Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Greek καρπός corresponds to several Hebrew words related to fruit and produce, including:
• H6529 פְּרִי (peri): Often used in the Old Testament to denote fruit, both literal and metaphorical, as seen in Genesis 1:11, "Let the earth bring forth vegetation, seed-bearing plants and fruit trees on the earth bearing fruit with seed in it, according to their kinds."
• H8393 תְּבוּאָה (tebuah): Refers to produce or yield, often used in agricultural contexts, as in Proverbs 3:9, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce."

This entry provides a comprehensive understanding of the term καρπός, illustrating its significance in both physical and spiritual contexts within the biblical narrative.

Usage: The word καρπός appears frequently in the New Testament, where it is used both in literal contexts, such as agricultural references, and in metaphorical contexts, to describe the spiritual fruits of a believer's life, such as love, joy, peace, and other virtues.

Context: • Literal Usage: In the New Testament, καρπός is used to describe physical fruit, as seen in passages like Matthew 7:16, "By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?" Here, the term is used to illustrate the visible evidence of one's true nature.

• Metaphorical Usage: The metaphorical use of καρπός is significant in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul lists the "fruit of the Spirit," which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This passage highlights the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life, producing virtues that reflect God's character.

• Spiritual Implications: The concept of bearing fruit is central to the Christian life, as seen in John 15:5, where Jesus states, "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing." This emphasizes the necessity of abiding in Christ to produce spiritual fruit.

• Judgment and Reward: The New Testament also uses καρπός to discuss the outcomes of one's life in terms of judgment and reward. In Matthew 3:8, John the Baptist calls for repentance, saying, "Produce fruit worthy of repentance." This underscores the expectation of a life that visibly reflects inner transformation.