### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **génnēma**, represented by `{{G1081}}`, is used to mean **offspring** or **produce**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a dual meaning, referring both to literal produce, such as agricultural harvests, and figuratively to a generation or lineage of people, often describing their inherent character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1081}}` is used in two primary contexts. Figuratively, it is used as a term of sharp rebuke by both John the Baptist and Jesus, who address the Pharisees and Sadducees as a "generation{G1081} of vipers{G2191}" ([[Matthew 3:7]]; [[Luke 3:7]]). This usage links their identity to a venomous source, questioning how they, "being evil, speak good things" [[Matthew 12:34]]. Literally, it refers to produce, as when Jesus speaks of the "fruit{G1081} of the vine{G288}" at the Last Supper [[Matthew 26:29]], or in the parable of the rich man who plans to store his "fruits{G1081}" [[Luke 12:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1081}}`:
* `{{G2191}}` **échidna** (an adder or other poisonous snake): This word is paired directly with `{{G1081}}` to form the insult "generation of vipers," highlighting the malicious and dangerous nature of those being addressed [[Matthew 23:33]].
* `{{G288}}` **ámpelos** (a vine): This term identifies the source of the literal "fruit" in passages about the Last Supper, where Jesus refers to the wine as the "fruit of the vine" [[Mark 14:25]].
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This represents the positive, metaphorical produce a believer's life can yield. Paul prays for God to "increase the fruits of your righteousness" [[2 Corinthians 9:10]].
* `{{G4690}}` **spérma** (seed, offspring): Used in context with `{{G1081}}`, this word connects the idea of a harvest to a divine source. God is the one who provides "seed to the sower" and increases the "fruits" that result [[2 Corinthians 9:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1081}}` is significant, highlighting the connection between source and outcome.
* **The Fruit of Character:** The term is used to show that one's actions and words are the natural produce of their inner state. An evil heart produces a "generation of vipers" [[Matthew 12:34]], while a life rooted in God yields spiritual fruit.
* **Spiritual Harvest:** In a positive sense, `{{G1081}}` illustrates the results of a righteous life. The "fruits of your righteousness" are not a human achievement but a divinely-produced harvest that God himself increases [[2 Corinthians 9:10]].
* **Covenant Symbolism:** When Jesus speaks of the "fruit of the vine," he links it to the coming kingdom of God ([[Luke 22:18]]; [[Mark 14:25]]). This act transforms a literal product into a symbol of the New Covenant and the fellowship that will be perfected in the future.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1081}}` is a versatile word that encompasses both literal produce and the figurative offspring of one's character. Whether used to deliver a stern warning about the consequences of an evil nature or to describe the blessed results of a life yielded to God, it consistently points to the principle that what is produced is determined by its source.
TRV