Matthew 5:43 (KJV)

What does Matthew 5:43 mean?

Matthew 5:43 describes how people in Jesus’ time had heard the teaching, “You shall love your neighbor, and hate your enemy.” This verse sets up a common attitude of the day, which Jesus is about to challenge in the following verses.

In this part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is speaking to a crowd of listeners, mostly Jewish people familiar with the Law of Moses and local traditions. He quotes a saying that sums up how many understood their moral duty: love those close to you, but feel justified in hating outsiders or opponents. Jesus uses this statement to introduce a deeper teaching about love and how his followers should treat others, even those considered enemies.

The Greek behind Matthew 5:43

• The word for “love” here is ἀγαπάω (agapaō), which often refers to a selfless, active care for others, not just feelings of affection. This highlights that the command is about action, not just emotion.
• The word for “neighbor” is πλησίον (plēsion), which in Greek usually means someone nearby or close to you, but in Jewish thought could mean a fellow Israelite. The meaning of “neighbor” becomes a key issue in Jesus’ teaching.
• The word for “hate” is μισέω (miseō), which means to have strong aversion or hostility. Its use here shows that the common saying included not just ignoring enemies, but actively feeling or showing hostility toward them.
• The word for “enemy” is ἐχθρός (echthros), meaning someone who is hostile or opposed to you. This could include personal rivals, national enemies, or anyone seen as an outsider.

Why Matthew 5:43 matters

• Matthew 5:43 helps clarify that Jesus is not just repeating old teachings, but is about to challenge and expand them, especially regarding how to treat others.
• This verse shows that the idea of “hating your enemy” was a common attitude, even though it is not a direct quote from the Hebrew Scriptures. Jesus addresses not just written law, but also popular interpretations and traditions.
• Understanding this verse sets the stage for the radical teaching that follows in Matthew 5:44, where Jesus calls his followers to love even their enemies, going far beyond the expectations of the time.