And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.

MATTHEW 8:6KJV
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Matthew 8:6 (KJV)

What does Matthew 8:6 mean?

Matthew 8:6 describes a man addressing Jesus as "Lord" and telling Him that his servant is lying at home paralyzed and suffering greatly. The verse shows the man's concern for his servant’s severe physical and emotional distress, hoping Jesus can help.

In this scene, a Roman centurion approaches Jesus, speaking directly to Him about his servant’s condition. The centurion’s words highlight both the seriousness of the illness—described as paralysis and intense torment—and his own humility in seeking help from Jesus. This sets up the following verses, where Jesus responds to the centurion’s faith and request.

The Greek behind Matthew 8:6

  • κύριος (kyrios): Translated as "Lord," this word can mean "master" or "sir," but here it shows the centurion’s respect for Jesus, recognizing His authority and power.
  • παις (pais): This word means "servant" or "child." In this context, it refers to the centurion’s servant, showing a personal concern that goes beyond mere duty.
  • παραλυτικός (paralytikos): Translated as "palsy," this Greek word describes someone who is paralyzed, unable to move, which in the ancient world was a desperate and often hopeless condition.
  • δεινῶς (deinōs): Rendered "grievously," this word means "terribly" or "severely," emphasizing the extreme suffering of the servant.
  • βασανίζομαι (basanizomai): Translated as "tormented," this word means to be tortured or in great pain, highlighting not just physical suffering but also emotional or mental anguish.

Why Matthew 8:6 matters

  • Matthew 8:6 shows the centurion’s deep compassion for his servant, which was unusual for someone of his status in Roman society, and sets an example of humility and care.
  • The verse emphasizes the severity of the servant’s condition, making Jesus’ later healing even more remarkable and demonstrating His authority over serious illness.
  • This moment introduces a theme in Matthew’s Gospel: faith from unexpected people (like a Roman centurion) and Jesus’ willingness to respond to anyone who comes to Him in need.