Matthew 16:5-12 Leaven: the yeast of these

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

"ἄλευρον " ≈ "ground grain" and "ζύμη" ≈ "yeast, dough".

The third kingdom parable in Matthew 13 is very short - just one verse. Does "leaven" really represent false "teaching" as the disciples claim (elsewhere)?

What does it mean to be "hid"? Was "all" "leavened"? The ancient Greek word "οὗ" ≈ "of it" is not directly translated. The ancient Greek word "οὐ" ≈ "no, not". Perhaps "not" "all" were "leavened".

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

AI question: What does Jesus mean by leaven in Matthew?

Main Interpretation: Positive Influence of the Kingdom. Most early church fathers and many modern scholars see the leaven here as the gospel and the kingdom of God.

Theological Summary: In Matthew’s narrative, leaven = the kingdom’s pervasive, transforming power - a hidden but unstoppable force that begins small, works from within, and will ultimately fill the world with God’s presence.

The parable reassures believers that the gospel’s reach is certain and complete, even if its work is gradual and unseen.

Key takeaway: In Matthew 13:33, Jesus uses leaven to picture the kingdom of heaven as a hidden yet all penetrating reality that will transform the world from the inside out, just as yeast transforms dough.

Microsoft Co-Pilot. (as of 2026-10-12) Keep in mind that AI (Artificial Intelligence) summarizes what it finds on the Internet.This represents what many think but not necessarily what might be the true answer. Notice that the question ask what Jesus meant. The answer is what many think.

*G2219 *13 ζύμη (dzoo'-may) : probably from G2204; ferment (as if boiling up):--leaven.

Words: ζυμη=6 ζυμην ζυμης=6

The ancient Greek word "ζύμη" ≈ "yeast, dough".

Technical point: Leaven is any agent that makes dough rise (including yeast, baking soda, baking powder, or fermented dough), while yeast is a specific living fungus used as one biological type of leaven. Microsoft Co-Pilot AI. (as of 2026-10-02)

*G2219 *13 ζύμη (dzoo'-may) : probably from G2204; ferment (as if boiling up):--leaven.

Usage

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ζυμη *6

Matthew 13:33 ... of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, ...

Luke 13:21 It is like leaven, which a woman took ...

1 Corinthians 5:6 ... not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?

1 Corinthians 5:8 ... with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and ...

Galatians 5:9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

ζυμης *6

Matthew 16:6 ... and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Matthew 16:11 ... bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?

Matthew 16:12 ... them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of ...

Mark 8:15 ... beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.

Luke 12:1 ... Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

ζυμην

1 Corinthians 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new ...

Exodus 12:15 Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. [kjv]

… מצות … שאר … חמץ … [he]

επτα ημερας αζυμα εδεσθε απο δε της ημερας της πρωτης αφανιειτε ζυμην εκ των οικιων υμων πας ος αν φαγη ζυμην εξολεθρευθησεται η ψυχη εκεινη εξ ισραηλ απο της ημερας της πρωτης εως της ημερας της εβδομης [lxx]

The concept of "leavened" and "unleavened" bread comes from the passover in Egypt. During the passover and exodus from Egypt, "unleavened" bread was to be made as there was not time to make the "leavened" bread.

"מצות" (mas-so-wt) ≈ "unleavened (bread)"
"שאר" (se-or) ≈ "leaven"
"חמץ" (ha-mes) ≈ "leavened (bread)"

Exodus 12:15

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KJV: Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.

Hebrew: שבעת ימים מצות תאכלו אך ביום הראשון תשביתו שאר מבתיכם כי כל אכל חמץ ונכרתה הנפש ההוא מישראל מיום הראשן עד יום השבעי׃

Greek: επτα ημερας αζυμα εδεσθε απο δε της ημερας της πρωτης αφανιειτε ζυμην εκ των οικιων υμων πας ος αν φαγη ζυμην εξολεθρευθησεται η ψυχη εκεινη εξ ισραηλ απο της ημερας της πρωτης εως της ημερας της εβδομης

Latin: septem diebus azyma comedetis in die primo non erit fermentum in domibus vestris quicumque comederit fermentatum peribit anima illa de Israhel a primo die usque ad diem septimum

Wycliffe: In seuene daies ye schulen ete therf breed; in the firste dai no thing diyt with sour douy schal be in youre housis; who euer schal ete ony thing diyt with sour douy, fro the firste dai til the seuenthe dai, that soule schal perische fro Israel.

Luther: Sieben Tage sollt ihr ungesäuert Brot essen; nämlich am ersten Tage sollt ihr aufhören mit gesäuertem Brot in euren Häusern. Wer gesäuert Brot isset vom ersten Tage an, bis auf den siebenten, des Seele soll ausgerottet werden von Israel.

Spanish: Siete días comeréis panes sin levadura; y así el primer día haréis que no haya levadura en vuestras casas: porque cualquiera que comiere leudado desde el primer día hasta el séptimo, aquella alma será cortada de Israel.

Genesis 10:6 And the sons of Ham; Cush, and Mizraim, and Phut, and Canaan. [kjv]

… ומצרים … [he]

υιοι δε χαμ χους και μεσραιμ φουδ και χανααν [lxx]

The Hebrew word "מצרים" (mits-ray-im) ≈ "Egypt, Mizraim".

The Hebrew word for "Egypt" is related to Mizraim, the son of Ham and grandson of Noah.

"ומצרים" (u-mis-ra-yim) ≈ "and Mizraim".

More: Tower of Babel: Two houses attempted using sand

Exodus 12:39 And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual. [kjv]

… ממצרים … מצות … חמץ … ממצרים … [he]

και επεψαν το σταις ο εξηνεγκαν εξ αιγυπτου εγκρυφιας αζυμους ου γαρ εζυμωθη εξεβαλον γαρ αυτους οι αιγυπτιοι και ουκ ηδυνηθησαν επιμειναι ουδε επισιτισμον εποιησαν εαυτοις εις την οδον [lxx]

"מצות" (mas-so-wt) ≈ "of unleavened".
"חמץ" (ha-mes) ≈ "it was leavened".

The ancient Greek noun "ἐγκρυφίας" ≈ "loaf baked in the ashes" as in being "hidden" in the "ashes" or "dust" or "sand". The accusative form is "ἐγκρῠφῐ́ᾱν" ≈ "loaf baked in the ashes".

The Hebrew word "מצרים" (mits-ray-im) ≈ "Egypt, Mizraim"

Exodus 12:15 Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. [kjv]

… azyma … fermentum … fermentatum … [v]

12:39 And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual. [kjv]

… farinam … azymos … fermentari … [v]

The Latin word "fermentum" ≈ "leaven" from which we get the English word "ferment".

The Latin word "azymus" ≈ "unleavened, pure, uncorrupted".

The Latin word "farino" ≈ "ground corn, flour, meal".

