Matthew 6:29
And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Original Language Analysis
λέγω
I say
G3004
λέγω
I say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 15
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὅτι
That
G3754
ὅτι
That
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
4 of 15
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δόξῃ
glory
G1391
δόξῃ
glory
Strong's:
G1391
Word #:
10 of 15
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
αὐτοῦ
G846
αὐτοῦ
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
11 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
περιεβάλετο
arrayed
G4016
περιεβάλετο
arrayed
Strong's:
G4016
Word #:
12 of 15
to throw all around, i.e., invest (with a palisade or with clothing)
Historical Context
Solomon's reign (970-931 BC) was Israel's golden age of wealth and international influence. His palace and temple were architectural marvels. 1 Kings 10 describes his opulence in extraordinary detail. Jewish audiences revered Solomon's wisdom and wealth. Jesus' comparison would shock - nothing could surpass Solomon's glory, yet common flowers do. This subverts values that equate worth with wealth and status. God's aesthetic surpasses human achievement; His provision for nature demonstrates reliable care for people.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's lavish beauty in nature reveal His generous character?
- What does this teach about true glory and value versus cultural definitions of success and status?
- If God clothes temporary flowers with such beauty, what does this say about His care for eternal souls?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus makes shocking comparison: 'And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these' (Greek: οὐδὲ Σολομὼν ἐν πάσῃ τῇ δόξῃ αὐτοῦ περιεβάλετο ὡς ἓν τούτων, 'not even Solomon in all his glory was clothed like one of these'). Solomon represented the pinnacle of human wealth and splendor (1 Kings 10:4-7). His robes were legendary. Yet simple wildflowers surpass Solomon's finest garments in beauty. This reveals God as ultimate artist whose creative glory transcends human achievement. The comparison emphasizes value - God lavishes beauty on temporary flowers; how much more will He care for eternal beings made in His image?