### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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