Matthew 13:33
Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.
Original Language Analysis
παραβολὴν
parable
G3850
παραβολὴν
parable
Strong's:
G3850
Word #:
2 of 23
a similitude ("parable"), i.e., (symbolic) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm or adage
αὐτοῖς·
unto them
G846
αὐτοῖς·
unto them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 23
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βασιλεία
The kingdom
G932
βασιλεία
The kingdom
Strong's:
G932
Word #:
8 of 23
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οὐρανῶν
of heaven
G3772
οὐρανῶν
of heaven
Strong's:
G3772
Word #:
10 of 23
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
οὗ
was
G3739
οὗ
was
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
12 of 23
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
εἰς
in
G1519
εἰς
in
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
16 of 23
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
ἕως
till
G2193
ἕως
till
Strong's:
G2193
Word #:
20 of 23
a conjunction, preposition and adverb of continuance, until (of time and place)
Historical Context
Leaven usually symbolizes sin in Scripture (1 Corinthians 5:6-8), but here represents the kingdom's spreading influence. The woman mixing leaven into meal was common daily activity. The parable's point is the transformation process—small catalyst producing comprehensive change.
Questions for Reflection
- How have you experienced the kingdom's gradual but transforming work in your life?
- What areas of your life still need the kingdom's 'leavening' influence?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' parable 'The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened' presents the kingdom's permeating influence. Leaven (yeast) works invisibly, gradually, internally, and completely transforms the dough. This teaches the kingdom's transforming power in individuals and society—small beginnings produce total transformation. 'Three measures' is an enormous amount (about 50 pounds), suggesting worldwide impact.