King James Version

What Does Matthew 12:42 Mean?

The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.

Context

40

For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

41

The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.

42

The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.

43

When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.

44

Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(42) **The queen of the south.**—Literally, *a queen of the south,* as before, *men of Nineveh,* the Greek having no article. Rhetorically, the absence of the article is in this case more emphatic than its presence.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 12:42 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 12:42

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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