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Explanation for:
Matthew
14
:
21
And the number of them that did eat, was five thousand men, besides women and children.
12
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Based on the count of the five loaves consumed, the total number of individuals participating was also five thousand. In fact, this count had not yet reached the sevenfold quantity of loaves mentioned in another account, which fed four thousand (Mt. 15:38; Mt. 16:10), accompanying the four Gospel writers in a mysterious way. There were indeed five thousand men present, fully matured, who followed Him whom Zechariah prophesied, saying, \\"Behold, the man whose name is the Branch\\" (Zech. 6:12). However, women and children, representing the weaker sex and younger age groups, were not included in the count. Thus, in the Book of Numbers, whenever the priests and Levites, the army, or the hosts of warriors are enumerated, slaves, women, youths, and the unlearned are omitted from the tally."},{"author-name":"Hilarius of Poitiers","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88cb92f12b3278598f946_Hilarius%20of%20Poitiers.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The same count of those partaking is echoed here as it will be in the future concerning the faithful, as demonstrated in the Book of Acts, where it is noted that five thousand individuals from the vast multitude of Israel came to believe (Acts 4:4). They experienced fulfillment when they received the loaves and fish that were broken; yet there remained an abundance—enough to satisfy both the believers and the apostles destined to be enriched with divine grace. The relationship between quantity and count is significant, with each reflecting the other. Within its defined scope, this enumeration carries its own significance, guided by Divine influence."},{"author-name":"Ambrose of Milan","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88871ceef8c96e0998cd0_Ambrose%20of%20Milan.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The significance of the numbers, arrangement, and the leftover food from the miraculous feeding are not random. Why did five thousand individuals receive sustenance from just five loaves, while a smaller crowd of four thousand was provided with seven loaves? If we focus solely on the miraculous nature of the event, it appears more divine that a smaller quantity of bread could feed a larger assembly. The question arises: why were the fewer loaves associated with the greater multitude? Initially, we see five thousand people nourished by five loaves, followed by four thousand fed with seven. It is essential to seek the deeper significance behind this miracle. \\n\\nIt seems that the five thousand, akin to the five senses of the body, received nourishment suitable for those living in the flesh. In contrast, the four thousand, though still part of this earthly existence, have accepted a more spiritual sustenance that empowers them to transcend worldly concerns. Those partaking of this divine nourishment, though physically present in the world, dwell above it spiritually. The world’s creation unfolded over six days, culminating in the sanctification of the seventh, which signifies rest beyond the material realm. Thus, those blessed with the food of divine tranquility are sustained in a realm above earthly matters. As it is written, blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Since the Divine resides beyond worldly confines, no one can behold God unless they rise above worldly distractions through spiritual insight. The seven baskets of leftovers from the four thousand signify this profound rest and sanctification. \\n\\nThe bread of rest, representing the Sabbath and divine blessing, holds great significance. Perhaps if one first consumes five loaves of carnal bread, they will later partake of eight loaves from above. The seven loaves stand for rest, while the eight indicate resurrection. The number eight is often associated with the dawn of a new age, as Christ rose after the seventh day, the Sabbath. Thus, those nourished by the seven loaves possess sustenance sufficient for three days and may be instilled with a pure faith in the future resurrection. This resonates with the proclamation of the faithful: \\"Three days shall we go forth to make a feast to the Lord our God.\\"\\n\\nRegarding the five loaves, St. John reveals what neither St. Matthew nor St. Luke discloses: these loaves were barley loaves. This detail emphasizes that such food is more fitting for the physical realm. The reason for the loaves being barley is that a person coming to faith must begin with the basics, like infancy needing milk before progressing to solid food. Many remain unprepared for such growth even now. Strife and discord indicate a lack of spiritual maturity. Different virtues require different kinds of nourishment; hence, we are first given barley and later wheat, while those stronger in faith, like Elijah, receive sustenance beyond the reach of sin. \\n\\nThe distinction extends not only to the type of bread and the number of individuals present but also to their physical position during the meal. While the five thousand recline on grassy terrain, the four