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G289 · Greek · New Testament
ἀμπελουργός
Ampelourgos
Noun, masculine
Vinedresser, Gardener

Definition

The Greek noun ampelourgos means "vinedresser" or "gardener who tends a vineyard," combining ampelos (vine) + ergon (work). It appears in Luke 13:8 in the parable of the barren fig tree, where the vinedresser pleads for one more year of care.

Usage & Theological Significance

The ampelourgos in Jesus' parable is an image of divine intercession and mercy. The owner (God's justice) would cut down the unfruitful tree; the vinedresser (the Son, interceding for sinners) pleads for more time, more grace. This parable extends the mercy of the Incarnation: God did not cut down Israel immediately but sent His Son to dig around and fertilize.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 13:7 So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, "For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven't found any. Cut it down!"
Luke 13:8 "Sir," the man replied, "leave it alone for one more year, and I'll dig around it and fertilize it."
John 15:1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.
Isaiah 5:1 I will sing for the one I love a song about his vineyard: My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hillside.
Romans 2:4 God's kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.

Related Words

External Resources

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