Exodus 12:15 Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. [kjv]

… sour douy … sour douy… [wy]

… ungesäuert … gesäuertem … gesäuert … [lu]

12:39 And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual. [kjv]

… meele… sour dow… [wy]

Wycliffe uses the term "sour douy" or "sour dough" which was another term, from the French, for "leaven". The German noun "Sauerteig" ≈ "sour dough" as used in the Luther German above as a verb. Notice how Wycliffe uses the Middle English word "victual" ≈ "food for sustenance" as in the English word "vittle" as an alternative spelling of "victual".

*G1470 *1 ἐγκρύπτω (eng-kroop'-to) : from G1722 and G2928; to conceal in, i.e. incorporate with:--hid in.

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ενεκρυψεν *1 of 1

Matthew 13:33 ... which a woman took, and hid in three measures ...

Words: ενεκρυψεν

This word is a verb. The ancient Greek noun "ἐγκρυφίας" ≈ "loaf baked in the ashes" as in being "hidden" in the "ashes" or "dust" or "sand". The accusative form is "ἐγκρῠφῐ́ᾱν" ≈ "load baked in the ashes".

Linguistically, the "en" and "eg" in Greek were very similar.

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

Jesus uses an apparently unique verb form of the ancient Greek noun "ἐγκρυφίας" ≈ "loaf baked in the ashes" as in being "hidden" in the "ashes" or "dust" or "sand". The accusative form is "ἐγκρῠφῐ́ᾱν" ≈ "load baked in the ashes".

Into what is the "woman" "encrypting" the "leaven"? Might the "encrypting" have something to do with "ashes", "dust", "sand", "earth", etc. Might this be a house built on/in "sand"?

More: Ash Wednesday and Lent (and more) from the Bible

More: Matthew 7:24-27 Building a house on sand

Ezekiel 4:12 And thou shalt eat it as barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung that cometh out of man, in their sight. [kjv]

και εγκρυφιαν κριθινον φαγεσαι αυτα εν βολβιτοις κοπρου ανθρωπινης εγκρυψεις αυτα κατ οφθαλμους αυτων [lxx]

And you shall eat them as a barley cake: you shall bake them before their eyes in man's dung. [bs3]

The ancient Greek noun "ἐγκρυφίας" ≈ "loaf baked in the ashes" as in being "hidden" in the "ashes" or "dust" or "sand". The accusative form is "ἐγκρῠφῐ́ᾱν" ≈ "load baked in the ashes".

"κόπρος" ≈ "dung, excrement, filth, dirt".
"κριθη" ≈ "barley". There was a malady called "barley" "eye".

More: Philippians 3:5-8 not by works

More: Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley

Ezekiel 4:12

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KJV: And thou shalt eat it as barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung that cometh out of man, in their sight.

Hebrew: ועגת שערים תאכלנה והיא בגללי צאת האדם תעגנה לעיניהם׃

Greek: και εγκρυφιαν κριθινον φαγεσαι αυτα εν βολβιτοις κοπρου ανθρωπινης εγκρυψεις αυτα κατ οφθαλμους αυτων

Brenton: And you shall eat them as a barley cake: you shall bake them before their eyes in man's dung.

Exodus 12:39

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KJV: And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual.

Hebrew: ויאפו את הבצק אשר הוציאו ממצרים עגת מצות כי לא חמץ כי גרשו ממצרים ולא יכלו להתמהמה וגם צדה לא עשו להם׃

Greek: και επεψαν το σταις ο εξηνεγκαν εξ αιγυπτου εγκρυφιας αζυμους ου γαρ εζυμωθη εξεβαλον γαρ αυτους οι αιγυπτιοι και ουκ ηδυνηθησαν επιμειναι ουδε επισιτισμον εποιησαν εαυτοις εις την οδον

Latin: coxeruntque farinam quam dudum conspersam de Aegypto tulerant et fecerunt subcinericios panes azymos neque enim poterant fermentari cogentibus exire Aegyptiis et nullam facere sinentibus moram nec pulmenti quicquam occurrerant praeparare

Wycliffe: And thei bakiden meele, which spreynd to gidere`a while ago thei token fro Egipt, and maden therf looues bakun vnder the aischis; for the looues miyten not be diyt with sour dow, for Egipcians compelliden to go out, and suffriden not to make ony tariyng, nether it was leiser to make ony seew.

Luther: Und sie buken aus dem rohen Teige, den sie aus Ägypten brachten, ungesäuerte Kuchen; denn es war nicht gesäuert, weil sie aus Ägypten gestoßen wurden, und konnten nicht verziehen und hatten ihnen sonst keine Zehrung zubereitet.

Spanish: Y cocieron tortas sin levadura de la masa que habían sacado de Egipto; porque no había leudado, por cuanto fueron echados de Egipto, y no habían podido detenerse, ni aun prepararse comida.

Luke 22:7 Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed. [kjv]

ηλθεν δε η ημερα των αζυμων εν η εδει θυεσθαι το πασχα [gnt]

Matza is an unleavened flat-bread that is popular in Israel and part of the observance of Passover and appears in Exodus (some verses above). The Hebrew word "םצה" (matza) ≈ "matza".

The "day" of "unleavened" "bread" is the day when there was not time to "leaven" the bread, time to allow it to rise.

Bread that is "Leavened" (puffed up) is often used figuratively to refer to someone who is puffed up or leavened with pride. That person desires to be or thinks that they are "greater" than others and uses that "greatness" to "oppress" others (or even themselves).

Luke 22:7

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KJV: Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed.

Greek: ηλθεν δε η ημερα των αζυμων εν η εδει θυεσθαι το πασχα

Wycliffe: But the daies of therf looues camen, in whiche it was neede, that the sacrifice of pask were slayn.

Tyndale: Then came ye daye of swete breed when of necessite the esterlambe must be offered.

Geneva: Then came the day of vnleauened bread, when the Passeouer must be sacrificed.

*H7603 שְׂאוֹר (seh-ore') : from H7604; barm or yeast-cake (as swelling by fermentation):--leaven.

*H4682 מַצָּה (mats-tsaw') : from H4711 in the sense of greedily devouring for sweetness; properly, sweetness; concretely, sweet (i.e. not soured or bittered with yeast); specifically, an unfermented cake or loaf, or (elliptically) the festival of Passover (because no leaven was then used):--unleaved (bread, cake), without leaven.

*H3899 לֶחֶם (lekh'-em) : from H3898; food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it):--((shew-))bread, X eat, food, fruit, loaf, meat, victuals. See also H1036.

Some claim that the "mas" part of "Christmas" is related to the "matza" unleavened bread.

"מצות" (mas-so-wt) ≈ "of unleavened"
"חמץ" (ha-mes) ≈ "leavened (bread)"
"שאר" (se-or) ≈ "leaven"

Matthew 16:1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. [kjv]

16:2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. [kjv]

16:3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? [kjv]

16:4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed. [kjv]

This is a short discourse. The topic of "bread" and "leaven" follows.

