παροψίς

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word paropsís, represented by G3953, literally refers to a platter or side-dish. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, both within the same powerful discourse by Jesus. The term itself denotes a simple receptacle for food.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its biblical context, G3953 is used metaphorically to condemn religious hypocrisy. Jesus pronounces woe G3759 upon the scribes G1122 and Pharisees G5330 for meticulously cleaning the outside G1855 of the cup and platter, while the inside remains full of extortion G724 and excess G192 Matthew 23:25. He instructs them to first cleanse G2511 what is within G1787 the cup and platter, so that the outside may also be G1096 clean G2513 Matthew 23:26.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words illuminate the meaning of this passage:

• G4221 potḗrion (a drinking-vessel): This word for cup appears alongside platter in both instances, completing the image of a dinner setting used for the metaphor.
• G2511 katharízō (to cleanse): This is the key action in the passage. The Pharisees perform it superficially on the outside G1855, but Jesus commands it for the within G2081 part.
• G5273 hypokritḗs (an actor under an assumed character): This is the label given to those who focus on the external appearance of the platter, defining the central theme of hypocrisy Matthew 23:25.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of G3953 is tied entirely to its use as a spiritual metaphor.

• External vs. Internal Purity: The platter serves as a clear illustration of the difference between outward religious observance and true inner righteousness. The state of its contents reveals a person's actual spiritual condition.
• Critique of Hypocrisy: The clean exterior of the platter represents the public piety of the Pharisees G5330, which masks their internal corruption, described as being full of extortion G724 and excess G192 Matthew 23:25.
• The Source of True Cleanliness: Jesus uses the platter to teach that genuine purity originates from the inside. By cleansing the heart, the outward actions will naturally be G1096 clean G2513 as well Matthew 23:26.

Summary

In summary, while G3953 simply means platter, its use in Scripture is profound. It moves beyond a common household item to become a central element in Jesus' teaching against hypocrisy. It serves as a lasting reminder that God is concerned not with the polished exterior of religious life, but with the purity of what is within G1787.