The Greek word klásma, represented by G2801, means a piece (bit) and is translated as broken or fragment. It is derived from the verb G2806 kláō, meaning "to break." It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses, exclusively in the context of the miraculous feedings of the multitudes.
In every biblical occurrence, G2801 refers to the leftovers after Jesus miraculously feeds thousands of people. After everyone did eat G5315 and was filled G5526, the disciples were commanded to collect what remained. In the feeding of the five thousand, they took up G142 twelve baskets of fragments (Matthew 14:20, Luke 9:17). Following the feeding of the four thousand, they gathered seven baskets of broken meat Mark 8:8. Jesus' instruction in John 6:12, "Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost," underscores the significance of these pieces.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the events surrounding the collection of fragments:
- G2806 kláō (to break): This is the root verb from which klásma is derived. It describes the action Jesus performed on the loaves before distribution. Jesus later asks his disciples, "When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?" Mark 8:19.
- G2894 kóphinos (a (small) basket): This specific type of basket was used to gather the twelve baskets of fragments after the feeding of the five thousand (Mark 6:43, John 6:13).
- G4711 spyrís (a hamper or lunch-receptacle): This different, larger type of basket was used to collect the seven baskets of broken meat after the feeding of the four thousand (Matthew 15:37, Mark 8:8).
- G142 aírō (to take up or away): This verb is frequently used to describe the action of collecting the fragments that remained (Matthew 14:20, Mark 6:43).
- G4863 synágō (to lead together, i.e. collect or convene): This word is used for the command to "Gather up the fragments" and the disciples' subsequent action John 6:12-13.
The theological and narrative weight of G2801 is significant, highlighting several key themes:
- Superabundant Provision: The existence of a large quantity of fragments after thousands had eaten and were filled G5526 serves as undeniable proof of God's abundant provision, which goes far beyond mere sufficiency Matthew 14:20.
- Divine Stewardship: The explicit command to gather up G4863 the fragments so that nothing would be lost demonstrates that God's miraculous gifts are not to be treated carelessly or wasted John 6:12.
- Tangible Evidence of a Miracle: The collected baskets of fragments acted as physical, memorable evidence of Jesus' power. He later used the memory of the number of baskets of fragments to challenge his disciples' lack of faith Mark 8:19-20.
In summary, G2801 klásma is far more than a simple word for a leftover. It is a key element in the narrative of the feeding miracles, representing the overflowing abundance of Christ's provision. Each fragment serves as a testament to divine power, a lesson in stewardship, and a concrete reminder of a miracle that defied natural laws, demonstrating that with God, there is always more than enough.
TRV