The Greek word spyrís, represented by G4711, is defined as a hamper or lunch-receptacle. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used to describe a large woven basket, notable for its role in two key biblical narratives: the miraculous feeding of the four thousand and the apostle Paul's escape from Damascus.
In the biblical narrative, G4711 appears first in the context of Jesus' miraculous feeding of the four thousand. After everyone did eat G5315 and was filled G5526, the disciples "took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets" (Mark 8:8, Matthew 15:37). Jesus later refers to this event, asking his disciples how many baskets they took up after feeding the four thousand with seven loaves (Matthew 16:10, Mark 8:20). The second key context is the deliverance of Paul in Damascus, where the disciples G3101 "took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket" Acts 9:25.
Several related words clarify the context in which G4711 is used:
- G142 aírō (to lift up; by implication, to take up or away): This verb describes the action of the disciples who "took up" the baskets filled with leftovers after the miraculous feeding of the four thousand (Mark 8:8, Matthew 15:37).
- G2801 klásma (a piece (bit)): This noun specifies what filled the baskets—the "broken" pieces or "fragments" of food that remained after the multitude was satisfied (Mark 8:8, Mark 8:20).
- G2524 kathíēmi (to lower): This word is used to describe the action taken to save Paul in Damascus, where he was "let down" from the city wall inside a basket Acts 9:25.
The theological significance of G4711 is seen in its association with divine intervention and sufficiency.
- Symbol of Divine Abundance: In the feeding of the four thousand, the seven baskets are filled with the broken G2801 pieces that were left (G4051, G4052). This occurs after everyone was filled G5526, illustrating that God's provision is not merely sufficient but superabundant (Matthew 15:37, Mark 8:8).
- Instrument of Divine Deliverance: The basket serves as the physical tool for Paul's escape from those seeking to kill him in Damascus. The disciples G3101 use it to lower him to safety, demonstrating its role as a means of God's protection and deliverance in a time of great peril Acts 9:25.
In summary, G4711 is far more than a simple hamper. It functions as a significant object in narratives demonstrating both God's miraculous provision and His power to deliver His servants. Whether being filled with a superabundance of food after a miracle or being used as a vessel for a dramatic escape, the spyrís serves as a tangible reminder of divine power and sufficiency at work in the world.
TRV