### 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}}`.
TRV