Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for biblical studies as it helps uncover deeper meanings embedded in the original texts. The Greek word καρπός (karpos) is particularly significant in New Testament interpretation. Commonly translated as “fruit,” this word holds both literal and metaphorical meanings. In ancient Greek culture, the term extended beyond physical produce, symbolizing results, deeds, and the outcomes of one’s actions, providing valuable insights into Biblical teachings on spiritual growth and human behavior.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καρπός, transliterated as karpos, pronounced [kar-POS].
• Etymology: The root word καρπός is derived from an ancient Greek term that means “fruit” or “produce.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (masculine); second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Fruit (literal fruit from trees and plants)
• Offspring or progeny
• Results, outcomes, or deeds (metaphorical sense)
• Reward or gain
• Spiritual fruits (qualities produced in a believer’s life)

Similar Words: γένημα (genēma) [ge-NEE-mah] refers specifically to “produce” or “yield,” emphasizing the harvested result, while καρπός extends metaphorically to mean outcomes or results, particularly in spiritual or moral contexts.

Further Insights: The term καρπός follows the second declension pattern for masculine nouns in Greek. The word’s broad range of meanings allows it to be used in various contexts, from agricultural to theological. Here is the declension table for the singular form:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καρπός as “fruit” both in a literal sense and metaphorically referring to the result of actions, particularly in moral and spiritual contexts.
• Thayers: Describes it as any result or outcome of one’s actions, with an emphasis on spiritual fruits in Christian teaching.
• Vines: Expands on the metaphorical use of καρπός in relation to virtues and qualities developed in believers, such as the “fruits of the Spirit.”
• LSJ: Highlights its usage in classical Greek literature where it denotes both literal produce and metaphorical concepts like “outcome” or “result.”
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καρπός as G2590 and emphasizes its dual use as both physical fruit and metaphorical outcomes, including virtues and spiritual growth.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 7:16: “You will know them by their fruits [καρπός]. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?”
• John 15:5: “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit [καρπός]; for without Me you can do nothing.”
• Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit [καρπός] of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”
• Romans 6:22: “But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit [καρπός] to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καρπός (G2590)

The term καρπός (karpos) encompasses both literal and metaphorical meanings, from physical fruit to moral and spiritual outcomes. Its usage throughout the New Testament emphasizes the importance of bearing “good fruit” as evidence of one’s faith and character. This word bridges the gap between the tangible and intangible, highlighting the transformative process in a believer’s life that results in virtues pleasing to God. Its versatility in classical Greek literature further underscores its profound meaning in Biblical texts.

Did You Know?

• The term καρπός is often used in the Bible to emphasize the tangible evidence of one’s spiritual growth and commitment.
• In the early Christian church, “bearing fruit” became a common metaphor for living a righteous and productive life in Christ.
• καρπός appears over 60 times in the New Testament, making it a central term in understanding Christian ethics and spirituality.