King James Version

What Does John 6:13 Mean?

John 6:13 in the King James Version says “Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which rem...” — study this verse from John chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.”

John 6:13 · King James Version

Context

11

And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.

12

When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.

13

Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.

14

Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.

15

When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.

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Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
'Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.' Twelve baskets from five loaves—more remained than they started with. The 'kophinos' were Jewish wicker baskets for carrying kosher food. Each disciple carried proof of miraculous provision. The surplus demonstrates that Christ's supply exceeds demand. He gives more than enough.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The twelve baskets may symbolize provision for the twelve tribes of Israel. Later, feeding four thousand would yield seven baskets—symbolizing the nations. Jesus provides for both Jew and Gentile with surplus. The fragments weren't discarded but preserved as testimony.

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the significance of twelve baskets remaining?
  2. How does the surplus from the miracle illustrate God's generous provision?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
συνήγαγον1 of 17

“they gathered them together”

G4863

to lead together, i.e., collect or convene; specially, to entertain (hospitably)

οὖν2 of 17

“Therefore”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

καὶ3 of 17

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐγέμισαν4 of 17

“filled”

G1072

to fill entirely

δώδεκα5 of 17

“twelve”

G1427

two and ten, i.e., a dozen

κοφίνους6 of 17

“baskets”

G2894

a (small) basket

κλασμάτων7 of 17

“with the fragments”

G2801

a piece (bit)

ἐκ8 of 17

“of”

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τῶν9 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πέντε10 of 17

“the five”

G4002

"five"

ἄρτων11 of 17

“loaves”

G740

bread (as raised) or a loaf

τῶν12 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κριθίνων13 of 17

“barley”

G2916

consisting of barley

ἃ14 of 17

“which”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἐπερίσσευσεν15 of 17

“remained over and above”

G4052

to superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; also (transitively) to cause to superabound or excel

τοῖς16 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

βεβρωκόσιν17 of 17

“unto them that had eaten”

G977

to eat

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 6:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 6:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 11:24-251 Kings 7:15-162 Kings 4:2-72 Corinthians 9:8-92 Chronicles 25:9Philippians 4:19

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