Matthew 19:12

KJV

For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from [their] mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive [it], let him receive [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} there are {G1526} some eunuchs {G2135}, which {G3748} were so {G3779} born {G1080} from {G1537} their mother's {G3384} womb {G2836}: and {G2532} there are {G1526} some eunuchs {G2135}, which {G3748} were made eunuchs {G2134} of {G5259} men {G444}: and {G2532} there be {G1526} eunuchs {G2135}, which {G3748} have made {G2134} themselves {G1438} eunuchs {G2134} for {G1223} the kingdom {G932} of heaven's sake {G3772}. He that is able {G1410} to receive {G5562} it, let him receive {G5562} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

For there are different reasons why men do not marry -- some because they were born without the desire, some because they have been castrated, and some because they have renounced marriage for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whoever can grasp this, let him do so."

Berean Standard Bible

For there are eunuchs who were born that way; others were made that way by men; and still others live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”

American Standard Version

For there are eunuchs, that were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are eunuchs, that were made eunuchs by men: and there are eunuchs, that made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 19:12 concludes Jesus' teaching on marriage and divorce with a profound statement distinguishing three categories of "eunuchs." While two categories refer to physical conditions (born so or castrated by men), the third, and most significant, speaks metaphorically of those who voluntarily choose a life of celibacy for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. This verse highlights a unique and demanding calling to radical, undistracted devotion to God's purposes, emphasizing that such a path is a special capacity, not a universal command.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a pivotal exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding the legality of divorce, as recorded in [Matthew 19:3-9](/matthew/19-3-9 "Matthew 19:3-9 - Jesus on Marriage and Divorce"). Jesus' teaching here is exceptionally stringent, asserting that divorce, except in cases of sexual immorality, leads to adultery. The disciples, taken aback by the demanding nature of this teaching, respond in [Matthew 19:10](/matthew/19-10 "Matthew 19:10 - Disciples' Reaction to Divorce Teaching") by exclaiming, "If this is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry." Jesus' statement in [Matthew 19:11-12](/matthew/19-11-12 "Matthew 19:11-12 - Jesus on Celibacy for the Kingdom") serves as a direct clarification and counterpoint to their reaction, introducing the idea that while marriage is a profound commitment, there are also those uniquely called to a different, equally valid, and spiritually purposeful path of singleness for the Kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the term "eunuch" primarily referred to a castrated male, often employed in royal courts, harems, or as guardians of women. Such individuals were typically seen as outside the normal social structure, unable to fulfill the societal expectation of procreation and family lineage. The concept of being "born a eunuch" might refer to congenital physical conditions that rendered one incapable of marriage or procreation. The practice of forced castration was a brutal reality. Against this backdrop, Jesus' third category—those who "made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake"—would have been startling. It redefines the cultural understanding of a "eunuch" from a state of physical inability or societal imposition to a radical, voluntary spiritual commitment, elevating a choice previously associated with social marginalization to one of profound spiritual significance.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 19:12 contributes significantly to several key themes within the Gospel of Matthew and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Radical Discipleship**, demonstrating that following Jesus may require unconventional choices and profound personal sacrifice, even to the extent of foregoing deeply ingrained societal norms like marriage and family for the sake of God's purposes. Secondly, it illuminates the **Nature of the Kingdom of Heaven**, revealing that its demands and rewards transcend earthly conventions and offer a higher calling that redefines human values. This aligns with Jesus' consistent teaching that the [Kingdom of God](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom") requires total commitment. Thirdly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Divine Calling and Spiritual Gifts**, implying that the capacity to embrace such a demanding path is not universal but a specific grace or gift bestowed by God, as further elaborated by the Apostle Paul in [1 Corinthians 7:7](/1_corinthians/7-7 "1 Corinthians 7:7 - Paul on Gifts of Singleness and Marriage").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Eunuchs (Greek, _eunoûchos'_):** G2135. This term, derived from words meaning "bed" and "to have/hold," literally refers to a castrated person, often employed as a chamberlain or guardian in royal households. By extension, it could also refer to an impotent or unmarried man. In Matthew 19:12, Jesus uses this term both literally (for the first two categories) and profoundly metaphorically (for the third category), signifying a person who, for spiritual reasons, chooses to live as if they were a eunuch in terms of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations.
* **Made themselves eunuchs (Greek, _eunouchízō'_):** G2134. This verb means "to castrate" or, figuratively, "to live unmarried." In the context of the third category, it emphasizes a deliberate, volitional act. It is not a physical self-mutilation (which would be condemned by Jewish law and Christian ethics), but a conscious decision to abstain from marriage and its associated intimacies for a higher spiritual purpose.
* **Receive (Greek, _chōréō'_):** G5562. This word means "to be in (give) space," "to pass," "to enter," or "to hold/admit." In this context, it signifies the capacity to comprehend, accept, and embrace this demanding teaching and way of life. It implies a spiritual and mental readiness, a unique aptitude or grace, to live out such a commitment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb:"** This clause describes individuals who are naturally incapable of marriage or procreation due to congenital physical conditions. Jesus acknowledges a biological reality that precludes some from marital life.
* **"and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men:"** This clause refers to those who were physically castrated by others, a common practice in ancient times for various societal roles, often involving servitude or guardianship. This condition is imposed externally, not chosen.
* **"and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake."** This is the pivotal and metaphorical category. Jesus introduces a third type of "eunuch" – one who voluntarily chooses a life of celibacy, not due to physical inability or external compulsion, but out of a consecrated devotion to God and the advancement of His Kingdom. This choice implies a radical commitment to undistracted service.
* **"He that is able to receive it, let him receive it."** This concluding statement underscores that the path of celibacy for the Kingdom is not a universal command but a special calling or gift. It requires a specific capacity or grace ("able to receive it") to embrace and live out this demanding commitment. Jesus acknowledges that not everyone possesses this capacity, and therefore, it is a choice to be made only by those who are truly called and equipped for it.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed by Jesus in Matthew 19:12 is **Metaphor**. By using the term "eunuch" in its third category, Jesus reinterprets a literal, often stigmatized, physical condition into a powerful spiritual symbol. This metaphorical usage transforms a state of physical incapacity or forced servitude into a voluntary, consecrated choice of celibacy for the sake of God's Kingdom. This redefinition is radical, challenging conventional societal values that prioritized marriage and procreation. Furthermore, there is an element of **Paradox** in Jesus' statement. He presents a demanding path—abstaining from marriage—as a means of greater freedom and devotion to the Kingdom, turning a perceived lack into a spiritual advantage. The concluding phrase, "He that is able to receive it, let him receive it," functions as a **Proverbial Statement**, signaling that this teaching is profound and requires spiritual discernment and a specific capacity to understand and embody.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 19:12 offers a profound theological insight into the diverse ways individuals can serve God and advance His Kingdom. It elevates the choice of celibacy, when undertaken for spiritual reasons, to a position of honor and purpose, placing it on par with, though distinct from, the sanctity of marriage. This teaching emphasizes that ultimate devotion to God may sometimes require radical personal sacrifice, redirecting energies and affections that might otherwise be focused on family life towards singular service to Christ and His mission. It underscores that God's callings are varied, and each, whether marriage or celibacy, is valid and valuable when lived out in obedience and for His glory. The verse also implicitly highlights the concept of spiritual gifts, suggesting that the capacity for such a life of dedicated singleness is a divine endowment rather than a universally achievable human endeavor.

