King James Version
What Does Matthew 22:34 Mean?
“But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together .”
Context
32
I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
33
And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine.
34
But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together .
35
Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,
36
Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(34) **Had put the Sadducees to silence.**—The primary meaning of the Greek verb is to stop a man’s power of speaking with a gag, and even in its wider use it retains the sense of putting men to a coerced and unwilling silence. (Comp. 1Peter 2:15.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 22:34 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 22:34
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge