G2801
Unveiling the Word
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Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the depth and nuance of ancient texts. The Greek word κλάσμα (klasma) is particularly significant because it is directly related to the miraculous feeding narratives in the New Testament, where Jesus breaks bread to feed the multitudes. The term’s usage in these narratives not only reflects a physical act of breaking bread but also symbolizes provision, community, and the miraculous power of God. Additionally, understanding κλάσμα sheds light on the cultural practices surrounding meals and hospitality in the ancient Greco-Roman world.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κλάσμα, transliterated as klasma [KLAH-smah].
Etymology: Derived from the root verb κλάω (klaō), meaning “to break,” the noun κλάσμα refers specifically to a “fragment” or “piece” that has been broken off from a larger whole, particularly bread. This reflects both the literal breaking of bread in meals and a metaphorical understanding of sharing and provision.
Part of Speech: Noun (neuter). As a noun, κλάσμα is used to denote fragments or pieces resulting from breaking something, such as bread. It follows the third declension pattern for neuter nouns in Greek.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
- Fragment or Piece: The primary meaning of κλάσμα is “fragment” or “piece,” especially in the context of bread broken during a meal. This meaning is central to the New Testament narratives of Jesus feeding the multitudes, where the leftover fragments are gathered after everyone has eaten.
- Remnant: By extension, κλάσμα can also be understood as a “remnant” or “portion” that remains after the main part has been used or consumed. This usage conveys a sense of preservation and continuation of provision.
Exploring Similar Words
- μόριον (morion) [MOH-ree-on]: This word means “a small part” or “portion” and can refer to any small piece of a whole, not necessarily bread or food.
- κλάσις (klasis) [KLAH-sis]: While similar in root, κλάσις refers more to the act of “breaking” rather than the broken pieces themselves. It is often used in contexts of breaking bread as a communal or ritualistic act.
- μέρος (meros) [MEH-ros]: This word means “part” or “share” and can refer to any division of a whole. It is more generic compared to κλάσμα, which specifically implies something that has been broken.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender:
κλάσμα is a neuter noun of the third declension. It can appear in singular or plural forms and in various cases depending on its grammatical role in the sentence:
- Nominative (Singular): κλάσμα – “fragment” (subject)
- Genitive (Singular): κλάσματος – “of a fragment” (possessive)
- Dative (Singular): κλάσματι – “to/for a fragment” (indirect object)
- Accusative (Singular): κλάσμα – “fragment” (direct object)
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | κλάσμα | κλάσματα |
| Genitive | κλάσματος | κλασμάτων |
| Dative | κλάσματι | κλάσμασι(ν) |
| Accusative | κλάσμα | κλάσματα |
For more on Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The word κλάσμα is primarily associated with the New Testament miracle stories where Jesus feeds large crowds and the remaining fragments of bread are collected, emphasizing God’s provision and abundance. In classical contexts, the word retains its literal meaning of “fragment” or “piece,” often used to describe parts of a broken object. Theologically, κλάσμα illustrates the idea of divine surplus and careful stewardship in gathering what is left over. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
- Matthew 14:20: “And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces [κλάσματα] left over.”
- Mark 6:43: “And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces [κλάσματα] and of the fish.”
- Luke 9:17: “And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over [κλάσματα] was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.”
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | Text Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Odyssey | “The breaking of bread resulted in many fragments ([κλάσματα]).” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The shattered pieces ([κλάσματα]) of the vessel were scattered.” |
| Septuagint | Exodus 29:23 | “One loaf of bread, one cake of oiled bread, and one wafer from the basket of the unleavened bread ([κλάσμα]).” |
Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word κλάσμα (klasma) is a rich term that highlights the physical and symbolic act of breaking bread and gathering fragments. It provides a vivid image of God’s provision and abundance, encouraging believers to recognize the value of every portion, however small. Understanding its use in the New Testament and classical literature enhances our comprehension of both the historical and theological contexts in which this term is employed.
Did You Know?
- In the miracle of feeding the five thousand, the gathering of κλάσματα symbolizes careful stewardship and the importance of not wasting God’s provision.
- The term κλάσμα is only used in the context of food or sacramental elements in the New Testament, highlighting its sacred connotation.
- In classical Greek culture, fragments or remnants like κλάσματα could also be considered omens or signs, depending on the context in which they were found.