[Greek] συμποσία (symposia), [Latin] contubernium: common meal, banquet, drinking party; Mk. 6:39
Background Information:
Greek/Roman culture: The Greek symposium was a Hellenistic social institution. It was a forum for men of respected families to debate, plot, boast, or simply to revel with others. These gatherings were held to celebrate young men into aristocratic society and victories in athletic and poetic contests. Participants, facing each other toward the inside of the room, would recline in pillowed couches against the three walls of the room. Servants would enter in the middle to serve the participants. Herodotus’ The Histories 2.78 states “This he says to each of the company saying, ‘While you drink and enjoy. This is the custom of the symposia.'” Xenophon’s Cyropaedia 8.8.10 states “They drink so much that, instead of carrying anything in, they are themselves carried out.”
Last Supper: The Hebrews would also adopt the Greco-Roman style banquet room. The banqueters gathered around a U shaped table and recline on couches on the outside of this table. Jesus, in His position as Host, occupied the second seat on the left. Judas was the “honored guest”, was seated to the left of Jesus. John, as the “best man” was seated to the right of Jesus. John was reclining at Jesus’ side. Peter, directly facing John, was seated at the end of the right table. Peter had to motion to John to lean back and ask Jesus a question. Peter was considered the most honored guest. Interestingly, some scholars state that Peter occupied the servant seat.
New Testament: This term means small groups. Jesus gave orders for the people down in groups on the green grass. Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish to feed the 5000 people.
Scripture:
“So He gave orders to have them sit down in groups on the grass.” Mk. 6:39
During the feeding of the five thousand, Jesus instructed the people to sit in small eating groups.
Conclusion:
Symposium, tavern
From this comes the word symposium. Many times today employees from a corporation or company come together to have a conference or discussion of a subject. A dinner or meal often is involved. And some drinking is usually involved.