King James Version

What Does Romans 11:16 Mean?

Romans 11:16 in the King James Version says “For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.” — study this verse from Romans chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.”

Romans 11:16 · KJV

Context

14

If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

15

For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?

16

For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.

17

And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; among them: or, for them

18

Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy—aparche (ἀπαρχή, "firstfruit") refers to the firstfruits offering (Numbers 15:17-21). When the first portion is consecrated, the whole batch shares that holiness. Paul likely refers to the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) as the firstfruit, making their descendants (the lump, phyrama, φύραμα) holy—set apart to God. Alternatively, the Jewish remnant (vv. 1-5) could be the firstfruit, guaranteeing the future salvation of the whole.

The second metaphor reinforces this: and if the root be holy, so are the branches (rizā, ῥίζα, "root"). The root is the patriarchs; the branches are their descendants. Paul establishes covenant continuity: God's election of the fathers guarantees His faithfulness to their children. This sets up the olive tree metaphor (vv. 17-24). The holiness Paul speaks of is covenantal, not necessarily salvific for every individual—but it means God has not abandoned Israel corporately.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The firstfruits offering symbolized consecrating the entire harvest to God. By extension, the patriarchs' election consecrated the nation. This covenantal holiness explains God's ongoing commitment despite Israel's unfaithfulness—He remains faithful to His sworn promises (Deuteronomy 7:7-8).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the 'firstfruit' principle demonstrate God's covenant faithfulness across generations?
  2. What is the difference between covenantal holiness and individual salvation, and why does this matter?
  3. How do the patriarchs' election and God's promises to them guarantee His purposes for Israel's future?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 16 words
εἰ1 of 16

“if”

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δὲ2 of 16

“For”

G1161

but, and, etc

ἡ3 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀπαρχὴ4 of 16

“the firstfruit”

G536

a beginning of sacrifice, i.e., the (jewish) first-fruit (figuratively)

ἁγία5 of 16

“be holy”

G40

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

καὶ6 of 16

“holy and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὸ7 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

φύραμα·8 of 16

“the lump”

G5445

perhaps akin to g5453 through the idea of swelling in bulk), mean to knead; a mass of dough

καὶ9 of 16

“holy and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εἰ10 of 16

“if”

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

ἡ11 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ῥίζα12 of 16

“the root”

G4491

a "root" (literally or figuratively)

ἁγία13 of 16

“be holy”

G40

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

καὶ14 of 16

“holy and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οἱ15 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κλάδοι16 of 16

“are the branches”

G2798

a twig or bough (as if broken off)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Romans 11:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Romans 11:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

James 1:18Ezekiel 44:30Proverbs 3:9Jeremiah 2:21Numbers 15:17-21Leviticus 23:10

Test Your Knowledge

Romans 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRomans Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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