Matthew 25:2
And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.
Original Language Analysis
ἐξ
of
G1537
ἐξ
of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
4 of 10
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
αὐτῶν
them
G846
αὐτῶν
them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 10
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
φρόνιμοι
wise
G5429
φρόνιμοι
wise
Strong's:
G5429
Word #:
6 of 10
thoughtful, i.e., sagacious or discreet (implying a cautious character; while g4680 denotes practical skill or acumen; and g4908 indicates rather inte
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Jeremiah 24:2One basket had very good figs, even like the figs that are first ripe: and the other basket had very naughty figs, which could not be eaten, they were so bad.Jude 1:5I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
Historical Context
Part of the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25), spoken Tuesday of Passion Week (AD 33), two days before Jesus's crucifixion. Jesus taught this on the Mount of Olives in response to disciples' questions about the Second Coming. The parable addresses readiness for Christ's return—a central concern of the early church.
Questions for Reflection
- What distinguishes your faith from mere religious participation—are you 'wise' or 'foolish' in Jesus's terms?
- How does the 50/50 split challenge assumptions that most churchgoers are genuine believers?
- Where in your life might you be relying on external Christian activity without the internal reality that sustains in crisis?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And five of them were wise, and five were foolish (πέντε ἦσαν φρόνιμοι καὶ πέντε μωραί, pente ēsan phronimoi kai pente mōrai). The Greek phronimos ('wise') denotes prudent foresight, practical wisdom, not mere intelligence. Mōros ('foolish') is the root of 'moron'—denoting moral and spiritual dullness, not intellectual deficiency (cf. Matthew 7:24-27 where the same terms distinguish the wise and foolish builders).
The equal division (five/five) is striking: not all professors of faith are genuine believers. External religious activity (carrying lamps, awaiting the bridegroom) cannot distinguish true from false. The difference becomes apparent only when crisis reveals preparation. This parable warns against presumptive assurance—outward participation in the visible church does not guarantee entrance to the wedding feast.