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Explanation for:
Matthew
15
:
37
And they did all eat, and had their fill. And they took up seven baskets full, of what remained of the fragments.
13
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"But why were there twelve baskets of leftovers from the feeding of the five thousand and seven baskets remaining after the four thousand? Why was the remainder smaller despite the lesser number of people fed? One might suggest that the baskets were larger than the boxes, or if that is not the case, we can consider that the Lord, in order to prevent the similarity of the miracles from leading to forgetfulness, uses this distinction to sharpen their memory. By recalling the differences, they would be able to remember both miracles. This is why, in the first instance, He provided a number of leftovers that matched the number of the disciples, while in the second, the leftovers corresponded to the loaves. In this way, He reveals the boundless power and freedom of His might, demonstrating His capability to perform miracles in diverse manners. It required no small measure of divine power to ensure that the quantity remained consistent in both cases: five thousand then, and four thousand now; and in both circumstances, the number of leftovers was neither more nor less; in the first instance, it was the twelve boxes, and in the latter, it was the seven baskets, even though the number of those who partook of the food varied."},{"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":"We have previously addressed this sign, and it would be redundant to revisit the same points; instead, let us focus on the discrepancies between these two occurrences. Previously, we read: When evening came, the disciples approached Him and mentioned, ‘This place is deserted’ (Mt 14:15). In this instance, however, the Lord Himself, calling His disciples, expresses compassion for the multitude, stating: I am moved for the people, for they have been with Me for three days without pause. Here we observe five loaves and two fish, while in the latter account, there are seven loaves and a few fish. The previous scenario had the people reclining on the grass, whereas now they are seated on the ground; there, the number of those who partook was five thousand, but here it is four thousand. In the former instance, twelve baskets were filled with leftover pieces, while here, there were seven. Thus, in the earlier sign, it is not the Lord who highlights the situation, but the disciples, who were still engaged with the five senses and thus not completely free from external perceptions. They remind Him at evening, as daylight fades into night. Conversely, the Lord Himself acknowledges His concern for the crowd, explaining His compassion: Because they have been with Me for three days without interruption, He desires to offer nourishment so that they do not weaken on their journey. Among those who partook of the seven loaves, which represent completion and sanctification, the number was not five thousand, but rather four. The latter number consistently carries a commendable meaning. Just as a quadrilateral stone maintains stability and balance, the Gospels are esteemed for their sacred nature, represented in this same quadruple measure."},{"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":"They presented the seven loaves. The Gentiles had no redemption from the law and the prophets; however, they lived by the grace of the Spirit, whose sevenfold brightness is described by Isaiah as a divine gift (Isaiah 30:26). Thus, through faith, the Spirit provides salvation to the Gentiles. They reclined on the ground, relying not on the deeds of the law or the flesh, but responding to the invitation of the Spirit in His sevenfold brightness. The vast number of fish signifies the diverse array of gifts and grace surrounding the faith of the Gentiles. The abundance reflected in the seven baskets represents the overflowing richness of the Spirit's sevenfold light: what He gives is abundant. When we are filled with this gift, it becomes both deeper and more extensive. The gathering of four thousand hints at an infinite multitude from all four corners of the earth. Looking ahead, countless individuals are imbued with this abundance in every place where many believers eagerly seek the heavenly nourishment. In this way, when people partake of this feeding, they find liberation. And since the Lord is with us throughout all our days, numerous Gentile believers embark on the vessel of the Church."},{"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 is deliberate; the sequence and the leftover quantities after the feeding are also intentional. Consider how five loaves were sufficient to feed five thousand people, while seven loaves fed a smaller crowd of four thousand. If we regard solely the miraculous nature of this occurrence, it seems more miraculous that a smaller amount of bread nourished a larger multitude. Why is it that the smaller quantity appears to take precedence? Initially, five loaves fed five thousand, followed by seven loaves for four thousand. We must seek to uncover the hidden significance behind this miracle.\\n\\nIt is quite plausible that the five thousand—representing our five physical senses—were nourished with sustenance meant for those living in the flesh. Conversely, the four thousand embody individuals who, although still residing in their physical forms in this world composed of four elements, have received the mystical sustenance of peace; even while amidst worldly existence, they rise above it. Those given this sacred nourishment exist in the world yet are not confined by it. Creation occurred over six days, with the seventh day designated for rest, which the Lord blessed. Thus, true rest transcends our earthly existence and leads to the fruits of peace, which resonates with the beatitude, \\"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God\\" (Matt. 5:9). No one can perceive God (Jn. 1:18) unless they have ascended beyond worldly confines through spiritual insight. Subsequently, the seven baskets of leftovers from the four thousand indicate the importance of this Sabbath bread, signifying sanctification and rest. Perhaps, if one first partakes of the five loaves of earthly sustenance, they will eventually find themselves nourished in a higher realm, enjoying eight loaves among heavenly dwellers. The seven loaves symbolize rest, while the eight reflect resurrection; the number eight signifies the dawn of a new age, for Christ resurrected after the Sabbath, the week's seventh day (see exp. Luc. 2:56). Those receiving the seven loaves might be endowed with strength sufficient for three days and a pure belief in future resurrection, echoing the saints' proclamation: \\"Three days shall we go forth to make a feast to the Lord our God\\" (Ex. 5:3).\\n\\nAs for the five loaves, St. John revealed to me something previously unknown, which neither St. Matthew nor St. Luke mentioned, for each has received their own grace. He disclosed that these were barley loaves. This detail clarifies why this nourishment is suitable for the carnal. Why barley loaves? Because one must begin their faith journey by consuming milk before progressing to solid food (see 1 Cor. 3:2; Heb. 5:12). We may struggle with this now, and perhaps many of us still find it challenging. If there is strife among us, are we not acting carnally and in accordance with human desires? (see 1 Cor. 3:1,3). Each virtue requires its appropriate nourishment; thus, we first receive barley and then wheat, with those who are stronger, like Elijah, being provided with bread from the innermost ear, which is undefiled by sin, despite being edible.\\n\\nThe differences in the bread and the number of people extend to their places of rest during the feast. The five thousand reclined on the grass, while the four thousand settled upon the bare ground. Resting on the ground is a greater challenge than lying on the grass; those whose senses are inclined towards the carnal prefer the comfort of the grass, fulfilling the truth that all flesh is like grass (Isaiah 40:6). Others choose to situate themselves on the ground that produces wheat, wine, and olives (cf. Deut. 8:8), receiving the grace-filled sustenance. Some recline while others sit, experiencing more profound rest. Some possess two fish (cf. Matt. 14:17; Mk. 6:38; Jn. 6:9) while others are uncounted (see Matt. 15:34); many understand the loaves as symbolic of the sevenfold grace of the Spirit while the fish denote the two covenants.\\n\\nThe four thousand gathered from the four corners of the earth symbolize the Church; they receive abundant spiritual nourishment, as foretold: \\"For they shall come from the east and the west, and from the north and the south\\" (Matt. 8:11). Here, Christ gives thanks to the Father (see Mark 8:6; Matt. 15:36; Jn. 6:11); it is significant that blessings are mentioned explicitly elsewhere (see Mk. 6:41; Mt. 14:19; Lk. 10:16), as is the act of thanksgiving. Christ frequently expresses gratitude to the Father for His Church, revealing to the humble what He conceals from the wise (see Matt. 11:25). Therefore, blessings rest upon those who are still learning, while thanksgiving is for those who have triumphed over bodily frailty through holy struggles. We previously touched upon how the people were instructed to sit down in fifties—a sacred but limited number—whereas the multitude of the firmly established Church has no such restriction on their seating.\\n\\nThe crowd is nourished from the bounty, with the Apostles serving the food—this carries profound significance. Being filled indicates the permanent alleviation of hunger, for whoever consumes Christ's bread will never hunger again. The Apostles’ ministry foreshadows the forthcoming distribution of the Lord's body and blood. The miracle of the five loaves sufficing for five thousand demonstrates that the bread was multiplied. It is astounding how the fragments increased without diminishing in the hands of the distributors, with pieces appearing effortlessly without human touch. Those who read about this marvel will be astonished by the unceasing flow of water and enchanted by the transparent streams springing forth, even as bread pours forth abundantly.