σταφυλή

a grape, cluster of grapes

Definition

Staphylē refers to a grape or a cluster of grapes, the fruit of the vine. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes the fruit itself, whether as a single grape or a cluster, and is used metaphorically to represent the visible, tangible product of a plant. In Matthew 7:16 and Luke 6:44, it appears in Jesus' teaching about recognizing false prophets by their 'fruits'—here, grapes are the natural, good produce of a vine, contrasting with thorns or thistles. In Revelation 14:18, the 'grape clusters of the earth' symbolize the ripe harvest of God's judgment, emphasizing fullness and readiness.

Biblical Usage

The word is used three times in the New Testament, always in metaphorical or proverbial contexts. In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 7:16, Luke 6:44), it illustrates the principle that a good tree bears good fruit, teaching discernment of character by visible outcomes. In Revelation 14:18, it is part of an apocalyptic vision where an angel calls for the harvesting of the earth's grapes, representing the gathering of the wicked for judgment. The usage shifts from ethical instruction to eschatological symbolism.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb στέφω (stephō), meaning 'to crown' or 'to encircle,' likely referring to the clustered shape of grapes. It is related to σταφυλῖνος (staphylinos), meaning 'of grapes,' and is the source of the English word 'staphylococcus' (due to the bacterium's grape-like clusters). The term inherently conveys the idea of something gathered or bunched together.

Semantic Range

This word enriches understanding of biblical imagery for fruitfulness and judgment. In the Gospels, it underscores Jesus' teaching on authentic discipleship: genuine faith produces visible, good 'fruit' (Matthew 7:16-20). In Revelation, it connects to the 'winepress of God's wrath' (Revelation 14:19-20), portraying divine judgment as a harvest. Recognizing the Greek term highlights the continuity between Jesus' ethical warnings and apocalyptic fulfillment, emphasizing that spiritual reality has tangible consequences.

In ancient Mediterranean culture, grapes were a vital agricultural product for food, drink (wine), and trade. A cluster of grapes symbolized abundance, blessing, and harvest (as seen in the spies' report from Canaan in Numbers 13:23). The metaphorical use by Jesus and John would resonate immediately with an agrarian society, where the quality of fruit was a direct indicator of the plant's health. Unlike today, where fruit is often store-bought, listeners then had firsthand experience with vines and their produce.

ἄμπελος (ampelos, G288) — the vine plant itself, not the fruit. καρπός (karpos, G2590) — a broader term for fruit or harvest, often used figuratively for spiritual outcomes.

Word Details

Scripture References