And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any [man] from that day forth ask him any more [questions].
And {G2532} no man {G3762} was able {G1410} to answer {G611} him {G846} a word {G3056}, neither {G3761} durst {G5111} any {G5100} man from {G575} that {G1565} day {G2250} forth ask {G1905} him {G846} any more {G3765} questions.
No one could think of anything to say in reply; and from that day on, no one dared put to him another sh'eilah.
No one was able to answer a word, and from that day on no one dared to question Him any further.
And no one was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.
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Mark 12:34
And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him [any question]. -
Luke 20:40
And after that they durst not ask him any [question at all]. -
Luke 14:6
And they could not answer him again to these things. -
Acts 4:14
And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. -
Luke 13:17
And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him. -
Matthew 21:27
And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. -
John 8:7
So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
Matthew 22:46 serves as a powerful conclusion to a series of intense theological and political debates between Jesus and various religious factions in Jerusalem. This verse highlights Jesus' undeniable wisdom and authority, effectively silencing His opponents.
Context
Leading up to this verse, Jesus had skillfully navigated a gauntlet of challenging questions designed to trap Him. First, the Pharisees and Herodians attempted to ensnare Him with a question about paying taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:15-22). Next, the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, posed a hypothetical scenario about marriage in the afterlife, aiming to discredit the idea of resurrection (Matthew 22:23-33). After silencing these groups with His profound answers, Jesus turned the tables. He then asked the Pharisees a crucial question about the Messiah's identity: how could the Messiah be both David's Son and David's Lord (Matthew 22:41-45), referencing Psalm 110:1. This final question exposed their limited understanding of Scripture and the true nature of the Christ.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "neither durst any [man]" is significant. The word "durst" is an archaic form of "dared," emphasizing the fear and intimidation felt by Jesus' opponents. It suggests that they were not merely unable to answer, but they literally did not have the courage or audacity to challenge Him further. This reflects the awe and respect (even if grudging) that Jesus' wisdom commanded.
Practical Application
This verse offers several insights for believers today. It reinforces the truth that Jesus Christ is the ultimate source of wisdom and truth (John 14:6). When faced with life's complex questions or challenges to faith, we can trust in His divine understanding, knowing that He has the answers that human wisdom often lacks. Furthermore, it reminds us that attempts to discredit divine truth through human cunning or intellectual pride are ultimately futile. Our role is to humbly seek and embrace the profound truths revealed in God's Word, acknowledging Christ as both Lord and Messiah.