κόφινος

a large basket

Definition

Kóphinos refers to a large, sturdy basket, typically made of woven materials like wicker or rope, used for carrying provisions. In the New Testament, it specifically denotes the type of basket used to collect the leftover fragments after Jesus miraculously fed the multitudes (Matthew 14:20, Mark 6:43, Luke 9:17, John 6:13). The word consistently describes these containers in all four Gospel accounts of the feeding miracles, emphasizing the tangible abundance resulting from Christ's power. It is distinguished from other basket types, like the spyris (G4711) used in Paul's escape (Acts 9:25), which may have been a different shape or material.

Biblical Usage

The word is used exclusively in the context of Jesus's feeding miracles. It appears in all four Gospels, specifically in the accounts of the feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:20, Mark 6:43, Luke 9:17, John 6:13) and is referenced again by Jesus when reminding the disciples of these events (Matthew 16:9, Mark 8:19). Its usage is highly patterned, always connected to the collection of surplus food following a miraculous multiplication, highlighting the practical management and preservation of God's provision.

Etymology

The word κόφινος (kophinos) is of Greek origin, though its ultimate derivation is uncertain. It was a common term in Koine Greek for a specific type of basket. Some scholars suggest a possible Semitic loanword, but it was firmly established in the Greek vernacular of the New Testament era. Its meaning remained consistent as a container for food or goods.

Semantic Range

The kóphinos holds theological significance as a symbol of divine abundance and meticulous care. The twelve baskets gathered after feeding the 5,000 (one for each disciple, Matthew 14:20) underscore that God's provision through Christ is not merely sufficient but overflowing, leaving a tangible remnant. This detail reinforces the identity of Jesus as the true bread from heaven (John 6:32-35) who satisfies completely. Understanding that this was a specific, sizable basket enriches the narrative, emphasizing the scale of the miracle and the deliberate act of gathering the fragments, which points to God's economy where nothing of His gift is wasted.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, a kóphinos was a common, portable basket used by travelers, laborers, and soldiers to carry their food rations. It was likely a rigid, hand-held container, as opposed to a flexible sack. Jewish pilgrims often used such baskets to carry kosher food when traveling through Gentile regions to avoid ritual impurity. This cultural practice may inform the disciples' possession of these baskets during the feeding miracles, as they were a standard part of a traveler's gear.

σπυρίς (spyris, G4711) — A different type of large basket, possibly a hamper or cargo basket; used for lowering Paul from Damascus (Acts 9:25) and in the feeding of the 4,000 (Matthew 15:37, Mark 8:8).

Word Details

Scripture References