King James Version

What Does Matthew 6:28 Mean?

Matthew 6:28 in the King James Version says “And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spi...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:”

Matthew 6:28 · KJV

Context

26

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

27

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?

28

And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

29

And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

30

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus continues with botanical illustration: 'And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin' (Greek: καταμάθετε τὰ κρίνα τοῦ ἀγροῦ, 'learn thoroughly from the lilies of the field'). 'Consider' (καταμάθετε) means 'observe carefully, learn from.' Lilies (exact species debated - possibly anemones, poppies, or general wildflowers) don't labor (textile production) yet flourish. The contrast is between human anxious striving and nature's receptive trust in God's provision. This echoes Genesis creation where vegetation grows naturally under God's ordering. The point isn't anti-work but anti-anxiety.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Galilee was famous for wildflowers, particularly in spring when hillsides blazed with color. Women spent significant time spinning thread and weaving cloth - textile production was major household industry. Jesus' audience would immediately understand the labor involved in clothing production. The lilies' effortless beauty versus human toil highlights grace versus works, trust versus anxiety. Solomon's temple splendor (referenced in next verse) provides comparison point his audience would know from Scripture and tradition.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does nature's beauty and provision teach us about God's character and care?
  2. How does God's clothing of flowers challenge our anxiety about basic provisions?
  3. In what ways do we exhaust ourselves through anxious striving rather than trusting God's provision?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 16 words
καὶ1 of 16

“And”

G2532

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

περὶ2 of 16

“for”

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

ἐνδύματος3 of 16

“raiment”

G1742

apparel (especially the outer robe)

τί4 of 16

“why”

G5101

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

μεριμνᾶτε;5 of 16

“take ye thought”

G3309

to be anxious about

καταμάθετε6 of 16

“Consider”

G2648

to learn thoroughly, i.e., (by implication) to note carefully

τὰ7 of 16
G3588

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

κρίνα8 of 16

“the lilies”

G2918

a lily

τοῦ9 of 16
G3588

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

ἀγροῦ10 of 16

“of the field”

G68

a field (as a drive for cattle); genitive case, the country; specially, a farm, i.e., hamlet

πῶς11 of 16

“how”

G4459

an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!

αὐξάνει·12 of 16

“they grow”

G837

to grow ("wax"), i.e., enlarge (literal or figurative, active or passive)

οὐ13 of 16

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

κοπιᾷ,14 of 16

“they toil”

G2872

to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard

οὐδὲ15 of 16

“neither”

G3761

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

νήθει·16 of 16

“do they spin”

G3514

to spin yarn

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 6:28 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 6:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 6:25Philippians 4:6Luke 12:27Luke 22:35-36Matthew 6:31Luke 3:11

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