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Explanation for:
Matthew
15
:
38
And they that did eat, were four thousand men, beside children and women.
10
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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":"We have previously addressed this sign, and there is no need to reiterate those points. Instead, let us focus on the inconsistencies between these two occurrences. Earlier, we read: When it was evening, His disciples approached Him and remarked, 'This place is desolate' (Mt 14:15). Here, the Lord, after calling His disciples, expresses compassion for the multitude, stating: I am sorry for the crowd, because for three days they have been with Me without pause. The New Synodal Russian Translation: I am sorry for the people, because for three days they have been with Me. In one instance, there were five loaves and two fish, while in the other, seven loaves and some fish were available. The people reclined on grass in the first situation but on the ground in the second. In the first event, the number of those fed was five thousand, corresponding to the loaves distributed, whereas here it was four thousand. In the former case, twelve baskets were filled with leftover pieces, but in this case, seven were collected. Importantly, in the first account, it is not the Lord who reminds the disciples of their situation; rather, it is the disciples themselves who, still tethered to physical perception, recall it as night approaches. In contrast, the Lord Himself expresses His concern for the crowd, as He articulates the reason for His compassion: Because for three days they have been with Me without interruption. The New Synodal Russian Translation: Because for three days they have been with Me. He does not wish to dismiss the people who have not yet eaten, for He fears they may grow weary on their journey. Those who partook of the seven loaves—representing a number that signifies sanctification and perfection—amounted to not five thousand but four. This last number carries praise and significance. Just as a square stone is firm and stable, so too are the Gospels esteemed as sacred for their own quadrilateral nature."},{"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 involved—the quantity of food leftover after the miraculous feeding—is deliberate and profound. There is a noteworthy contrast where five thousand individuals are nourished by just five loaves, while four thousand are fed with seven loaves, raising questions about these details. If one simply observes the miracle, it appears more miraculous that a smaller quantity of loaves provided sustenance for a larger crowd. Why does the lesser seem more prominent in this account? Initially, five thousand people were fed by five loaves, followed by another four thousand with seven loaves. This leads us to seek a deeper meaning behind these events. \\n\\nIt may be inferred that the five thousand, akin to the five human senses, received from Christ sustenance suited for those who live by the flesh. The four thousand, however, although still immersed in the physical realm, partake in a more profound, spiritual nourishment—suggestive of resting from worldly cares while simultaneously transcending them. Though they reside in this world, their sustenance allows them to rise above it. The rest that Christ offers is a divine one, beyond worldly existence, underscoring the blessedness of those who maintain peace, as they are called sons of God (Matt. 5:9). Since God exists outside of the material world, it is only through spiritual insight that one can truly encounter Him (Jn. 1:18).\\n\\nThe seven baskets filled with remnants after feeding the four thousand also resonate with the concept of divine rest, reflecting the Sabbath. Those who partake in earthly nourishment may one day consume a higher sustenance beyond this life. The partition of the seven loaves signifies rest, while the eight loaves symbolize resurrection—identified historically with the eighth day, the dawning of the new age in Christ's resurrection. Thus, the seven loaves sustain the four thousand for three days, perhaps instilling in them a clear faith in the resurrection. The saints proclaim, \\"Three days shall we go forth to make a feast to the Lord our God\\" (Exodus 5:3). \\n\\nConcerning the five loaves, St. John reveals that they were barley loaves, emphasizing their appropriateness for those of a more carnal disposition. Barley serves as an initial sustenance, much like the foundation of faith that must first be laid before progressing to richer spiritual nourishment (1 Cor. 3:2; Heb. 5:12). If there are divisions and conflicts among us, aren't we still bound by worldly tendencies (1 Cor. 3:1,3)? Different virtues align with distinct kinds of spiritual nourishment; thus, we receive barley at first and later wheat, much like Elijah who partook in sustenance beyond carnal understanding.