Yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.
Colossians 2:7 Rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
Jeremiah 17:8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream.

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