King James Version

What Does Matthew 25:18 Mean?

Matthew 25:18 in the King James Version says “But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

Matthew 25:18 · KJV


Context

16

Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.

17

And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.

18

But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

19

After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.

20

And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money—The strong adversative de (δέ, but) signals a sharp contrast. While the others traded immediately, this servant ōryxen (ὤρυξεν, dug) and ekrypsen (ἔκρυψεν, hid) the argyrion (ἀργύριον, silver/money).

Burying valuables was common theft-prevention, considered legally prudent—but it was also utterly risk-averse. This servant chose absolute safety over faithful stewardship. His action reveals a heart problem: he feared loss more than he loved his master's interests. Zero risk meant zero growth, making him unprofitable (v.30). Fear masquerading as prudence is still disobedience.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish law (Mishnah, Baba Metzia 42a) held that burying money in the ground constituted reasonable care—if stolen, the guardian wasn't liable. However, this legal safety came at the cost of productivity. Professional bankers (trapezitai) offered interest-bearing deposits, making burial a choice of absolute security over profitable stewardship.

Reflection Questions

  1. What spiritual gifts or opportunities have you 'buried' out of fear of failure or risk?
  2. How does risk-aversion masquerade as wisdom in your Christian life?
  3. Are you more concerned with preserving what you have or multiplying it for your Master's glory?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
1 of 17
G3588

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

δὲ2 of 17

But

G1161

but, and, etc

τὸ3 of 17
G3588

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

ἓν4 of 17

one

G1520

one

λαβὼν5 of 17

he that had received

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

ἀπελθὼν6 of 17

went

G565

to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively

ὤρυξεν7 of 17

and digged

G3736

to "burrow" in the ground, i.e., dig

ἓν8 of 17

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῇ9 of 17
G3588

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

γῇ10 of 17

the earth

G1093

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

καὶ11 of 17

and

G2532

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

ἀπέκρυψεν12 of 17

hid

G613

to conceal away (i.e., fully); figuratively, to keep secret

τὸ13 of 17
G3588

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

ἀργύριον14 of 17

money

G694

silvery, i.e., (by implication) cash; specially, a silverling (i.e., drachma or shekel)

τοῦ15 of 17
G3588

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

κυρίου16 of 17

lord's

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

αὐτοῦ17 of 17
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


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 25:18 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 25:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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