Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ζητεῖτε

G2212

seek ye

to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

πρῶτον

G4412

first

firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

βασιλείαν

G932

the kingdom

properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

δικαιοσύνην

G1343

righteousness

equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification

#11

αὐτοῦ

G846

his

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

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#13

ταῦτα

G5023

these things

#14

πάντα

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#15

προστεθήσεται

G4369

shall be added

to place additionally, i.e., lay beside, annex, repeat

#16

ὑμῖν

G5213

unto you

to (with or by) you

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ 1 Kings 3:13 1 Kings 3:13
And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.
— I have given thee riches
² Psalms 37:25 Psalms 37:25
I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
— Not seen righteous forsaken

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights kingdom of God through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of kingdom of God within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from earthly theocracy through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the kingdom of God theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Matthew 6:33

Cross References

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources