Matthew 15:23 (KJV)

What does Matthew 15:23 mean?

Matthew 15:23 shows Jesus not responding at first to a woman who is pleading with him, while his disciples urge him to send her away because she keeps calling out after them. The verse highlights both Jesus’ initial silence and the disciples’ impatience with the woman’s persistent cries for help.

In this scene, Jesus is traveling with his disciples when a Canaanite woman begs him to help her daughter. Jesus does not answer her right away, which is unusual compared to other stories where he responds quickly. The disciples, feeling bothered by her persistence, ask Jesus to dismiss her. This moment sets up the tension and the lesson that unfolds in the next verses.

The Greek behind Matthew 15:23

• The word "answered" (ἀπεκρίθη, apokrinomai) is used here in the negative—Jesus "answered her not a word"—emphasizing his complete silence, which is striking given his usual compassion.
• The verb "besought" (ἐρώτων, erōtaō) means the disciples were actively urging or pleading with Jesus, not just making a casual suggestion.
• "Send her away" (ἀπόλυσον, apolysōn) can mean to dismiss or release, but in this context, it often carries the sense of wanting to get rid of someone who is being troublesome.
• "She crieth after us" (κράζει, krazei) uses a word that means to cry out loudly or shout, showing the woman’s desperation and persistence.

Why Matthew 15:23 matters

• Matthew 15:23 helps clarify that Jesus’ silence was intentional and sets up a teaching moment, rather than being indifference or lack of care.
• The verse shows the disciples’ perspective, revealing their discomfort with interruptions and their limited understanding of Jesus’ mission at this point.
• This moment prepares the reader for the important exchange that follows, where Jesus addresses issues of faith, inclusion, and persistence.