Brief Overview of Γέννημα (G1081: Gennēma)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γέννημα (transliterated as gennēma and pronounced as “gen-nay-mah”) is a noun that generally refers to that which is produced, offspring, or fruit. It is derived from the verb γεννάω (gennáō), which means “to beget” or “to give birth.” The primary meaning of γέννημα encompasses physical offspring, the product of something, or even the outcome of actions. This word is versatile, being used both literally, such as in reference to fruit or offspring, and metaphorically, such as in expressions like “fruit of the vine” or “fruit of one’s labor.”

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, γέννημα is noted for its use in describing products or results, often related to nature or lineage. BDAG elaborates on its usage in contexts referring to natural products like fruit, as seen in biblical phrases like “fruit of the vine.” The term is also metaphorically applied to describe the results of actions or behaviors, especially in moral and spiritual contexts.

The word γέννημα appears several times in the New Testament. For example, in Matthew 3:7, John the Baptist uses the phrase γέννημα ἐχιδνῶν (“offspring of vipers”) to describe the Pharisees and Sadducees, highlighting their hypocritical and dangerous nature. Another usage is found in Matthew 26:29, where Jesus speaks of the γέννημα τῆς ἀμπέλου (“fruit of the vine”), referring to wine, during the Last Supper. These examples illustrate how γέννημα can convey both physical and metaphorical meanings, depending on the context.

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Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
The term γέννημα is not limited to biblical texts but also finds its place in classical Greek literature. In works by authors such as Herodotus, Plato, and Aristotle, γέννημα is used to describe various forms of offspring or products. For instance, Herodotus might use it in the context of lineage or descent, while Aristotle could apply it to the natural produce or outcomes resulting from certain causes. In these instances, γέννημα retains its fundamental meaning of something that is born, created, or produced, whether it be literal offspring or metaphorical results.

Summary:
The Greek word γέννημα (G1081), transliterated as gennēma, primarily refers to that which is produced, including offspring, fruit, or the result of an action. Derived from the verb γεννάω (“to beget”), it is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts in the New Testament and classical Greek literature. Lexicons like BDAG and Thayer’s highlight its varied applications, from describing physical fruit to metaphorical offspring or outcomes. Notable New Testament examples include John the Baptist’s harsh rebuke of the Pharisees as “offspring of vipers” and Jesus’ reference to the “fruit of the vine” during the Last Supper. Classical Greek literature also employs γέννημα in contexts ranging from natural products to lineage, underscoring its broad applicability. The word’s richness in meaning makes it a significant term in both biblical and classical contexts.