### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prophérō**, represented by `{{G4393}}`, means to **bear forward** or **produce**. Its direct biblical translation is **bring forth**. Though it appears only **2 times** in **1 unique verse**, its usage is pivotal in illustrating the principle that external actions are a product of one's internal state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single verse where `{{G4393}}` is found, [[Luke 6:45]], uses the word twice to establish a powerful contrast. It states that a **good** `{{G18}}` man **brings forth** good things from the **good** `{{G18}}` **treasure** `{{G2344}}` of his **heart** `{{G2588}}`. Conversely, an **evil** `{{G4190}}` man **brings forth** evil things from his evil **treasure** `{{G2344}}`. The verse concludes by explaining this principle: "for of the **abundance** `{{G4051}}` of the heart his mouth speaketh" [[Luke 6:45]]. The use of **prophérō** here directly connects a person's character to what they produce in the world.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of `{{G4393}}`:
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind)): This is the source from which things are brought forth. The word of God is described as a "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the **heart**" [[Hebrews 4:12]], highlighting its role as the center of a person's being.
* `{{G2344}}` **thēsaurós** (a deposit, i.e. wealth (literally or figuratively)): This describes the contents of the heart. Whether good or evil, this is the "wealth" that is drawn upon. This concept is reinforced elsewhere, stating, "For where your **treasure** is, there will your heart be also" [[Matthew 6:21]].
* `{{G18}}` **agathós** ("good"): This word defines the positive quality of both the source and what is brought forth. Believers are described as God's workmanship, created "unto **good** works" [[Ephesians 2:10]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil): This is the direct opposite of **agathós** and defines the negative quality produced from a corrupt source [[Luke 6:45]]. Believers are taught to pray for deliverance from **evil** [[Matthew 6:13]].
* `{{G4051}}` **perísseuma** (a surplus, or superabundance): This explains the mechanism by which things are brought forth—they are an overflow of what is already stored in the heart [[Luke 6:45]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4393}}` is concentrated in its single context, which establishes several key principles:
* **The Heart as the Source:** The use of **prophérō** teaches that human actions and words are not spontaneous but are produced from a pre-existing spiritual state. The **heart** `{{G2588}}` functions as a **treasure** `{{G2344}}` that determines what a person **brings forth** `{{G4393}}`.
* **A Principle of Overflow:** The concept is explained as a matter of **abundance** `{{G4051}}`. What is inside a person in superabundance will inevitably come out, just as the **mouth** `{{G4750}}` **speaketh** `{{G2980}}` from what fills the heart [[Luke 6:45]].
* **Inner Character Determines Outer Fruit:** The word illustrates that a **good** `{{G18}}` person and an **evil** `{{G4190}}` person are distinguished by what they produce. This connects being to doing, showing that external "fruit" is a reliable indicator of the internal "root."
### Summary
In summary, while **prophérō** `{{G4393}}` is rare in scripture, its role is foundational to understanding the relationship between faith and works. It means more than just to physically "bring forth"; it signifies the production of words and deeds that are a direct manifestation of the heart's stored treasure. Through its use in [[Luke 6:45]], it provides an unforgettable illustration that what comes out of a person is the truest evidence of what resides within them.
TRV