Crumbs of Grace: ψιχίον (Strong’s G5589: psichion) Teaches Divine Provision

Strong’s G5589: A diminutive noun meaning “little crumb” or “morsel,” derived from ψίξ (crumb). Used metaphorically to demonstrate great faith and humility, particularly in the Gospel narrative of the Syrophoenician woman, highlighting God’s abundant provision and grace extending beyond Israel.

U – Unveiling the Word

The word ψιχίον (psichion) carries profound theological significance in its New Testament usage. As a diminutive form meaning “little crumb,” it appears in the powerful narrative of faith demonstrated by the Syrophoenician woman. The word’s diminutive nature emphasizes the woman’s humility while paradoxically highlighting the abundance of God’s grace. In early church interpretation, this word became emblematic of Gentile inclusion in God’s salvation plan, demonstrating that even the “crumbs” of God’s provision are sufficient for all who come in faith. Today, it continues to resonate as a powerful reminder that God’s grace extends beyond all human boundaries and that true faith often manifests in profound humility.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ψιχίον, psichion, (psih-KEE-on)
• Detailed pronunciation: psih (as in “psyche”) – KEE (as in “key”) – on (as in “on”)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• ψίξ (psix) – root meaning “crumb”
• -ίον (-ion) – diminutive suffix indicating smallness or endearment

D – Defining Meanings

• A small crumb or morsel of food
• A tiny piece or fragment, especially of bread
• A minute portion of something larger

For compound words: The diminutive suffix -ίον added to ψίξ creates the sense of “little crumb,” emphasizing smallness and potentially endearment

Translation Options:

• “Little crumb” – captures both the diminutive nature and basic meaning
• “Tiny morsel” – emphasizes the minute size while maintaining food context
• “Fragment” – broader application while maintaining size emphasis

E – Exploring Similar Words

• κλάσμα (klasma, KLAS-ma) – larger fragment or broken piece See G2801
• τρύχος (truchos, TROO-khos) – small piece or scrap See G5147

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Morphological Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second

The word follows standard neuter second declension patterns:
Singular: ψιχίον (nom/acc), ψιχίου (gen), ψιχίῳ (dat)
Plural: ψιχία (nom/acc), ψιχίων (gen), ψιχίοις (dat)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The lexical sources consistently emphasize the diminutive nature of ψιχίον. BDAG defines it specifically as a small morsel or crumb, particularly of bread. Thayer’s emphasizes its connection to table scraps, while LSJ broadens the context to include any small fragment. Vine’s notes its significant usage in the Gospel narratives, particularly regarding faith and humility. Moulton and Milligan cite evidence of its use in everyday Koine Greek, suggesting it was a common term for discussing small portions or leftovers. The diminutive form is particularly significant in understanding the Syrophoenician woman’s expression of faith.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs [ψιχίων] which fall from their masters’ table.

Additional References:
Mark 7:28

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word ψιχίον encapsulates a profound theological truth about faith, humility, and divine provision. Through its use in the Gospel narrative, we see how even the smallest portion of God’s grace is sufficient for salvation. The Syrophoenician woman’s acknowledgment of being content with crumbs demonstrates that true faith recognizes God’s abundance even in what appears minimal. This word reminds us that the Gospel of Jesus Christ extends to all who approach with humble faith, regardless of their background or status.

D – Did You Know?

• The diminutive form of ψιχίον was commonly used in medical texts to describe small particles
• It appears in ancient Greek recipes describing precise measurements
• The word influenced early Christian art depicting the feeding miracles of Jesus

Strong’s G5589: A diminutive noun denoting a small crumb or morsel, particularly of bread. Used metaphorically in the Gospels to illustrate profound faith and humility. The word emphasizes both the seeming insignificance of what is requested and the abundance of God’s provision.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: crumbs, bread, faith, humility, Gentiles, provision, grace, Syrophoenician, diminutive, food​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​