Matthew 13:12

KJV

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} whosoever {G3748} hath {G2192}, to him {G846} shall be given {G1325}, and {G2532} he shall have more abundance {G4052}: but {G1161} whosoever {G3748} hath {G2192} not {G3756}, from {G575} him {G846} shall be taken away {G142} even {G2532} that {G3739} he hath {G2192}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For anyone who has something will be given more, so that he will have plenty; but from anyone who has nothing, even what he does have will be taken away.

Berean Standard Bible

Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.

American Standard Version

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that which he hath.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:12 encapsulates a profound spiritual principle articulated by Jesus, explaining the dynamic of spiritual understanding and receptivity within the Kingdom of Heaven. It reveals that those who possess a measure of spiritual insight, responsiveness, or a willingness to receive truth will be granted further revelation and experience an ever-increasing abundance of understanding. Conversely, those who lack this initial openness or fail to engage with the truth they have received will find even their existing, limited perception or opportunity for understanding diminished and ultimately lost. This principle undergirds Jesus' method of teaching in parables, distinguishing between those given to understand the mysteries of the kingdom and those who are not.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Matthew's "Parable Discourse" (Matthew 13), which is the first of five major teaching blocks in the Gospel. Immediately preceding [Matthew 13:12](/matthew/13-12 "Matthew 13:12 - The Principle of Understanding"), the disciples ask Jesus why He speaks to the crowds in parables ([Matthew 13:10](/matthew/13-10 "Matthew 13:10 - Disciples Ask About Parables")). Jesus responds by stating that "to you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given" ([Matthew 13:11](/matthew/13-11 "Matthew 13:11 - Secrets of the Kingdom")). [Matthew 13:12](/matthew/13-12 "Matthew 13:12 - The Principle of Understanding") then serves as the foundational principle explaining *why* this distinction exists. It sets the stage for the subsequent explanation of the [Parable of the Sower](/matthew/13-1-9 "Matthew 13:1-9 - The Parable of the Sower") and its interpretation ([Matthew 13:18-23](/matthew/13-18-23 "Matthew 13:18-23 - Interpretation of the Parable of the Sower")), where the different types of soil vividly illustrate varying levels of spiritual receptivity and the consequences thereof.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' teaching method of using parables was common in the ancient Near East, especially among Jewish rabbis, who often used mashalim (parables or proverbs) to convey complex truths. However, Jesus' use of parables here serves a dual purpose: to reveal truth to those who are receptive and to conceal it from those who are hardened or indifferent, in fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (e.g., [Isaiah 6:9-10](/isaiah/6-9-10 "Isaiah 6:9-10 - Hearts Hardened")). The concept of "having" or "not having" spiritual insight was understood within a Jewish framework where wisdom and understanding were seen as gifts from God, cultivated through diligent study of Torah and a heart open to divine instruction. Those who genuinely sought God's truth were believed to be granted more, while those who approached it superficially or with a closed mind would remain ignorant, or even regress. This principle echoes the rabbinic idea that "to him who learns, more is given; to him who does not learn, even what he has learned is taken away."