More: Matthew 16:1-4 Red sky at night

Matthew 16:2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. [kjv]

ο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν αυτοις οψιας οψιας γενομενης λεγετε ευδια πυρραζει γαρ ο ουρανος [gnt]

16:3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? [kjv]

Paraphrase: In the evening [you snakes], you say it is good weather (through which) to examine heaven (Jesus). In the morning, it will be a bitter cold adversity (for you): for heaven is examining (by fire) and you appear hostile/grim. You know well the face of heaven [tail of the mind] (you are looking at the real heaven). Can you not discern (through separation) the miracles/indications done of the season [hand]?

Only one of the four "heaven" or "sky" words, the last one by Jesus, fits the play on words with "tail" "of the mind". This is a short discourse. The topic of "bread" and "leaven" follows.

More: Matthew 16:1-4 Red sky at night

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

… obliti … panes … [v]

… olvidado … pan. [es]

This is connecting commentary by Matthew.

The Latin word "pane" ≈ "bread" and is the source of the name of "Panera Bread", literally "Bread Bread". The Spanish word "pan" ≈ "bread, loaf".

Were the disciples supposed to bring bread?
Are we to feed everyone that is hungry? For what are they hungry?

[waiting tables in Acts, Daniel and Bel, hunger and thirst for righteousness]

More: Daniel: Bel and the disappearing food

More: John 6:53-61 Misinterpretation and the disappearing blood

Acts 6:2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. [kjv]

προσκαλεσαμενοι δε οι δωδεκα το πληθος των μαθητων ειπον ειπαν ουκ αρεστον εστιν ημας καταλειψαντας τον λογον του θεου διακονειν τραπεζαις [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἄριστος" ≈ "best". That is, the "twelve" considered themselves the "best" as in "greatest" and therefore did not want to "serve" "tables".

"best"

"desirable"

"reason"

Discuss: How might this decision have impacted a sense of "greater" or "greatest" and, by implication, have started the move to a hierarchical church structure?
The relation "is greater than" or "thinks one is greater than" induces a tree structure on a set of people involved.

More: Exodus 18:13-27 Hierarchy as a man-made tree structure

Acts 6:2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. [kjv]

προσκαλεσαμενοι δε οι δωδεκα το πληθος των μαθητων ειπον ειπαν ουκ αρεστον εστιν ημας καταλειψαντας τον λογον του θεου διακονειν τραπεζαις [gnt]

convocantes … duodecim … aequum … derelinquere verbum … ministrare mensis [v]

The Latin word "aequus" ≈ "equal, level, fair, just" which starts the word slide found in most modern translations.

Discuss: Why did the disciples need to replace Judas? Why was this vacancy considered a prize position? Matthias won the lottery drawing. Do we ever hear of him again?

More: Exodus 18:13-27 Hierarchy as a man-made tree structure

*G740 *97 ἄρτος (ar'-tos) : from G142; bread (as raised) or a loaf:--(shew-)bread, loaf.

Words: αρτοι=4 αρτοις αρτον=39 αρτος=10 αρτου=5 αρτους=30 αρτω=2 αρτων=6

The ancient Greek word "ἄρτος" ≈ "cake or loaf of bread" and, in general "bread". A play on words include is with "ἄρτιος" ≈ "complete, worthy" is from "ἄρτι" ≈ "just". As an "even number", it was associated with female.

More: 2 Timothy 3:1-12 Silly women in the she shed

More: Matthew 6:11 Our daily bread

Matthew 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread. [kjv]

τον αρτον ημων τον επιουσιον δος ημιν σημερον [gnt]

panem nostrum supersubstantialem da nobis hodie [v]

… pan … cada … dánoslo hoy. [es]

The Latin word "pane" ≈ "bread" and is the source of the name of "Panera Bread", literally "Bread Bread". The Spanish word "pan" ≈ "bread, loaf".
The English word "lord" is from "loaf guarder" or "loaf ward" (try letting the "f" disappear) where "loaf" was the word for "bread", like Latin "f" in "fabulor" ≈ "speak, talk" which became English fable to Spanish "h" in "hablar" ≈ "speak".

Have you ever been to Punera Bread?

Bread puns happen when you yeast expect it. I tell puns because it is the way I was bred.

More: Mythical stories about history

More: The lord bred to loaf

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

… obliti … panes … [v]

Did the disciples "forget" something? This verse appears to have been added by Matthew as a connecting verse based on a misconception that appears in a few verses.

Were the disciples supposed to bring bread?
Are we to feed everyone that is hungry? For what are they hungry?

To better understand this verse, one should determine the actual meaning of the word translated as "forgotten" and the context in which this verse appears, going back to the previous chapter.

More: John 6:53-61 Misinterpretation and the disappearing blood

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

… obliti … panes … [v]

This idea of "forget" comes from the Latin word "oblitus" ≈ "forgotten, oblivious, unmindful" and is the source of the English word "oblivion".
This is an example of a translation issue involving many to many relationships of words to meanings. (obligation).

The ancient Greek word "λαθεῖν" ≈ "escape detection, escape notice" which is the aorist active infinitive of "λανθάνω" ≈ "escape detection, escape notice". In context the words can mean "cause to forget".

*G1950 *8 ἐπιλανθάνομαι (ep-ee-lan-than'-om-ahee) : middle voice from G1909 and G2990; to lose out of mind; by implication, to neglect:--(be) forget(-ful of).

Words: επελαθετο επελαθοντο=2 επιλαθεσθαι επιλανθανεσθε=2 επιλανθανομενος επιλελησμενον

The ancient Greek word "επι" ≈ "on" as in the first part of the English word "epicenter" as "on" the "center".

The ancient Greek word "λαθεῖν" ≈ "escape detection, escape notice" which is the aorist active infinitive of "λανθάνω" ≈ "escape detection, escape notice". In context the words can mean "cause to forget".

When Strongs says by implication, it usually means that the actual Greek word meaning does not fit the desired translated meaning (e.g., the Latin Vulgate word and meaning).

More: Not forgetting to remember the forget-me-nots

More: Deception by avoiding detection using concealment

*G1950 *8 ἐπιλανθάνομαι (ep-ee-lan-than'-om-ahee) : middle voice from G1909 and G2990; to lose out of mind; by implication, to neglect:--(be) forget(-ful of).

Usage

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επελαθοντο *2

Matthew 16:5 ... were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.
Mark 8:14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they ...

επιλανθανεσθε *2

Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for there ...
Hebrews 13:16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such ...

επιλελησμενον

Luke 12:6 ... of them is forgotten before God?

επιλανθανομενος

Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the ...

επιλαθεσθαι

Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and ...

επελαθετο

James 1:24 ... goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

The idea that the disciples "forgot" is very strong as almost all translations use some form of "forget".

NIV (New International Version): When they went across the lake, the disciples forgot to take bread.
NLT (New Living Translation): Later, after they crossed to the other side of the lake, the disciples discovered they had forgotten to bring any bread.
Berean Literal Bible: And the disciples, having come to the other side, forgot to take bread.

Were they supposed to bring bread? Are we to feed everyone who is hungry? For what are they hungry?

More: Not forgetting to remember the forget-me-nots

More: Deception by avoiding detection using concealment

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

The Greek word translated as "forgotten" is that of "escaped notice" or "neglected".

