σπυρίς

a plaited basket

Definition

A σπυρίς (spyris) is a large, flexible basket, typically woven from reeds or other pliable materials. In the New Testament, it consistently refers to a sizable container used for gathering and transporting food, specifically the leftover fragments from Jesus's miraculous feedings (Matthew 15:37, Mark 8:8). The term also appears in the disciples' subsequent recollections of these events (Matthew 16:10, Mark 8:20). In a distinct context, it describes the basket used to lower the Apostle Paul over the wall of Damascus to escape his persecutors (Acts 9:25), indicating its use for holding a person's weight, which underscores its sturdiness and capacity.

Biblical Usage

The word is used exclusively in narrative accounts within the Gospels and Acts. Its primary usage is in the context of Jesus's miracles of feeding the multitudes, where it denotes the baskets used to collect the abundant leftovers, emphasizing the superabundance of God's provision (Matthew 15:37, Mark 8:8, 20). The sole non-feeding narrative use is in Acts 9:25, where Paul is lowered in a σπυρίς to escape Damascus, highlighting its functional role as a large, durable container capable of bearing significant weight.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb σπείρω (speirō), meaning 'to sow' or 'to scatter.' The connection likely stems from the basket's woven, plaited construction resembling intertwined strands, or from its agricultural use in carrying seed. It is a distinct term from other New Testament words for basket, such as κόφινος (kophinos, G2894) or σαργάνη (sganē, G4553).

Semantic Range

While a common object, the σπυρίς gains theological significance in the feeding miracles. The collection of leftovers in these large baskets serves as a tangible, overwhelming proof of Jesus's divine power and abundant provision, far exceeding mere need. It visually reinforces themes of God's generosity, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the superabundance of grace in Christ's ministry. In Acts, its use in Paul's escape underscores God's providential care in preserving His chosen instrument for the gospel.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, baskets like the σπυρίς were essential everyday items for transport and storage, commonly made from woven reeds, rushes, or willow. Its large size, as indicated by its use in the feeding miracles and for lowering a man, distinguishes it from smaller hand-baskets. The different Greek words for 'basket' often reflected specific sizes, materials, or regional uses, though these distinctions are not always preserved in English translations.

κόφινος (kophinos, G2894) — a smaller, stiffer basket or provision basket, used in the feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:20). σαργάνη (sganē, G4553) — a rope-basket or hamper, mentioned in 2 Corinthians 11:33 in Paul's escape narrative (possibly synonymous with σπυρίς in a different dialect or source).

Word Details

Scripture References