Question 1

What does Matthew 13:9 mean?

Accepted Answer

Matthew 13:9 is a call from Jesus for people to truly pay attention and understand what he is saying: “Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.” Jesus is inviting anyone who is able and willing to listen to take his words seriously and think deeply about their meaning. In this moment, Jesus is speaking to a crowd after telling the parable of the sower. He uses this phrase to challenge his listeners to go beyond just hearing the story with their ears and to seek the deeper message behind it. The saying highlights that not everyone will grasp the full meaning unless they are open and attentive.

Question 2

The Greek behind Matthew 13:9

Accepted Answer

ὦτα (ōta, “ears”): This word refers to physical ears, but in this context, it often points to the ability or willingness to understand, not just the act of hearing sounds. ἀκούειν (akouein, “to hear”): The Greek here carries the sense of truly listening or taking in what is being said, not just hearing words but understanding and responding to them.

Question 3

Why Matthew 13:9 matters

Accepted Answer

Matthew 13:9 makes it clear that Jesus’s teachings are not just surface-level stories; they require careful attention and a readiness to understand something deeper. This verse sets up the reason why Jesus often speaks in parables, as explained in the following verses—some people will understand, while others will not, depending on their openness. The phrase shows that spiritual understanding is not automatic; it takes a willing heart and mind to truly “hear” what Jesus is teaching.

Matthew 13:9 (KJV)