### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **psichíon**, represented by `{{G5589}}`, refers to a **crumb** or a little bit or morsel. As a diminutive term, it emphasizes the smallness of the piece. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently describing a small fragment of food.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G5589}}` is used in contexts of great need and social contrast. In Matthew and Mark, a Canaanite woman uses the image of **crumbs** falling from the **masters'** `{{G2962}}` **table** `{{G5132}}` to express her faith that even a small measure of help would be sufficient ([[Matthew 15:27]], [[Mark 7:28]]). In a separate parable, the beggar Lazarus is described as **desiring** `{{G1937}}` to be fed with the **crumbs** `{{G5589}}` that **fell** `{{G4098}}` from a **rich man's** `{{G4145}}` table, highlighting his desperate state [[Luke 16:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning of **psichíon**:
* `{{G5132}}` **trápeza** (table): This is the source from which the **crumbs** `{{G5589}}` fall in all three of its uses, establishing the setting of a meal and the contrast between those who eat at the **table** and those who receive what is left over [[Matthew 15:27]].
* `{{G2952}}` **kynárion** (a puppy): In the accounts of the Canaanite woman, it is the puppies or little **dogs** that **eat** `{{G2068}}` the **crumbs**, a term used to illustrate a humble position [[Mark 7:28]].
* `{{G2965}}` **kýōn** (a dog): In the parable of Lazarus, the scavenger-like **dogs** who **came** `{{G2064}}` to lick his **sores** `{{G1668}}` are contrasted with the withheld **crumbs** he desired [[Luke 16:21]].
* `{{G4098}}` **píptō** (to fall): This word describes the action of the **crumbs** becoming available, as they **fall** from the table, emphasizing their status as leftovers or discards ([[Matthew 15:27]], [[Luke 16:21]]).
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{G5589}}` lies in its powerful metaphorical use to convey spiritual states.
* **Humility and Great Faith:** The Canaanite woman's argument for the **crumbs** is a profound statement of humility. She accepts a lowly status but demonstrates unwavering faith that even the smallest morsel from the Master is of great value ([[Matthew 15:27]], [[Mark 7:28]]).
* **Desperate Need:** For Lazarus, the desire for **crumbs** illustrates the extremity of his poverty and hunger, seeking even the refuse from the **rich man's** `{{G4145}}` feast to survive [[Luke 16:21]].
* **Abundance vs. Scarcity:** The word starkly contrasts the abundance of those at the **table** `{{G5132}}` with the scarcity experienced by those below it. What is an afterthought for the master is a source of sustenance for the humble.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5589}}` is far more than a simple word for a food scrap. It functions as a powerful symbol in narratives of faith and social justice. It powerfully illustrates themes of humility, persistent faith, and the immense value found even in what is considered the smallest provision, while also highlighting the tragic consequences of neglect and indifference.
TRV