גֶּפֶן

“Vine” in Hebrew is Gefen (גֶּפֶן), pronounced “GEH-fen.” Gefen is a primary noun in Hebrew with no clear verbal root, suggesting it is one of the oldest agricultural terms in the Semitic language family. The grapevine was among the first cultivated plants in the ancient Near East.

Gefen (גֶּפֶן) means “Vine, grapevine” in Biblical Hebrew. Gefen appears 55 times in the Hebrew Bible. It symbolizes Israel (Psalm 80:8, Isaiah 5:7), prosperity and peace (1 Kings 4:25 — 'every man under his vine'), the messianic age, and covenant celebration through wine. Jesus claims to be the 'true gefen' (John 15:1).

Gefen is pronounced “GEH-fen.” The word comes from the Hebrew root ג-פ-ן.

The grapevine was Israel's most valuable crop — it took years to establish, required constant care, and produced the wine that symbolized joy and covenant. Israel as God's vine means she was lovingly planted, tenderly cultivated, and expected to bear fruit. When she didn't, the prophets spoke of judgment on the unfruitful vineyard (Isaiah 5:1-7).

By calling Himself the 'true gefen' (John 15:1), Jesus claims to be the true Israel — the faithful vine who bears the fruit that Israel was called to produce. He invites believers to 'abide' in Him as branches in a vine — maintaining vital, life-giving connection. Apart from the vine, branches cannot produce fruit.

The Kiddush (sanctification) prayer, recited over wine every Shabbat and festival, blesses God as 'borei p'ri hagefen' — 'Creator of the fruit of the vine.' This blessing connects every Shabbat meal to God's creative power and covenant faithfulness. Jesus likely said these words at the Last Supper.