And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand:
MATTHEW 15:10KJVWhat does Matthew 15:10 mean?
Matthew 15:10 shows Jesus calling a crowd of people to listen carefully and truly grasp what he is about to say. Jesus is preparing them to pay close attention because his next teaching will challenge common beliefs and requires real understanding, not just hearing words.
In this moment, Jesus is speaking to a large group after a discussion with religious leaders about traditions and what makes someone “unclean.” By saying “Hear, and understand,” Jesus signals that what follows is important and may go against what people expect. He wants the crowd to move beyond surface-level listening and really think about the meaning behind his words.
The Greek behind Matthew 15:10
- Ἀκούετε (akouete, “Hear”): This word means more than just hearing sounds; it often carries the sense of truly listening and being open to what is said. Jesus is calling for active attention.
- Συνίετε (suniete, “understand”): This word means to put things together or comprehend deeply. Jesus is asking the crowd not just to listen, but to really grasp the deeper meaning of his teaching.
Why Matthew 15:10 matters
- This verse highlights that Jesus wants people to engage their minds and hearts, not just follow traditions or rules without understanding.
- The emphasis on both hearing and understanding prepares the reader for a teaching that will challenge established religious ideas about purity and defilement.
- By addressing the whole crowd, not just his disciples or the religious leaders, Jesus shows that his message is meant for everyone, not just the experts.