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Unveiling the Word
Understanding Greek words is crucial for deeper biblical study, as it reveals the original meanings that can be lost in translation. The Greek word κλῆμα (klēma), found in John 15:2, is particularly significant in Biblical studies because it is used metaphorically to describe spiritual growth and connectedness. In this context, κλῆμα means “branch” and is used to illustrate the relationship between Christ and His followers, emphasizing the need for a living connection to the “vine,” which is Christ Himself. The term carries rich theological meaning, drawing on both agricultural imagery from ancient Greek culture and spiritual symbolism.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κλῆμα, transliterated as klēma [KLAY-mah].
Etymology: The word κλῆμα is derived from the root verb κλάω (klaō), meaning “to break off” or “to cut off.” This etymology reflects the agricultural practice of cutting off branches for pruning and growth, which is central to its metaphorical use in the New Testament.
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Part of Speech: Noun. κλῆμα is a neuter noun in Greek and follows the pattern of third declension nouns. It is most often used in the nominative and accusative cases, depending on its function in the sentence.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
- Branch: The primary meaning of κλῆμα is “branch,” specifically a vine branch. This is evident in agricultural contexts, where it refers to the parts of a vine that produce fruit.
- Metaphorical Extension (Spiritual Branch): Beyond the literal meaning, κλῆμα is also used metaphorically in the New Testament to describe the followers of Christ, who are the branches that must remain in the vine (Christ) to bear spiritual fruit.
Exploring Similar Words
- Κλάδος (klados) [KLA-dos]: Refers to a “branch” or “shoot” of any tree or bush. While similar, klados is more general, whereas klēma is specifically tied to vine imagery.
- Ἄμπελος (ampelos) [AHM-pe-los]: This word means “vine” and is often used in conjunction with κλῆμα in New Testament passages. While ampelos refers to the entire vine plant, klēma focuses on the branches that are part of it.
- Στέλεχος (stelechos) [STE-le-khos]: Refers to a “stem” or “trunk,” which differs from klēma as it focuses on the central supporting structure of a plant, not the branches.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
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Case, Number, Gender:
κλῆμα is a neuter noun and follows the third declension pattern. It appears in both singular and plural forms in the New Testament:
- Singular: Nominative (κλῆμα), Accusative (κλῆμα), Genitive (κλήματος), Dative (κλήματι).
- Plural: Nominative (κλήματα), Accusative (κλήματα), Genitive (κλημάτων), Dative (κλήμασι).
Declension Table:
| Case / Number | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | κλῆμα | κλήματα |
| Genitive | κλήματος | κλημάτων |
| Dative | κλήματι | κλήμασι |
| Accusative | κλῆμα | κλήματα |
For more information on Greek noun declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
In various lexicons, κλῆμα is described as a term deeply embedded in agrarian culture. It conveys not only the physical branch of a vine but also represents the vitality and fruitfulness that come from being connected to the source (the vine, or Christ). Theologically, it emphasizes dependence on Christ for spiritual nourishment and growth. κλῆμα is also used to describe the consequences of disconnection, such as withering and being cut off. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
- John 15:2: “Every branch [κλῆμα] in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.” This verse uses klēma to convey the spiritual connection between Jesus and His followers, illustrating the need for continual growth.
- John 15:4: “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch [κλῆμα] cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.” Here, klēma reinforces the importance of remaining spiritually connected to Christ.
- John 15:6: “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch [κλῆμα] and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.” This scripture uses klēma to underscore the fate of those who are spiritually disconnected from Christ.
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | Text Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Laws | “A branch ([κλῆμα]) cut from the vine will bear no fruit.” |
| Xenophon | Oeconomicus | “He who tends the vine prunes the branches ([κλῆματα]) to ensure growth.” |
| Septuagint | Ezekiel 15:2 | “What is the vine’s branch ([κλῆμα]) compared to other branches of the trees?” |
Noteworthy Summary
κλῆμα is a profound term in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, symbolizing growth, connection, and dependence. Its use in John 15 provides rich theological insight into the relationship between Christ and His followers, while its agricultural roots in ancient culture illustrate how vital it was for sustenance and symbolism.
Did You Know?
- The imagery of the vine and branches is deeply rooted in Old Testament symbolism, often representing Israel’s relationship with God.
- In ancient viticulture, pruning branches was essential for growth and fruitfulness, paralleling the spiritual pruning described by Jesus.
- The word κλῆμα is unique to the Gospel of John, emphasizing its theological depth and significance in Johannine literature.
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