### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **karpós**, represented by `{{G2590}}`, is a foundational term for **fruit**. It appears 66 times across 56 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition, "fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively," signifies its use for both agricultural produce and the spiritual or moral outcomes of a person's life and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2590}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes the yield of the land, as when a husbandman waits for the "precious **fruit** of the earth" [[James 5:7]]. It is also used in parables where trees are judged by their output; a tree that does not produce good **fruit** is hewn down and cast into the fire [[Matthew 3:10]]. Figuratively, it represents the results of one's actions and spiritual state, such as bringing forth **fruits** worthy of repentance [[Luke 3:8]]. The most prominent figurative use is to describe the outward evidence of an inward spiritual reality, as seen in the command to abide in Christ in order to bear much **fruit** [[John 15:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of agriculture, growth, and spiritual production:
* `{{G1092}}` **geōrgós** (a land-worker, i.e. farmer): This term for a **husbandman** is directly linked to the cultivation of **fruit**. The husbandman is depicted as the one who tends the vineyard and waits for its precious **fruit** [[James 5:7]].
* `{{G1186}}` **déndron** (a tree): As the source of literal fruit, a **tree** is consistently used in scripture to illustrate that it is known by its **fruit**. A good **tree** brings forth good **fruit**, while a corrupt one produces evil **fruit** [[Matthew 7:17]].
* `{{G288}}` **ámpelos** (a vine): This word is central to the metaphor of spiritual fruitfulness. Believers are branches who must abide in the **vine** to bear **fruit**, illustrating a complete dependence on Christ for spiritual production [[John 15:4]].
* `{{G4687}}` **speírō** (to sow): This term describes the act that precedes growth and harvest. The concept is linked figuratively in the statement that "the **fruit** of righteousness is sown in peace" [[James 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2590}}` is significant, serving as a primary metaphor for the Christian life.
* **Evidence of Salvation:** True faith is expected to produce tangible results. The Bible urges believers to "bring forth therefore **fruits** meet for repentance" [[Matthew 3:8]]. People are to be known by their **fruits** [[Matthew 7:16]], which act as the visible evidence of their inner state.
* **Product of the Spirit:** Spiritual **fruit** is not produced by human effort alone but is the result of the Holy Spirit's work in a believer's life. This is explicitly detailed as "the **fruit** of the Spirit," which includes love, joy, peace, longsuffering, and goodness ([[Galatians 5:22]], [[Ephesians 5:9]]).
* **Condition of Discipleship:** Bearing **fruit** is presented as a condition and sign of true discipleship. Abiding in Christ is the only way to bear much **fruit**, and bearing no **fruit** results in being taken away ([[John 15:2]], [[John 15:8]]).
* **Result of Divine Discipline:** Even hardship can be productive. God's chastening "yieldeth the peaceable **fruit** of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby" [[Hebrews 12:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2590}}` moves beyond its simple agricultural meaning to become a crucial theological concept. It represents the tangible, observable outcome of a person's life, revealing the nature of their heart and the source of their spiritual life. Whether literal or figurative, **fruit** is the ultimate test of a tree's health and a believer's connection to God, serving as the evidence of salvation and the basis for both reward and judgment.
TRV