* [1 Corinthians 7:7](/1_corinthians/7-7 "1 Corinthians 7:7 - Paul on Gifts of Singleness and Marriage")
* [1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion in Singleness")
* [Luke 14:26-27](/luke/14-26-27 "Luke 14:26-27 - Counting the Cost of Discipleship")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 19:12 challenges believers to consider the depth of their commitment to the Kingdom of Heaven, regardless of their marital status. For those who are single, it offers profound validation and purpose, affirming that a life of celibacy, when chosen for God's purposes, is a noble and spiritually fruitful path. It encourages single individuals to discern if God has given them the capacity and calling to serve Him with undivided devotion, free from the concerns of family life. For those who are married, the verse serves as a reminder that while marriage is a sacred institution, the Kingdom of Heaven remains the ultimate priority. Both states—marriage and singleness—are opportunities for wholehearted devotion to Christ. The key is to discern one's unique calling and capacity, embracing it fully for God's glory and the advancement of His Kingdom, understanding that true discipleship often involves radical reorientation of priorities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' teaching on "eunuchs for the kingdom" challenge societal norms and personal expectations regarding marriage and family?**
* **What does it mean for me to "receive" or embrace a specific calling from God, whether it pertains to my marital status or another area of my life?**
* **In what ways might a life of singleness, lived for the Kingdom, enable greater devotion or service compared to married life?**
* **How can the church better affirm and integrate those who are called to singleness for the Kingdom's sake?**

