Devine Scripture

Matthew 6:8

What does Matthew 6:8 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 6:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 6:8 means

This verse provides the theological basis for avoiding vain repetitions in prayer. The reason believers should not be like the Gentiles is simple yet profound: "your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." This emphasizes God's omniscient nature and His intimate knowledge of His children's circumstances and desires. Since God already knows, prayer is not about informing Him, but rather about aligning oneself with His will, expressing dependence, and fostering relationship.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

So be not like them; because your Father has knowledge of your needs even before you make your requests to him.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

be ye not therefore like to them, for your Father doth know those things that ye have need of before your asking him;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Be not you therefore like to them for your Father knoweth what is needful for you, before you ask him.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Be not ye therefore like them, for your Father knows of what things ye have need before ye beg [anything] of him.

Context

This verse logically follows from verse 7, explaining *why* vain repetitions are unnecessary and ineffective. It provides the theological foundation for the model prayer that immediately follows in verses 9-13. Understanding God's prior knowledge of our needs helps to properly frame prayer not as a means to manipulate God, but as a genuine act of worship, submission, and communion.

v.7And in praying use not vain repetitions, as the Gentiles do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

v.8This passage

v.9After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 12:30

    For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: but your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

  • Psalms 38:9

    Lord, all my desire is before thee; And my groaning is not hid from thee.

  • Psalms 69:17

    And hide not thy face from thy servant; For I am in distress; answer me speedily.

  • Philippians 4:6

    In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

  • John 16:23

    And in that day ye shall ask me no question. Verily, verily, I say unto you, If ye shall ask anything of the Father, he will give it you in my name.

  • Matthew 6:32

    For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

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