King James Version
Matthew 12:43 in the King James Version says “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.”
Matthew 12:43 · KJV
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.
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.
When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
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.
Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“When”
G3752whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
“spirit”
G4151a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
“out of”
G575"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
“places”
G5117a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc
“seeking”
G2212to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
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.
Matthew 12:43 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Matthew 12:43 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge