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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Matthew 25:13 Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/matthew/25-13.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/40_Mat_25_13.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Matthew 25:13 - The Parable of the Ten Virgins" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/matthew/25-13.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/matthew/25-13.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/matthew/">Matthew</a> > <a href="/matthew/25.htm">Chapter 25</a> > Verse 13</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad13.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/matthew/25-12.htm" title="Matthew 25:12">◄</a> Matthew 25:13 <a href="/matthew/25-14.htm" title="Matthew 25:14">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/matthew/25.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/matthew/25.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />&#8220Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/matthew/25.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />“So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/matthew/25.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/matthew/25.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/matthew/25.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore watch, for you do not know the day, nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/matthew/25.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/matthew/25.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/matthew/25.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Be on the alert then, because you do not know the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/matthew/25.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />&#8220Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/matthew/25.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />“Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/matthew/25.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/matthew/25.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, be on the alert [be prepared and ready], for you do not know the day nor the hour [when the Son of Man will come].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/matthew/25.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />“Therefore be alert, because you don’t know either the day or the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/matthew/25.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />&#8220Therefore be alert, because you don&#8217t know either the day or the hour. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/matthew/25.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/matthew/25.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />So, my disciples, always be ready! You don't know the day or the time when all this will happen. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/matthew/25.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/matthew/25.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />"So stay awake, because you don't know the day or the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/matthew/25.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />And Jesus concluded, "Watch out, then, because you do not know the day or the hour. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/matthew/25.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />So keep on watching, because you don't know the day or the hour." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/matthew/25.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour when the Son of Man comes.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/matthew/25.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/matthew/25.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for you do not know the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/matthew/25.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of man cometh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/matthew/25.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />"Keep awake therefore; for you know neither the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/matthew/25.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for you don’t know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/matthew/25.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for you have not known the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man comes.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/matthew/25.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore watch, for you do not know the day, nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/matthew/25.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> 'Watch therefore, for ye have not known the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man doth come.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/matthew/25.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Watch, therefore, for ye know not the day, neither the hour, in which the Son of man comes.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/matthew/25.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Watch ye therefore, because you know not the day nor the hour. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/matthew/25.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And so you must be vigilant, because you do not know the day or the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/matthew/25.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/matthew/25.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/matthew/25.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Be alert, therefore, for you do not know, that day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/matthew/25.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />Wake up therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/matthew/25.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Watch, therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.<CM><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/matthew/25.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br /><FR>Watch therefore, because you know neither the day nor the hour.<Fr><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/matthew/25.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour in which the Son of man cometh.<CM><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/matthew/25.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/matthew/25.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />"Keep awake therefore; for you know neither the day nor the hour.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/matthew/25.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br /><FR>Watch, therefore, because ye know not the day, nor the hour!<Fr><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/matthew/25.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br /><FR>Watch therefore, for ye know not the day, nor the season in which the Son of man cometh.<Fr><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/matthew/25-13.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hriiyJYqzvc?start=7551" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/matthew/25.htm">The Parable of the Ten Virgins</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">12</span>But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ <span class="reftext">13</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.">Therefore</a> <a href="/greek/1127.htm" title="1127: Grēgoreite (V-PMA-2P) -- (a) I am awake (in the night), watch, (b) I am watchful, on the alert, vigilant. From egeiro; to keep awake, i.e. Watch.">keep watch,</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">because</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/1492.htm" title="1492: oidate (V-RIA-2P) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">you do not know</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2250.htm" title="2250: hēmeran (N-AFS) -- A day, the period from sunrise to sunset. ">day</a> <a href="/greek/3761.htm" title="3761: oude (Conj) -- Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even.">or</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/5610.htm" title="5610: hōran (N-AFS) -- Apparently a primary word; an hour.">hour.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">14</span>For it is just like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/13-32.htm">Mark 13:32-37</a></span><br />No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. / Be on your guard and stay alert! For you do not know when the appointed time will come. / It is like a man going on a journey who left his house, put each servant in charge of his own task, and instructed the doorkeeper to keep watch. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/12-35.htm">Luke 12:35-40</a></span><br />Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning. / Then you will be like servants waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks, they can open the door for him at once. / Blessed are those servants whom the master finds on watch when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve and will have them recline at the table, and he himself will come and wait on them. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/5-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:1-6</a></span><br />Now about the times and seasons, brothers, we do not need to write to you. / For you are fully aware that the Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. / While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/3-3.htm">Revelation 3:3</a></span><br />Remember, then, what you have received and heard. Keep it and repent. If you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know the hour when I will come upon you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/24-42.htm">Matthew 24:42-44</a></span><br />Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come. / But understand this: If the homeowner had known in which watch of the night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. / For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/21-34.htm">Luke 21:34-36</a></span><br />But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare. / For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of all the earth. / So keep watch at all times, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_peter/3-10.htm">2 Peter 3:10</a></span><br />But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar, the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and its works will be laid bare.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/16-15.htm">Revelation 16:15</a></span><br />“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who remains awake and clothed, so that he will not go naked and let his shame be exposed.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">1 Corinthians 16:13</a></span><br />Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/13-11.htm">Romans 13:11-14</a></span><br />And do this, understanding the occasion. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. / The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. / Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/10-25.htm">Hebrews 10:25</a></span><br />Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">1 Peter 4:7</a></span><br />The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/1-7.htm">Acts 1:7</a></span><br />Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/5-8.htm">James 5:8-9</a></span><br />You, too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near. / Do not complain about one another, brothers, so that you will not be judged. Look, the Judge is standing at the door!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/55-6.htm">Isaiah 55:6</a></span><br />Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man comes.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/24-42.htm">Matthew 24:42-44</a></b></br> Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/mark/13-33.htm">Mark 13:33-37</a></b></br> Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/21-36.htm">Luke 21:36</a></b></br> Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/24-42.htm">Alert</a> <a href="/matthew/24-43.htm">Awake</a> <a href="/matthew/24-50.htm">Hour</a> <a href="/matthew/24-43.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/matthew/11-20.htm">Wherein</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/mark/13-33.htm">Alert</a> <a href="/matthew/26-38.htm">Awake</a> <a href="/matthew/26-34.htm">Hour</a> <a href="/matthew/26-38.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/mark/2-4.htm">Wherein</a><div class="vheading2">Matthew 25</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/matthew/25-1.htm">The parable of the ten virgins,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/matthew/25-14.htm">and of the talents.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">31. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/matthew/25-31.htm">Also the description of the last judgment.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/25.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/matthew/25.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Therefore keep watch</b><br>This phrase serves as a direct command and is a call to vigilance and readiness. In the context of <a href="/matthew/25.htm">Matthew 25</a>, Jesus is concluding the Parable of the Ten Virgins, which emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the coming of the bridegroom, symbolizing Christ's return. The command to "keep watch" is a recurring theme in the New Testament, urging believers to remain spiritually alert and morally upright. This vigilance is not passive but active, involving prayer, study of Scripture, and living a life that reflects Christ's teachings. The Greek word used here for "watch" is "gregoreite," which implies being awake and alert, contrasting with spiritual complacency.<p><b>because you do not know</b><br>This phrase highlights the uncertainty of the timing of Christ's return. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus emphasizes that the exact time of His second coming is unknown to all but the Father (<a href="/matthew/24-36.htm">Matthew 24:36</a>). This uncertainty serves as a test of faith and commitment, encouraging believers to live in a state of constant readiness. The unpredictability of the timing is meant to prevent complacency and to ensure that followers of Christ are always prepared, living in a manner that honors God.<p><b>the day or the hour</b><br>The specific mention of "the day or the hour" underscores the precise nature of the unknown timing. This phrase is often linked to eschatological teachings in the Bible, where the "day" refers to the Day of the Lord, a time of judgment and fulfillment of God's promises. The "hour" can be seen as a moment of significant change or divine intervention. In the broader biblical context, this reflects the suddenness and unexpectedness of God's actions, as seen in passages like <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-2.