Mark Chapter 4 · Verse 31
It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:
Original Language Analysis
ὡς
It is like
G5613
ὡς
It is like
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
1 of 18
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
ὃς
which
G3739
ὃς
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
4 of 18
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ὅταν
when
G3752
ὅταν
when
Strong's:
G3752
Word #:
5 of 18
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
ἐπὶ
in
G1909
ἐπὶ
in
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
7 of 18
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γῆς
the earth
G1093
γῆς
the earth
Strong's:
G1093
Word #:
9 of 18
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
μικρότερος
is less
G3398
μικρότερος
is less
Strong's:
G3398
Word #:
10 of 18
small (in size, quantity, number or (figuratively) dignity)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σπερμάτων
the seeds
G4690
σπερμάτων
the seeds
Strong's:
G4690
Word #:
13 of 18
something sown, i.e., seed (including the male "sperm"); by implication, offspring; specially, a remnant (figuratively, as if kept over for planting)
ἐστὶν
that be
G2076
ἐστὶν
that be
Strong's:
G2076
Word #:
14 of 18
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
15 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐπὶ
in
G1909
ἐπὶ
in
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
16 of 18
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
Cross References
Acts 19:20So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.Malachi 1:11For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.
Historical Context
Black mustard (Brassica nigra or Sinapis nigra) produces tiny seeds (1-2mm diameter) yet grows into large shrub (8-12 feet). Palestinian farmers knew this dramatic transformation. Jesus uses proverbial smallness to emphasize contrast: tiny seed → large plant. Kingdom history vindicates parable: crucified Christ → worldwide church; twelve apostles → millions of believers; Jerusalem sect → global faith. Early church was tiny, despised minority; now Christianity is world's largest religion. This encourages faithful witness despite small, unpromising beginnings.
Questions for Reflection
- How does mustard seed imagery encourage you when kingdom work seems small or insignificant?
- What 'small seeds' is God calling you to plant faithfully, trusting Him for growth?
- How does kingdom history—small beginning to global reach—demonstrate God's faithful power?
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus answers His question: 'It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth.' The mustard seed (σίναπι, sinapi) was proverbially small—'less than all seeds' (μικρότερον...πάντων τῶν σπερμάτων) is hyperbolic but makes the point: exceptionally small beginning. This represents kingdom's humble origins—crucified carpenter, twelve unimpressive disciples, small Palestinian sect. The emphasis on 'when it is sown' indicates mustard seed's potential isn't inherent but realized when planted in soil. Similarly, kingdom grows through gospel sown in hearts. Small beginnings don't limit great outcomes when God's power works.