King James Version
Matthew 12:44 in the King James Version says “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 ...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“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.”
Matthew 12:44 · KJV
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.
While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“he saith”
G3004properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
“into”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
“house”
G3624a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“when he is come”
G2064to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
“it empty”
G4980to take a holiday, i.e., be at leisure for (by implication, devote oneself wholly to); figuratively, to be vacant (of a house)
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“garnished”
G2885to put in proper order, i.e., decorate (literally or figuratively); specially, to snuff (a wick)
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 12:44 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 12:44 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge