Matthew 13:45
What does Matthew 13:45 mean?
A plain-English look at Matthew 13:45 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Matthew 13:45 means
Jesus likens the kingdom to a merchant seeking goodly pearls. This sets up another image of pursuit and valuation: the merchant has knowledge and desire, searching for something of supreme worth. The merchant’s intent models deliberate, informed seeking—spiritual discernment and pursuit of what truly matters. The verse prepares for the discovery of a single, invaluable pearl that justifies surrender, stressing intentionality and wisdom in recognizing and obtaining the kingdom.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is a merchant seeking goodly pearls:
KJV
King James Version · 1611Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is a merchant seeking goodly pearls:
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a trader searching for beautiful jewels.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Again, the reign of the heavens is like to a man, a merchant, seeking goodly pearls,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant seeking good pearls.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls;
Context
This verse introduces the pearl parable immediately after the hidden treasure, forming a paired image of discovery. While the treasure man stumbles upon value, the merchant seeks it; both responses culminate in selling all to gain the kingdom—showing both providential and seeking routes to commitment.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 8:18
Riches and honor are with me; Yea, durable wealth and righteousness.
- Job 28:18
No mention shall be made of coral or of crystal: Yea, the price of wisdom is above rubies.
- Ecclesiastes 12:13
This isthe end of the matter; all hath been heard: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.
- Psalms 4:6
Many there are that say, Who will show us any good? Jehovah, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
- Ecclesiastes 12:8
Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher; all is vanity.
- Ecclesiastes 2:2
I said of laughter, It is mad; and of mirth, What doeth it?
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