Matthew 18:9

KJV

And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast [it] from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} if {G1487} thine {G4675} eye {G3788} offend {G4624} thee {G4571}, pluck {G1807} it {G846} out {G1807}, and {G2532} cast {G906} it from {G575} thee {G4675}: it is {G2076} better {G2570} for thee {G4671} to enter {G1525} into {G1519} life {G2222} with one eye {G3442}, rather than {G2228} having {G2192} two {G1417} eyes {G3788} to be cast {G906} into {G1519} hell {G1067} fire {G4442}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And if your eye is a snare for you, gouge it out and fling it away! Better that you should be oneeyed and obtain eternal life than keep both eyes and be thrown into the fire of Gei Hinnom.

Berean Standard Bible

And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.

American Standard Version

And if thine eye causeth thee to stumble, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is good for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into the hell of fire.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 18:9 delivers a profoundly challenging and hyperbolic teaching from Jesus, emphasizing the absolute necessity of radical self-denial and uncompromising spiritual purity to avoid eternal condemnation. Through vivid imagery of self-mutilation, Jesus underscores the extreme gravity of sin and the immeasurable value of one's eternal soul, asserting that any earthly attachment or personal habit, no matter how cherished, that leads one to spiritual stumbling must be decisively severed to secure entry into eternal life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Jesus' discourse on humility, the value of "little ones," and the seriousness of causing others to stumble, found in [Matthew 18](/matthew/18 "Matthew 18 - Discourse on Humility and Forgiveness"). It directly parallels and intensifies the warning given in [Matthew 18:8](/matthew/18-8 "Matthew 18:8 - Warning against Stumbling Blocks"), where Jesus speaks of cutting off a hand or foot. The broader context of [Matthew 18:6-7](/matthew/18-6-7 "Matthew 18:6-7 - Woe to Those Who Cause Stumbling") highlights Jesus' severe condemnation of those who lead others into sin, particularly "these little ones" (often understood as new believers or those vulnerable in faith). This radical call for spiritual surgery echoes earlier, similar warnings in the [Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5-29-30 "Matthew 5:29-30 - Jesus' Teaching on Adultery and Lust") (specifically [Matthew 5:29-30](/matthew/5-29-30 "Matthew 5:29-30 - Jesus' Teaching on Adultery and Lust")), indicating a consistent and central theme in Jesus' teaching regarding the uncompromising demands of discipleship and the ultimate priority of spiritual integrity over physical comfort or worldly attachment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of "hell fire" (Greek: _Gehenna_) would have resonated powerfully with Jesus' Jewish audience. _Gehenna_ referred to the Valley of Hinnom, a literal valley outside Jerusalem infamous for ancient pagan child sacrifices (e.g., [2 Kings 23:10](/2_kings/23-10 "2 Kings 23:10 - Topheth in the Valley of Hinnom")). By Jesus' time, it had become a place where city refuse was burned, often with continuously smoldering fires. This made _Gehenna_ a potent metaphor for a place of ultimate, perpetual, and fiery divine judgment and destruction, distinct from _Hades_ (the general realm of the dead). The concept of physical mutilation, while shocking, served to emphasize the extreme measures required for spiritual purity in a culture that highly valued physical wholeness and saw disabilities as potentially linked to sin (though Jesus often challenged this view, e.g., [John 9:1-3](/john/9-1-3 "John 9:1-3 - Healing the Man Born Blind")). Jesus' teaching here, therefore, leverages familiar cultural references to convey a radical spiritual truth.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Gospels. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Radical Purity and Self-Examination**, demanding an uncompromising approach to dealing with anything that leads to sin. The "eye" symbolizes not just literal sight but desires, perceptions, and influences that can draw one away from God, urging believers to ruthlessly identify and remove sources of spiritual stumbling, no matter the cost. Secondly, it highlights the **Gravity of Sin**, portraying sin not as a minor transgression but as a deadly spiritual disease with eternal implications, requiring extreme measures for its eradication. Finally, the stark contrast between "entering into life" and being "cast into hell fire" emphasizes the **Eternal Consequences** of one's choices, making it clear that the temporary pain of self-denial or separation from a sinful habit is infinitely preferable to eternal condemnation. This theme is foundational to Jesus' call to repentance and discipleship, as seen throughout the [Gospels](/matthew/1 "The Gospel of Matthew").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **offend (Greek, _skandalízō'_):** From the Strong's G4624, this verb means "to entrap, i.e. trip up (figuratively, stumble (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure)." In this context, it refers to anything that acts as a spiritual snare, a stumbling block, or a cause for moral failure, leading one away from God's path.
