Matthew 16:9
Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?
Original Language Analysis
νοεῖτε
Do ye
G3539
νοεῖτε
Do ye
Strong's:
G3539
Word #:
2 of 13
to exercise the mind (observe), i.e., (figuratively) to comprehend, heed
μνημονεύετε
remember
G3421
μνημονεύετε
remember
Strong's:
G3421
Word #:
4 of 13
to exercise memory, i.e., recollect; by implication, to punish; also to rehearse
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
The feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21) occurred near Bethsaida on the northeast shore of Galilee. The twelve baskets (kophinoi—wicker baskets Jews used for carrying provisions) represented abundant surplus, one per disciple. This miracle demonstrated Jesus's messianic credentials, echoing Moses's manna and Elisha's multiplication (2 Kings 4:42-44).
Questions for Reflection
- What past 'multiplications' in your life do you need to actively remember when facing new needs?
- How can you cultivate spiritual memory—keeping a record of God's faithfulness?
- Why does Jesus emphasize the leftovers (twelve baskets)—what does abundance beyond need reveal about God's provision?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Do ye not yet understand, neither remember (οὔπω νοεῖτε, οὐδὲ μνημονεύετε)—noeō means 'perceive, comprehend,' while mnēmoneuō means 'call to mind, recall.' Jesus demands both theological comprehension and historical memory. Forgetting God's works produces unbelief; remembering them builds faith.
The five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Jesus references Matthew 14:17-20—five barley loaves became abundant provision, with twelve baskets of fragments remaining. The specific numbers matter: multiplication beyond need, not mere sufficiency. The question format forces disciples to actively recall, making memory a spiritual discipline essential for faith.