King James Version

What Does Matthew 6:22 Mean?

Matthew 6:22 in the King James Version says “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.

Matthew 6:22 · KJV


Context

20

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

21

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

22

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.

23

But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!

24

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The metaphor of the eye as the body's lamp teaches that spiritual perception (understanding) affects the whole person. A 'single' eye (Greek 'haplous'—simple, clear, focused) represents undivided devotion to God and results in a life full of light (truth, righteousness, joy). This continues the theme of wholehearted service to God versus divided loyalties. Clear spiritual vision comes from single-minded focus on God's kingdom and righteousness.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The eye was understood in ancient medicine as receiving and transmitting light to the body. Jesus uses this physiological understanding as metaphor for spiritual perception. A healthy eye receives light properly; healthy spiritual perception receives God's truth rightly and illuminates the whole life.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the health of your 'spiritual eye' (your understanding and priorities) affect your entire life direction?
  2. What does 'single' versus 'evil' eye suggest about the danger of divided loyalties between God and worldly concerns?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 20 words
1 of 20
G3588

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

λύχνος2 of 20

The light

G3088

a portable lamp or other illuminator (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ3 of 20
G3588

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

σῶμά4 of 20

body

G4983

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

ἐστιν5 of 20

is

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

6 of 20
G3588

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

ὀφθαλμός7 of 20

eye

G3788

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

ἐὰν8 of 20

if

G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

οὖν9 of 20

therefore

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

10 of 20
G3588

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

ὀφθαλμός11 of 20

eye

G3788

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

σου12 of 20

thine

G4675

of thee, thy

ἁπλοῦς13 of 20

single

G573

properly, folded together, i.e., single (figuratively, clear)

14 of 20

be

G5600

(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be

ὅλον15 of 20

whole

G3650

"whole" or "all", i.e., complete (in extent, amount, time or degree), especially (neuter) as noun or adverb

τὸ16 of 20
G3588

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

σῶμά17 of 20

body

G4983

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

σου18 of 20

thine

G4675

of thee, thy

φωτεινὸν19 of 20

full of light

G5460

lustrous, i.e., transparent or well-illuminated (figuratively)

ἔσται·20 of 20

shall be

G2071

will be


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 6:22 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 6:22 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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