Did the disciples know that they were to take bread?
How do you forget something that you did not know you were to do?
Did the disciples not notice that it would have been good to take bread?
Are we to feed everyone who is hungry? For what are they hungry?

Was this added later by Matthew? It is not until Jesus talks of the "leaven" of the religious establishment that they think of the idea of "bread". This idea then gets back-patched into an earlier (i.e., this) verse.

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

In the context of all the verses, however, the original Greek meaning of "escaped notice" fits well and helps understand the code word meaning, or perhaps the actual meaning, of "little faith" (in a few verses).

What this verse then (effectively) says is that the disciples did not take any bread with them.

Later, what was written as connecting commentary was written. Going through Latin, the meaning changed more. Going through English, the meaning changed more. Some pastors then add their own opinion on what the English says.

[counter-factual logic, rationalization after-the-fact]

More: Profitable and expedient counterfactual logic

Matthew 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

ο δε ιησους ειπεν αυτοις ορατε και προσεχετε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

… intuemini … cavete … fermento … [v]

The Greek word translated as "take heed" is that of "observe (in a panoramic sense)" and is the source of the English word "behold".
The ancient Greek word "ὁράω" ≈ "guard" as in visually watching and is related to the Latin word "vereor" ≈ "fear" which is the source of the English word "revere" and the English words "aware" and "wary". Thus, the English word "behold" does not mean "look and see in awe" (influenced by the Latin) but "look around and compare what you are seeing with other (competing) things".

The Latin word "intueor" ≈ "look upon/towards, consider" and is the source, through French, of the English word "intuition".

*G3708 *682 ὁράω (hor-ah'-o) : properly, to stare at (compare G3700), i.e. (by implication) to discern clearly (physically or mentally); by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear:--behold, perceive, see, take heed.

Words: ειδα ειδαμεν=2 ειδαν=5 ειδεν=40 ειδες=8 ειδετε=5 ειδομεν=8 ειδον=48 εορακα εορακαν εορακεν εωρακα=2 εωρακαμεν=5 εωρακαν εωρακας=4 εωρακασιν εωρακατε=3 εωρακει εωρακεν=10 εωρακεναι εωρακοτες εωρακως=2 εωρων ιδαν=2 ιδε=34 ιδειν=37 ιδεν=2 ιδετε=9 ιδη=4 ιδης ιδητε=12 ιδον=26 ιδοντες=41 ιδου=199 ιδουσα=6 ιδω=3 ιδωμεν=5 ιδων=62 ιδωσιν=9 ορα=6 ορατε=8 ορω=2 ορωμεν ορων ορωντες ορωσαι οφθεις οφθεντες οφθεντος οφθησεται οφθησομαι οψεσθε=14 οψεται=4 οψη=3 οψομαι=2 οψομεθα οψονται=9 ωφθη=18 ωφθην ωφθησαν

The exact word used by Jesus as "ὁρᾶτε" ≈ "watch out" is used by Jesus 6 times in Matthew, 1 time in Mark and in Luke, mirroring the Matthew usage, and 2 times elsewhere.

*G3708 *682 ὁράω (hor-ah'-o) : properly, to stare at (compare G3700), i.e. (by implication) to discern clearly (physically or mentally); by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear:--behold, perceive, see, take heed.

Usage

All

ορατε *8 of 682

Matthew 9:30 ... straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it.
Matthew 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of ...
Matthew 18:10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these ...
Matthew 24:6 ... and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: ...
Mark 8:15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven ...
Luke 12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of ...
1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that none render evil for evil ...
James 2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

Matthew 16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

ο δε ιησους ειπεν αυτοις ορατε και προσεχετε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

… intuemini … cavete … fermento … [v]

One is "beautiful/good" if one is "raca" and does not do what the "council" wants when it conflicts with what Jesus wants.
To not do what the "council" wants (when it conflicts with what Jesus wants) , one must "beware" of the "leaven" of the religious establishment.

More: Matthew 5:22 The danger of brotherly anger

Matthew 9:30 And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. [kjv]

και ανεωχθησαν ηνεωχθησαν αυτων οι οφθαλμοι και ενεβριμησατο ενεβριμηθη αυτοις ο ιησους λεγων ορατε μηδεις γινωσκετω [gnt]

One is "beautiful/good" if one is "raca" and does not do what the "council" wants when it conflicts with what Jesus wants.
Given the play on words, who are those to whom they are not to know? Is it everyone? Might it be just those of the "council"?

More: Matthew 9:18-31 Healing

Matthew 18:10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. [kjv]

ορατε μη καταφρονησητε ενος των μικρων τουτων λεγω γαρ υμιν οτι οι αγγελοι αυτων εν ουρανοις δια παντος βλεπουσιν το προσωπον του πατρος μου του εν ουρανοις [gnt]

One is "beautiful/good" if one is "raca" and does not do what the "council" wants when it conflicts with what Jesus wants.

Might you "despise" a "little child" who has been "separated"?
Might you "despise" those who are "separated" by "wandering"?
Should you "let go" or "forgive"?

More: Matthew 18:10-11 Ten Pin children cycle

Matthew 24:6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. [kjv]

μελλησετε δε ακουειν πολεμους και ακοας πολεμων ορατε μη θροεισθε δει γαρ παντα γενεσθαι αλλ ουπω εστιν το τελος [gnt]

One is "beautiful/good" if one is "raca" and does not do what the "council" wants when it conflicts with what Jesus wants.

More: Matthew 24:6-7 Wars and rumors of wars

1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. [kjv]

ορατε μη τις κακον αντι κακου τινι αποδω αλλα παντοτε το αγαθον διωκετε και εις αλληλους και εις παντας [gnt]

One is "beautiful/good" if one is "raca" and does not do what the "council" wants when it conflicts with what Jesus wants.
Does the writer of 1 Thessalonians use the play on word sense of "see" as used by Jesus (e.g., in the bread and leaven discourse)?

The Greek word translated as "for" is that of "in place of" and not "against".
The Greek word translated as "follow" is often translated as "persecute".

More: The prefix anti in place of against

More: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28

James 2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. [kjv]

ορατε τοινυν οτι εξ εργων δικαιουται ανθρωπος και ουκ εκ πιστεως μονον [gnt]

One is "beautiful/good" if one is "raca" and does not do what the "council" wants when it conflicts with what Jesus wants.
Does the writer of James use the play on word sense of "see" as used by Jesus (e.g., in the bread and leaven discourse)?

Is a man "justified" or "made right" (in the world's eyes) by "works"? How about by "oaths"? Does the author of James understand the word meanings as used by Jesus? The Greek word translated as "faith" is that of "persuasion" (of something) but the word in the GNT (Greek New Testament) has been elevated in status and the meaning narrowed in most places.

More: James 2 Selected logical issues

Matthew 16:5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [kjv]

και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν [gnt]

16:6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

ο δε ιησους ειπεν αυτοις ορατε και προσεχετε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

It is not until Jesus warns of "leaven" that the disciples think of "bread". The Greek word translated as "leaven" can be a play on words with "damage" which is, itself, related to the Greek word for "zeal".

Paraphrase: ... observe (in a panoramic sense) and beware of the leaven (damage) of the Pharisees ...

The ancient Greek word "κέρδος" ≈ "wiles, craftiness, desire for profit, advantage" and is an opposite of "ζημία" ≈ "loss, damage, penalty".

More: Seeking damages from zealous jealousy

More: Matthew 18:15-17 Conflicting and faulty resolutions

More: Profitable gain

Matthew 16:5

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KJV: And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.

Greek: και ελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου εις το περαν επελαθοντο αρτους λαβειν

Latin: et cum venissent discipuli eius trans fretum obliti sunt panes accipere

Spanish: Y viniendo los discípulos al otro lado, se habían olvidado de traer pan.

Matthew 16:6

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KJV: Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Greek: ο δε ιησους ειπεν αυτοις ορατε και προσεχετε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων

Latin: qui dixit illis intuemini et cavete a fermento Pharisaeorum et Sadducaeorum

Matthew 16:7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. [kjv]

οι δε διελογιζοντο εν εαυτοις λεγοντες οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβομεν [gnt]

16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? [kjv]

γνους δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις τι διαλογιζεσθε εν εαυτοις ολιγοπιστοι οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβετε εχετε [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "διαλογισμός" ≈ "balancing of accounts" and means, literally, "through reasoning". This is more than just random "thoughts". This is a "logical reasoning of thoughts", and perhaps not in a good sense. The modern Greek word "διαλογισμός" (thee-a-lo-y-SMOS) ≈ "meditation, rumination". Interestingly, this word comes from "διαλογή" ≈ "sorting out" as in "votes" or "emotional state".

Matthew 16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? [kjv]

γνους δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις τι διαλογιζεσθε εν εαυτοις ολιγοπιστοι οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβετε εχετε [gnt]

… panes non habetis [v]

The ancient Greek word "ἔχετε;" ≈ "(you) have". The TR (Textus Receptus) changes what Jesus says from "have" (no bread) to "taken, seized" (no bread). The KJV (King James Version) translates this as "brought," which is not exactly the same as "have".

The Latin word "habeo" ≈ "have, hold" used here agrees with the Greek.

Matthew 16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? [kjv]

γνους δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις τι διαλογιζεσθε εν εαυτοις ολιγοπιστοι οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβετε εχετε [gnt]

"ὀλίγος" ≈ "few, little, small" and "πιστός" ≈ "faithful, believing, obedient, loyal".
"ω" ≈ "oh" and "λῠ́κῳ" ≈ "wolf, kind of jackdaw" (dative).

The ancient Greek word (adjective) "ὀλιγόπιστος" ≈ "little faith" is a made-up word used by Jesus. Of what are the disciples not "convinced", "persuaded".

What type of faith did the woodworker have?

The woodworker was of whittle faith.

Matthew 16:7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. [kjv]

οι δε διελογιζοντο εν εαυτοις λεγοντες οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβομεν [gnt]

16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? [kjv]

γνους δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις τι διαλογιζεσθε εν εαυτοις ολιγοπιστοι οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβετε εχετε [gnt]

"faith"

"reasoning"

Of what good is "faith", "persuasion", "belief", etc., if one does not have appropriate "reasoning"?

John 3:16: ... who believe into him
Matthew 18:20 ... gathered into (against) Him ...

More: John 3:1-17 Born from the beginnings

More: Matthew 18:18-20 Middle agreement to have anything done

More: Disciples making questionable inferences

Matthew 16:7

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KJV: And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread.

Greek: οι δε διελογιζοντο εν εαυτοις λεγοντες οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβομεν

Latin: at illi cogitabant inter se dicentes quia panes non accepimus

Matthew 16:8

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KJV: Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread?

Greek: γνους δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις τι διαλογιζεσθε εν εαυτοις ολιγοπιστοι οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβετε εχετε

Latin: sciens autem Iesus dixit quid cogitatis inter vos modicae fidei quia panes non habetis

Matthew 16:7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. [kjv]

οι δε διελογιζοντο εν εαυτοις λεγοντες οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβομεν [gnt]

16:8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? [kjv]

γνους δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις τι διαλογιζεσθε εν εαυτοις ολιγοπιστοι οτι αρτους ουκ ελαβετε εχετε [gnt]

Can incorrect "reasoning" lead one down the wrong path? Can it be the "path" of "hell"? How about "Hades"?

"bread"

living

"bread"

This was a key part of Jesus said about the "blind" "leading" the "blind" in the middle of the previous chapter using the same word for the "reasoning" process.

More: Matthew 6:11 Our daily bread

More: Matthew 15:1-21 Blind leading the blind

"through reasoning"

"balancing of accounts"

"evil"

"oppression by toils"

"murders"

"adulteries"

"fornications"

"(deceptive) thefts"

"(deceptive) false witness"

"(deceptive) blasphemies"

Matthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]

εκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

Here as a chiasm using (related) meaning rather than words. With an even number of meanings, there is no middle meaning. This descent corresponds to the scattered path in the Ten Pin model.

More: TenWordPin model introduction

More: Matthew 15:1-21 Blind leading the blind

Matthew 14:20

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KJV: And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.

Greek: και εφαγον παντες και εχορτασθησαν και ηραν το περισσευον των κλασματων δωδεκα κοφινους πληρεις

Latin: et manducaverunt omnes et saturati sunt et tulerunt reliquias duodecim cofinos fragmentorum plenos

Matthew 15:37

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KJV: And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full.

Greek: και εφαγον παντες και εχορτασθησαν και ηραν το περισσευον των κλασματων ηραν επτα σπυριδας σφυριδας πληρεις

Latin: et comederunt omnes et saturati sunt et quod superfuit de fragmentis tulerunt septem sportas plenas

Matthew 14:20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. [kjv]

και εφαγον παντες και εχορτασθησαν και ηραν το περισσευον των κλασματων δωδεκα κοφινους πληρεις [gnt]

*G2894 *6 κόφινος (kof'-ee-nos) : of uncertain derivation; a (small) basket:--basket.

Words: κοφινοι κοφινους=4 κοφινων

The ancient Greek word "κόφινος" ≈ "basket". This word was used in Latin as "cophinus" ≈ "hamper, basket" which is the source of the English word "coffin".

*G2894 *6 κόφινος (kof'-ee-nos) : of uncertain derivation; a (small) basket:--basket.

Usage

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κοφινους *4

Matthew 14:20 ... of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.

Matthew 16:9 ... of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?

Mark 8:19 ... among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? ...

John 6:13 ... and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five ...

κοφινων

Mark 6:43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and ...

κοφινοι

Luke 9:17 ... that remained to them twelve baskets.

Matthew 15:37 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full. [kjv]

και εφαγον παντες και εχορτασθησαν και ηραν το περισσευον των κλασματων ηραν επτα σπυριδας σφυριδας πληρεις [gnt]

*G4711 *5 σπυρίς (spoo-rece') : from G4687 (as woven); a hamper or lunch-receptacle:--basket.

Words: σπυριδας=3 σπυριδι σπυριδων

The ancient Greek word "σπυρίς" ≈ "large basket" often used for provisions or to transport money.

The play on words would be with a bird call or a hammer sound.
The ancient Greek word "σφῦρα" ≈ "hammer, mallet". The modern Greek word "σφυρί" (sfee-REE) ≈ "hammer, mallet".

*G4711 *5 σπυρίς (spoo-rece') : from G4687 (as woven); a hamper or lunch-receptacle:--basket.

Usage

All

σπυριδας *3

Matthew 15:37 ... of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full.
Matthew 16:10 ... of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?
Mark 8:8 ... of the broken meat that was left seven baskets.

σπυριδων

Mark 8:20 ... among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? ...

σπυριδι

Acts 9:25 ... by the wall in a basket.

Matthew 14:20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. [kjv]

και εφαγον παντες και εχορτασθησαν και ηραν το περισσευον των κλασματων δωδεκα κοφινους πληρεις [gnt]

15:37 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full. [kjv]

και εφαγον παντες και εχορτασθησαν και ηραν το περισσευον των κλασματων ηραν επτα σπυριδας σφυριδας πληρεις [gnt]

A few years ago, a story went around and used by a number of pastors (I heard it more than once). The pastor would go to great effort to make a point that the "baskets" in the original Greek in the (one) parable were small lunch-sized boxes using a word related to the English word "coffin". They would go on to quote verses about not worrying about tomorrow and strongly hinting or saying that one should give the extra to the church (as tithe and offering).

Matthew 16:9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [kjv]

ουπω νοειτε ουδε μνημονευετε τους πεντε αρτους των πεντακισχιλιων και ποσους κοφινους ελαβετε [gnt]

16:10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [kjv]

ουδε τους επτα αρτους των τετρακισχιλιων και ποσας σπυριδας σφυριδας ελαβετε [gnt]

The pastors would completely ignore the other parable where the word for basket in Greek means a big basket as the basket into which Paul was placed to lower him from a window and wall to escape those plotting to get him.

One could argue that the word for "baskets" in Matthew appears in different chapters. The distinction between the baskets appears again in Matthew 15.

Matthew 16:9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [kjv]

ουπω νοειτε ουδε μνημονευετε τους πεντε αρτους των πεντακισχιλιων και ποσους κοφινους ελαβετε [gnt]

… intellegitis … recordamini quinque panum quinque milium … cofinos … [v]

For the 5,000, which had just happened in the previous chapter, it was a "κόφινος" ≈ "basket". This word was used in Latin as "cophinus" ≈ "hamper, basket" which is the source of the English word "coffin".

Might the "blind" "feeding" of "bread" to people be a type of "coffin"? Jesus talks of this in John 6.

What does Jesus say here that might be in indication of "oppressive" "reasoning" on the part of the disciples (previous verses)?

More: Big ideas connected with a little faith

More: John 6:53-61 Misinterpretation and the disappearing blood

Matthew 16:10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [kjv]

ουδε τους επτα αρτους των τετρακισχιλιων και ποσας σπυριδας σφυριδας ελαβετε [gnt]

Jesus reminds the disciples of what had happened before. For the 4,000, it was a "basket" of the size that was used to let Paul down from a wall in Acts 9:24-25. The ancient Greek word "σπυρίς" ≈ "large basket" often used for provisions or to transport money.

How many "baskets" of money might have been taken up?

The word used by Jesus can be a play on words with a Greek word that means the onomatopoeic shrill sound of a "hammer" hitting metal.

What does Jesus say here that might be in indication of "oppressive" "reasoning" on the part of the disciples (previous verses)?

More: Big ideas connected with a little faith

Matthew 16:9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [kjv]

ουπω νοειτε ουδε μνημονευετε τους πεντε αρτους των πεντακισχιλιων και ποσους κοφινους ελαβετε [gnt]

16:10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [kjv]

ουδε τους επτα αρτους των τετρακισχιλιων και ποσας σπυριδας σφυριδας ελαβετε [gnt]

After the service, I asked one pastor what theological point was to be made between the two in that the big baskets were for a crowd of four thousand and the small baskets were for a crowd of five thousand.

He had no answer and seemed irritated that I had even asked. The same pastors will often say that if you have a question, please ask, but, when asked, that appears to not be what they really meant.

Matthew 16:9

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KJV: Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?

Greek: ουπω νοειτε ουδε μνημονευετε τους πεντε αρτους των πεντακισχιλιων και ποσους κοφινους ελαβετε

Latin: nondum intellegitis neque recordamini quinque panum quinque milium hominum et quot cofinos sumpsistis

Matthew 16:10

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KJV: Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?

Greek: ουδε τους επτα αρτους των τετρακισχιλιων και ποσας σπυριδας σφυριδας ελαβετε

Acts 9:24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. [kjv]

εγνωσθη δε τω σαυλω η επιβουλη αυτων παρετηρουν τε παρετηρουντο δε και τας πυλας ημερας τε και νυκτος οπως αυτον ανελωσιν [gnt]

9:25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. [kjv]

λαβοντες δε αυτον οι μαθηται αυτου νυκτος καθηκαν δια του τειχους καθηκαν αυτον χαλασαντες εν σπυριδι σφυριδι [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "σπυρίς" ≈ "large basket" often used for provisions or to transport money. The Greek word translated as "basket" is that of a big "basket".

The Greek word translated as "kill" is more that of "liquidate" or "dissolve" him.

Acts 9:24

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KJV: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.

Greek: εγνωσθη δε τω σαυλω η επιβουλη αυτων παρετηρουν τε παρετηρουντο δε και τας πυλας ημερας τε και νυκτος οπως αυτον ανελωσιν

Acts 9:25

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KJV: Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.

Greek: λαβοντες δε αυτον οι μαθηται αυτου νυκτος καθηκαν δια του τειχους καθηκαν αυτον χαλασαντες εν σπυριδι σφυριδι

Matthew 16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

"ζύμη" ≈ "yeast, dough".
"ζημία" ≈ "loss, damage, penalty".

Leaven is used in bread to make it rise. In the Gospels, Jesus uses the term as a code word to refer to the religious leaders of the time being "puffed up" to be "great" in their own eyes. Does Jesus really mean to refer to false teaching? Unleavened bread was used in the Exodus from Egypt as there was not time to let the bread rise.

More: Profitable gain

Matthew 16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

… fermento panum … doctrina … [v]

The ancient Greek word "διδαχή" ≈ "teaching" and is the source of the English words such as the "Didache", "didactic", etc. The modern Greek word "διδαχή" (thee-tha-KHEE) ≈ "teaching".

The idea of "doctrine" comes from the Latin word "doctrina" ≈ "teaching, instruction" from "doctor" ≈ "teacher".

More: Didache: The doctrine of teaching

Matthew 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? [kjv]

πως ου νοειτε οτι ου περι αρτου αρτων ειπον υμιν προσεχειν προσεχετε δε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

Jesus tells the disciples to beware of the "leaven" of the religious establishment. The disciples, who do not have a good track record of making good inferences of what Jesus says, decide that "leaven" is a code word for "doctrine" or "teaching". Jesus does not use this word in Matthew.

