While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them,

MATTHEW 22:41KJV
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Matthew 22:41 (KJV)

What does Matthew 22:41 mean?

Matthew 22:41 describes a moment when Jesus, seeing the Pharisees gathered together, takes the initiative to ask them a question. This sets the stage for a significant exchange between Jesus and the religious leaders.

In this scene, Jesus is surrounded by the Pharisees, a group known for their strict observance of Jewish law and frequent questioning of Jesus. Up to this point, the Pharisees and other leaders have been challenging Jesus with difficult questions. Now, Jesus turns the tables and becomes the one asking, signaling a shift in the conversation and preparing for a deeper teaching moment.

The Greek behind Matthew 22:41

  • Φαρισαῖοι (Pharisaioi, G5330): This word refers to the Pharisees, a prominent Jewish religious group. Their presence highlights the religious and social tension in the scene.
  • ἐπηρώτησεν (epērōtēsen, G1905): This Greek verb means "asked" or "questioned." It often carries the sense of a formal or challenging inquiry, suggesting that Jesus is not just making small talk but is about to pose a meaningful question.

Why Matthew 22:41 matters

  • This verse marks a turning point where Jesus moves from being questioned to questioning, which shifts the dynamic and authority in the conversation.
  • Understanding that Jesus initiates the question helps clarify that what follows is intentional and significant, not just a casual remark.
  • The verse connects to the larger context of Matthew 22, where various groups have tried to trap Jesus with their questions, but now Jesus takes control of the discussion.

Where else these words appear

“asked” Greek G1905 · used in 58 verses

  • Matthew 12:10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.
  • Mark 10:2 And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him.
  • Luke 9:18 And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am?

“together” Greek G4863 · used in 62 verses

  • Matthew 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
  • Matthew 27:27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.
  • John 15:6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

“Pharisees” Greek G5330 · used in 95 verses

  • Matthew 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
  • Mark 2:24 And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?
  • Luke 16:14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.