### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun κλάσις (klásis, `{{G2800}}`) is derived from the verb κλάω (klaō, `{{G2806}}`), which means "to break." Therefore, the core meaning of κλάσις is "the act of breaking" or "fracture." In its New Testament usage, its semantic range is highly specific and narrow, referring exclusively to the breaking of bread, particularly in a communal and religious context. It does not denote other forms of breaking, such as the breaking of a law, a bone, or a promise.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun κλάσις (klásis, `{{G2800}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* [[Acts 2:42]]: "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."
* Here, "the breaking of bread" (τῇ κλάσει τοῦ ἄρτου) is presented as one of the four foundational pillars of the early Christian community in Jerusalem. It describes a regular, established practice among the believers, alongside adherence to apostolic doctrine, communal fellowship (κοινωνία), and corporate prayer. The definite article "the" (τῇ) preceding κλάσει suggests that this was a well-understood and specific activity, not merely an incidental meal. This act likely encompassed both the physical sharing of food as a sign of fellowship and the spiritual remembrance of Jesus' Last Supper and His sacrifice, a practice that would evolve into what is known as the Lord's Supper or Eucharist.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of κλάσις is enriched by examining its linguistic and conceptual relatives:
* **κλάω (klaō, `{{G2806}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to break." This verb is used extensively in the Gospels and Acts in contexts directly related to κλάσις. It describes Jesus breaking bread at the feeding of the multitudes ([[Matthew 14:19]], [[Mark 8:6]], [[Luke 24:30]]) and, most significantly, at the institution of the Lord's Supper ([[Matthew 26:26]], [[Mark 14:22]], [[Luke 22:19]], [[1 Corinthians 10:16]], [[1 Corinthians 11:24]]). The noun κλάσις encapsulates the *act* described by this verb.
* **ἄρτος (artos, `{{G740}}`)**: "Bread." This noun is inextricably linked to κλάσις, as it is the object that is consistently broken in the biblical context.
* **κοινωνία (koinōnia, `{{G2842}}`)**: "Fellowship" or "communion." In [[Acts 2:42]], κλάσις is listed alongside κοινωνία, highlighting the communal aspect of the early church's practice. The breaking of bread was a tangible expression and deepening of their shared life in Christ.
* **Eucharist/Lord's Supper**: While the terms "Eucharist" (εὐχαριστία, `{{G2169}}`, thanksgiving) or "Lord's Supper" are not explicitly used in [[Acts 2:42]], the "breaking of bread" is widely understood to refer to the nascent form of this central Christian ordinance, remembering Christ's body broken for salvation.
* **Agape Feast**: The communal meal shared by early Christians, often preceding or combined with the Lord's Supper, which emphasized fellowship and mutual care.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of κλάσις in [[Acts 2:42]] carries profound theological weight, signifying foundational aspects of early Christian life and worship:
* **Continuity with Christ's Ministry:** The practice of "breaking bread" by the early church directly echoes Jesus' own actions, particularly at the Last Supper ([[Luke 22:19]]) and in His post-resurrection appearances ([[Luke 24:30]]). It signifies a living remembrance and ongoing participation in His life, death, and resurrection. This act connects the new community of believers directly to the historical Christ.
* **Communion and Unity:** The breaking of bread was a powerful symbol and means of fostering unity and fellowship (κοινωνία) among believers. Sharing a common meal, particularly one imbued with spiritual significance, visually and experientially expressed their shared identity in Christ and their mutual dependence. It transcended social and economic barriers, uniting diverse individuals into one body.
* **Sacramental Implications:** While the early church's "breaking of bread" was likely a combination of a common meal and a sacred remembrance, it clearly laid the groundwork for what would become the sacrament of the Eucharist or Holy Communion. It was understood as a means of grace, a participation in the spiritual reality of Christ's body and blood ([[1 Corinthians 10:16]]), and a proclamation of His death until He comes ([[1 Corinthians 11:26]]).
* **Devotion and Identity:** For the early disciples, "the breaking of bread" was not merely a social custom but an act of profound devotion. It was a defining characteristic of their new life in Christ, alongside their commitment to apostolic teaching, fellowship, and prayer. It marked them as a distinct community, centered on their crucified and risen Lord.
* **Anticipation of the Kingdom:** Like all communal meals in the biblical tradition, the breaking of bread also carried an eschatological dimension, looking forward to the great messianic banquet in the Kingdom of God, when believers will feast with Christ in glory.
### Summary
κλάσις (klásis, `{{G2800}}`) is a Greek noun meaning "the act of breaking" and is derived from the verb κλάω (`{{G2806}}`). Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 2:42]] refers specifically to "the breaking of bread" (τῇ κλάσει τοῦ ἄρτου). This practice was a foundational element of the early Christian community's life, signifying their devotion, unity, and fellowship. Theologically, it represents a direct continuity with Jesus' actions at the Last Supper and after His resurrection, serving as a powerful symbol and means of Christian communion. It embodies the nascent form of the Lord's Supper or Eucharist, fostering spiritual and communal bonds among believers while also anticipating the future heavenly feast with Christ.
TRV