Matthew 25:5 (KJV)

What does Matthew 25:5 mean?

Matthew 25:5 describes how, while the bridegroom was delayed, all the young women waiting for him—both wise and foolish—became drowsy and fell asleep. The verse shows that everyone, regardless of their preparation, experienced the same period of waiting and tiredness.

In this part of Jesus’ parable, he is telling a story to his disciples about ten virgins waiting for a wedding procession. The focus is on the delay of the bridegroom and the shared experience of waiting, which sets the stage for what happens when he finally arrives. This detail highlights that the difference between the wise and foolish virgins is not in their falling asleep, but in how they prepared beforehand.

The Greek behind Matthew 25:5

• "Tarried" (χρονίζω, chronizō) means to take longer than expected or to delay. The Greek word emphasizes that the bridegroom’s arrival was not immediate, which tested the patience and readiness of those waiting.
• "Slumbered" (νυστάζω, nustazō) and "slept" (καθεύδω, katheudō) are two different Greek words. "Slumbered" suggests becoming drowsy or nodding off, while "slept" means actually falling asleep. The use of both words paints a fuller picture of their gradual loss of alertness.

Why Matthew 25:5 matters

• Matthew 25:5 clarifies that the delay affected everyone, not just the unprepared, which helps avoid the misunderstanding that only the foolish virgins were inattentive.
• The verse draws attention to the importance of preparation before the waiting period, not during it, since all became tired and slept.
• This detail connects to the larger message of the parable, setting up the contrast between those who were ready for the bridegroom’s arrival and those who were not, despite sharing the same circumstances.