Matthew 14:20 (KJV)

What does Matthew 14:20 mean?

Matthew 14:20 describes how everyone present ate and was completely satisfied, and afterward, the disciples collected twelve baskets full of leftover pieces. This verse shows that the food Jesus provided not only met everyone’s needs but also resulted in an abundance of leftovers.

In this scene, Jesus has just miraculously fed a large crowd with a small amount of food. The verse highlights the completeness of the miracle: not only did everyone have enough to eat, but there was more than enough, with twelve baskets of fragments gathered after the meal. The detail about the leftovers emphasizes the generosity and sufficiency of what Jesus provided.

The Greek behind Matthew 14:20

• "ἐχορτάσθησαν" (echortasthēsan, translated "were filled"): This word means to be fully satisfied, like after a good meal, not just having a small taste. It stresses that the crowd’s hunger was completely met.
• "κλάσματα" (klasmata, translated "fragments"): This refers to broken pieces or leftovers, not scraps or waste, but edible portions that remained after everyone had eaten. The use of this word shows careful gathering and valuing of what was left.
• "δώδεκα" (dōdeka, translated "twelve"): The specific number of baskets matches the number of Jesus’ disciples, which may hint at completeness or order, showing that nothing was lacking.

Why Matthew 14:20 matters

• Matthew 14:20 clears up any idea that the miracle was just barely enough; the abundance of leftovers shows the provision went beyond what was needed.
• The verse connects to the wider story by showing the disciples’ role in gathering the fragments, involving them directly in the miracle’s aftermath.
• The detail about twelve baskets full of leftovers helps underline the theme of God’s generous provision and care, which runs throughout this chapter.