Mark 8:7
And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἶχον
they had
G2192
εἶχον
they had
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
2 of 10
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
ὀλίγα·
a few
G3641
ὀλίγα·
a few
Strong's:
G3641
Word #:
4 of 10
puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εὐλογήσας
he blessed
G2127
εὐλογήσας
he blessed
Strong's:
G2127
Word #:
6 of 10
to speak well of, i.e., (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper)
παραθεῖναι
before
G3908
παραθεῖναι
before
Strong's:
G3908
Word #:
8 of 10
to place alongside, i.e., present (food, truth); by implication, to deposit (as a trust or for protection)
Historical Context
Fish was a staple protein in first-century Galilee and Decapolis. The Sea of Galilee's fishing industry was central to the regional economy. Small dried or pickled fish (like sardines) were common travel provisions, easily preserved and transported. The specific mention of 'small fishes' highlights the inadequacy of human resources apart from divine multiplication. Early Christian fish symbolism (ichthys as acronym for 'Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior') may connect to these feeding miracles.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' blessing of even 'a few small fishes' challenge assumptions about what God can or cannot use?
- What does the separate blessing of different food items teach about attentiveness and gratitude for specific provisions?
- How might God be waiting to multiply the seemingly insignificant resources you've been hesitant to offer Him?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
They had a few small fishes (ἰχθύδια, ichthydia)—the diminutive form emphasizes the smallness of resources. He blessed (εὐλογήσας, eulogēsas) them separately from the bread, showing Jesus' meticulous thanksgiving for all provisions, however meager. The verb eulogeō means to speak well of, to invoke divine favor—Jesus doesn't merely pray over food but pronounces God's blessing upon it.
The separate blessing of fish and bread demonstrates that nothing is too small or insignificant for Christ's transforming power. Reformed theology emphasizes God's sovereignty over all creation—Jesus' blessing reveals His divine authority to command nature's resources. This foreshadows the post-resurrection breakfast (John 21:9-13) where the risen Christ again provides fish and bread, demonstrating continuity between His earthly ministry and resurrection life.