Lexical Summary prosphagion: Fish, food, something to eat Original Word: προσφάγιον Strong's Exhaustive Concordance fishNeuter of a presumed derivative of a compound of pros and phago; something eaten in addition to bread, i.e. A relish (specially, fish; compare opsarion) -- meat. see GREEK pros see GREEK phago see GREEK opsarion NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom pros and phagomai Definition a relish (eaten with bread), spec. fish NASB Translation fish (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4371: προσφάγιονπροσφάγιον, προσφαγιου, τό (προσφάγειν (cf. πρός, IV. 2)), equivalent to ὄψον (on which see ὀψάριον), anything eaten with bread (Moeris (edited by Piers., p. 274, 1): ὄψον ἀττικως, προσφάγιον ἑλληνικως): spoken of fish boiled or broiled, John 21:5 (Schol., Lexicons (Moschion 55, p. 26; Roehl, Inscriptions graec. 395 a. 12)). Cf. Fischer, De vitiis lexamples etc., p. 697f; Sturz, Dial. Maced. et Alex., p. 191. Topical Lexicon Overview of the Word While Strong’s Greek 4371 appears only once in the New Testament, its placement in John 21:5 opens a window onto Jesus’ post-resurrection care for His disciples and the broader biblical theme of divine provision. Context in John 21:5 After an unproductive night of fishing, seven disciples see a figure on the shore. “So Jesus called out to them, ‘Children, do you have any fish?’ ‘No,’ they answered” (John 21:5). The single question exposes their lack and sets the stage for a miracle that will both supply breakfast and reaffirm their calling. Historical-Cultural Background Galilean breakfasts were simple: a piece of flat bread accompanied by a relish such as roasted or dried fish caught the previous night. By speaking of the modest side dish that would complete the meal, Jesus meets His disciples in their ordinary world, showing that resurrection life addresses everyday human need. Theological Themes 1. Resurrection Presence—The risen Lord remains engaged with tangible needs (Luke 24:41-43). Ministry Insights • Pastoral Care: Meeting practical needs remains integral to gospel ministry (James 2:15-16). Practical Application for Believers • Present everyday concerns to the Lord; no need is trivial. Related Scriptures on Provision Exodus 16:4; 1 Kings 17:6; Psalm 23:1; Matthew 6:11; Philippians 4:19. Conclusion The solitary appearance of Strong’s Greek 4371 anchors a narrative that binds daily bread to resurrection glory. The Savior who asks about breakfast is the same Lord who invites His people into continual fellowship and anticipates the final banquet of the kingdom. Forms and Transliterations προσφαγιον προσφάγιον prosphagion prosphágionLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |