Fruit

Easton, 1897

A word as used in Scripture denoting produce in general, whether vegetable or animal. The Hebrews divided the fruits of the land into three classes:,

(1.) The fruit of the field, "corn-fruit" (Heb. dagan); all kinds of grain and pulse.

(2.) The fruit of the vine, "vintage-fruit" (Heb. tirosh); grapes, whether moist or dried.

(3.) "Orchard-fruits" (Heb. yitshar), as dates, figs, citrons, etc.

Injunctions concerning offerings and tithes were expressed by these Hebrew terms alone (Numbers 18:12; Deuteronomy 14:23). This word "fruit" is also used of children or offspring (Genesis 30:2; Deuteronomy 7:13; Luke 1:42; Psalms 21:10; Psalms 132:11); also of the progeny of beasts (Deuteronomy 28:51; Isaiah 14:29).

It is used metaphorically in a variety of forms (Psalms 104:13; Proverbs 1:31; Proverbs 11:30; Proverbs 31:16; Isaiah 3:10; Isaiah 10:12; Matthew 3:8; Matthew 21:41; Matthew 26:29; Hebrews 13:15; Romans 7:4, Romans 7:5; Romans 15:28).

The fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, Galatians 5:23; Ephesians 5:9; James 3:17, James 3:18) are those gracious dispositions and habits which the Spirit produces in those in whom he dwells and works.