King James Version

What Does Matthew 9:1 Mean?

Matthew 9:1 in the King James Version says “And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.

Matthew 9:1 · KJV


Context

1

And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.

2

And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.

3

And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
After healing the demon-possessed men in Gadara (8:28-34), Jesus returns to 'his own city' (την ιδιαν πολιν/tēn idian polin), referring to Capernaum. Though born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Capernaum became Jesus' ministry headquarters (4:13). The crossing by ship indicates the Sea of Galilee journey from Gentile territory back to Jewish Galilee. This transition sets up the healing of the paralytic (9:2-8), demonstrating Jesus' authority to forgive sins. The phrase 'his own city' emphasizes Jesus' true home is not merely geographical but relational—wherever He establishes His teaching and healing ministry. Capernaum's rejection of Jesus despite witnessing His mighty works would later bring severe judgment (11:23-24).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Capernaum was a thriving fishing village on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, with a population of approximately 1,500. Archaeological evidence reveals a prosperous first-century town with a synagogue, residential areas, and commercial fishing operations. The town sat on the Via Maris trade route, making it strategically important. Jesus chose Capernaum rather than Jerusalem as His Galilean base, fulfilling Isaiah 9:1-2. Matthew, a tax collector, would have worked in Capernaum collecting customs. Peter, Andrew, James, and John also resided there. Despite extensive miracles performed there, Capernaum ultimately rejected Jesus, leading to its prophesied destruction.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Jesus' choice of Capernaum as His ministry base reveal about His mission strategy?
  2. How does Jesus' identification with a specific community challenge our understanding of incarnational ministry?
  3. Why would a town that witnessed so many miracles still reject Jesus ultimately?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
καὶ1 of 12

And

G2532

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

ἐμβὰς2 of 12

he entered

G1684

to walk on, i.e., embark (aboard a vessel), reach (a pool)

εἰς3 of 12

into

G1519

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

τὸ4 of 12
G3588

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

πλοῖον5 of 12

a ship

G4143

a sailer, i.e., vessel

διεπέρασεν6 of 12

and passed over

G1276

to cross entirely

καὶ7 of 12

And

G2532

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

ἦλθεν8 of 12

came

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

εἰς9 of 12

into

G1519

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

τὴν10 of 12
G3588

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

ἰδίαν11 of 12

his own

G2398

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

πόλιν12 of 12

city

G4172

a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)


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 9:1 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 9:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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