The term "Seven Basketfuls" refers to the miraculous event recorded in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ fed a multitude with a small amount of food, and afterward, seven baskets of leftovers were collected. This event is distinct from the feeding of the five thousand, where twelve baskets were gathered. The account of the seven basketfuls is found in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark.

Biblical Account

In the Gospel of Matthew 15:32-39 , Jesus, moved with compassion for the crowd that had been with Him for three days and had nothing to eat, performed a miracle. He took seven loaves of bread and a few small fish, gave thanks, broke them, and distributed them to the people. The crowd, numbering four thousand men, besides women and children, ate and were satisfied. Afterward, the disciples collected seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.

Similarly, the Gospel of Mark 8:1-10 recounts this miracle, emphasizing the compassion of Jesus for the people who had nothing to eat. The narrative follows the same pattern, with Jesus instructing the crowd to sit down, blessing the loaves and fish, and distributing them. The disciples gathered seven baskets of leftovers after everyone had eaten.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's divine order and purpose. In the context of the seven basketfuls, it may signify the sufficiency and abundance of God's provision. The miracle demonstrates Jesus' authority over creation and His ability to meet the needs of His followers, both physically and spiritually.

The use of the term "basketfuls" in the original Greek text is noteworthy. The word used in the account of the feeding of the four thousand is "spyris," which refers to a large basket, possibly indicating the substantial amount of food that remained. This contrasts with the smaller "kophinos" baskets mentioned in the feeding of the five thousand.

Theological Significance

The miracle of the seven basketfuls underscores the compassion of Jesus and His concern for the well-being of the people. It serves as a testament to His divine nature and His role as the provider. The event also prefigures the spiritual nourishment that Jesus offers, pointing to the Eucharist and the sustenance found in a relationship with Him.

Furthermore, the gathering of the leftovers highlights the importance of stewardship and the value of God's blessings. It teaches believers to recognize and appreciate the abundance that God provides, encouraging a mindset of gratitude and responsibility.

Contextual Considerations

The feeding of the four thousand took place in the region of the Decapolis, a predominantly Gentile area. This context suggests the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry, extending beyond the Jewish people to the Gentiles. The miracle, therefore, foreshadows the universal nature of the Gospel and the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

In summary, the account of the seven basketfuls is a profound demonstration of Jesus' miraculous power, His compassion for humanity, and the abundant provision of God. It invites believers to trust in God's sufficiency and to embrace the inclusive message of the Gospel.