### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word κλάω (kláō), Strong's `{{G2806}}`, is a primary verb meaning "to break." Its fundamental semantic range encompasses the physical act of fracturing, separating into pieces, or tearing apart. While it can apply to various objects, its most significant and almost exclusive usage in the New Testament is in the context of "breaking bread." This specialized application imbues the word with a profound theological dimension beyond a mere physical action. In this specific context, "to break" signifies not destruction, but a division or preparation for distribution and consumption, often implying an act of sharing or provision. The action of breaking bread often involves an audible snap, a deliberate and decisive act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of κλάω in the New Testament are predominantly linked to the breaking of bread, revealing distinct yet interconnected theological layers:
1. **Miraculous Feeding Narratives:** In the accounts of Jesus feeding the multitudes, κλάω describes His action of breaking the loaves before distributing them. Examples include [[Matthew 14:19]], [[Matthew 15:36]], [[Mark 6:41]], [[Mark 8:6]], and [[Luke 9:16]]. Here, the act of breaking precedes multiplication and abundant provision, underscoring Christ's power to sustain and His role as the divine provider. It signifies a preparatory action for sharing and nourishment.
2. **Institution of the Lord's Supper:** This is arguably the most significant theological context. At the Last Supper, Jesus "broke" the bread and gave it to His disciples, declaring it to be His body ([[Matthew 26:26]], [[Mark 14:22]], [[Luke 22:19]], [[1 Corinthians 10:16]], [[1 Corinthians 11:24]]). In this context, κλάω symbolizes the breaking of Christ's body on the cross—His suffering, sacrifice, and the offering of His life for the redemption of humanity. The physical act of breaking the bread becomes a vivid, prophetic representation of the spiritual reality of His atonement.
3. **Emmaus Road Encounter:** On the road to Emmaus, the two disciples recognized the resurrected Christ "in the breaking of the bread" ([[Luke 24:30]], [[Luke 24:35]]). This instance highlights κλάω as an act that facilitates revelation and recognition of the Lord's presence, particularly in the context of sacred fellowship and communion. It suggests that Christ is known and experienced in this specific ritual act.
4. **Early Church Practice:** The early Christian community regularly engaged in "breaking bread" together ([[Acts 2:42]], [[Acts 2:46]], [[Acts 20:7]], [[Acts 20:11]]). This practice signifies Christian fellowship (κοινωνία - `{{G2842}}`), communal worship, and participation in the Lord's Supper. It represents a shared identity and unity in Christ, remembering His sacrifice and anticipating His return. In [[Acts 27:35]], Paul breaks bread during a storm, an act of reassurance and communal sustenance, echoing the Lord's Supper's themes of provision and presence even in dire circumstances.
### Related Words & Concepts
The word κλάω is closely associated with several key biblical terms and theological concepts:
* **ἄρτος (artos - `{{G740}}`):** Bread. This is the almost exclusive object of κλάω in the New Testament, highlighting the specific and ritualistic nature of the breaking.
* **σῶμα (sōma - `{{G4983}}`):** Body. In the context of the Lord's Supper, the broken bread symbolizes Christ's body, linking the physical act to His incarnate reality and sacrificial death.
* **κλάσμα (klasma - `{{G2807}}`):** A broken piece, a fragment. This noun, derived from κλάω, appears in the feeding miracles to refer to the leftover broken pieces of bread ([[Matthew 14:20]], [[Mark 6:43]]).
* **κλάσις (klasis - `{{G2808}}`):** A breaking. This noun also derives from κλάω and is used in [[Acts 2:42]] to refer to "the breaking of bread" as a distinct practice of the early church.
* **Eucharist/Communion:** The central Christian sacrament and act of worship, directly involving the breaking of bread as its core ritual.
* **Sacrifice and Atonement:** The breaking of Christ's body on the cross, symbolized by the broken bread, is fundamental to Christian understanding of redemption.
* **Fellowship (κοινωνία - koinōnía):** The communal aspect of sharing the broken bread signifies unity and participation in the body of Christ.
* **Divine Provision:** As seen in the feeding miracles, the act of breaking bread connects to God's ability to provide abundantly for His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κλάω is profound, particularly due to its consistent association with the breaking of bread in both the miraculous feedings and the institution of the Lord's Supper.
Firstly, it serves as a powerful **symbol of Christ's atoning sacrifice**. The physical breaking of the bread directly represents the breaking of Jesus' body on the cross—His suffering, death, and the shedding of His blood for the forgiveness of sins. This act is the very heart of the New Covenant, established through His self-giving love.
Secondly, κλάω underscores the **reality of communion with Christ**. When believers partake of the broken bread, they are not merely performing a ritual but are participating in the very life and death of their Savior. It is a moment of profound spiritual union, remembering His past work and anticipating His future return.
Thirdly, the act of breaking bread fosters **unity and fellowship among believers**. As one loaf is broken and shared among many, it signifies that all who partake are members of the one body of Christ, united by their common faith and participation in His sacrifice. This communal act transcends individual piety, building corporate identity and mutual dependence.
Finally, in the broader context of the feeding miracles, κλάω highlights **God's abundant provision and Christ's identity as the Bread of Life**. Just as He broke bread to feed thousands, He continues to sustain His people spiritually, providing for their deepest needs. The recognition of Christ in the breaking of bread on the Emmaus road further solidifies its role as a means of divine revelation and ongoing encounter with the Risen Lord.
### Summary
The Greek verb κλάω (kláō), Strong's `{{G2806}}`, meaning "to break," holds a unique and central place in the New Testament due to its almost exclusive application to the breaking of bread. This seemingly simple physical action is imbued with layers of profound theological meaning. From Jesus' miraculous feedings, where it signifies divine provision and abundance, to the institution of the Lord's Supper, where it vividly symbolizes Christ's body broken for humanity's salvation, κλάω points to the very core of Christian faith. It underscores the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, fosters deep communion with Him, and cultivates unity among believers. The regular "breaking of bread" in the early church, and its continued practice today, serves as a perpetual reminder of Christ's presence, His redemptive work, and the blessed fellowship shared by His followers.
TRV