More: Disciples making questionable inferences

*G1322 *30 διδαχή (did-akh-ay') : from G1321; instruction (the act or the matter):--doctrine, hath been taught.

Words: διδαχαις διδαχη=16 διδαχην=7 διδαχης=6

The ancient Greek word "διδαχή" ≈ "teaching" and is the source of the English words such as the "Didache", "didactic", etc. The modern Greek word "διδαχή" (thee-tha-KHEE) ≈ "teaching".

The idea of "doctrine" comes from the Latin word "doctrina" ≈ "teaching, instruction" from "doctor" ≈ "teacher".

More: Didache: The doctrine of teaching

*G1322 *30 διδαχή (did-akh-ay') : from G1321; instruction (the act or the matter):--doctrine, hath been taught.

Usage

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διδαχη *16

Matthew 7:28 ... were astonished at his doctrine:

Matthew 22:33 ... this, they were astonished at his doctrine.

Mark 1:22 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught ...

Mark 1:27 ... this? what new doctrine is this? for with ...

Mark 4:2 ... unto them in his doctrine,

Mark 11:18 ... was astonished at his doctrine.

Mark 12:38 ... unto them in his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, ...

Luke 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word ...

John 7:16 ... and said, My doctrine is not mine, ...

Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, ...

Acts 13:12 ... believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

Acts 17:19 ... what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?

1 Corinthians 14:6 ... prophesying, or by doctrine?

2 Timothy 4:2 ... all longsuffering and doctrine.

2 John 1:9 ... not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he ...

διδαχην *7

Romans 16:17 ... and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; ...

1 Corinthians 14:26 ... hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath ...

Titus 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able ...

2 John 1:10 ... bring not this doctrine, receive him not ...

Revelation 2:14 ... thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught ...

Revelation 2:15 ... thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

Revelation 2:24 ... have not this doctrine, and which have ...

διδαχης *6

Matthew 16:12 ... of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

John 7:17 ... will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of ...

John 18:19 ... and of his doctrine.

Acts 5:28 ... ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend ...

Romans 6:17 ... from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

Hebrews 6:2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and ...

διδαχαις

Hebrews 13:9 ... with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that ...

Matthew 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? [kjv]

πως ου νοειτε οτι ου περι αρτου αρτων ειπον υμιν προσεχειν προσεχετε δε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

Where does Jesus explicitly warn of the "teaching" of the religious establishment?
Where does Jesus explicitly warn of the "oppression" and desire to be "great" by the religious establishment? Do these two go together?

More: Matthew 18:1-5 Little children in the great middle

More: Matthew 18:6-7 Sea the neck millstone entrapment

Matthew 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. [kjv]

οστις ουν ταπεινωση ταπεινωσει εαυτον ως το παιδιον τουτο ουτος εστιν ο μειζων εν τη βασιλεια των ουρανων [gnt]

Good KOH (Kingdom of Heaven).
Not good KOH.

Greek: ... humble oneself ... is the greatest in ...
Play: ... fly (as a bird) oneself ... is the leaven (false doctrine, "Simon") in ...

Would the "church" represented as "Simon" "Peter", ever have anything to do with "leaven" or trying to "fly as a bird"? How about Cardinals? Are they ever unhinged?

"μείζων" ≈ "greater, larger" in a comparative sense.
"ζῡμῶν" ≈ "leaven" (genitive plural) from "ζύμη" ≈ "yeast, dough".
"σιμων" ≈ "Simon" as in Simon Peter (rock of the church).

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

More: Matthew 18:1-5 Little children in the great middle

Matthew 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? [kjv]

πως ου νοειτε οτι ου περι αρτου αρτων ειπον υμιν προσεχειν προσεχετε δε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

Suppose that Jesus uses the code word "leaven" for the desire to be "great" and the resulting "oppression", usually translated as "evil", by the religious establishment. How does this change the meaning of other verses where Jesus uses the word "leaven"?
This happens in only one other place but it is an important place, Kingdom Parable 4 on the woman and the leaven.

More: Parables and secret codes used and explained by Jesus

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

"ἄλευρον " ≈ "ground grain" and "ζύμη" ≈ "yeast, dough".

The third kingdom parable in Matthew 13 is very short - just one verse. Does "leaven" really represent false "teaching" as the disciples claim (elsewhere)?

What does it mean to be "hid"? Was "all" "leavened"? The ancient Greek word "οὗ" ≈ "of it" is not directly translated. The ancient Greek word "οὐ" ≈ "no, not". Perhaps "not" "all" were "leavened".

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

*G2220 *4 ζυμόω (dzoo-mo'-o) : from G2219; to cause to ferment:--leaven.

Words: εζυμωθη=2 ζυμοι=2

*G5392 *8 φιμόω (fee-mo'-o) : from phimos (a muzzle); to muzzle:--muzzle.

Words: εφιμωθη=1 εφιμωσεν κημωσεις πεφιμωσο φιμουν φιμωθητι=2 φιμωσεις

"ἐζυμώθη" ≈ "leavened".
"ἐφιμώθη" ≈ "muzzled, speechless".

The ancient Greek word "φιμόω" ≈ "muzzle, shut up, seal up". The idea of "put to silence" is a meaning from the GNT.

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

"ἐζυμώθη" ≈ "leavened".
"ἐφιμώθη" ≈ "muzzled, speechless".

It was "all" "leavened". Did this, in effect, have everyone "muzzled"?

More: Matthew 22:1-5 Parable of the wedding feast 1

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

Paraphrase: ... the kingdom of heaven is like leaven [false doctrine] which a woman took [enchanting drag-net] and encrypted into wheat [freedom] , measures [Satan] three until leavened [muzzled] all.

Don't be muzzled. Brush up on your Bible studies or you will have truth decay. I'm required to tell you this due to tooth in advertising laws.

More: Song: Crown Him with many crowns

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

Matthew 22:12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. [kjv]

και λεγει αυτω εταιρε πως εισηλθες ωδε μη εχων ενδυμα γαμου ο δε εφιμωθη [gnt]

"ἐζυμώθη" ≈ "leavened".
"ἐφιμώθη" ≈ "muzzled, speechless".

Was he "speechless"? Was he "muzzled"? Was he "leavened"? Can being "leavened" keep one from having a "wedding garment"?

The ancient Greek word "φιμόω" ≈ "muzzle, shut up, seal up, put to silence".

More: Matthew 13:33 KP4 Parable of the leaven

More: Matthew 22:11-14 Parable of the wedding feast 3

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

Many views of this verse force "leaven" to be a positive idea.

One traditional view: ... as leaven [false teaching] which a woman seized and encrypted (baked in sand) into wheat [freedom] measures three [Satan three] until leavened [promoted false teaching, muzzled] all.

Modified view: ... as leaven [(idea of) greatness] which a woman seized and encrypted (baked in sand) into wheat [freedom] measures three [Satan three] until leavened [promoted (desire of) greatness, muzzled] all.

