King James Version

What Does Matthew 13:9 Mean?

Matthew 13:9 in the King James Version says “Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

Matthew 13:9 · KJV

Context

7

And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

8

But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

9

Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

10

And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?

11

He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. This phrase appears repeatedly in Jesus's teaching (Matthew 11:15, 13:43, Mark 4:9, 23, Revelation 2-3). The Greek ὁ ἔχων ὦτα ἀκούειν ἀκουέτω (ho echōn ōta akouein akouetō) is a call to spiritual discernment beyond mere physical hearing.

Everyone present had physical ears, yet Jesus distinguishes between hearing sounds and truly comprehending spiritual truth. This echoes Isaiah 6:9-10, which Jesus later quotes (Matthew 13:14-15): 'Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand.' Physical hearing doesn't guarantee spiritual perception; that requires divine illumination and receptive hearts.

The phrase serves as both invitation and warning. It invites those whom God has given spiritual ears to pay careful attention, to meditate deeply, to seek understanding. It warns that spiritual truth is not automatically grasped by all; there are those who hear the words but remain spiritually deaf, understanding nothing.

This relates to Jesus's use of parables. He spoke in parables partly to reveal truth to His disciples while concealing it from hard-hearted opponents (Matthew 13:10-17). Parables separate true seekers from casual listeners. Those with 'ears to hear'—regenerate hearts, Spirit-given faith—will understand; others will hear stories but miss their meaning.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Jesus taught multitudes by the Sea of Galilee, using parables drawn from agricultural life familiar to His audience. Yet these simple stories contained profound kingdom mysteries accessible only to faith.

This phrase's repetition in Revelation (2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22) shows its enduring importance. The risen Christ still calls churches to hear with spiritual understanding, not just physical ears. Throughout church history, this call has separated nominal professors from genuine believers.

Reflection Questions

  1. How can we cultivate 'ears to hear'—what spiritual disciplines and heart attitudes enable us to truly grasp God's word rather than merely hear it?
  2. Why does Jesus use this phrase particularly after parables—what does this teach about the nature of spiritual truth and who can understand it?
  3. In what ways might we be guilty of hearing God's word physically without truly hearing it spiritually, and how can we guard against such hardness of heart?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 5 words
ὁ1 of 5

“Who”

G3588

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

ἔχων2 of 5

“hath”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

ὦτα3 of 5

“ears”

G3775

the ear (physically or mentally)

ἀκουέτω4 of 5

“let him hear”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

ἀκουέτω5 of 5

“let him hear”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

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 13:9 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 13:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 11:15Revelation 2:11Revelation 2:7Revelation 2:17Revelation 2:29Revelation 3:22

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