\\n\\nThe occurrences reveal the invisible workings of God's providence. These actions reveal that He is the origin of all creation, the very architect of the material world, which did not come into being by chance, as some philosophers assert, but was divinely ordained. In all of this, the essence of creation remains a consistent source for the origin of existence. Remarkably, regardless of how much is drawn from the rivers, there is no sign of depletion. Similarly, when taking from the springs, everything is restored, as though it is being replenished. It appears that in the rivers, there are no decreases or increases, yet in the springs, one can observe when water enters and exits. The bread broken by Jesus, reflecting the Word of God and Christ’s preaching, multiplies when it is broken! With a few utterances, He provided abundant nourishment for the nations, instructing us as loaves that double in number with each mouthful. This bread visibly multiplies in a manner beyond understanding, transforming as it is broken and divided, yet never losing any portion.\\n\\nDo not doubt the multiplication of the bread, whether in the hands of those serving or in the mouths of the eaters, as the evidence of our works affirms our faith. Recall the wedding at Cana, when the servants drew from the key water that had transformed into wine, and those who filled the vessels with water drew out the wine that had not previously existed (see Jn. 2:6-10). Comprehend, if you can, such wondrous happenings! As the people dined on bread, the number of pieces grew with each distribution, resulting in more leftovers than the amount initially available. In contrast, at Cana, one element morphed into another without disturbing the natural order, remaining unrecognizable in its origin yet serving its function. Furthermore, the taste of the converted wine surpasses that of commonplace wine, as the Creator determines the qualities imparted to creation and the characteristics assigned to new manifestations. Observe how He demonstrates His plans: as the servant pours water, the aroma wafts enticingly, the color enchants the eye, and the flavor experienced fortifies faith (cf. Jn. 2:11).\\n\\nLet the Gentiles, should they choose, juxtapose the gifts of Christ against the illusory deeds of their gods. Their myths recount the tale of a king, King Midas, who turned everything he touched into gold. Yet, even his feasts became fatal—his fingers hardened napkins; the food in his mouth became unpalatable and harmful; the drink lodged in his throat could neither descend nor ascend. Such favors indeed suit their supplicants! These gifts bear the hallmark of futility! Conversely, the gifts of Christ may seem modest, yet they are profoundly significant, generously given to multitudes rather than an individual, as the bread multiplied in the mouths of those who consumed it. What appeared to serve physical hunger ultimately offers eternal salvation.\\n\\nWhy was there more surplus from the five thousand than from the four thousand? The five thousand produced twelve baskets of remnants; the four thousand yielded seven (see Mk. 6:44; Mk. 8:8). The four thousand had remained with Christ for three days, which accounts for the larger share of heavenly sustenance.\\n\\nIt is noteworthy that the leftovers collected after the people's satisfaction were gathered by the disciples, illustrating that divine truths are more readily discerned within the chosen than within the masses. If I were to hear the command \\"Gather the leftovers!\\" and I obliged, I would surely collect many remnants which the crowds—women and children—could not consume. Blessed is he who can gather the surplus even from wise individuals.\\n\\nLet us examine how He gathers. The law states, \\"You shall not commit adultery\\" (Ex. 20:14). Christ broke the bread, meaning He divided the Word without adding anything from outside but refining His own teachings. \\"Whoever looks at a woman with lust,\\" He declared, \\"has already committed adultery with her\\" (Matt. 5:28). Behold a portion of His bread! He added: \\"If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out,\\" (Matt. 5:29). Here's more: \\"If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off\\" (Matt. 5:30). Further, \\"Whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery\\" (Matt. 5:32). Observe how many fragments He has pieced together from a single proclamation! Moses noted that Abraham had two sons—one by a handmaid and the other by a free woman (Gal. 4:22). Paul interpreted these as the two covenants (Gal. 4:24). He broke the Word and unveiled profound insights within it. Therefore, blessed is he who gathers what Christ has apportioned.