For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

MATTHEW 19:12KJV
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Matthew 19:12 (KJV)

What does Matthew 19:12 mean?

Matthew 19:12 describes how some people are eunuchs by birth, some are made eunuchs by others, and some choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Jesus says that only those who can accept this teaching should do so.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to His disciples after a discussion about marriage and divorce. He explains that not everyone is called to marriage; some people, for different reasons, remain unmarried or celibate. Jesus recognizes that this way of life is not for everyone, but for those who are able to accept it, especially for spiritual reasons.

The Greek behind Matthew 19:12

  • εὐνοῦχοι (eunouchoi, "eunuchs"): This word refers to men who cannot have children, either because of birth, human intervention, or personal choice. In this context, it also points to those who choose celibacy for spiritual reasons, not just physical inability.
  • βασιλεία (basileia, "kingdom"): Used here to mean the kingdom of heaven, showing that some choose celibacy as a way to serve God more fully.
  • δέχασθαι (dechastai, "to receive"): The Greek word for "receive" here means to accept or make room for an idea, highlighting that Jesus is not commanding this for everyone but offering it as a calling for some.

Why Matthew 19:12 matters

  • Matthew 19:12 clarifies that Jesus does not require celibacy from everyone, but recognizes it as a special calling for some, especially for spiritual reasons.
  • The verse helps explain Jesus’ teaching on marriage by showing that singleness or celibacy can also be a faithful way to live, not a lesser or forced condition.
  • This teaching connects to the wider passage by showing Jesus’ respect for different life situations and His understanding that following God can look different for different people.