The Greek word bótrys, represented by G1009, refers to a cluster or a bunch of grapes. Its base definition is "a bunch (of grapes):--(vine) cluster (of the vine)." This highly specific term appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
The only scriptural appearance of G1009 is found in the book of Revelation. The word is used during a symbolic depiction of a great harvest at the end of time. An angel gives a command, saying, "Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe" Revelation 14:18. Here, bótrys identifies the specific object to be gathered as part of a divine judgment.
Several related Greek words from the same context help define the role of G1009:
- G288 ámpelos: This word for vine is defined as "a vine (as coiling about a support)." It is the source, the "vine of the earth," from which the clusters of G1009 are harvested Revelation 14:18.
- G4718 staphylḗ: Meaning grapes, this term describes the fruit that makes up the cluster. The verse directly connects the two, commanding the gathering of clusters because the grapes are ripe Revelation 14:18.
- G5166 trygáō: This verb means to gather or "to collect the vintage." It is the action commanded by the angel to be performed on the clusters Revelation 14:18.
The theological significance of G1009 is tied exclusively to its role as a symbol of judgment in Revelation.
- Harvest for Judgment: The gathering of the clusters is not for sustenance but for wrath. It is a key step in a divine harvest of the earth.
- Object of Wrath: The clusters represent those who are ripe for judgment. Immediately after they are gathered, "the vine of the earth" is cast "into the great winepress of the wrath of God" Revelation 14:19.
- Symbol of Fullness: The reason for gathering the clusters is that the grapes are "fully ripe," signifying that a point of completion has been reached, making judgment necessary.
In summary, G1009 is a very rare word that carries immense symbolic weight in its single biblical occurrence. While it literally means a cluster of grapes, its use in Revelation 14:18 transforms it into a powerful image of those destined for judgment. It works together with the imagery of the vine, the ripe grapes, and the harvest to portray the final, decisive wrath of God.
TRV