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:2</a>, where the Day of the Lord is described as coming like a thief in the night. This serves as a reminder of the need for constant spiritual preparedness and the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, as the moment of accountability could arrive at any time.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/j/jesus_christ.htm">Jesus Christ</a></b><br>The speaker of this verse, delivering a parable to His disciples about the Kingdom of Heaven.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/d/disciples.htm">Disciples</a></b><br>The immediate audience of Jesus' teaching, representing all believers who are called to be vigilant.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/p/parable_of_the_ten_virgins.htm">Parable of the Ten Virgins</a></b><br>The context of this verse, illustrating the importance of readiness for the coming of the bridegroom, symbolizing Christ's return.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/b/bridegroom.htm">Bridegroom</a></b><br>Represents Jesus Christ, whose return is anticipated by the Church.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/w/wedding_feast.htm">Wedding Feast</a></b><br>Symbolizes the Kingdom of Heaven and the ultimate union of Christ with His Church.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/v/vigilance_in_faith.htm">Vigilance in Faith</a></b><br>Believers are called to maintain a constant state of spiritual alertness, living in anticipation of Christ's return.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/u/uncertainty_of_timing.htm">Uncertainty of Timing</a></b><br>The exact time of Christ's return is unknown, emphasizing the need for continual readiness and faithfulness.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/spiritual_preparedness.htm">Spiritual Preparedness</a></b><br>Like the wise virgins in the parable, Christians must ensure they are spiritually prepared, with their "lamps" filled with the oil of faith and good works.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/a/active_waiting.htm">Active Waiting</a></b><br>Waiting for Christ is not passive; it involves active engagement in prayer, study of the Word, and service to others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_accountability.htm">Community Accountability</a></b><br>Encourage one another in the faith, holding each other accountable to live lives that reflect readiness for Christ's return.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_matthew_25.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Matthew 25</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_is_the_author_of_the_book_of_amos.htm">Are you prepared for the wedding feast properly?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/did_jesus_know_his_return_date.htm">Did Jesus know His return date?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_amount_should_i_tithe.htm">Why do people repeatedly predict the end times?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_is_the_ten_virgins_parable_unclear.htm">Why does the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1–13) assume a wedding custom that seems unfamiliar or historically unsubstantiated? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/25.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 13.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Watch therefore.</span> This is the lesson which the Lord draws from the parable, as elsewhere he gives the same warning, <span class="accented">e.g.</span> <a href="/luke/12-35.htm">Luke 12:35</a>, repeated by the apostle (<a href="/1_thessalonians/5-2.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:2, 6</a>). <span class="cmt_word">Ye know neither the day nor the hour</span> [<span class="cmt_word">wherein</span> <span class="cmt_word">the Son of man</span> <span class="cmt_word">cometh</span>]. The words in brackets are omitted by the earlier uncials, the Vulgate, Syriac, etc., and are to be regarded as an exegetical interpolation (comp. <a href="/matthew/24-42.htm">Matthew 24:42</a>). Tertullian well says, "Ut pendula expectatione solicitude fidei probetur, semper diem observans, dum semper ignorat, quotidie timens quod quotidie sperat" ('De Anima,' 33). It remains to observe that, mystically, Christ is the Bridegroom, who celebrates his nuptials with his bride the Church, and comes to conduct her to heaven; those who are ready will accompany him and enter into the joy of their Lord; those who have not made their calling sure will be shut out. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/matthew/25-13.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">Therefore</span><br /><span class="grk">οὖν</span> <span class="translit">(oun)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3767.htm">Strong's 3767: </a> </span><span class="str2">Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">keep watch,</span><br /><span class="grk">Γρηγορεῖτε</span> <span class="translit">(Grēgoreite)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1127.htm">Strong's 1127: </a> </span><span class="str2">(a) I am awake (in the night), watch, (b) I am watchful, on the alert, vigilant. From egeiro; to keep awake, i.e. Watch.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">because</span><br /><span class="grk">ὅτι</span> <span class="translit">(hoti)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> </span><span class="str2">Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">you do not know</span><br /><span class="grk">οἴδατε</span> <span class="translit">(oidate)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> </span><span class="str2">To know, remember, appreciate. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">τὴν</span> <span class="translit">(tēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">day</span><br /><span class="grk">ἡμέραν</span> <span class="translit">(hēmeran)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2250.htm">Strong's 2250: </a> </span><span class="str2">A day, the period from sunrise to sunset. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">[or]</span><br /><span class="grk">οὐδὲ</span> <span class="translit">(oude)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3761.htm">Strong's 3761: </a> </span><span class="str2">Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">τὴν</span> <span class="translit">(tēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">hour.</span><br /><span class="grk">ὥραν</span> <span class="translit">(hōran)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5610.htm">Strong's 5610: </a> </span><span class="str2">Apparently a primary word; an 'hour'.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/matthew/25-13.htm">NT Gospels: Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore for you don't know (Matt. Mat Mt) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/matthew/25-12.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Matthew 25:12"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Matthew 25:12" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/matthew/25-14.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Matthew 25:14"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Matthew 25:14" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>