The Greek word opsárion, represented by G3795, is defined as a relish to other food, and more specifically, fish. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses. The definition suggests it may refer to fish that is salted and dried, served as a condiment, though its use in scripture points to it being part of a main meal.
All occurrences of G3795 are found in the Gospel of John, within two key narratives. First, in the feeding of the multitude, a lad provides "two small fishes" along with five barley loaves John 6:9. Jesus then takes these and distributes the fishes to the crowd John 6:11. Later, after the resurrection, the disciples find Jesus on the shore with a fire of coals that has fish laid on it John 21:9. Jesus instructs them to bring some of the fish they have just caught John 21:10 and then serves it to them John 21:13.
Several related words provide context for the meals where G3795 is found:
- G740 ártos (bread or a loaf): This word is consistently paired with fish. It is present as barley loaves in the initial miracle John 6:9 and as bread by the fire in the post-resurrection meal John 21:9.
- G2916 kríthinos (consisting of barley): This term describes the loaves that accompany the "two small fishes," highlighting the humble nature of the meal that Jesus miraculously multiplies John 6:9.
- G439 anthrakiá (a bed of burning coals): This word sets the scene for the post-resurrection breakfast, where the disciples find fish already cooking on a "fire of coals" prepared by Jesus John 21:9.
- G3808 paidárion (a little boy): This is the lad who possesses the loaves and fishes that become the source for the miraculous feeding of the crowd John 6:9.
The narrative significance of G3795 is tied directly to Christ's actions and ministry.
- Miraculous Provision: The "two small fishes" are integral to the miracle of feeding the five thousand. They represent the impossibly small amount of food that, in Jesus's hands, becomes more than enough for a great multitude (John 6:9, John 6:11).
- Post-Resurrection Fellowship: The fish prepared by Jesus on the shore serves as a sign of fellowship and restoration for the disciples. He not only provides the meal John 21:9 but also includes the disciples' own catch, affirming their work and inviting them to eat with him (John 21:10, John 21:13).
- Association with Bread: The consistent pairing of fish G3795 with bread G740 establishes it as a staple food item used by Jesus to provide both physical sustenance and profound spiritual lessons.
In summary, G3795 opsárion is a specific term for fish used exclusively in John's Gospel to highlight key moments of divine power and personal communion. Whether as part of a miraculous multiplication or a simple breakfast prepared by the resurrected Lord, this word is central to narratives demonstrating Jesus's role as a provider for both the body and the soul.
TRV