thousand rest on the earth itself. Reclining on the ground presents a greater challenge than resting on grass. Those with carnal inclinations often seek comfort in softness, thus reclining on grass—signifying that all flesh is like grass. Conversely, others kneel upon the earth that yields crops, receiving the grace-filled nourishment essential for spiritual growth. \\n\\nIt can be observed that some had two fish, while others were not specifically counted. Many interpret that the loaves signify the sevenfold grace of the Spirit and that the fish symbolize the two covenants. It is worth considering that the four thousand, gathered from every corner of the earth, represent the Church—those receiving more gracious sustenance as foretold by scripture: \\"For they shall come from the east and the west, and from the north and the south.\\" Christ, in this moment, offers thanks to the Father. This act of thanksgiving is celebrated in other miracles, and here it reinforces the notion of giving thanks for His Church, revealing to the humble truths hidden from the wise. \\n\\nThe abundance of divine gifts is evident in the distribution of food, with the Apostles serving as ministers. This indicates the future sharing of the Lord's body and blood, emphasizing that there is ample supply through the divine multiplication of loaves to satisfy the multitude. Those distributing the bread witnessed an extraordinary expansion of the loaves, which did not diminish even as they were shared. This wonder mirrors the continuous flow of living water from springs, showcasing how the physical world is touched by the divine.\\n\\nThe authentic multiplication of bread reflects the essence of Christ's teachings—the true Word of God, which grows in abundance when shared, feeding not only physical hunger but imparting spiritual sustenance. The mysterious nature of Jesus’ miracles demonstrates how the act of distribution leads to greater abundance, mirroring God's kingdom principles where giving does not deplete but enriches all.\\n\\nLet those who do not believe consider the stark contrasts between the gifts of Christ and the empty promises of idols. For instance, the tale of King Midas illustrates a blessing turned to a curse; what he touched turned to gold yet offered no nourishment. In contrast, the gifts of Christ, though seemingly minimal, provide profound sustenance, ensuring the eternal salvation of many, exemplified through the multiplied bread which nourishes both body and spirit.\\n\\nThe question arises as to why there was a difference in leftover food—the five thousand had twelve baskets remaining, while the four thousand had seven. The four thousand spent three days in Christ’s presence, thus receiving an abundance of heavenly nourishment.\\n\\nThe collection of excess food post-satiation reminds us that divine insight is often found among the chosen rather than the crowd. Truly, one who can gather what remains finds deeper truths, including moral lessons embedded within the law, where Christ transforms and elucidates the foundational teachings, expanding their meanings for those who seek wisdom. \\n\\nThe twelve baskets filled with leftovers symbolize the liberation from prior bondage, reflecting how the Jewish people, who once toiled in gathering refuse, are now empowered to gather sustenance of spiritual wealth. This nourishment is not limited to a select few; the twelve baskets signify the inclusive nature of faith, supporting all tribes as bread fortifies the heart of a person."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The five thousand represent the five senses in a state of desolation, which are restored through the five loaves. Each wound in our senses corresponds to a healing remedy. The two fish symbolize the teachings of the fishermen, with one signifying the Gospel and the other the Apostle. Additionally, some interpret the five loaves as referring to the five books of Moses: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The apostles gathered twelve baskets to carry what was beyond the grasp of ordinary people, the deeper understanding that the apostles bore. ‘Except wives and children’ suggests that a Christian should avoid anything that may appear childish, effeminate, or lacking in manliness."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"This represents both the amplification of the miracle and the glorification of the peoples, as they were gathered alongside their spouses and offspring. When they accompanied their entire households, the entire household experienced the blessing."},{"author-name":"Nicephoros (Theotokis)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8958407451968d9c204fb_Nicephoros%20(Theotokis).