King James Version

What Does Matthew 13:18 Mean?

Matthew 13:18 in the King James Version says “Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.”

Matthew 13:18 · KJV

Context

16

But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.

17

For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

18

Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.

19

When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

20

But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower (ὑμεῖς οὖν ἀκούσατε τὴν παραβολὴν τοῦ σπείραντος)—akouō means more than auditory hearing; it implies 'hear with understanding, obey.' The emphatic humeis ('you yourselves') contrasts the disciples with the crowds who hear but don't comprehend (vv. 10-17). This introduces Jesus's interpretation of the parable He told in verses 3-9.

The parabola (παραβολή) is a 'comparative illustration,' here drawn from Palestinian agriculture. Jesus explains His own parable, establishing that divine revelation requires divine interpretation—we cannot understand kingdom truth apart from the Spirit's illumination. The sower parable is foundational; Mark 4:13 suggests if disciples don't grasp this parable, they won't understand any parable.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Galilean agriculture provides the context. Sowing preceded plowing in Palestinian farming—seed was broadcast first, then plowed under. This explains why seed fell on paths, rocky ground, and thorns. Farmers expected varied results based on soil quality, making this an accessible illustration for Jesus's agrarian audience.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus's command to 'hear' the parable challenge passive Bible reading versus active, obedient listening?
  2. Why does Jesus interpret His own parable—what does this teach about the need for divine revelation in understanding Scripture?
  3. What makes the sower parable 'foundational' for understanding all of Jesus's kingdom teaching?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
Ὑμεῖς1 of 7

“ye”

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

οὖν2 of 7

“therefore”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ἀκούσατε3 of 7

“Hear”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

τὴν4 of 7
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

παραβολὴν5 of 7

“the parable”

G3850

a similitude ("parable"), i.e., (symbolic) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm or adage

τοῦ6 of 7
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

σπείροντος7 of 7

“of the sower”

G4687

to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)

Study Guide

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 13:18 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 13:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 8:11-15Matthew 13:11-12Mark 4:13-20

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