Brief Overview of ἄμπελος (G288)

ἄμπελος (ampelos) is a Greek term that refers to a vine or vineyard.

Possible Meanings:

1. Vine: Refers to the plant that produces grapes, which is cultivated for its fruit.
2. Vineyard: Refers to a plot of land where vines are grown, often for the production of wine.
3. Figurative Use: In biblical and literary contexts, ἄμπελος is used metaphorically to represent spiritual growth, cultivation, or relationships, often symbolizing Jesus Christ and his followers in Christian texts.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἄμπελος as “vine.” It emphasizes the term’s use in both classical Greek and the New Testament to refer to the vine plant, particularly the grapevine. BDAG notes that in the New Testament, the vine is often used symbolically, especially in relation to Jesus Christ as the “true vine” in John 15:1, where it signifies the connection between Christ and his followers.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ provides a definition of ἄμπελος as “vine” or “vineyard.” It includes historical and literary examples where the term is used to describe the grapevine plant and its cultivation. The lexicon details how ἄμπελος is used in classical texts to refer to vineyards and the process of winemaking, reflecting its importance in ancient Greek agriculture and culture.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer defines ἄμπελος as “vine” and “vineyard.” Thayer highlights its usage in the New Testament, noting that the term is often employed metaphorically to symbolize spiritual themes, such as the relationship between Jesus and his followers. In John 15, the vine represents the connection between Christ and the Church, illustrating the theme of spiritual growth and dependence.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance defines ἄμπελος as “vine.” It lists its occurrences in the New Testament and describes its literal and metaphorical uses. The term is noted for its application in agricultural contexts as well as its symbolic significance in Christian teachings, where it represents the vital connection between believers and Christ.

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Summary:
ἄμπελος (ampelos) primarily means “vine” and is used to describe both the plant itself and the vineyard. In classical Greek, it refers to the grapevine and its cultivation, while in the New Testament, it often carries metaphorical significance. BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance all recognize its symbolic use in Christian texts to represent the relationship between Christ and his followers. The term reflects both its practical agricultural importance and its deeper spiritual meanings.