Matthew 5:43
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:43
43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, discipleship, covenant. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents Jesus' ethical teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 5:43
43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
Analysis
The command to love neighbors was clear (Leviticus 19:18), but 'hate thine enemy' was an addition never commanded by God. Jewish tradition sometimes justified hostility toward Gentiles and enemies. Jesus exposes this distortion and will command the radical alternative: enemy-love.
Historical Context
While the OT commanded love for neighbors, it also commanded destruction of Canaanites and sometimes harsh treatment of enemies. Some Jews extrapolated that hating enemies was permissible or even righteous. The Qumran community explicitly taught hating 'sons of darkness.'
Reflection
- How do you justify hatred or hostility toward certain groups or individuals?
- What cultural or political enemies are you most tempted to hate rather than love?
Word Studies
- Love: ἀγάπη (Agape) G25 - Divine love
Cross-References
- Love: Matthew 19:19, Leviticus 19:18, James 2:8
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 23:6, Psalms 41:10