ψιχίον

a crumb

Definition

A ψιχίον is a small fragment of bread, a crumb or morsel that falls from the table during a meal. In its three New Testament occurrences, it consistently refers to the tiny scraps of food that are considered insignificant or leftover. In the accounts of the Syrophoenician woman (Matthew 15:27, Mark 7:28), the word is used metaphorically for the smallest portion of blessing or provision. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:21), it describes the meager sustenance the beggar desired.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in contexts of extreme need or humility. In Matthew 15:27 and Mark 7:28, it is part of a desperate plea by a Gentile woman, illustrating her willingness to accept even the most minimal share of Jesus's power. In Luke 16:21, it highlights the depth of Lazarus's poverty and neglect, as he longed for the discarded scraps from the rich man's table. All three uses emphasize insignificance and humility.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root ψίξ (psix), meaning 'to rub small' or 'to crumble.' It is a diminutive form, literally meaning 'a tiny morsel' or 'a little crumb,' emphasizing its small size and insignificance. The word directly conveys the idea of something fragmented or broken off from a larger whole, like bread.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it powerfully illustrates themes of humility, faith, and divine grace. The Syrophoenician woman's request for 'crumbs' (Matthew 15:27, Mark 7:28) demonstrates a profound faith that recognizes even the smallest expression of Jesus's power as sufficient. It challenges notions of entitlement and highlights that God's grace, even in seemingly minute portions, is abundant for those who seek it in faith. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of these passages by underscoring the contrast between human perceptions of insignificance and the sufficiency of Christ.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, meals were often eaten from a common dish or table. Bread was a staple, and crumbs that fell were typically swept away or left for dogs, which were often scavengers, not household pets. This context makes the Syrophoenician woman's statement about dogs eating the children's crumbs (Mark 7:28) a vivid cultural image of humility and the accepted social order, which Jesus overturns with his response.

κλάσμα (klasma, G2801) — a fragment or piece broken off, often of bread, but can be larger than a crumb; ἄρτος (artos, G740) — the general word for bread or loaf, from which a ψιχίον falls.

Word Details

Scripture References