### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word κλῆμα (klēma, `{{G2814}}`) denotes a "branch" or "shoot," particularly that of a vine. Its etymological root lies in the verb κλάω (klaō, `{{G2806}}`), meaning "to break." This origin is significant, as it suggests a part that is capable of being broken off or detached, emphasizing its nature as an extension from a main body rather than an integral, unseverable component. In the context of a vine, a *klēma* is a new growth, a tendril or young shoot, which is distinct from a larger, more robust tree branch. The nuance of "as if broken off" in its base definition implies a potential for separation or a characteristic of being a part that extends from a main body, dependent on that body for its life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κλῆμα (klēma, `{{G2814}}`) appears exclusively in the Gospel of John, specifically within Jesus' profound discourse on the true vine in John 15.
* In [[John 15:2]], Jesus states, "Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit." Here, the *klēma* is the object of the Father's action, either removal due to barrenness or pruning for increased fruitfulness.
* [[John 15:4]] emphasizes dependence: "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me." The *klēma* is presented as utterly reliant on the vine for its life-giving sap and the ability to produce fruit.
* [[John 15:5]] clarifies the metaphor: "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." Believers are explicitly identified as the *klēma*, highlighting their vital connection to Christ.
* Finally, [[John 15:6]] warns of the consequence of non-abiding: "If anyone does not abide in me, he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and people gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned." The imagery of the withered, discarded *klēma* underscores the spiritual death that results from separation from the vine.
Across these occurrences, *klēma* consistently functions within the metaphor to represent disciples, emphasizing their absolute dependence on Jesus for spiritual life, fruitfulness, and ultimate salvation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding κλῆμα (klēma, `{{G2814}}`) is enhanced by examining its relationship to other key terms and biblical concepts:
* **κλάω (klaō, `{{G2806}}`):** The root verb, "to break," informs the inherent detachability and vulnerability of the *klēma*.
* **ἄμπελος (ampelos, `{{G288}}`):** "Vine." This is the essential counterpart to *klēma*. In John 15, Jesus declares Himself to be the "true vine," making the connection between the branch and the vine central to the metaphor of spiritual life.
* **καρποφορέω (karpophoreō, `{{G2592}}`):** "To bear fruit." This is the primary function and expected outcome of a healthy *klēma* connected to the vine. Spiritual fruitfulness is the evidence of abiding in Christ.
* **μένω (menō, `{{G3306}}`):** "To abide, remain." This verb is crucial in John 15, describing the continuous, active relationship required for the *klēma* to thrive. It implies a conscious and obedient dwelling in Christ.
* **Old Testament Imagery:** The metaphor of Israel as a vine or vineyard is prevalent in the Old Testament (e.g., Psalm 80; Isaiah 5; Jeremiah 2:21; Ezekiel 15, 17, 19). While different Hebrew words for "branch" are used (e.g., נֵצֶר, *nēṣer*, `{{H5342}}`; בַּקָּה, *baqqah*, `{{H1210}}`), this background provides a rich theological context for Jesus' reinterpretation of the vine imagery, now centered on Himself as the true source of life for God's people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κλῆμα (klēma, `{{G2814}}`) is profound, encapsulating core tenets of Christian discipleship and salvation:
* **Christocentricity:** The *klēma* imagery unequivocally establishes Jesus Christ as the exclusive source of spiritual life, vitality, and fruitfulness. All spiritual blessings flow from union with Him; there is no life or fruit apart from Him.
* **Radical Dependence:** Believers, as branches, are utterly dependent on Christ, the vine. This highlights the necessity of a continuous, living connection to Him, emphasizing that human effort or self-sufficiency outside of Christ is futile for spiritual productivity.
* **Fruitfulness as Evidence:** The purpose of the branch is to bear fruit, which represents the outward manifestation of an inner spiritual life transformed by Christ. This fruit is not merely good works but the character of God (e.g., Galatians 5:22-23) and effectiveness in ministry, demonstrating the authenticity of one's faith.
* **The Nature of Abiding:** The constant call to "abide" (μένω, `{{G3306}}`) in Christ, as the condition for fruitfulness, underscores the importance of an active, obedient, and intimate relationship with Him. It involves dwelling in His word, obeying His commands, and maintaining communion through prayer.
* **Divine Discipline and Judgment:** The Father, as the vinedresser, actively tends to the branches. This speaks to God's sovereign involvement: pruning fruitful branches for greater yield (divine discipline and sanctification) and removing unfruitful ones (divine judgment for those who have no genuine, life-giving connection to Christ, despite outward association). The imagery of the withered branch being burned serves as a stark warning about the eternal consequences of spiritual barrenness and ultimate separation from God.
### Summary
The Greek word κλῆμα (klēma, `{{G2814}}`), meaning "branch" or "shoot," is exclusively used in John 15 to portray believers in relation to Jesus Christ. Derived from a word meaning "to break," it emphasizes the branch's dependence on the vine and its potential for separation. As branches, believers are depicted as utterly reliant on Christ (the true vine, ἄμπελος, `{{G288}}`) for spiritual life and the ability to bear fruit (καρποφορέω, `{{G2592}}`). The imperative to "abide" (μένω, `{{G3306}}`) in Him is central, signifying a continuous, life-giving union. The imagery powerfully conveys that apart from Christ, believers can do nothing of eternal significance, highlighting the Father's role in pruning for greater fruitfulness or severing unfruitful branches, leading to spiritual death and judgment. Thus, *klēma* encapsulates the profound theological truths of Christocentricity, radical dependence, the necessity of fruitfulness, and the consequences of abiding or failing to abide in the divine life source.
TRV