Matthew 26:11 (KJV)

What does Matthew 26:11 mean?

Matthew 26:11 means that there will always be people in need ("the poor") present in the world, but Jesus himself would not be physically present with his disciples much longer. Jesus is highlighting the unique importance of his presence at that specific moment.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples after a woman anoints him with expensive ointment, and some criticize her for not selling it to help the poor. Jesus responds by pointing out that opportunities to help the poor will always exist, but his time with them is short. The verse draws attention to the special significance of Jesus' presence before his coming death.

The Greek behind Matthew 26:11

• πτωχούς (ptōchoús, "poor"): This word refers to those who are destitute or lacking basic necessities. Jesus' use of this word emphasizes the ongoing reality of poverty in the world.
• πάντοτε (pantote, "always"): This word means "at all times" or "continually." It stresses that caring for the poor is a continual responsibility, not a one-time event.
• ἐμὲ (eme, "me"): This is a specific, emphatic way of saying "me," highlighting Jesus himself as the focus. The contrast is between the ever-present needs of the poor and the unique, fleeting presence of Jesus with his disciples.

Why Matthew 26:11 matters

• Matthew 26:11 clarifies that Jesus was not dismissing the importance of caring for the poor, but was emphasizing the unique moment of his presence before his crucifixion.
• The verse helps explain why Jesus accepted the woman's act of devotion, showing that honoring him in that moment had a special significance.
• This statement connects to the wider passage by showing the disciples' misunderstanding of the situation and Jesus' awareness of his approaching death.