\\n\\nThe distinction between the two gatherings also encompasses where the people reclined while eating. The five thousand rested on the grass, symbolizing a more superficial comfort, while the four thousand settled on the ground, representing a deeper connection to true nourishment that sustains life, such as wheat, wine, and olive (Deut. 8:8). The separation between the two gatherings reflects a contrast in spiritual depth and contentment. The seven loaves highlight the grace offered to those gathered from the four corners of the world, showcasing the Church's universality. \\n\\nChrist gave thanks to the Father, emphasizing gratitude as essential for His Church (Mark 8:6; Matt. 15:36; Jn. 6:11). We see that blessing accompanies humility, while thanksgiving acknowledges those who have triumphed over human frailties through the holy trials of faith. This contrasts with how the people were seated in groups of fifty, a sacred number, denoting the structured formation of the spiritually strong Church. \\n\\nAs the people were nourished by the apostles, their ministry signifies the future sharing of the Lord’s body and blood. Truly miraculous is the fact that five loaves sufficed for five thousand people, with the bread undergoing multiplication rather than simply being divided. This miracle illustrates a divine abundance that reflects the continuous providence of God—the bread is the Word that, when shared, multiplies exceedingly as it nourishes.\\n\\nIn an astonishing demonstration, as loaves were dispensed, the pieces increased—originating not from mere physical existence but from divine grace, transcending all understanding. The ongoing miracles, such as the transformation of water into the finest wine at the wedding, serve to affirm the faith of those who would believe (Jn. 2:11). \\n\\nIn contrast, the empty promises of the world stand in stark opposition to Christ’s abundant gifts. The myth surrounding King Midas, where all he touched turned to gold only to become his curse, exemplifies the emptiness of idol worship compared to the true fullness found in Christ. While the earthly feeds may seem small, they yield eternal salvation to the multitudes.\\n\\nRegarding the disparities in remaining food, twelve baskets from the five thousand and seven from the four thousand reveal purposeful abundance, as these four thousand had been with Christ for three days, receiving richness in heavenly nourishment. The disciples gathered the leftovers intentionally, reflecting a divine wisdom in recognizing that true treasures are often hidden within the chosen few rather than the masses. \\n\\nMoreover, Christ's teaching, which deepens the law, demonstrates how He expounded upon the commandments, calling attention to their spiritual urgency. For example, to look at a woman with lust is to commit adultery in the heart (Matt. 5:28). In His teaching, He provides insight into gathering more profound truths from the same law—such as illustrating the relationship between the sons of Abraham and the two covenants (Gal. 4:22, 24).\\n\\nWhen Christ filled twelve baskets with leftovers, His intent was to fulfill the spiritual nourishment of His people, liberating them from past bonds and leading them to heavenly sustenance—the baskets signify the abundance available for all tribes, demonstrating that His bread strengthens hearts and souls (Ps. 103:15)."},{"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":"The reason for there being twelve baskets left in one instance and seven in another, despite an expectation of a different count, is intriguing. Some theologians suggest that the baskets may have been larger than the boxes, or that this discrepancy in the leftovers was deliberate, serving to eternally commemorate both miracles. Additionally, it may be significant that the number of boxes corresponds to the number of the Apostles while the baskets correspond to the loaves, illustrating that fulfilling His will is effortless for Him. \\n\\nA deeper interpretation may be required regarding the two groups: the five thousand and the four. The five thousand represent those with less spiritual maturity, while the four symbolize the more spiritually advanced. Although there are many among both groups, the less mature are generally more numerous than the more mature. The less mature, by being near Christ, are able to take in spiritual teachings, but their understanding is limited due to their weaker intellect. Conversely, the more mature grasp more because of their stronger understanding, resulting in a greater retention of spiritual insights. \\n\\nWhile this explanation presents the concepts straightforwardly, others delve into excessive detail, offering convoluted arguments in this context and throughout various studies. We choose to bypass such intricacies, as they often lead to unnecessary confusion."},{"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 instance of multiplying the loaves to nourish the vast crowd parallels the initial miracle and doesn't necessitate an extensive exposition. \\"For three days now they have been with Me.\\" To prevent any from asserting, \\"They arrived with provisions,\\" the Lord emphasizes, \\"They have been with Me for three days; thus, if they had come with a supply, it would have been depleted.