The Greek word perísseuma, represented by G4051, describes a surplus or superabundance. It appears 5 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The term conveys the idea of an overflow, whether it be a tangible excess, such as leftover food, or a figurative overflow, such as the thoughts and feelings that spill out from the heart.
In its biblical usage, G4051 is applied in two distinct contexts. Figuratively, it illustrates a fundamental spiritual principle: what is in a person's heart will inevitably come out. Both Matthew and Luke record that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh" (Matthew 12:34, Luke 6:45). Literally, it refers to a physical surplus. In Mark, it describes the leftovers after the feeding of the multitude, "the broken meat that was left" Mark 8:8. Paul also uses it to describe material wealth, urging that one group's abundance should supply another's want 2 Corinthians 8:14.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of G4051:
- G2588 kardía (heart): Defined as the thoughts or feelings, this is the source from which the abundance flows. It is the inner heart that determines what the mouth will speak Luke 6:45.
- G5303 hystérēma (want): This word for deficit or lack is used as the direct opposite of G4051. Paul's instruction is for one group's abundance to meet another's want, creating a balance 2 Corinthians 8:14.
- G5526 chortázō (fill, satisfy): This term is used to describe the state of being completely full, often from food. After the people were filled, the remaining abundance G4051 was collected Mark 8:8.
- G2471 isótēs (equality): This is the goal of sharing one's G4051. The purpose of using one's abundance to supply another's want is so "there may be equality" 2 Corinthians 8:14.
The theological significance of G4051 touches on core principles of Christian life and community:
- The Source of Speech: The word establishes a direct link between the inner state of a person and their outward expression. The "abundance" of the heart G2588 determines whether good G18 or evil G4190 is brought forth, making the condition of the heart a matter of primary importance Luke 6:45.
- Divine Provision: The "that was left" G4051 after the miraculous feeding demonstrates God's superabundant provision. He does not just meet needs but provides an overflow, a tangible sign of His power and generosity Mark 8:8.
- Economic Equality: In his instruction to the Corinthians, Paul elevates the concept of abundance to a principle of fellowship. A believer's material abundance G4051 is not for hoarding but for sharing, creating a spiritual and practical equality G2471 within the body of Christ 2 Corinthians 8:14.
In summary, G4051 is a powerful word that signifies surplus in both a figurative and literal sense. It teaches that our words are an overflow of our inner spiritual state and that God's provision is often superabundant. Furthermore, it frames material abundance as a resource to be stewarded for the sake of achieving equality and meeting the needs of others within the community of faith.
TRV