### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kynárion**, represented by `{{G2952}}`, is defined as **a puppy** or, by extension, a dog. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is notably specific, often implying a small or domestic dog, rather than a wild or feral one.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{G2952}}` are found in the parallel accounts of Jesus' encounter with a Canaanite woman in Matthew and Mark. Jesus initially uses the term metaphorically, stating that it is not **meet** `{{G2570}}` to **take** `{{G2983}}` the **children's** `{{G5043}}` **bread** `{{G740}}` and **cast** `{{G906}}` it to **dogs** `{{G2952}}` ([[Matthew 15:26]]; [[Mark 7:27]]). In response, the woman cleverly adopts the term, replying that even the **dogs** eat the **crumbs** `{{G5589}}` that fall from their masters' **table** `{{G5132}}` ([[Matthew 15:27]]; [[Mark 7:28]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial to understanding the context in which `{{G2952}}` is used:
* `{{G5043}}` **téknon** (a child) and `{{G3813}}` **paidíon** (a childling): These terms for **child** establish the primary recipients of the "bread" in Jesus' analogy, standing in contrast to the **dogs** ([[Matthew 15:26]], [[Mark 7:28]]).
* `{{G740}}` **ártos** (bread): This represents the blessing or provision intended for the **children** `{{G5043}}`, which Jesus says is not meant to be cast to **dogs** [[Matthew 15:26]].
* `{{G5589}}` **psichíon** (a little bit or morsel): This word for **crumb** is essential to the woman's faithful argument, acknowledging that while the main meal is for the children, the **dogs** still receive the **crumbs** that fall [[Matthew 15:27]].
* `{{G5132}}` **trápeza** (table): This word sets the domestic scene for the entire metaphor, where the **dogs** are under the master's **table** [[Mark 7:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2952}}` is concentrated in this single narrative, where it illustrates profound truths.
* **Metaphor for Status:** Jesus `{{G2424}}` uses the distinction between **children** `{{G5043}}` and **dogs** to articulate a priority of mission. The statement that it is not **meet** `{{G2570}}` to give the children's bread to **dogs** establishes this initial distinction [[Mark 7:27]].
* **Expression of Humility and Faith:** The woman's response is a powerful display of faith. By accepting the humble position of a **dog** `{{G2952}}` and arguing for the **crumbs** `{{G5589}}`, she demonstrates an unwavering belief in the Master's `{{G2962}}` abundant provision [[Matthew 15:27]].
* **A Picture of Inclusive Provision:** The use of **kynárion**, a puppy or small house dog, places the scene in a domestic context. The **dogs** are not outsiders in the street but are under the master's **table** `{{G5132}}`, suggesting that even those seemingly outside the primary covenant are still within the sphere of the master's care and can receive blessings that **fall** `{{G4098}}` from him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2952}}` is far more than a simple word for a dog. Though used only four times, its role in the exchange between Jesus and the Canaanite woman is pivotal. It functions as the central element in a powerful metaphor about spiritual privilege, humility, and faith. The narrative transforms the term from a mark of exclusion into a testament to the fact that even a "crumb" of God's grace, sought with persistent faith, is a sufficient portion.
TRV