What does Matthew 6:22 mean?

Explanation

This verse, found in the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament, is part of Jesus's Sermon on the Mount and directly precedes a warning against the pursuit of earthly riches.

Literally, it suggests that the eye functions as a lamp for the body: if the eye is "single," a term often interpreted to mean healthy, generous, or focused on God, it will illuminate one's whole being with light.

Deeper meanings propose that the eye represents the spiritual perception or the focus of one's life.

If this perception or focus is clear, unified, and aligned with divine purposes, then one's life will be filled with spiritual enlightenment or righteousness.

Conversely, if the eye is "evil" (as stated in the following verse, Matthew 6:23), the body will be full of darkness, indicating a life devoid of spiritual truth and potentially full of sin or materialism.

Historical Context

The verse is set within the context of the Sermon on the Mount, an early Christian teaching that took place in Galilee.

Matthew's Gospel was written to a primarily Jewish audience who would be familiar with the importance of light symbolism in their scriptures, with frequent references to light in association with God's presence and guidance.

The use of the term "single" may derive from the ancient belief in the "evil eye," a concept present in many cultures, where it was believed that envy or moral failure could be conveyed through one's gaze. Jesus reverses this concept by suggesting a "single" eye radiates out goodness and light.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted in various ways.

Some traditions, such as those influenced by Platonic and Neoplatonic thought, might see the "single eye" as the inner vision that perceives spiritual truths.

Others would take it as a call for single-minded devotion to God, where the eye symbolizes the focus of one's life, be it on God or on earthly concerns.

The reference to light and darkness also holds great theological significance, with light often representing knowledge, purity, and the divine, while darkness represents ignorance, evil, and the absence of God.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can be seen as an encouragement to cultivate a life focused on spiritual values rather than material wealth.

It suggests that purity of vision and intention leads to a life filled with spiritual awareness and moral clarity.

People might apply this teaching by practicing mindfulness in their daily actions, continually re-evaluating their priorities and ensuring that their "vision" remains focused on constructive and ethical pursuits rather than on selfish or materialistic objectives.

Cross-References

• Matthew 6:23: "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!"

• Luke 11:34: "The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness."
• Psalm 119:105: "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
• Ephesians 1:18: "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,"

Language Study

The Greek word translated as "single" is "ἁπλοῦς" (haplous), which implies simplicity, singleness of purpose, or generosity. It contrasts with "πονηρός" (poneros), used in verse 23, often interpreted as "evil" or "bad," but literally meaning "full of labors," "annoying," or "unsound."

By understanding these key terms, we gain a deeper insight into the text's intentions, emphasizing a life lived with clear, pure intentions in contrast to one complicated by moral ambiguity or ill intentions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader ancient world, a concept sometimes akin to the "evil eye" could be found in cultures as diverse as those of Greece, Rome, and the Middle East. The idea that the eye could project harm or reflect a person's inner morality was common.

In contrast, other religions and philosophies also broadly recognize the concept of an inner light or vision.

For example, in Hinduism, the idea of the "third eye" symbolises enlightenment and spiritual insight.

Though not directly related, both concepts speak to an understanding of vision beyond the physical sense, denoting moral and spiritual awareness.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, there is an understanding that the eyes are the windows through which we gain most of our information about the world.

From this viewpoint, having a "single" eye could metaphorically represent a focused and undistorted perception, which is crucial for navigating the environment successfully.

However, in terms of neurology or psychology, the verse does not directly correspond to scientific concepts but instead uses the idea of vision metaphorically to discuss spiritual and moral states.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars have different views on this passage.

Some suggest that the "single" eye represents an eye undistracted by greed. Others note that in the immediate context of Jesus's discourse on treasures in heaven versus earthly treasures, the single eye could synonymously mean a focus on divine reward over material gain.

Commentaries additionally consider the verse's placement in the Sermon on the Mount, underscoring its role in calling Christians to a higher standard of spiritual and moral living, advocating for a clear vision aligned with godly values.