apparently from the base of ὀψέ and ὥρα; properly, even-tide of the (summer) season (dog-days), i.e. (by implication) ripe fruit:--fruit.
Transliteration:opṓra
Pronunciation:op-o'-rah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ὀπώρα (opṓra, `{{G3703}}`) is derived from a combination of ὀψέ (opse, meaning "late" or "evening") and ὥρα (hōra, meaning "hour" or "season"). This etymological foundation points to its primary meaning: the "even-tide of the (summer) season," specifically the late summer or early autumn period. This is the time when fruits reach their peak ripeness and are ready for harvest, often referred to as the "dog-days" in ancient calendars. By implication, therefore, opṓra came to signify the "ripe fruit" itself, the mature produce of this particular season. Unlike the more general term for fruit, καρπός (karpos, `{{G2590}}`), opṓra carries a nuance of seasonal specificity and the desirable state of being fully matured and ready for consumption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ὀπώρα (opṓra, `{{G3703}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the apocalyptic book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 18:14]]**: "The fruit for which your soul longed has gone from you, and all your delicacies and your splendors are lost to you, never to be found again!"
In this singular occurrence, opṓra is used metaphorically within the lament over the fall of Babylon the Great. The "fruit" (opṓra) here represents the accumulated wealth, luxuries, pleasures, and all the desirable material possessions that Babylon, symbolizing a system of worldly power and indulgence, had lusted after and acquired. The context is one of divine judgment, where the very things that Babylon cherished and found satisfaction in are irrevocably taken away. The choice of opṓra emphasizes not just any fruit, but the "ripe fruit"—that which is most desirable, at its peak, and ready for enjoyment. This intensifies the sense of loss; it is not merely a loss of potential, but the loss of that which was already possessed and savored, now snatched away in its prime. The verse underscores the complete and utter desolation that befalls those who prioritize earthly desires over divine righteousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate ὀπώρα (opṓra, `{{G3703}}`), it is helpful to consider its relationship to other biblical terms and concepts:
* **καρπός (karpos, `{{G2590}}`):** This is the most common and comprehensive Greek word for "fruit" in the New Testament, encompassing literal produce, offspring, and metaphorical "fruit" such as the fruit of the Spirit, the fruit of righteousness, or the fruit of one's labor. While opṓra specifically denotes ripe, seasonal fruit, karpos is a broader term that can refer to any kind of produce or outcome. Opṓra could be considered a specific type or quality of karpos.
* **γέννημα (gennēma, `{{G1081}}`):** Meaning "offspring" or "produce," this term is often used for the "fruit of the vine" or the "brood of vipers," indicating something that is generated or brought forth.
* **ὥρα (hōra, `{{G5610}}`):** As a component of opṓra, hōra signifies "hour," "time," or "season." Its inclusion highlights the seasonal nature and specific timing associated with the ripening of fruit.
* **ὀψέ (opse, `{{G3796}}`):** The other component of opṓra, meaning "late" or "evening," further emphasizes the specific timing within a season, pointing to the latter part of the summer when fruits mature.
* **Concepts of Abundance and Luxury:** In its metaphorical use in Revelation, opṓra is closely tied to ideas of material wealth, luxury, and the fulfillment of earthly desires, often in contrast to spiritual riches.
* **Concepts of Judgment and Loss:** The context of [[Revelation 18:14]] firmly places opṓra within the theological framework of divine judgment, where the objects of worldly desire are stripped away.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ὀπώρα (opṓra, `{{G3703}}`) in [[Revelation 18:14]] carries profound theological weight, primarily within the eschatological narrative of judgment:
1. **The Transience of Earthly Pursuits:** The "ripe fruit" of Babylon symbolizes the apex of worldly pleasure, wealth, and power. Yet, this very "fruit," though seemingly at its most desirable, is shown to be impermanent and subject to divine removal. This highlights a core biblical truth: all earthly treasures and self-serving desires are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying compared to the eternal realities of God's kingdom.
2. **Divine Judgment and Retribution:** The immediate context is God's judgment upon Babylon for her idolatry and oppression. The removal of her "ripe fruit" is a direct consequence of her actions, demonstrating God's sovereign power to dismantle even the most entrenched and seemingly secure systems of human accumulation and self-indulgence. It underscores the principle that those who live for earthly pleasures will ultimately lose them.
3. **The Emptiness of Materialism:** Babylon's "longing" for this opṓra reveals an idolatrous attachment to material possessions and worldly delights. The subsequent loss of this "fruit" serves as a stark warning against placing one's ultimate hope and desire in created things rather than the Creator. True fulfillment and enduring satisfaction cannot be found in the accumulation of "ripe fruit" that is destined to perish.
4. **Contrast with Spiritual Fruit:** While opṓra points to desirable temporal produce, the New Testament frequently speaks of "spiritual fruit" (καρπός - karpos, `{{G2590}}`) such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (e.g., [[Galatians 5:22-23]]). This contrast implicitly highlights the enduring and eternal nature of spiritual blessings versus the transient nature of worldly gains.
### Summary
ὀπώρα (opṓra, `{{G3703}}`) is a Greek term rooted in the concept of the "late season" or "evening time of summer," specifically denoting "ripe fruit." Its singular but potent appearance in [[Revelation 18:14]] is highly significant. Here, it is used metaphorically to represent the peak of worldly desires, luxuries, and accumulated wealth that Babylon (symbolizing a system hostile to God) had passionately pursued. The divine pronouncement of its loss signifies the complete and irreversible judgment upon such a system. Theologically, opṓra serves as a powerful symbol of the transience of earthly pleasures and the ultimate emptiness of materialism when pursued apart from God. It underscores God's sovereign power to bring about judgment and reveals that all that is cherished in this world can be irrevocably stripped away, leaving only desolation for those who have longed for it more than for God.
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