Matthew 22:37 (KJV)

What does Matthew 22:37 mean?

Matthew 22:37 describes Jesus telling someone that the most important command is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This means giving God your full devotion, attention, and affection in every part of who you are.

In this scene, Jesus is answering a question from a religious expert who asked which commandment is the greatest. Jesus responds by quoting from the Hebrew Scriptures, highlighting that loving God completely is at the core of true faith. The verse breaks down love for God into three areas—heart, soul, and mind—showing that this love should involve every aspect of a person’s life.

The Greek behind Matthew 22:37

• The word for "love" is ἀγαπάω (agapaō), which often means a deep, committed, self-giving love, not just a feeling or emotion. This stresses that loving God is an active choice and commitment.
• The word for "heart" is καρδία (kardia), which in Greek thought refers not just to emotions, but also to the center of a person’s will and desires. This suggests loving God involves your deepest motivations.
• The word for "soul" is ψυχή (psychē), which can mean life, self, or the inner being. This points to loving God with your whole life and identity.
• The word for "mind" is διάνοια (dianoia), meaning understanding or thought. This highlights that loving God involves your intellect and how you think, not just your feelings.

Why Matthew 22:37 matters

• Matthew 22:37 clears up the idea that loving God is only about feelings or ritual; it involves every part of a person—emotion, will, identity, and intellect.
• The verse connects Jesus’ teaching directly to the heart of Jewish law, showing continuity with the Old Testament (specifically Deuteronomy 6:5).
• This answer sets the stage for Jesus’ teaching about loving others, showing that love for God is the foundation for all other commandments.