neuter of a presumed derivative of a compound of πρός and φάγω; something eaten in addition to bread, i.e. a relish (specially, fish; compare ὀψάριον):--meat.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prosphágion**, represented by `{{G4371}}`, refers to something eaten in addition to bread, such as a relish and specifically fish. This word is exceedingly rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entirety of Scripture, making its single usage particularly noteworthy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only occurrence of `{{G4371}}` is found in [[John 21:5]]. In this post-resurrection scene, Jesus `{{G2424}}` appears to His disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. He calls out to them from the shore, saying, "Children, have ye any **meat**?". The disciples, not yet recognizing Him, answer simply, "No" `{{G3756}}`. The term here denotes the fish they had failed to catch, a simple food item that becomes the focus of a profound interaction with the resurrected Lord.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage help frame the context of `{{G4371}}`:
* `{{G2424}}` **Iēsoûs**: of Hebrew origin (יְהוֹשׁוּעַ); Jesus (i.e. Jehoshua), the name of our Lord and two (three) other Israelites. As the one asking the question, His identity is central to the meaning of the event [[John 21:5]].
* `{{G3813}}` **paidíon**: a childling (of either sex), i.e. (properly), an infant, or (by extension) a half-grown boy or girl; figuratively, an immature Christian. This is the affectionate term Jesus uses to address his disciples, establishing a tone of familial care [[John 21:5]].
* `{{G3756}}` **ou**: a primary word; the absolute negative (compare μή) adverb; no or not. This is the disciples' stark response, confirming their lack and setting the stage for the miracle to follow [[John 21:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4371}}` comes entirely from its context.
* **The Humanity of the Resurrected Christ:** By asking for physical food, Jesus demonstrates the tangible reality of His resurrected body. His inquiry for **meat** `{{G4371}}` is not that of a ghost or spirit but of a person with physical needs [[John 21:5]].
* **A Prelude to Provision:** The question "have ye any **meat**?" highlights the disciples' fruitless labor. Their negative answer `{{G3756}}` underscores their human inability, which Jesus is about to meet with divine abundance.
* **An Invitation to Fellowship:** The inquiry about food is an overture to sharing a meal. Jesus `{{G2424}}` addresses the disciples as "Children" `{{G3813}}`, and this simple question initiates a moment of restored fellowship between the Lord and his followers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4371}}` is far more than a word for fish or relish. While it appears only once, its placement in the narrative is pivotal. It is used by Jesus to initiate a conversation that affirms the physical nature of His resurrection, highlights the disciples' dependence on Him, and opens the door to renewed fellowship. The word illustrates how a mundane object can be imbued with deep significance, connecting the everyday need for sustenance with the divine reality of the resurrected Savior.
TRV