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":18,"exegesis-text":"Exalted is Your Lord, and remarkable are Your deeds; no language can adequately express the splendor of Your marvels! Even if the five loaves and two fish were fragmented into the tiniest, nearly imperceptible pieces, there would scarcely be enough for each of the five thousand people gathered. Yet, everyone, including their wives and children, received abundantly; not only did they all eat and become satisfied, but there were twelve baskets brimming with leftovers. These baskets remained to confirm that the miracle was indeed real and not an illusion: twelve baskets were left so that each apostle could carry one. The fragments, rather than complete loaves and fish, remained to signify they were the remnants of the blessed and broken five loaves and two fish. What intellect can grasp, or what language can fully articulate, the manner in which the five loaves and two fish were multiplied and distributed from the hands of the Apostles? Furthermore, why was the amount exactly twelve baskets, neither fewer nor greater? Only He knows how this came to be, affirming that it was the action of God. Yet, the moment the miracle was accomplished..."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"AND THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY FIVE THOUSAND INDIVIDUALS WHO CONSUMED FOOD, NOT COUNTING WOMEN AND CHILDREN. Thus, not only men but also their families followed the Lord into the wilderness, demonstrating the deep devotion of the community. It is important to note that the leftovers from this miraculous feast far surpassed the initial quantity; this reflects the nature of love, which, when shared, does not diminish but rather increases and multiplies. The more one engages in acts of kindness, the greater one's capacity to do good becomes. The extraordinary increase of the loaves serves as a powerful symbol of the Holy Communion, in which the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, appears as bread and wine—broken yet never divided, eternally life-giving, satisfying the hunger of souls, and sanctifying all who partake."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"\\"Approximately five thousand individuals, excluding women and children; thus, we could estimate the total to be around ten thousand. The term 'children' specifically refers to little ones (παιδι'ων), who were either carried by their mothers or walked alongside them. This miracle served as a clear demonstration of the Lord Jesus' omnipotence, as well as His kindness and mercy. It undoubtedly left a profound impact on those who witnessed it, leading them, as noted by the Evangelist John, to recognize Him as the authentic and true Messiah (Matthew 6:14).\\""},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"All four Gospel writers affirm that everyone present ate, which amounted to significantly more than five thousand individuals, and all were satisfied (Mark 6:42; Luke 9:17; John 6:11-12). Additionally, the Apostle John notes that the followers of Christ distributed as much bread and fish as those who were reclining desired. Following Jesus' instruction, they collected the remaining bread, ultimately filling twelve baskets with it. These baskets, commonly used by the Jews for their travels instead of bags for storing food, were notably small. Nevertheless, it would have been impossible for just five loaves of bread, broken into pieces, to fill twelve baskets without a miraculous increase in the number of pieces."},{"author-name":"Lopuchin A.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c891400ee1341634d2276d_Lopuchin%20A.P..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"When everyone had been satisfied, Christ aimed not only to demonstrate to His disciples the miracle that had taken place but also to teach them that any waste, even that resulting from divine acts, was completely contrary to God's stewardship. He instructed them to collect the leftover pieces so that nothing would be wasted. Due to the careful organization of the crowd, it was evident that around five thousand individuals had been fed, not including women and children, and despite this, twelve baskets were filled with the leftover food."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"After everyone had eaten and was filled, He instructed His disciples, \\"Collect the leftover pieces so that nothing is wasted.\\" According to St. John Chrysostom, this act was not merely an extraneous confirmation of the miracle; rather, it was intended to prevent the onlookers from dismissing the miracle as an illusion. For this reason, He performed a miracle using readily available resources. The leftover bread and fish were gathered, amounting to twelve baskets full. This miraculous multiplication of the loaves echoed the wonders performed by the ancient prophets Elijah (1 Kings 17:14) and Elisha (2 Kings 4:43-44); however, whereas the prophets worked through the divine authority granted to them, the Lord enacted miracles through His limitless power."},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord showed deep compassion, as the five loaves and two fish miraculously provided for five thousand listeners through His abundant grace, leaving each apostle with a basket full of leftovers. This event echoed the manna provided in the wilderness and other wondrous deeds from the Old Testament. When the crowd witnessed this miraculous sign, they recognized Him as the prophet foretold by Moses and sought to make Jesus their king. However, He withdrew to the mountain to pray in solitude and instructed His disciples to return across the water without Him, leaving the crowd without the realization of their aspirations."}]}
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