Sacred Fellowship: τράπεζα (Strong’s G5132: trapeza) Reveals Divine Communion

Strong’s G5132: A feminine noun literally meaning “table,” trapeza evolved to represent fellowship, dining, banking, and marketplace activities. In the New Testament, it carries rich theological significance in contexts of communion, provision, and spiritual fellowship.

U- Unveiling the Word

The Greek word τράπεζα (trapeza) carries multiple layers of meaning in the New Testament, from its literal sense of a physical table to its deeper spiritual implications of fellowship and communion. Originally referring to a four-legged table (from tetra-peza, “four-footed”), it developed broader meanings including dining table, banker’s table, and marketplace counter. In theological contexts, it often represents the Lord’s table (communion) and divine provision. The early church fathers frequently used τράπεζα when discussing both practical fellowship and sacramental worship. Today, this word continues to enrich our understanding of Christian fellowship, communion, and God’s provision for His people.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: τράπεζα, trapeza, TRAH-peh-zah
• Detailed pronunciation: τρά (TRAH) + πε (peh) + ζα (zah)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Originally from:
• τετρα- (tetra-) meaning “four”
• πέζα (peza) meaning “foot”
• Combined to mean “four-footed” (table)

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: “table”
• Dining table or place of meals
• Money-changer’s table/bank
• Place of provision or exchange

For compound words: Originally a compound from tetra (four) and peza (foot), though this etymology was largely forgotten by New Testament times

Translation Options:

1. “table” – Basic physical meaning
2. “dining fellowship” – When emphasizing communal aspect
3. “bank/counter” – In financial contexts

E – Exploring Similar Words

ἀνάκειμαι (anakeimai) [ah-NAH-kay-my] – to recline at table – See G345
συνανάκειμαι (sunanakeimai) [soon-ah-NAH-kay-my] – to recline together at table – See G4873
δεῖπνον (deipnon) [DAYP-non] – supper, formal meal – See G1173

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Case: Varies by usage
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: First declension

Greek nouns change form based on their function:

• Nominative: τράπεζα (subject)
• Genitive: τραπέζης (possession)
• Dative: τραπέζῃ (indirect object)
• Accusative: τράπεζαν (direct object)
• Plural forms add appropriate endings

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide rich insight into τράπεζα’s multifaceted meaning. BDAG emphasizes its range of uses from literal table to metaphorical meanings of fellowship and commerce. Thayer’s lexicon traces its development from physical object to spiritual symbol. LSJ documents its extensive use in classical Greek across various contexts. Vine’s expands on its theological significance, particularly in relation to the Lord’s Supper. Strong’s confirms its basic meaning while LEH provides valuable context from Septuagint usage. Moulton and Milligan’s papyrological evidence shows its common use in business documents, highlighting its commercial aspects alongside religious significance.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“‘Yes, Lord,’ she said, ‘even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table [τραπέζης].'” Matthew 15:27

Additional References:
Matthew 21:12, Luke 16:21, John 2:15, Acts 6:2, 1 Corinthians 10:21

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word τράπεζα beautifully captures both the practical and spiritual dimensions of fellowship in God’s kingdom. From its humble origins as a word for a four-legged table, it evolved to represent places of provision, fellowship, and spiritual communion. In the Messiah’s ministry, tables became places of transformation where sinners found grace, the hungry found food, and believers found fellowship. Today, τράπεζα reminds us that our Lord invites all to His table, offering both physical and spiritual nourishment through His body and blood.

D – Did You Know?

1. τράπεζα is the origin of the modern word “trapeze” due to its four-legged structure
2. It became the standard term for ancient banking institutions
3. It features prominently in early church writings about the Lord’s Supper

Strong’s G5132: A feminine noun literally meaning “table,” trapeza evolved to represent fellowship, dining, banking, and marketplace activities. In the New Testament, it carries rich theological significance in contexts of communion, provision, and spiritual fellowship.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: table, communion, fellowship, provision, banking, marketplace, Lord’s Supper, biblical Greek, New Testament Greek, Koine Greek, worship, community​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​