King James Version

What Does Matthew 16:10 Mean?

Matthew 16:10 in the King James Version says “Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? — study this verse from Matthew chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Matthew 16:10 · KJV


Context

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?

9

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

10

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

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?

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.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand—Jesus cites the more recent miracle (Matthew 15:32-39), only one chapter earlier. Seven loaves fed 4,000 Gentiles (in the Decapolis region), with seven baskets (spuridas—large hampers, different word than v. 9) remaining. The repetition of miracle-memory underscores that God's provision isn't one-time but patterned, reliable, reproducible.

Two feedings, different numbers, same principle: Jesus multiplies insufficient resources into abundant provision. The escalation (first 5,000, then 4,000; first Jews, then Gentiles) reveals the universal scope of His provision. The disciples' forgetfulness is therefore doubly inexcusable—they've seen this twice in recent weeks.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The 4,000 feeding occurred in the Decapolis (Gentile territory east of Galilee), three days into a teaching session (Matthew 15:29-39). The seven baskets (spuridas) were larger storage hampers. The different basket type and number (7 vs. 12) may symbolize Gentile inclusion (seven often represents completion/universality), contrasting with twelve (Israel's tribes).

Reflection Questions

  1. What pattern of God's provision in your life keeps repeating, yet you still doubt?
  2. How does remembering multiple instances of faithfulness strengthen trust for future challenges?
  3. Why might Jesus use different numbers and details in these miracles—what does this teach about how God works?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
οὐδὲ1 of 10

Neither

G3761

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

τοὺς2 of 10
G3588

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

ἑπτὰ3 of 10

the seven

G2033

seven

ἄρτους4 of 10

loaves

G740

bread (as raised) or a loaf

τῶν5 of 10
G3588

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

τετρακισχιλίων6 of 10

of the four thousand

G5070

four times a thousand

καὶ7 of 10

and

G2532

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

πόσας8 of 10

how many

G4214

interrogative pronoun (of amount) how much (large, long or (plural) many)

σπυρίδας9 of 10

baskets

G4711

a hamper or lunch-receptacle

ἐλάβετε10 of 10

ye took up

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))


Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Matthew 16:10 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 Matthew 16:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study