\\n\\nWhy did Christ fill twelve baskets with the remnants? He aimed to eradicate the bondage of the Jewish people, represented by their toil in baskets (Ps. 80:7)—those who once collected dirt and debris were now, through Christ’s cross, being offered the sustenance of divine life, gathering the nourishment of faith where once dwelled the filth of idolatry. This gift extends to all, not just a select few; the twelve baskets signify an overflowing abundance intended to bolster the faith of all nations, for \\"bread strengthens man's heart\\" (Ps. 103:15)."},{"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":"You may wonder why, despite the feeding of five thousand with five loaves, twelve baskets were left over, yet here, with a larger quantity of loaves but a smaller number of people fed, only seven baskets remain. One might suggest that these baskets were larger than those used previously, or that this was intended so that the disciples would not overlook the unique nature of the miracle. If twelve baskets were collected this time, the similarity to the previous miracle might cause them to forget that the Lord had once performed a similar act with the loaves. \\n\\nIt is also important to recognize that the four thousand, who embody four virtues, were nourished by seven loaves, symbolizing spiritual and perfect teachings, as the number seven represents the seven gifts of the Spirit. They are set apart, placing all worldly matters beneath them and treating them with disdain, much like the five thousand who reclined on the grass, signifying their rejection of flesh and glory. For all flesh is like grass, and the glory of man is akin to the flower in the field. The seven baskets that remained represented that which is spiritual and perfect, that which cannot be consumed. What was left fit into the seven baskets signifies what only the Holy Spirit comprehends; for the Spirit explores all things, even the profound mysteries of God (1 Cor. 2:10)."},{"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":"Why were there twelve baskets remaining in one instance and seven in another, when it seems there should have been more left in the latter case? Chrysostom suggests that perhaps the baskets (σπυριδες) were larger than the boxes (κοφινοι), or it may have been intended to highlight the distinctiveness of both miracles through the differing quantities. Additionally, it is noted that the number of boxes corresponds to the twelve Apostles, while the baskets relate to the loaves, thereby illustrating that what He wishes to accomplish is easily within His power. A deeper interpretation is required regarding the distinction between the five thousand and the four. The five thousand symbolize those less perfected in virtue, whereas the four represent those who are more virtuous. There are many from each grouping, yet the imperfect are always in greater numbers than the perfect. The multitude consumes the spiritual teachings of Christ; those who are imperfect grasp fewer truths due to their limited understanding, while the perfect comprehend more fully because of the strength of their minds. Thus, less is left over for the imperfect due to their limited assimilation, while the perfect have greater leftovers as they absorb more. We have presented this in a straightforward manner, but some, pursuing intricate interpretations, have produced various trivial and laborious arguments not only here but in numerous other analyses, which we choose to exclude to avoid unnecessary concern."},{"author-name":"Theophan the Recluse","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8983a6e0f4c3aecaae3fc_Theophan%20the%20Recluse.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"On another occasion, the Lord provided a miraculous meal for those who followed Him, demonstrating His unwavering readiness to generously provide for the faithful. While He could have performed such acts on numerous occasions, He refrained to prevent distancing them from the ordinary life He had established and nurtured. This reflects the overarching providence of God. The primary acts of divine providence began with the creation and arrangement of all things; however, having created and initiated all things, God did not confine Himself to a rigid framework but chose to remain unbound, offering support whenever necessary and with great abundance. He operates like a steward in a household who sets everything in order, yet does not allow Himself to be constrained by it, managing it with authority and wisdom. Those who challenge faith often fail to grasp the essence of God's work and, by extrapolating their ideas beyond their intended scope and not witnessing them fulfilled in reality, dismiss the very concept of divine activity. While they may seek a certain kind of activity that does not exist, there is indeed a divine action that the Lord God Himself is inclined to establish and uphold."},{"author-name":"Bogolepow D.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Clearly, in the first account, there are two fish specified, whereas in the second account, the mention is made of a few fish (Mt. 34, Mk. 7). Furthermore, during the initial miracle, twelve baskets of leftovers were collected, compared to seven in the subsequent event. Additionally, Matthew uniquely notes that there were 4,000 men present who were fed, not counting the women and children."},{"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":"The account of the second multiplication of the loaves and the subsequent feeding of the crowd closely parallels that of the first miracle (Matthew 14:14-21) and does not necessitate an extensive explanation. 'For three days they have been with Me.' To prevent any suggestion that the people arrived with their own provisions, Christ emphasizes, 'They have been with Me for three days; if they had brought food, it would have already run out.' Consequently, He chose not to perform the miracle on the first or second day, but waited until all their resources were depleted, allowing the necessity to build anticipation for the miracle. Thus, He states, 'lest they become faint on the way,' indicating the journey to the village was quite long and that they had no remaining food. Moreover, to counter any claims that He had received bread from a nearby town, He specifically highlights the location (in the wilderness - Matthew 15:33), thus reinforcing the reality of the miracle. Therefore, He performs both the first and the second miracles in the desert."},{"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 ALL ATE AND WERE SATISFIED. Following this, the apostles collected the leftover pieces into seven full baskets, totaling FOUR THOUSAND MEN, excluding women and children. Then, in a composed and tranquil manner, without the fervor that marked the first miracle of multiplying the loaves, the Saviour boarded a boat. He chose not to proceed by land to avoid drawing undue praise from the crowd following Him, but instead crossed the lake by boat, arriving at the DISTRICTS OF MAGDALA, or as St. Mark notes (Mark 8:10), ‘of Dalmanutha.’ The towns of Magdala and Dalmanutha were located on the southwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, near Tiberias; from Magdala came the Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene, whom the Lord freed from demonic oppression. \\n\\nIn his commentary on the miraculous feeding, St. John Chrysostom observes that the Lord performed such a miracle infrequently, only twice, to instruct the Apostles not to focus solely on physical needs but to persistently pursue spiritual treasures. We too should cling to these treasures, striving for the heavenly nourishment, and upon receiving it, setting aside worldly distractions. If the Jews were willing to leave their homes, cities, and families to remain in the wilderness despite their hunger, how much more ought we to exhibit wisdom and a deep affection for spiritual treasures at such a banquet, prioritizing them before earthly desires. \\n\\nHe who disregards the great gifts and covets the minor is denied the former; yet if we cherish the more significant, God graciously bestows the lesser upon us, as they complement the greater. This is the lesson imparted by the Giver Christ Himself: ‘seek,’ He instructs, ‘first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things,’ meaning all that is essential for our earthly well-being, ‘will be added to you,’ provided without request, as if supplementary to the spiritual gifts granted to the heirs of the kingdom of God."},{"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":"The confusion of the apostles was quickly resolved as Jesus executed a second miracle, miraculously multiplying loaves to provide sustenance for the crowd. On this occasion, four thousand individuals, not counting the women and children, were nourished, and seven baskets of leftovers were gathered."},{"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":"This miraculous event drew a considerable crowd to the Savior, as many came with a desire to listen to His teachings and benefit from His miraculous works. On the banks of the Sea of Galilee, Christ performed once again the miracle of providing sustenance, specifically feeding four thousand men, not counting women and children, with seven loaves and five small fish."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Following this, Jesus Christ instructed the crowd to recline on the ground. He took the seven loaves, gave thanks to the heavenly Father, broke them, and handed them to His disciples to distribute among the people. Everyone ate and was satisfied, with four thousand men dining, not counting the women and children. Similar to the earlier miracle of feeding, the disciples collected the leftover pieces, resulting in seven full baskets. Although the amount of leftovers was less this time, there were also fewer individuals who partook in the meal. This difference served as a divine reminder for the disciples, ensuring that the similarity of the two events would not cause them to forget or confuse the significance of each miracle."}]}
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