### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ψιχίον (psichíon), Strong's `{{G5589}}`, is a diminutive form derived from a root related to ψάλλω (psallō), which, in its foundational sense, can imply plucking or breaking off. Consequently, ψιχίον denotes a "crumb," "a small piece," or "a morsel." The diminutive ending emphasizes the extreme smallness and insignificance of the piece, highlighting something that has fallen off or been broken from a larger whole. It conveys the idea of the absolute minimum or a negligible portion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
ψιχίον appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, primarily in two distinct narrative contexts, each imbuing the word with profound theological significance:
1. **The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith ([[Matthew 15:27]]; [[Mark 7:28]]):** In these parallel accounts, a Gentile woman humbly approaches Jesus, seeking healing for her demon-possessed daughter. When Jesus initially responds, "It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs," the woman's remarkable reply employs ψιχίον: "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Here, the "crumbs" represent the overflow of divine blessing and healing that, though primarily intended for "the children of Israel," is so abundant that even the smallest portion is sufficient and accessible to those considered "outside." Her use of ψιχίον transforms a potentially disparaging analogy into a profound plea for grace, demonstrating an extraordinary depth of humble faith and understanding of Jesus' boundless compassion. This instance underscores the inclusivity of God's grace, extending beyond conventional boundaries.
2. **The Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man ([[Luke 16:21]]):** In this poignant parable, Lazarus, a poor and suffering man, "desired to be fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table." This usage of ψιχίον starkly highlights the rich man's callous indifference and moral failure. Even the most meager sustenance, the "crumbs" that would otherwise be discarded, were denied to Lazarus. The word here serves to emphasize the rich man's extreme lack of compassion and justice, failing to provide even the bare minimum to one in desperate need. It underscores the severity of neglecting the poor and vulnerable, a failure that carries eternal consequences.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **κλάσμα (klasma) `{{G2801}}`:** Meaning "fragment" or "broken piece," often used for the leftover pieces of bread after Jesus' feeding miracles (e.g., [[Matthew 14:20]], [[Mark 8:8]]). While ψιχίον emphasizes the *miniscule* nature (a crumb), κλάσμα refers to *any* broken piece, which could be substantial, as evidenced by the baskets full of κλάσμα collected. The distinction lies in the degree of smallness and the specific context of breaking.
* **ἄρτος (artos) `{{G740}}`:** "Bread," the source from which the ψιχίον falls.
* **Humility:** The Syrophoenician woman's response exemplifies profound humility, accepting a lowly position while trusting in God's power.
* **Faith:** Her belief that even a "crumb" of Jesus' power is sufficient showcases a powerful and persistent faith.
* **Grace and Mercy:** The "crumbs" from the master's table symbolize the overflowing, unmerited favor of God that extends even to the "dogs."
* **Justice and Compassion:** The denial of "crumbs" to Lazarus highlights the biblical imperative for social justice and the condemnation of indifference towards the suffering.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of ψιχίον is multifaceted:
1. **The Boundlessness of Divine Grace:** The most compelling theological implication arises from the Syrophoenician woman's plea. The "crumbs" symbolize the superabundant nature of God's grace, which is so vast and overflowing that even a seemingly insignificant portion is potent enough to bring about miraculous healing and salvation. It powerfully illustrates that God's mercy is not confined by human categories or perceived worthiness, extending even to those considered outsiders. This challenges exclusive understandings of the covenant and foreshadows the universal scope of the Gospel.
2. **The Efficacy of Humble Faith:** The woman's request for "crumbs" is a profound testament to the power of humble, persistent faith. She does not demand but humbly receives, recognizing that Jesus' power is so immense that even the least of His blessings is more than sufficient. This teaches believers that true faith trusts completely in the Lord's ability, regardless of the perceived magnitude of the blessing received.
3. **The Imperative of Compassion and Justice:** In the parable of Lazarus, ψιχίον serves as a stark indictment of spiritual and social indifference. The rich man's failure to provide even the "crumbs" to Lazarus underscores the severe moral and eternal consequences of neglecting the poor and marginalized. It emphasizes that genuine faith is inextricably linked to acts of compassion and justice, and that material abundance carries with it a profound responsibility to care for the needy.
### Summary
ψιχίον (psichíon), `{{G5589}}`, is a Greek diminutive noun meaning "a crumb" or "a small morsel," emphasizing extreme smallness. Its limited yet impactful occurrences in the New Testament carry profound theological weight. In the accounts of the Syrophoenician woman ([[Matthew 15:27]], [[Mark 7:28]]), the "crumbs" symbolize the immeasurable and inclusive nature of divine grace, accessible even to the Gentile through humble and persistent faith. This narrative highlights the transformative power of a faith that recognizes the overflowing abundance of Christ's compassion. Conversely, in the parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man ([[Luke 16:21]]), the "crumbs" represent the basic necessities denied to the suffering, serving as a powerful condemnation of indifference and a stark reminder of the ethical imperative for social justice and compassion. Thus, ψιχίον transcends its literal meaning, becoming a potent metaphor for the boundless grace of God, the efficacy of humble faith, and the critical importance of caring for the marginalized.
TRV