Matthew 5:2
And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀνοίξας
he opened
G455
ἀνοίξας
he opened
Strong's:
G455
Word #:
2 of 8
to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
στόμα
mouth
G4750
στόμα
mouth
Strong's:
G4750
Word #:
4 of 8
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
αὐτοὺς
them
G846
αὐτοὺς
them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 8
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
Historical Context
First-century rabbis typically sat to deliver formal instruction. Standing might indicate informal or prophetic utterance, but sitting showed the teacher's authority. The phrase 'opened his mouth' is a Semitic idiom indicating solemn, weighty teaching.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Scripture emphasize that Jesus 'sat' and 'opened his mouth'?
- How should we approach Jesus's teaching with reverence and expectation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The posture of sitting indicates formal, authoritative teaching. In Jewish culture, rabbis sat while students stood or sat at their feet. Jesus opens His mouth to speak—emphasizing the deliberate, significant nature of what follows. This is not casual conversation but divine instruction.