Matthew 6:27
Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
Original Language Analysis
τίς
G5101
τίς
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
1 of 13
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
ἐξ
Which
G1537
ἐξ
Which
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
3 of 13
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
προσθεῖναι
add
G4369
προσθεῖναι
add
Strong's:
G4369
Word #:
7 of 13
to place additionally, i.e., lay beside, annex, repeat
ἐπὶ
unto
G1909
ἐπὶ
unto
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
8 of 13
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτοῦ
G846
αὐτοῦ
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
11 of 13
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
Cross References
Ecclesiastes 3:14I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.Matthew 5:36Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.1 Corinthians 12:18But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
Historical Context
Ancient people understood human limitation over life circumstances. Medical science was primitive; life expectancy short; disease, famine, and violence threatened constantly. Yet Jesus argues anxiety doesn't help - it's futile response to real threats. His teaching anticipates modern psychology's findings on anxiety's destructive ineffectiveness. The rhetorical question expects obvious negative answer - no one extends life or grows taller by worrying. This would resonate with anxious audiences facing real threats beyond their control.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing anxiety's futility motivate us to replace it with trust?
- What current worries are you holding that accomplish nothing but rob present peace?
- How can we channel energy spent on anxiety into prayer and productive action?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus highlights anxiety's futility: 'Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?' (Greek: τίς δὲ ἐξ ὑμῶν μεριμνῶν δύναται προσθεῖναι ἐπὶ τὴν ἡλικίαν αὐτοῦ πῆχυν ἕνα, 'who of you by being anxious is able to add to his lifespan one cubit?'). The word ἡλικία can mean 'stature' or 'lifespan'; both interpretations work. A 'cubit' (πῆχυν) is roughly 18 inches - adding this to height would be dramatic, adding to lifespan would be significant time. The point is anxiety's powerlessness - worrying accomplishes nothing. This is practical wisdom: anxiety doesn't solve problems, it multiplies misery without productive outcome.