Discuss the differences in the two views. Note that moving mountains (definitions), stated two other places by Jesus, can cover any false teachings/doctrine and better fit the historical interpretation of the Ten Pin model.

Ambiguous and questionable:

We is greater than me. Better together. Bitter together.
Every day I become more like God. What is the goal?
What is your legacy? What will people think of you?
Wave in the sanctuary: We are <church name>! Are we not great?
Music: When was praise changed into glory?
Chosen generation. Chosen elect. Wait tables.
You can be a leader. You can influence people. Let me give you the next steps.
A saint into a Saint. Other groups and organizations.

More: Imitator or impersonator of Christ

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]

αλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

node 2: deception, false teachings (to promote greatness), etc.
node 3: tree (mountains/definitions moved), oaths (to be potentially great), etc.
node 4: adultery, fornication using as motivation the desire to actualize greatness.

Each node corresponds to one of the Satanic (Unholy) Trinity. The Greek word for "great" appears (at least) 71 times in Revelation.

More: Revelation 16:1-21 A veiled look at the seven vile bowl judgments

Revelation 16:12 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared. [kjv]

και ο εκτος αγγελος εξεχεεν την φιαλην αυτου επι τον ποταμον τον μεγαν τον ευφρατην και εξηρανθη το υδωρ αυτου ινα ετοιμασθη η οδος των βασιλεων των απο ανατολων ανατολης ηλιου [gnt]

Where did the evil spirits hop as "frogs"? Did they go along the scattered path?

False prophet to node 2 (lying node).
Beast to node 3 (throne of the beast, tree/oath node)
Dragon to node 4 (fire, adultery node).

Might your "good" "fruit" "dry up" when you try to be "great" or "greater" as in the "great" "Euphrates" "river"?

More: Revelation 16:1-21 A veiled look at the seven vile bowl judgments

The great "city" of the "many" is of "three" "parts":

Good fruit and living water turned to (living) blood. Vial 3 and node 5 in the wide area.
Good fruit and dirty water turned to blood as of the dead. Vial 2 and node 6 in the wide area.
Good fruit (Euphrates river) water dried up. Vial 6 and node 2 and continued along the scattered path.

These three parts appear to include everyone.

More: Revelation 16:1-21 A veiled look at the seven vile bowl judgments

Revelation 16:19 And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath. [kjv]

και εγενετο η πολις η μεγαλη εις τρια μερη και αι πολεις των εθνων επεσον επεσαν και βαβυλων η μεγαλη εμνησθη ενωπιον του θεου δουναι αυτη το ποτηριον του οινου του θυμου της οργης αυτου [gnt]

What are the "three" "parts"?
What is the connection with "Babylon"?

More: Babylon in Revelation

More: Revelation 16:1-21 A veiled look at the seven vile bowl judgments

Matthew 16:11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? [kjv]

πως ου νοειτε οτι ου περι αρτου αρτων ειπον υμιν προσεχειν προσεχετε δε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

16:12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [kjv]

τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων [gnt]

Jesus then has to explain that he was not talking about "leaven" and "bread" but in a code.

The disciples now think that they understand. Matthew associates "leaven" with "doctrine" or "teaching". Jesus never does this. What might Jesus have meant by "leaven"?

Could it mean the desire and actualization to be "great"? Let us see how Mark and Luke express these ideas.

More: Didache: The doctrine of teaching

Matthew 16:11

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KJV: How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?

Greek: πως ου νοειτε οτι ου περι αρτου αρτων ειπον υμιν προσεχειν προσεχετε δε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων

Latin: quare non intellegitis quia non de pane dixi vobis cavete a fermento Pharisaeorum et Sadducaeorum

Matthew 16:12

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KJV: Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Greek: τοτε συνηκαν οτι ουκ ειπεν προσεχειν απο της ζυμης του αρτου αλλ των αρτων αλλα απο της διδαχης των φαρισαιων και σαδδουκαιων

Latin: tunc intellexerunt quia non dixerit cavendum a fermento panum sed a doctrina Pharisaeorum et Sadducaeorum

Wycliffe: Thanne thei vndurstooden, that he seide not to be war of sourdowy of looues, but of the techyng of Farisees and Saducees.

Mark 8:15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod. [kjv]

και διεστελλετο αυτοις λεγων ορατε βλεπετε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και της ζυμης ηρωδου [gnt]

… beistis … beistis … [got]

From Mark, it appears that both the religious establishment and Herod, the ruler of Judea, can have "leaven".

Apparently, Herod, and those working for him as a human organization, can have "leaven". Was was the "false" "teaching" of Herod?

Perhaps Leaven might be associated with influence - and not necessarily good influence.

Mark 8:15

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KJV: And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.

Greek: και διεστελλετο αυτοις λεγων ορατε βλεπετε απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων και της ζυμης ηρωδου

Gothic: jah anabauth im qithands: saihvith ei atsaihvith izwis this beistis fareisaie jah beistis herodis.

Luke 12:1 In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. [kjv]

εν οις επισυναχθεισων των μυριαδων του οχλου ωστε καταπατειν αλληλους ηρξατο λεγειν προς τους μαθητας αυτου πρωτον προσεχετε εαυτοις απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων ητις εστιν υποκρισις των φαρισαιων [gnt]

Luke associates "leaven" with "hypocrisy". However, the Greek word at that time had a different meaning.

Greek hypocrisy meant acting as in thinking one thing but saying something different. How would this be "false" "teaching"?

More: An actor as a hypocrite is not real

More: Matthew 23:13-23 Woe to the hypocrites

Luke 12:1

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KJV: In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

Greek: εν οις επισυναχθεισων των μυριαδων του οχλου ωστε καταπατειν αλληλους ηρξατο λεγειν προς τους μαθητας αυτου πρωτον προσεχετε εαυτοις απο της ζυμης των φαρισαιων ητις εστιν υποκρισις των φαρισαιων

Many times Jesus appears to rebuke the Pharisees as "hypocrites", in the modern sense, because the apply rules to others but not to themselves, reflexively. On closer inspection, and using the definition of "hypocrite" at the time, this is not quite what is happening.

The ancient Greek word "ὑποκριτής" ≈ "actor, pretender" and comes from "ὑποκρίνομαι" ≈ "answer, interpret, play a part as an actor" and comes from two Greek words.

"ῠ̔πο" ≈ "under" as in English words starting with "hypo".
"κρῑ́νω" ≈ "separate". In context, this can be "judge".

The meaning went from "separate" to "answer" to "answer" an actor on stage to "play a part" as in "acting" or "pretending".

The modern definition of "hypocrite" appears to come from a misinterpretation of what Jesus says in Matthew 7:3-5 (plank or splinter in the eye).

When Jesus says "You hypocrites", instead of the modern sense, it might be better read as "You actors" as in "You pretenders" or "Get real" or "Get in touch with reality" or "Get in touch with the truth". Substituting "actors" or "pretenders" might make for a better translation than "hypocrites".

More: An actor as a hypocrite is not real