G3795

Unveiling the Word

The Greek term ὄψάριον (opsarion) translates to “small fish” in English. This word is significant in the context of the biblical narrative, particularly in John 6:9, where it refers to the fish that a young boy offers as part of the meager lunch in the feeding of the 5,000. This event emphasizes the miraculous nature of Jesus’ ministry, showcasing how something as humble as a few small fish can be transformed into a great blessing. The term reflects both physical sustenance and the broader theme of God’s provision.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὄψάριον (opsarion), pronounced [op-SAR-ee-on].

Etymology: The word derives from the root ὄψα (opsa), meaning “a dish” or “a cooked meal.” The suffix “-ion” indicates a diminutive form, suggesting that it refers to a small dish or a small fish.

Part of Speech: Noun; it is a neuter noun in Greek.

Defining Meanings

Primary Meaning: A small fish, particularly one used for food or as a part of a meal.

Secondary Meaning: In a metaphorical sense, it can represent humility or the idea of small beginnings leading to significant outcomes, particularly in spiritual contexts.

Tertiary Meaning: The term can also imply nourishment or sustenance provided by God, aligning with the themes of divine provision present in biblical narratives.

Exploring Similar Words

ἰχθύς (ichthys) [ikh-THOOS]: This is the general term for “fish” in Greek, encompassing all types of fish rather than just small ones. While ὄψάριον specifically refers to small fish, ἰχθύς is more broad.

ψάριον (psarion) [psah-REE-on]: This word is closely related and can also mean “small fish.” However, it may not carry the same specific connotation as ὄψάριον in the context of the biblical narrative.

ἀλμύρα (almyra) [al-MEE-rah]: Meaning “brine” or “saltwater,” this word refers to the environment where fish might be caught. It emphasizes the context of where fish are typically found, differing from the focus on the fish itself in ὄψάριον.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: ὄψάριον is a neuter noun that appears in various cases:

• Nominative: ὄψάριον (subject)

• Genitive: ὄψαριου (of the small fish)

• Dative: ὄψαριῳ (to or for the small fish)

• Accusative: ὄψάριον (direct object)

• Declension: ὄψάριον follows the second declension pattern in Greek, which is common for neuter nouns.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In biblical contexts, ὄψάριον signifies more than just a small fish; it encapsulates themes of faith, humility, and divine providence. In John 6:9, the offering of five barley loaves and two small fish is a pivotal moment where Jesus demonstrates His ability to provide abundantly from limited resources. Various lexicons note that this term not only describes the physical item but also invites reflection on the nature of God’s provision and the miraculous transformation that occurs through faith.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

John 6:9: “There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fish [ὄψάριον]: but what are they among so many?”

Matthew 14:17: “And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fish [ἰχθύς].”

Luke 24:42: “And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish [ἰχθύς].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, ὄψάριον is often used to refer to small fish that are caught and served as food.

Example 1: Aristophanes, The Clouds: “The small fish [ὄψάριον] were plentiful in the market, attracting buyers for a hearty meal.”

Example 2: Aeschylus, The Persians: “They brought forth a dish of small fish [ὄψάριον] as an offering to the gods.”

Example 3: Homer, The Odyssey: “As the sailors returned, they brought small fish [ὄψάριον] to share among themselves.”

Septuagint Example 1: Ezekiel 47:10: “And it shall come to pass, that fishers [ἰχθύες] shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets: their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many.”

Septuagint Example 2: Jonah 1:17: “Now the Lord had prepared a great fish [ἰχθύς] to swallow up Jonah.”

Septuagint Example 3: Psalms 104:25: “So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great fish [ἰχθύς].”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὄψάριον is a significant word in the New Testament, particularly in narratives surrounding Jesus’ miracles. It encapsulates themes of faith, humility, and divine provision, reminding readers that even the smallest offerings can lead to extraordinary outcomes when placed in the hands of God.

Did You Know?

1. The offering of ὄψάριον symbolizes how humble contributions can be magnified by divine intervention, an encouraging message for believers.

2. In ancient Mediterranean cultures, small fish were a common dietary staple, reflecting the cultural significance of this term in biblical texts.

3. The feeding of the 5,000 with five loaves and two ὄψάρια emphasizes Jesus’ miraculous ability to provide abundantly, even from limited resources.

Strong’s G3795: ὄψάριον (opsarion) highlights the theme of divine provision and the miraculous nature of small offerings, inviting reflection on faith and abundance in the biblical narrative.