ψιχίον, ψίξ (psichion, psix)
psichion, psix
crumb
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun psichion refers to a small morsel or crumb of food. It is a diminutive form, emphasizing the tiny size of the piece in question. In the New Testament, this word appears only three times, always within the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Its most notable usage occurs during the encounters with the Canaanite woman and the Syrophoenician woman. In these narratives, the women accept that they are outside the primary circle of Jesus’ ministry to Israel. They do not demand a full meal but ask only for what falls from the master’s table. The word highlights their humility and faith, as they seek even the smallest share of grace.
Translators typically render psichion as "crumb," which captures the literal meaning well. However, the term carries significant theological weight in context. It illustrates that divine mercy is abundant enough to extend beyond its immediate recipients. The smallness of the crumb contrasts with the vastness of the grace offered, showing that no request for help is too minor for divine attention.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word psichion describes a tiny crumb, the smallest possible share of food. In the Gospels, it appears when outsiders ask for just a fragment of grace. This humble request reveals that God’s mercy is not limited by our status or size. Even the smallest need is seen and met by Him.
When we feel unworthy or insignificant, this word reminds us that no prayer is too small. The crumb falling from the table represents abundant provision that spills over to those who trust in it. You do not need a grand offering to be heard; your honest desire for help is enough.
This gentle image invites you to bring your minor concerns to God. He cares about the details of your life, just as He cared for those who sought even a crumb. Rest in the knowledge that His grace is vast and available to all who ask in faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- crumbs3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ψιχίων3×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 15:27
But she said, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”
The Canaanite woman uses this word to show her humble acceptance of Jesus' initial focus on Israel, yet her faith prompts Him to heal her daughter.
-
Mark 7:28
But she answered him, “Yes, Lord. Yet even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”
Here the Syrophoenician woman repeats the crumb imagery, acknowledging her outsider status while trusting that even a fragment of Jesus' power is sufficient.
-
Luke 16:21
and desiring to be fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s table. Yes, even the dogs came and licked his sores.
In contrast to the faithful women above, Lazarus desires these crumbs in vain, highlighting how earthly poverty and spiritual neglect can leave one without hope.