ISB ~ Matthew 15 v26

the children’s bread:i.e., Israel and its inherited right to God’s blessings. As in 8:5-13, Jesus heals a faith-filled Gentile despite his intention to minister to Israel first (15:24; 10:6; cf. Rom 1:16).

the dogs:Literally, “little dogs” or “puppies”.See note on Mt 7:6.

• Morally (St. John Chrysostom, Hom. in Matt. 52): the Canaanite woman signifies repentant souls. Incapable of boasting, contrite sinners lean wholly on God’s mercy; they recognize their weakness before God and can only beg for blessings, unable to demand from God gifts that he freely bestows. Only the humble and faith-filled are rewarded with spiritual healing.