The Greek word psōmíon, represented by G5596, refers to a crumb or morsel. It is defined as a mouthful, often translated as sop. This word appears 4 times across 3 unique verses, highlighting a specific, pivotal moment in the biblical narrative.
All occurrences of G5596 are found in the Gospel of John, specifically during the last supper. The sop serves as the sign by which Jesus identifies his betrayer. Jesus states that the one to whom He will give the sop after dipping it is the one who will betray him John 13:26. After dipping the sop, He gives it to Judas Iscariot. The act of receiving the sop is immediately followed by Satan entering Judas, after which Judas goes out into the night (John 13:27, John 13:30).
Several related words clarify the actions surrounding the sop:
- G911 báptō (to moisten): This verb describes the action Jesus performs on the sop before giving it, as He states "when I have dipped it" John 13:26. It means to cover wholly with a fluid or to moisten.
- G1325 dídōmi (to give): This word is used for the act of Jesus handing the sop to Judas. The text says, "he gave it to Judas Iscariot" John 13:26. It has a wide application for bestowing or delivering something.
- G2983 lambánō (to take): This describes Judas's action in the exchange. After "having received the sop," he immediately went out John 13:30. This verb means to get hold of or accept something.
- G1525 eisérchomai (to enter): This word marks the spiritual consequence of the event, as "Satan entered into him" immediately after the sop was taken John 13:27.
The theological weight of G5596 is concentrated in its singular narrative role.
- Sign of Betrayal: The sop is not a random object but the specific token Jesus uses to identify the traitor. The act of giving the sop is the definitive sign John 13:26.
- Catalyst for Action: The reception of the sop precipitates the final events. It is immediately after Judas takes it that Satan enters him, and Jesus commands him, "That thou doest, do quickly" John 13:27.
- Intimacy and Treachery: The one who "dippeth with me in the dish" is identified as the betrayer, turning a gesture associated with fellowship into a mark of treachery (Mark 14:20, Matthew 26:23).
In summary, G5596 is more than a simple morsel of food. Within scripture, it functions as a critical narrative device, a symbol of identification, and the final trigger for Judas Iscariot's betrayal. The story of the sop illustrates how a common act can be invested with profound theological significance, marking the precise moment a disciple's path turned irrevocably toward darkness.
TRV