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