Matthew 16:10
Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?
Original Language Analysis
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πόσας
how many
G4214
πόσας
how many
Strong's:
G4214
Word #:
8 of 10
interrogative pronoun (of amount) how much (large, long or (plural) many)
Historical Context
The 4,000 feeding occurred in the Decapolis (Gentile territory east of Galilee), three days into a teaching session (Matthew 15:29-39). The seven baskets (spuridas) were larger storage hampers. The different basket type and number (7 vs. 12) may symbolize Gentile inclusion (seven often represents completion/universality), contrasting with twelve (Israel's tribes).
Questions for Reflection
- What pattern of God's provision in your life keeps repeating, yet you still doubt?
- How does remembering multiple instances of faithfulness strengthen trust for future challenges?
- Why might Jesus use different numbers and details in these miracles—what does this teach about how God works?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand—Jesus cites the more recent miracle (Matthew 15:32-39), only one chapter earlier. Seven loaves fed 4,000 Gentiles (in the Decapolis region), with seven baskets (spuridas—large hampers, different word than v. 9) remaining. The repetition of miracle-memory underscores that God's provision isn't one-time but patterned, reliable, reproducible.
Two feedings, different numbers, same principle: Jesus multiplies insufficient resources into abundant provision. The escalation (first 5,000, then 4,000; first Jews, then Gentiles) reveals the universal scope of His provision. The disciples' forgetfulness is therefore doubly inexcusable—they've seen this twice in recent weeks.