Brief Overview of κόφινος (Strong’s G2894: kophinos)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides depth to scriptural interpretation by revealing the cultural, historical, and linguistic contexts of the original texts. The Greek word “κόφινος” (kophinos), which appears first in Matthew 14:20, is particularly significant for its role in the Gospel narratives. The term, often translated as “basket,” holds a deeper connotation, illuminating aspects of daily life and societal practices in ancient Judea. Its usage in New Testament stories, especially in the feeding miracles, underscores its relevance in both understanding the immediate text and interpreting broader theological themes.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κόφινος (kophinos) [KO-fee-nos].

Etymology: The word “κόφινος” is derived from a non-Greek origin, potentially rooted in the Latin or Phoenician language, suggesting a practical borrowing that reflects everyday life in the ancient world. Its etymological background hints at its mundane, utilitarian use—a container or basket for carrying various items.

Part of Speech: Noun, masculine. As a noun, “κόφινος” is part of the second declension in Greek, which affects its endings and inflections in different grammatical cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).

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Defining Meanings

1. Basket: The primary meaning of “κόφινος” is “basket.” It refers specifically to a type of container used for carrying items such as food, goods, or even personal belongings. In the New Testament, it is notably used in the context of the miracle of feeding the 5,000, where the disciples collected the leftover pieces in “twelve baskets” (kophinoi).
2. Provision Carrier: Beyond just a container, “κόφινος” can imply a means of provision, reflecting how people in ancient times carried their sustenance or goods for trade, travel, or daily needs.
3. Symbol of Abundance and Divine Provision: In biblical contexts, the “κόφινος” becomes a symbol of God’s provision and abundance, particularly in stories where miraculous feedings are recounted, thereby carrying a theological implication beyond its literal meaning.

Exploring Similar Words

1. σπυρίς (spyris) [SPEE-rees]: Refers to a larger basket or hamper, different from “κόφινος” which is generally smaller. In the New Testament, “σπυρίς” is used in the feeding of the 4,000 (Mark 8:8), showing a different type of basket.
2. κάλαθος (kalathos) [KA-la-thos]: Also translated as “basket,” but often associated with a basket used for agricultural purposes, like gathering figs or other produce. It differs from “κόφινος” in its specific use and size.
3. κανοῦν (kanoun) [KA-noon]: Meaning “a basket or tray,” particularly one used in sacrificial offerings or rituals, thus emphasizing a ceremonial use compared to the more mundane “κόφινος.”

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

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Case, Number, Gender:

• Nominative Singular: κόφινος (the basket)
• Genitive Singular: κοφίνου (of the basket)
• Dative Singular: κοφίνῳ (to/for the basket)
• Accusative Singular: κόφινον (the basket)
• Nominative Plural: κοφῖνοι (the baskets)
• Genitive Plural: κοφίνων (of the baskets)
• Dative Plural: κοφίνοις (to/for the baskets)
• Accusative Plural: κοφίνους (the baskets)

Declension: “κόφινος” is a second declension masculine noun. It follows the typical declension pattern for masculine nouns ending in -ος.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word “κόφινος” is understood in various ways across Greek lexicons, reflecting its practical use in ancient daily life. In the New Testament, its significance is magnified in stories like the feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:20), where it symbolizes divine provision and abundance. Lexicons also note its appearance in other ancient texts as a common item used for carrying provisions or goods. Theologically, “κόφινος” in the New Testament is not just a mere basket; it becomes a vessel of divine providence, emphasizing the themes of God’s care and the sufficiency of His gifts to the people. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 14:20: “And they all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets [κόφινοι] full.”
   This verse highlights the use of “κόφινος” as the disciples gathered the leftovers from the miraculous feeding, symbolizing abundance and careful stewardship.
2. Mark 6:43: “And they took up twelve baskets [κόφινοι] full of broken pieces and of the fish.”
   This parallel account in Mark reinforces the image of “κόφινος” as a container of divine overflow following Jesus’ miracle.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word “κόφινος” offers a glimpse into both the daily lives of ancient peoples and the theological messages conveyed in the New Testament. Used as a simple basket, it becomes a profound symbol of God’s provision and care for His people. In classical Greek and biblical literature, “κόφινος” appears in various contexts, highlighting its versatile meaning and significance.

Did You Know?

1. In some Jewish traditions, the “κόφινος” was a standard travel item to carry kosher food while traveling in non-Jewish areas.
2. “κόφινος” has been found in various archaeological sites, underscoring its common use in the Mediterranean world for transporting goods.
3. The twelve “κόφινοι” filled with leftovers after the feeding miracle may symbolize the twelve tribes of Israel, indicating God’s abundant provision for all His people.