### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ákarpos**, represented by `{{G175}}`, describes a state of being **barren** or **unfruitful**. Derived from a negative particle (Α) and the word for fruit (καρπός), it conveys the idea of being without fruit, both literally and figuratively. This term appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying a condition of spiritual or practical unproductiveness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G175}}` is consistently used to illustrate spiritual ineffectiveness or sterility. In the parable of the sower, the seed of the word becomes **unfruitful** when it is choked by the "care of this world" [[Matthew 13:22]] and the "lusts of other things" [[Mark 4:19]]. The term also describes actions void of spiritual value, such as the "**unfruitful** works of darkness" that believers are commanded to reprove [[Ephesians 5:11]]. The apostle Paul applies it to a practical matter of worship, stating that if he prays in an unknown tongue, his understanding is **unfruitful** [[1 Corinthians 14:14]]. The most severe usage describes false teachers, who are condemned as trees that are "**without fruit**, twice dead" [[Jude 1:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being **unfruitful**:
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (deed, doing, labour, work): This word for an act or **work** is often set in contrast to fruitfulness. Believers are told to avoid "**unfruitful** works of darkness" [[Ephesians 5:11]] and instead to maintain "good **works**" so they are not unfruitful [[Titus 3:14]].
* `{{G3308}}` **mérimna** (solicitude, care): This is presented as a direct cause of spiritual barrenness. The "**care** of this world" is a thorn that chokes the word of God, causing one to become unfruitful [[Matthew 13:22]].
* `{{G1186}}` **déndron** (a tree): This word provides a powerful natural metaphor for a person's spiritual state. False teachers are condemned as **trees** that are "without fruit" and "plucked up by the roots," highlighting their dead and useless condition [[Jude 1:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G175}}` is primarily found in its function as a spiritual warning.
* **Hindrances to Spiritual Growth:** The concept of being **unfruitful** warns against worldly entanglement. The "care of this world" and the "deceitfulness of riches" are identified as forces that can choke out the word, rendering a person spiritually barren ([[Matthew 13:22]], [[Mark 4:19]]).
* **The Nature of Falsehood:** The term is a key descriptor for false teachers. They are compared to dead natural elements, like "clouds... without water" and trees "**without fruit**, twice dead, plucked up by the roots" [[Jude 1:12]], indicating a complete lack of spiritual life.
* **The Mandate for a Productive Faith:** Scripture contrasts being **unfruitful** with a life of purpose. Believers are called to "maintain good works" specifically so that they are "not **unfruitful**" [[Titus 3:14]]. A fruitful life is directly linked to abounding in the **knowledge** of Jesus Christ [[2 Peter 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G175}}` **ákarpos** extends beyond simple barrenness to describe a state of profound spiritual ineffectiveness. It is a condition caused by worldly **care** [[Matthew 13:22]], sinful works [[Ephesians 5:11]], and a lack of true spiritual life [[Jude 1:12]]. The Bible uses this term to warn against a faith that produces no good **works** and has no beneficial effect, whether in personal understanding [[1 Corinthians 14:14]] or in one's community. Ultimately, being **unfruitful** represents a failure to live out the transformative power of the gospel.
TRV