* **Key Themes:** [Matthew 13:12](/matthew/13-12 "Matthew 13:12 - The Principle of Understanding") contributes significantly to several key themes within Matthew's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Spiritual Receptivity and Understanding**, highlighting that divine truth is not passively received but requires an active, responsive heart. Those who possess a measure of spiritual openness are granted deeper insights into the [mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven](/matthew/13-11 "Matthew 13:11 - Mysteries of the Kingdom"). This verse also underscores the **Principle of Growth and Decline**, a dynamic spiritual law where what is cultivated and utilized (spiritual gifts, knowledge, opportunities) expands, while what is neglected or ignored diminishes. This concept is powerfully illustrated in the [Parable of the Talents](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents"), where faithful stewardship leads to greater reward and unfaithfulness to loss. Finally, it speaks to the **Sovereignty of God in Revelation** and the **Responsibility of Humanity in Response**, emphasizing that while God initiates revelation, human response determines the extent of reception and subsequent spiritual growth or decline.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hath (Greek, _échō_):** This verb signifies "to hold," "to possess," or "to have." In this context, it refers not to material possessions but to an existing spiritual capacity, a measure of understanding, an initial openness, or a willingness to receive divine truth. It denotes a present state of spiritual endowment or readiness.
* **given (Greek, _dídōmi_):** Meaning "to give," "to bestow," or "to grant," this word highlights the divine agency in the process of spiritual revelation. Understanding and abundance are not earned but are sovereignly bestowed by God upon those who are receptive. It emphasizes God's active role in increasing the spiritual capacity and knowledge of those who "have."
* **abundance (Greek, _perisseúō_):** This term conveys the idea "to superabound," "to be in excess," "to excel," or "to increase." It paints a picture of overflowing spiritual blessings, an exponential growth in understanding, insight, and spiritual capacity for those who actively engage with the truth they have received. It suggests a continuous and ever-increasing supply of divine wisdom.
* **taken away (Greek, _aírō_)::** Meaning "to lift up," "to take up or away," or "to remove," this word describes the consequence for those who "have not." It implies a stripping away, a loss of even the minimal spiritual insight, opportunity, or capacity they once possessed or perceived to possess. This signifies a spiritual regression or hardening for those who remain unresponsive.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For whosoever hath,"**: This introductory clause establishes the condition for the principle. "Hath" here refers to an initial spiritual receptivity, a spark of understanding, or a genuine desire for truth, rather than material possession. It signifies a person who has already begun to respond positively, even if minimally, to God's revelation.
* **"to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance:"**: This is the first part of the principle, describing the positive consequence. To the one who demonstrates spiritual responsiveness, God will grant further understanding and insight. The phrase "more abundance" (Greek: _perisseúō_) signifies an overflowing, increasing measure of spiritual knowledge, grace, and blessing. Spiritual truth, when embraced and acted upon, multiplies itself.
* **"but whosoever hath not,"**: This introduces the contrasting condition. "Hath not" refers to a lack of spiritual receptivity, an unwillingness to engage with truth, or a hardened heart that resists divine revelation. This person either possesses no genuine understanding or has failed to cultivate what little insight they may have received.
* **"from him shall be taken away even that he hath."**: This is the second part of the principle, describing the negative consequence. For the one who is unresponsive, even the limited understanding, opportunity, or spiritual capacity they might have possessed will be removed. This is not arbitrary punishment but a natural consequence of neglect and resistance, leading to spiritual impoverishment and increased blindness.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 13:12 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound truth. It functions as an **Aphorism** or **Proverbial Saying**, a concise statement of a general truth that is memorable and easily repeatable, encapsulating a foundational principle of the Kingdom. The verse is structured as a clear **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, juxtaposing two opposing conditions ("whosoever hath" vs. "whosoever hath not") and their corresponding outcomes ("shall be given, and he shall have more abundance" vs. "shall be taken away even that he hath"). This stark contrast highlights the critical choice of spiritual responsiveness. Furthermore, the statement contains an element of **Paradox**, particularly in the latter half: how can something be "taken away" from someone who "hath not"? This paradox emphasizes that even a perceived or potential possession (like the opportunity to understand) can be lost through neglect, leading to a deeper state of spiritual destitution. The phrase "even that he hath" can also be seen as a form of **Hyperbole**, exaggerating the loss to underscore the severity of spiritual indifference.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse reveals a crucial aspect of God's economy of grace and truth: spiritual growth is dynamic and proportional to one's initial responsiveness. It is not merely about intellectual capacity but about the heart's posture towards divine revelation. God's truth is not forced upon anyone; rather, it is progressively unveiled to those who demonstrate a genuine desire and willingness to receive and cultivate it. This principle underscores divine sovereignty in giving, but also human responsibility in responding. Those who open their hearts to the light they receive will find that light increasing, while those who close themselves off will experience a dimming and eventual loss of even the minimal light they once perceived. This theological truth applies not only to understanding parables but to all aspects of the Christian life, including the stewardship of spiritual gifts, opportunities, and the very Word of God.

