King James Version

What Does Matthew 22:13 Mean?

Matthew 22:13 in the King James Version says “Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there s... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 22:13 · KJV


Context

11

And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:

12

And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.

13

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

14

For many are called, but few are chosen.

15

Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Reformed theology emphasizes the divine initiative evident in this text. The verse connects to broader biblical themes of covenant, redemption, and God's unchanging character. Understanding this passage requires recognizing both its historical context and its application to Christian life.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this text reveal about human nature and God's grace?
  2. How can you apply this teaching to current struggles or questions?
  3. What changes in thinking or behavior does this passage require?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 29 words
τότε1 of 29

Then

G5119

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

εἶπεν2 of 29

said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

3 of 29
G3588

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

βασιλεὺς4 of 29

the king

G935

a sovereign (abstractly, relatively, or figuratively)

τοῖς5 of 29
G3588

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

διακόνοις6 of 29

to the servants

G1249

an attendant, i.e., (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon)

Δήσαντες7 of 29

Bind

G1210

to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

αὐτὸν8 of 29

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

πόδας9 of 29

foot

G4228

a "foot" (figuratively or literally)

καὶ10 of 29

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

χεῖρας11 of 29

hand

G5495

the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)

ἄρατε12 of 29

and take

G142

to lift up; by implication, to take up or away; figuratively, to raise (the voice), keep in suspense (the mind), specially, to sail away (i.e., weigh

αὐτὸν13 of 29

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ14 of 29

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐκβάλετε15 of 29

cast

G1544

to eject (literally or figuratively)

εἰς16 of 29

him into

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὸ17 of 29
G3588

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

σκότος18 of 29

darkness

G4655

shadiness, i.e., obscurity (literally or figuratively)

τὸ19 of 29
G3588

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

ἐξώτερον·20 of 29

outer

G1857

exterior

ἐκεῖ21 of 29

there

G1563

there; by extension, thither

ἔσται22 of 29

shall be

G2071

will be

23 of 29
G3588

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

κλαυθμὸς24 of 29

weeping

G2805

lamentation

καὶ25 of 29

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

26 of 29
G3588

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

βρυγμὸς27 of 29

gnashing

G1030

a grating (of the teeth)

τῶν28 of 29
G3588

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

ὀδόντων29 of 29

of teeth

G3599

a "tooth"


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 22:13 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 22:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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