### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **oligópistos**, represented by `{{G3640}}`, is defined as being incredulous or lacking confidence in Christ. Its base components, ὀλίγος and πίστις, convey the meaning of having **little faith**. This specific term appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, always as a descriptor used by Jesus toward his disciples.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3640}}` is used to address the disciples' specific failures of trust. Jesus uses the term "O ye of **little faith**" when the disciples are **fearful** during a storm on the sea [[Matthew 8:26]]. He also uses it to question Peter's **doubt** as he begins to sink while walking on water [[Matthew 14:31]]. The term is further applied when the disciples show anxiety about physical needs, such as worrying about a lack of bread [[Matthew 16:8]] or what they will wear, contrasting their worry with God's provision for the grass of the field ([[Matthew 6:30]], [[Luke 12:28]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the conditions associated with having "little faith":
* `{{G1169}}` **deilós** (fearful): Defined as timid or faithless, this word is directly linked to a lack of faith. In one instance, Jesus asks, "Why are ye **fearful**, O ye of little faith?" [[Matthew 8:26]], suggesting that fear is a symptom of diminished trust.
* `{{G1365}}` **distázō** (doubt): This word means to waver in opinion. Jesus connects it to `{{G3640}}` when He asks Peter, "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou **doubt**?" [[Matthew 14:31]], indicating that wavering confidence is a hallmark of little faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3640}}` is significant in understanding the nature of discipleship.
* **Trust Over Fear:** The term consistently appears in contexts where fear of natural circumstances or lack of provision overshadows trust in Christ's power and presence. It frames fear not as an emotion alone, but as a spiritual condition rooted in insufficient faith [[Matthew 8:26]].
* **Anxiety and Worldly Concern:** Jesus identifies worry over material needs like food and clothing as a key indicator of **little faith**. This challenges believers to trust in God's provision rather than being consumed by worldly anxieties ([[Matthew 6:30]], [[Luke 12:28]]).
* **The Problem of Doubt:** The experience of Peter demonstrates that **little faith** is not the absence of faith, but a faith that has been compromised by doubt. The act of wavering `{{G1365}}` is what turns an initial act of faith into a moment of failure [[Matthew 14:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3640}}` is more than a simple rebuke; it is a diagnostic term used by Jesus to pinpoint moments where his disciples' trust is weak. It describes a faith that is present but small, easily overcome by fear, doubt, and worldly anxiety. In each case, it serves as a call for the disciples to move from a state of "little faith" to a deeper, more resilient confidence in Christ's authority and care.
TRV