\\" Consequently, He did not perform the miracle on the first or second day, but rather once they had exhausted everything, allowing them to recognize their need and receive the miracle with even greater joy. This is why He also mentions, \\"Lest they become weary on the road,\\" indicating that the journey back to the village was considerable and that they had no provisions left. To eliminate any doubts about the source of the loaves, He specifies the very location (in the wilderness - Matthew 15:33), ensuring they were aware of the miraculous nature of the event. Thus, both this and the prior miracle took place in the wilderness."},{"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 THEY ALL ATE AND WERE SATISFIED. Following this, without any specific instruction, the apostles collected the leftover fragments into seven overflowing baskets, and there were FOUR THOUSAND MEN EXCLUDING WOMEN AND CHILDREN. In a serene and composed manner, devoid of the fervor that marked the initial miracle of the loaves, the Saviour made His way into the boat. He chose not to travel by the dry route to avoid prompting the people who followed Him to glorify Him, instead crossing the lake by boat, and He arrived at the RESIDENCES OF MAGDALA, or as St. Mark refers to it (Mark 8:10), ‘of Dalmanufa.’ The two towns, Magdala and Dalmanufa, were located on the south-western shore of the Sea of Galilee, near Tiberias; from Magdala came Mary Magdalene, the Equal-to-the-Apostles, whom the Lord had freed from demon possession. St. John Chrysostom elucidates the miraculous feeding, stating that the Lord performs such wonders infrequently, and on only two occasions, to instruct the Apostles to prioritize spiritual sustenance over earthly concerns. We too must endeavor to seek these heavenly provisions, and once we have partaken of them, set aside all mundane anxieties. If the Jews were willing to abandon their homes, cities, and families to remain in the wilderness, enduring hunger without departing from Jesus, how much more ought we to demonstrate prudence and value spiritual treasures as we partake in such a feast. He who disregards the greater blessings in pursuit of the lesser is ultimately deprived of the former. Yet, if we cherish the first gifts, God graciously provides the latter, as they serve to complement the gifts bestowed upon the children of the Kingdom. This is the lesson from Christ, the Giver Himself: ‘seek,’ He instructs, ‘first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things,’ meaning all that is necessary for our earthly existence, ‘will be added to you,’ provided to you without your request, as if they are an addition to those spiritual treasures given to the children 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 experienced by the apostles soon cleared when Jesus executed the second miracle of multiplying bread to nourish the multitudes. On this occasion, four thousand men, not including women and children, were fed, 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 extraordinary event attracted a large crowd to the Savior, hungry to listen to his teachings and benefit from his miracles. Once again, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Christ performed the miracle of feeding the multitude, providing for four thousand men, in addition to women and children, with just seven loaves of bread 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, offered praise to the heavenly Father, broke the loaves, and distributed them through His disciples to the people. Everyone partook and was satisfied, with four thousand individuals present, not counting women and children. Similar to the first miracle of feeding, the disciples collected the remaining pieces, resulting in seven full baskets of leftovers. Although there were fewer scraps this time compared to the previous instance, there were also fewer people fed. This distinction was a way for the Lord to aid the disciples' memory, ensuring that the likeness of the two miracles would not lead to forgetfulness or confusion between them."},{"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 one instance, there are two fish mentioned, while in the other, the wording is more ambiguous with a reference to a few fish. Furthermore, in the first miracle, twelve baskets of leftover fragments were collected, compared to seven in the second case. Matthew uniquely notes that four thousand men, not counting their wives and children, were present to partake in the meal."},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Upon concluding His time with the people, who attentively listened to His numerous teachings and remained with Him for several days, the Lord provided a physical meal. With His blessing, seven loaves and a few fish were multiplied, nourishing approximately four thousand individuals, not counting the women and children. The disciples collected the leftovers, filling seven baskets in accordance with the number of loaves that had been distributed."}]}
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