### FAQ
**Is Jesus commanding celibacy for all believers in Matthew 19:12?**

Answer: No, Jesus is explicitly *not* commanding celibacy for all believers. The concluding phrase, "He that is able to receive it, let him receive it," clearly indicates that this is a specific calling or gift, not a universal expectation. Jesus outlines three categories of "eunuchs," with only the third being a voluntary choice for spiritual reasons. This choice is presented as requiring a particular capacity or grace, implying that it is not for everyone. The Apostle Paul reiterates this idea, stating that each person has their own gift from God, one of marriage and another of singleness, in [1 Corinthians 7:7](/1_corinthians/7-7 "1 Corinthians 7:7 - Paul on Gifts of Singleness").

**What does it mean to "make themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake"? Does it imply physical self-mutilation?**

Answer: This phrase is universally understood metaphorically, not literally. It does not imply physical self-mutilation, which would be contrary to biblical teaching (e.g., [Deuteronomy 23:1](/deuteronomy/23-1 "Deuteronomy 23:1 - Prohibition Against Mutilation") and the sanctity of the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, [1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body is a Temple")). Rather, it refers to a voluntary, consecrated decision to abstain from marriage and sexual relations for the purpose of serving God and advancing His Kingdom with undivided devotion. It means choosing a celibate life out of spiritual conviction, dedicating one's energies and affections fully to divine purposes.

**How does this verse relate to the sanctity of marriage? Is singleness superior to marriage?**

Answer: Matthew 19:12 does not diminish the sanctity of marriage; rather, it complements Jesus' strong affirmation of marriage's permanence and sacredness in the preceding verses ([Matthew 19:4-6](/matthew/19-4-6 "Matthew 19:4-6 - God's Design for Marriage")). Jesus presents singleness for the Kingdom as an equally valid, though distinct, path of discipleship. Neither state is inherently superior; both are callings from God that offer unique opportunities for glorifying Him. Marriage is a divine institution reflecting Christ and the Church ([Ephesians 5:31-32](/ephesians/5-31-32 "Ephesians 5:31-32 - The Mystery of Christ and the Church")), while celibacy for the Kingdom allows for a more focused and undistracted service ([1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion in Singleness")). The emphasis is on wholehearted devotion to God in whatever state one is called.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 19:12, though seemingly about human choices regarding marriage and celibacy, points profoundly to the ultimate "eunuch for the kingdom"—Jesus Christ Himself. While not literally a eunuch, Jesus lived a life of singular, undivided devotion to the Father's will and the establishment of His Kingdom. His entire earthly existence was characterized by an unparalleled commitment, foregoing personal comforts and earthly attachments to fulfill His divine mission. He exemplified what it means to "make oneself a eunuch for the kingdom of heaven's sake" by His radical obedience, His focus on proclaiming the [gospel of the Kingdom](/mark/1-14-15 "Mark 1:14-15 - Jesus Proclaims the Kingdom"), and His ultimate sacrifice. Jesus' life was a living embodiment of the principle that nothing, not even the most fundamental human relationships or desires, should supersede the call to advance God's reign. His teaching here, therefore, calls His followers to a similar, though imperfect, dedication, mirroring His own complete surrender to the Father's purposes, culminating in His death and resurrection which secured the very [Kingdom of God](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered into the Kingdom of His Beloved Son") for all who believe. He is the one who was truly "able to receive it" and did so perfectly, offering Himself as the ultimate example of radical, Christ-centered discipleship for the sake of the Kingdom.

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

1 Corinthians 7:32

But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord:

1 Corinthians 7:38

So then he that giveth [her] in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth [her] not in marriage doeth better.

1 Corinthians 9:5

Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and [as] the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?

Isaiah 56:3

¶ Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I [am] a dry tree.

Isaiah 56:4

For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose [the things] that please me, and take hold of my covenant;

Isaiah 39:7

And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.

1 Corinthians 9:15

¶ But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for [it were] better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.