Matthew 6:19

Authorized King James Version

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Μὴ
G3361
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#2
θησαυρίζετε
G2343
Lay
to amass or reserve (literally or figuratively)
#3
ὑμῖν
G5213
for yourselves
to (with or by) you
#4
θησαυροὺς
G2344
treasures
a deposit, i.e., wealth (literally or figuratively)
#5
ἐπὶ
G1909
upon
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#6
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
γῆς
G1093
earth
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
#8
ὅπου
G3699
where
what(-ever) where, i.e., at whichever spot
#9
σὴς
G4597
moth
a moth
#10
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
βρῶσις
G1035
rust
(abstractly) eating (literally or figuratively); by extension (concretely) food (literally or figuratively)
#12
ἀφανίζει
G853
doth corrupt
to render unapparent, i.e., (actively) consume (becloud), or (passively) disappear (be destroyed)
#13
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
ὅπου
G3699
where
what(-ever) where, i.e., at whichever spot
#15
κλέπται
G2812
thieves
a stealer (literally or figuratively)
#16
διορύσσουσιν
G1358
break through
to penetrate burglariously
#17
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#18
κλέπτουσιν·
G2813
steal
to filch

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to gospel presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic hope, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The first-century Palestinian Jewish culture under Roman occupation would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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