Fruit
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 (Num 18:12; Deut 14:23). This word “fruit” is also used of children or offspring (Gen 30:2; Deut 7:13; Luke 1:42; Ps 21:10; Ps 132:11); also of the progeny of beasts (Deut 28:51; Isa 14:29).
It is used metaphorically in a variety of forms (Ps 104:13; Prov 1:31; Prov 11:30; Prov 31:16; Isa 3:10; Isa 10:12; Matt 3:8; Matt 21:41; Matt 26:29; Heb 13:15; Rom 7:4, Rom 7:5; Rom 15:28).
The fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22, Gal 5:23; Eph 5:9; Jas 3:17, Jas 3:18) are those gracious dispositions and habits which the Spirit produces in those in whom he dwells and works.
From Easton’s Bible Dictionary (1897), by Matthew George Easton.
