Matthew 9:36

Authorized King James Version

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἰδὼν

G1492

when he saw

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

τοὺς

G3588

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

ὄχλους

G3793

the multitudes

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

ἐσπλαγχνίσθη

G4697

he was moved with compassion

to have the bowels yearn, i.e., (figuratively) feel sympathy, to pity

περὶ

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

αὐτῶν

G846

them

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

ὅτι

G3754

because

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἦσαν

G2258

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

#10

ἐκλελυμένοι

G1590

they fainted

to relax (literally or figuratively)

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#12

ἐῤῥιμμένοι

G4496

were scattered abroad

to fling (properly, with a quick toss, thus differing from g0906, which denotes a deliberate hurl; and from ????? (see in g1614), which indicates an e

#13

ὡσεὶ

G5616

as if

#14

πρόβατα

G4263

sheep

something that walks forward (a quadruped), i.e., (specially), a sheep (literally or figuratively)

#15

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#16

ἔχοντα

G2192

having

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

#17

ποιμένα

G4166

shepherd

a shepherd (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Matthew chapter 9 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

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Matthew 9:36

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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People

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