Matthew 5:40
And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θέλοντί
if any man will
G2309
θέλοντί
if any man will
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
3 of 15
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
12 of 15
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
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
13 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Luke 6:29And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also.1 Corinthians 6:7Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?
Historical Context
Roman soldiers could legally compel provincials to carry military equipment for one mile (the practice that forced Simon to carry Jesus's cross). This was resented oppression. Jesus's followers were to shock Romans by voluntarily doubling the requirement, witnessing to different kingdom values.
Questions for Reflection
- When has someone's excessive generosity beyond requirement surprised and impacted you?
- How can you turn imposed obligations or inconveniences into opportunities for gospel witness?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Roman law allowed soldiers to compel civilians to carry their pack for one mile. Jesus says go two—exceed the legal requirement. This transforms an imposed burden into voluntary service, converting forced labor into free grace, and disarming hostility through unexpected generosity.