* **pluck it out (Greek, _exairéō'_):** Derived from Strong's G1807, this word, used actively, means "to tear out." In the middle voice, it signifies "to select" or "to rescue" (figuratively, to release). Here, it conveys a violent, decisive, and complete removal, emphasizing the radical and immediate action required to eliminate the source of spiritual offense.
* **hell (Greek, _géenna'_):** As per Strong's G1067, this term is of Hebrew origin (from the Valley of Hinnom) and is used figuratively as "a name for the place (or state) of everlasting punishment." It denotes the ultimate destination for the unrighteous, characterized by the "fire" (G4442, _pŷr_) which signifies judgment and destruction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And if thine eye offend thee,"**: This clause introduces the condition and the source of the problem. The "eye" is a metaphor for anything that captures one's attention, desire, or leads to temptation—be it a covetous gaze, a lustful thought, a sinful desire, or even a cherished possession or relationship that consistently leads one astray. The word "offend" (skandalízō) means to cause to stumble or sin, indicating that the issue is not the eye itself, but its function as a conduit for sin.
* **"pluck it out, and cast [it] from thee:"**: This is the radical command, expressed through intense hyperbole. Jesus is not advocating literal self-mutilation, but rather a decisive, painful, and complete separation from anything—internal or external—that consistently acts as a stumbling block to one's spiritual life. The action implies a willingness to endure extreme personal loss for spiritual gain.
* **"it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye,"**: This clause presents the first part of the stark contrast. "Life" (Greek: _zōḗ_, G2222) here refers to eternal life, the blessed existence in fellowship with God in His Kingdom. Jesus asserts that even a diminished or "incomplete" earthly existence (symbolically, "with one eye," representing the painful loss of a sinful attachment) is infinitely preferable if it secures one's eternal salvation.
* **"rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire."**: This is the terrifying alternative, highlighting the ultimate consequence of failing to deal radically with sin. To retain the "two eyes" (symbolizing unrepentant indulgence in sinful desires or attachments) means to face eternal condemnation. "Hell fire" (Gehenna) signifies a place of ultimate, fiery judgment and separation from God, emphasizing the devastating and irreversible nature of this outcome.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs several potent literary devices in this verse. **Hyperbole** is the most prominent, as He clearly does not intend for His followers to literally mutilate themselves. Instead, the exaggerated imagery of plucking out an eye serves to underscore the extreme seriousness of the spiritual stakes and the radical measures required to combat sin. This hyperbole shocks the listener into recognizing the gravity of the choice. Closely related is **Metaphor**, where the "eye" stands for anything that leads to sin—desires, perceptions, or even external influences. The act of "plucking it out" is a metaphor for ruthlessly severing ties with these spiritual stumbling blocks. Finally, **Antithesis** or contrast is powerfully used, juxtaposing the two stark outcomes: "entering into life with one eye" versus "having two eyes to be cast into hell fire." This sharp contrast highlights the critical choice between temporary pain for eternal gain and temporary pleasure for eternal loss, compelling the audience to weigh their priorities.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 18:9 is a profound call to radical discipleship, echoing the biblical emphasis on holiness and the uncompromising nature of God's demands for His people. It underscores that true commitment to God requires a willingness to sacrifice anything that hinders one's spiritual walk, prioritizing eternal destiny over temporal comfort or sinful indulgence. This teaching aligns with the broader biblical narrative of the struggle against sin and the necessity of personal sanctification. It reminds believers that the battle for purity is not passive but requires active, even painful, measures to align one's life with God's will, recognizing that the consequences of unaddressed sin are eternally severe. The verse serves as a sober reminder that the path to life is narrow and demands a vigilant self-examination and a decisive rejection of all that offends God.

