Matthew 6:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 6:9
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Chapter Context
Matthew 6 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, prayer, love. 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 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 6:9
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Analysis
Jesus begins the Lord's Prayer with 'Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name' (Greek: Πάτερ ἡμῶν ὁ ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς, 'Our Father in the heavens'). The address 'Our Father' (not 'my') emphasizes corporate relationship - prayer is communal. 'Father' (Πάτερ/Abba) expresses intimacy yet 'in heaven' maintains transcendence; God is both near and exalted. 'Hallowed be thy name' (ἁγιασθήτω τὸ ὄνομά σου) is passive voice - may Your name be sanctified/treated as holy. This first petition prioritizes God's glory before any human requests. The 'name' represents God's full character and reputation.
Historical Context
Jewish prayer typically began with extended praise (Kaddish prayer shares structure with Lord's Prayer). Addressing God as 'Father' was relatively rare in Second Temple Judaism, though not unprecedented (Isaiah 63:16). Jesus' habitual use of 'Abba' shocked contemporaries with its intimacy. The petition for God's name to be hallowed echoes Ezekiel 36:23 where God acts to vindicate His profaned name among nations. Early Christians prayed this prayer three times daily.
Reflection
- How does addressing God as 'our Father' shape our understanding of prayer as corporate, not merely individual?
- What does it mean to hallow God's name in practical, daily living?
- How does beginning with God's glory reorder our prayer priorities?
Word Studies
- Heaven: οὐρανός (Ouranos) G3772 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 111:9, Isaiah 6:3, 57:15, 64:8, Ezekiel 36:23, Malachi 1:11