Matthew 22:40

Authorized King James Version

On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐν
On
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#2
ταύταις
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#3
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
δυσὶν
two
"two"
#5
ἐντολαῖς
commandments
injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription
#6
ὅλος
all
"whole" or "all", i.e., complete (in extent, amount, time or degree), especially (neuter) as noun or adverb
#7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
νόμος
the law
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
#9
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
προφῆται
the prophets
a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
#12
κρέμανται
hang
to hang

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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