* [Luke 8:18](/luke/8-18 "Luke 8:18 - The Principle of Hearing")
* [Mark 4:25](/mark/4-25 "Mark 4:25 - To Those Who Have")
* [Matthew 25:29](/matthew/25-29 "Matthew 25:29 - Parable of the Talents Conclusion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:12 serves as a powerful spiritual mirror, prompting us to examine the posture of our own hearts towards God's truth. It challenges us to move beyond passive hearing to active, engaged listening and diligent application. If we genuinely desire deeper understanding of God's Word, greater spiritual insight, and a richer experience of His presence, this verse assures us that such abundance is available. However, it also issues a sober warning: spiritual stagnation is not neutral. Neglecting the truth we have received, failing to cultivate the spiritual gifts we possess, or becoming complacent in our walk with God inevitably leads to a diminishing of what we have. Our spiritual capacity, like a muscle, grows with use and atrophies with disuse. Therefore, we are called to be vigilant stewards of every measure of grace, truth, and opportunity God has entrusted to us, continually seeking, listening, and applying His Word to our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my spiritual life do I feel I "have" a measure of understanding or giftedness? How am I actively cultivating and using what I have received?**
* **Are there areas where I might be neglecting spiritual truths or opportunities, and if so, what might be the consequences of this neglect according to this verse?**
* **How does my daily engagement with God's Word reflect a desire for "more abundance" of spiritual understanding?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to be more receptive and responsive to the Holy Spirit's leading and the truths revealed in Scripture?**

### FAQ
**Does "hath" refer to material possessions or spiritual understanding?**

Answer: While the word "hath" (Greek: _échō_) can generally refer to possessing anything, in the context of [Matthew 13:12](/matthew/13-12 "Matthew 13:12 - The Principle of Understanding") and the surrounding discourse on the [parables of the Kingdom of Heaven](/matthew/13 "Matthew 13 - Parables of the Kingdom"), it overwhelmingly refers to spiritual understanding, receptivity, and a willingness to engage with divine truth. Jesus is explaining why some understand the mysteries of the kingdom and others do not. The "having" is an initial openness of heart, a spark of faith, or a responsiveness to God's revelation, which then leads to further spiritual insight and abundance. It is not about material wealth.

**Is God being unfair by taking away what little someone has?**

Answer: This principle is not about God being unfair, but about the natural consequence of spiritual neglect and resistance. It highlights a spiritual law: truth, like light, requires an open eye to be seen. If one closes their eyes to the light, they remain in darkness, and even the potential for sight is lost. The "taking away" is not arbitrary punishment but the result of a hardened heart that refuses to engage with the truth it has been exposed to. It underscores the active nature of faith and the responsibility of humanity to respond to God's revelation. This principle is consistent with other parables, such as the [Parable of the Talents](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents"), where the unfaithful servant loses even the single talent he was given because he failed to use it.

**How does one "have" to begin with, if it's not by their own merit?**

Answer: The initial "having" is a gift of grace, a divine enablement, or a sovereign drawing by God. It could be a measure of spiritual sensitivity, an initial conviction, or a divinely implanted desire for truth. As [John 6:44](/john/6-44 "John 6:44 - No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him") states, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him." This initial "having" is the capacity or willingness to respond to God's drawing and revelation. The verse then emphasizes that this initial gift, when nurtured and acted upon, leads to further blessings and deeper understanding, whereas neglecting it leads to its diminishment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 13:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and most profound meaning in Jesus Christ Himself. He is the embodiment of the "one who hath," possessing all wisdom, truth, and the fullness of God (as seen in [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge") and [Colossians 1:19](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19 - For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell")). Because He "hath" perfectly, He is the one to whom all things are "given" by the Father, and through whom "more abundance" flows to humanity. In Christ, the mysteries of the Kingdom are not merely understood but are personified. He is the ultimate revelation of God ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - God has spoken through His Son")). Those who "have" Christ—who receive Him by faith, acknowledge His Lordship, and seek to follow Him—are given the Holy Spirit ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - The Spirit of Truth")), who then guides them into all truth and grants "more abundance" of spiritual insight and life ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit will guide you into all truth")). Conversely, those who reject Christ, the very Truth and Light of the world ([John 1:9-11](/john/1-9-11 "John 1:9-11 - The True Light")), will have even their perceived understanding taken away, leading to spiritual blindness and condemnation ([John 3:19](/john/3-19 "John 3:19 - Men loved darkness rather than light")). Thus, the principle of Matthew 13:12 is fundamentally about one's relationship with Jesus, the source and sum of all spiritual abundance.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 25:29

For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

Luke 8:18

Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.

Mark 4:24

And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.

Mark 4:25

For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.

Luke 19:24

And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give [it] to him that hath ten pounds.

Luke 19:26

For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.

John 15:2

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every [branch] that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.