### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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