Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.

MATTHEW 25:7KJV
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Matthew 25:7 (KJV)

What does Matthew 25:7 mean?

Matthew 25:7 describes how all the virgins in Jesus’ parable got up and prepared their lamps when they heard the call that the bridegroom was coming. The verse shows a moment of action and readiness as each person responds to the announcement.

In this part of the parable, Jesus is telling a story to His disciples about ten virgins waiting for a wedding procession. The virgins represent people waiting for an important event, and trimming the lamps means getting them ready to shine. This verse sets up the next part of the story, where their preparation (or lack of it) becomes important.

The Greek behind Matthew 25:7

  • The word "trimmed" (ἐκόσμησαν, ekosmēsan) means to put in order, arrange, or prepare. In this context, it refers to making the lamps ready to burn brightly, which involved cleaning the wick and adding oil. This detail shows that the virgins were actively getting ready, not just passively waiting.
  • The word "lamps" (λαμπάδας, lampadas) refers to small oil lamps used for light. The specific mention of lamps highlights the need for preparation and the practical steps required to be ready for the bridegroom’s arrival.

Why Matthew 25:7 matters

  • This verse highlights that all the virgins, wise and foolish alike, responded to the call and took steps to prepare, emphasizing that outward readiness was shared by everyone at this moment.
  • The act of trimming the lamps points to the importance of preparation and being alert, which is a key theme in the parable and in Jesus’ teaching about being ready for what is to come.
  • Understanding this verse in context helps clarify that the difference between the wise and foolish virgins is not in their initial response, but in their ongoing preparation and what they brought with them.

Where else these words appear

“lamps” Greek G2985 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.
  • Matthew 25:4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
  • Acts 20:8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.

“trimmed” Greek G2885 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 12:44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
  • Luke 21:5 And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said,
  • 1 Peter 3:5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:

“virgins” Greek G3933 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
  • Acts 21:9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:36 But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.

“arose” Greek G1453 · used in 135 verses

  • Matthew 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
  • Mark 13:8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.
  • Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;