* [Mark 9:43-48](/mark/9-43-48 "Mark 9:43-48 - Parallel Teaching on Stumbling Blocks")
* [Romans 8:13](/romans/8-13 "Romans 8:13 - Living by the Spirit")
* [Hebrews 12:1-2](/hebrews/12-1-2 "Hebrews 12:1-2 - Running the Race with Perseverance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 18:9 is a challenging but essential passage for every believer, calling us to a profound level of spiritual honesty and unwavering commitment to holiness. It compels us to engage in rigorous self-examination, to identify those "eyes"—whether they be specific habits, relationships, media consumption, unchecked desires, or even persistent thought patterns—that consistently lead us into sin or compromise our walk with God. The call is not for physical mutilation, but for radical, decisive action to eliminate these spiritual stumbling blocks, no matter how painful, costly, or socially inconvenient it may seem in the short term. This might mean setting firm boundaries, ending toxic relationships, abstaining from certain content, or cultivating new disciplines. The verse serves as a sober reminder that true discipleship often requires significant sacrifice and a willingness to separate from anything that hinders our spiritual journey, prioritizing our eternal destiny above all else. It encourages us to ask: What am I clinging to that is causing me to stumble, and am I willing to "pluck it out" for the sake of eternal life?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "eyes" or sources of temptation in my life consistently lead me to stumble or compromise my faith?**
* **What radical, decisive actions am I willing to take to remove these spiritual stumbling blocks, even if they are painful or costly?**
* **How does my daily pursuit of holiness reflect the eternal stakes Jesus highlights in this verse?**

### FAQ
**Does Jesus literally command self-mutilation in Matthew 18:9?**

Answer: No, Jesus is not advocating for literal self-mutilation. The language used in [Matthew 18:9](/matthew/18-9 "Matthew 18:9 - Radical Purity") (and its parallel in [Matthew 5:29](/matthew/5-29 "Matthew 5:29 - Jesus' Teaching on Lust")) is a form of **hyperbole**, an intentional exaggeration for emphasis. Jesus employs this vivid and shocking imagery to underscore the extreme seriousness of sin and the radical measures required to deal with anything that causes spiritual stumbling. The point is not physical harm, but a decisive and ruthless spiritual separation from anything that leads one away from God and towards eternal judgment.

**What does the "eye" symbolize in this verse?**

Answer: In this context, the "eye" is a powerful **metaphor** for anything that serves as a gateway to sin or a source of temptation. It can represent desires, perceptions, covetousness, lust, or even external influences, relationships, or activities that consistently lead an individual to stumble spiritually. Jesus' teaching extends beyond literal sight to encompass one's entire perspective, desires, and the things one allows to influence their heart and mind. The call to "pluck it out" means to decisively cut off, remove, or abstain from anything that, for an individual, acts as a persistent spiritual snare, regardless of how appealing or integrated into one's life it may seem.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 18:9 issues a stern warning about the gravity of sin and the need for radical self-denial, its ultimate fulfillment is found in Christ. Jesus' teaching here, though demanding, points to the profound truth that only through Him can we truly "enter into life." He is the ultimate "plucking out" of sin, for He became sin for us, bearing its full judgment on the cross so that we might be made righteous ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). The power to deal radically with sin does not come from our own strength, but from our union with Christ, who empowers us to put to death the deeds of the body by His Spirit ([Romans 8:13](/romans/8-13 "Romans 8:13 - Living by the Spirit")). He is the "life" we are called to enter into ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), and His sacrifice provides the only true escape from "hell fire" ([Romans 5:8-9](/romans/5-8-9 "Romans 5:8-9 - God's Love Demonstrated")). Thus, while the verse commands radical personal action against sin, it simultaneously drives us to the One who enables such radical transformation and offers the eternal life that is infinitely better than any earthly attachment. Our pursuit of holiness is not to earn salvation, but a response to the salvation freely given in Christ, allowing His Spirit to prune away all that hinders our walk with Him ([John 15:2](/john/15-2 "John 15:2 - The Vine and the Branches")).

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

Acts 14:22

Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

Matthew 18:8

Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast [them] from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.

Matthew 5:22

But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

Matthew 5:29

And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast [it] from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not [that] thy whole body should be cast into hell.

Matthew 19:17

And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? [there is] none good but one, [that is], God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

Hebrews 4:11

¶ Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

Mark 9:47

And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: