What does Matthew 13:12 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 13:12 speaks metaphorically about the idea of abundance and scarcity.

On a literal level, it seems to discuss the distribution of material possessions or knowledge -- those who have will receive more, and those who do not have will lose even the little they possess.

This can be understood as an observation of societal dynamics, where individuals who are resourceful tend to accumulate more, while those who are not lose what little they have.

On a deeper level, the verse relates to the spiritual understanding and reception of the teachings of Jesus.

In this context, "having" refers to a person's openness and understanding of spiritual truths.

Those who are receptive to these truths ("whosoever hath") will gain a deeper understanding and richer spiritual life.

In contrast, those who do not receive or comprehend these truths ("whosoever hath not") will become even more spiritually impoverished.

Historical Context

Matthew 13:12 is part of a larger discourse where Jesus speaks in parables to a crowd gathered around him.

During Jesus' time, parables were a common teaching method used to convey spiritual and moral lessons.

This particular verse follows the Parable of the Sower, a story illustrating how different individuals receive the word of God differently.

Historically, society in 1st-century Judea was highly stratified, with considerable gaps between the rich and poor. This societal backdrop might have influenced how the verse was understood by its original audience, resonating with their observations of wealth and poverty.

Theological Insights

Different theological interpretations have been given to this verse.

Some theologians see it as a statement of divine justice, presenting a principle of the Kingdom of Heaven where the rich spiritual life is a reward for those who are receptive to God's word.

Others view it as a warning against spiritual complacency and encourage continually seeking understanding and growth in faith.

Another theological viewpoint is that the verse illustrates the principle of spiritual momentum: those who cultivate their faith are more likely to grow in it, while those who neglect it may lose even what faith they have.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied to various aspects of life.

In personal development, it encourages individuals to continue to learn and grow, as initial efforts can lead to greater rewards.

In terms of charity and social justice, it can remind individuals or communities of the importance of support and investment into those who are less fortunate, as neglect can lead to a cycle of poverty and loss.

In spiritual life, it serves as encouragement for individuals to actively engage with their faith and spiritual teachings, as this engagement will lead to deeper understanding and spiritual enrichment.

Cross-References

• Mark 4:25: "For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath."
• Luke 8:18: "Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have."
• Luke 19:26: "For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words of this verse include:

• “ἔχων” (echōn), which translates to “he who has.” This verb indicates possession or ownership, but also can mean to hold or grasp intellectually.
• “περισσευθήσεται” (perisseuthēsetai), meaning “shall have more abundance” or "be given more." This is from the root “περισσεύω” (perisseuō), meaning to be over and above, to have an abundance.
• “ἀπ’ αὐτοῦ” (ap’ autou), typically rendered as "from him," indicating the one from whom something is taken.

These words are employed metaphorically to discuss spiritual wealth and understanding rather than merely material possessions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concepts in Matthew 13:12 can be compared to other cultural and religious wisdom traditions.

In Hinduism, the concept of "karma" suggests that actions bring about consequences that can increase or decrease one's spiritual wealth.

In Buddhism, the idea of "dharma" implies accumulating wisdom and understanding through right conduct and mindfulness, similar to "having" in the Christian context.

Ancient Greek philosophy often spoke of the accumulation of knowledge and virtue, drawing parallels with the more one invests in virtue, the more virtuous one becomes.

These comparisons show a common thread in many religious and philosophical traditions about the importance of cultivation and growth in spiritual or moral life.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, this verse may resonate with the psychological concept known as the Matthew effect, named after this verse.

In education and sociology, the Matthew effect describes how those who have a good start in learning tend to achieve more over time, while those who start with disadvantages often fall further behind.

This parallels with the idea of compound interest in economics where initial capital grows exponentially over time.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have offered various commentaries on this verse.

John Calvin saw it as a critique of how people receive the Gospel, noting that the careless and indifferent suffer greater loss.

William Barclay commented on the responsibility of those who have received the word of God to share it with others, otherwise, it will be taken away.

Contemporary scholars often focus on the paradoxical nature of Jesus's sayings, interpreting this verse as a call to deeper reflection on the spiritual responsibilities and opportunities presented to each individual.

These commentaries highlight the need for personal engagement with faith and understanding its communal implications.