Matthew 15:38
And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children.
Original Language Analysis
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐσθίοντες
they that did eat
G2068
ἐσθίοντες
they that did eat
Strong's:
G2068
Word #:
3 of 10
used only in certain tenses, the rest being supplied by g5315; to eat (usually literal)
χωρὶς
beside
G5565
χωρὶς
beside
Strong's:
G5565
Word #:
7 of 10
at a space, i.e., separately or apart from (often as preposition)
Historical Context
This predominantly Gentile crowd (Decapolis region, Mark 7:31) receiving Jesus's provision parallels the Syrophoenician woman receiving healing (Matthew 15:21-28). Together these events show the gospel breaking ethnic barriers—Gentiles receiving Israel's Messiah. This transition from Jewish exclusivity to universal availability anticipates the Great Commission (28:19-20). Paul later theologizes this pattern: salvation came 'to the Jew first, and also to the Greek' (Romans 1:16).
Questions for Reflection
- How does the inclusion of women and children in divine provision challenge cultures that devalue these groups?
- In what ways must you move from observing Christ's provision to personally receiving and consuming it?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children (οἱ δὲ ἐσθίοντες ἦσαν τετρακισχίλιοι ἄνδρες χωρὶς γυναικῶν καὶ παιδίων)—The enumeration follows ancient Near Eastern custom of counting ἄνδρες (men, adult males) separately. The phrase χωρὶς γυναικῶν καὶ παιδίων ('besides women and children') indicates the total crowd was likely 10,000-15,000. Four thousand men alone makes this a massive gathering. The number four symbolizes the earth (four corners, four winds)—suggesting gospel provision extends to all the earth, not just Israel.
The participial ἐσθίοντες ('the ones eating') emphasizes actual participation—everyone ate, none merely watched. God's provision requires reception—the bread must be taken and eaten. Faith isn't passive observation but active participation in God's gifts. This foreshadows the Lord's Supper where Christ's provision (His body and blood) must be personally received by faith to nourish the soul.