ἀκμάζω (akmazō)
akmazō
to ripen
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb akmazō describes reaching a state of full maturity or ripeness. It applies specifically to agricultural produce coming to its prime, capturing the moment when fruit is fully developed and ready for harvest. In this context, it conveys a sense of flourishing vitality rather than mere growth.
Its etymological root connects to the concept of the "point" or "peak," suggesting the highest point of development. The single New Testament occurrence in Revelation 14:18 uses this imagery to depict grapes that have reached their perfect state for gathering. This usage highlights a natural, inevitable progression toward completion.
Translators typically render this word as "ripe" or "come to ripeness," preserving the concrete agricultural image. The term emphasizes the condition of the object itself—fully formed and ready—rather than the act of harvesting. It serves as a precise descriptor for the culmination of a growth process.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word akmazō paints a picture of fruit reaching its perfect state, ready for harvest. In Revelation 14:18, it describes grapes that have ripened fully on the vine. This imagery reminds us that God’s timing is precise. Just as fruit cannot be picked before it is ready, our lives unfold according to His perfect schedule.
For your faith, this offers comfort in seasons of waiting. You do not need to rush or force outcomes. The growth you see today may be part of a larger process that God is overseeing. Trust that He brings things to their intended completion in His own time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fully ripened1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἤκμασαν1×
Key Verses
-
Revelation of John 14:18
Another angel came out from the altar, he who has power over fire, and he called with a great voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Send your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for the earth’s grapes are fully ripe!”
The word describes the grapes as fully ripe, signaling the precise moment for judgment and harvest.