CINXE.COM

<!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 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/matthew/13-45.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/40_Mat_13_45.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Matthew 13:45 - The Parables of the Treasure and Pearl" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls." /><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/13-45.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/13-45.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/13.htm">Chapter 13</a> > Verse 45</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="/ad5.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/13-44.htm" title="Matthew 13:44">◄</a> Matthew 13:45 <a href="/matthew/13-46.htm" title="Matthew 13:46">►</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">Verse<a href="/bsb/matthew/13.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/matthew/13.htm">New International Version</a> &#8220Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. <a href="/nlt/matthew/13.htm">New Living Translation</a> “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. <a href="/esv/matthew/13.htm">English Standard Version</a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, <a href="/bsb/matthew/13.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. <a href="/blb/matthew/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like a merchant seeking fine pearls. <a href="/kjv/matthew/13.htm">King James Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: <a href="/nkjv/matthew/13.htm">New King James Version</a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, <a href="/nasb_/matthew/13.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, <a href="/nasb/matthew/13.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, <a href="/nasb77/matthew/13.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, <a href="/lsb/matthew/13.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, <a href="/amp/matthew/13.htm">Amplified Bible</a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, <a href="/csb/matthew/13.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. <a href="/hcsb/matthew/13.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> &#8220Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. <a href="/asv/matthew/13.htm">American Standard Version</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is a merchant seeking goodly pearls: <a href="/cev/matthew/13.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The kingdom of heaven is like what happens when a shop owner is looking for fine pearls. <a href="/erv/matthew/13.htm">English Revised Version</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is a merchant seeking goodly pearls: <a href="/gwt/matthew/13.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> "Also, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant who was searching for fine pearls. <a href="/gnt/matthew/13.htm">Good News Translation</a> "Also, the Kingdom of heaven is like this. A man is looking for fine pearls, <a href="/isv/matthew/13.htm">International Standard Version</a> "Again, the kingdom from heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. <a href="/msb/matthew/13.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. <a href="/net/matthew/13.htm">NET Bible</a> "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. <a href="/nheb/matthew/13.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a man who is a merchant seeking fine pearls, <a href="/wbt/matthew/13.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking goodly pearls: <a href="/wey/matthew/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "Again the Kingdom of the Heavens is like a jewel merchant who is in quest of choice pearls. <a href="/web/matthew/13.htm">World English Bible</a> “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a merchant seeking fine pearls, <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/matthew/13.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like to a man, a merchant, seeking good pearls, <a href="/blb/matthew/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like a merchant seeking fine pearls. <a href="/ylt/matthew/13.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> 'Again, the reign of the heavens is like to a man, a merchant, seeking goodly pearls, <a href="/slt/matthew/13.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like to a man, a wholesale merchant, seeking beautiful pearls:<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/matthew/13.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant seeking good pearls. <a href="/cpdv/matthew/13.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking good pearls. <a href="/nabre/matthew/13.htm">New American Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. <a href="/nrsvce/matthew/13.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls;<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/matthew/13.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant, who was seeking good pearls. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/matthew/13.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But again the Kingdom of Heaven is likened to the merchant man who was searching for precious pearls.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/matthew/13.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking goodly pearls. <a href="/godbey/matthew/13.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like unto a man seeking beautiful pearls:<Fr> <a href="/haweis/matthew/13.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchantman in search of beautiful pearls: <a href="/mace/matthew/13.htm">Mace New Testament</a> Again, the heavenly kingdom is like a merchant-man, who is in quest of curious pearls: <a href="/wey/matthew/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "Again the Kingdom of the Heavens is like a jewel merchant who is in quest of choice pearls. <a href="/worrell/matthew/13.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls;<Fr> <a href="/worsley/matthew/13.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> <FR>Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking precious pearls,<Fr> <a href="/parallel/matthew/13-45.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hriiyJYqzvc?start=3847" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/matthew/13.htm">The Parables of the Treasure and Pearl</a> 44The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and in his joy he went and sold all he had and bought that field. 45<a href="/greek/3825.htm" title="3825: Palin (Adv) -- Probably from the same as pale; anew, i.e. back, once more, or furthermore or on the other hand.">Again,</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- 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/932.htm" title="932: basileia (N-NFS) -- From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm.">kingdom</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of</a> <a href="/greek/3772.htm" title="3772: ouranōn (N-GMP) -- Perhaps from the same as oros; the sky; by extension, heaven; by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the Gospel.">heaven</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/3664.htm" title="3664: homoia (Adj-NFS) -- Like, similar to, resembling, of equal rank. From the base of homou; similar.">like</a> <a href="/greek/444.htm" title="444: anthrōpō (N-DMS) -- A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being."></a> <a href="/greek/1713.htm" title="1713: emporō (N-DMS) -- A merchant, trader; one on a journey. From en and the base of poreuomai; a tradesman.">a merchant</a> <a href="/greek/2212.htm" title="2212: zētounti (V-PPA-DMS) -- To seek, search for, desire, require, demand. Of uncertain affinity; to seek; specially, to worship, or to plot.">in search of</a> <a href="/greek/2570.htm" title="2570: kalous (Adj-AMP) -- Properly, beautiful, but chiefly good, i.e. Valuable or virtuous.">fine</a> <a href="/greek/3135.htm" title="3135: margaritas (N-AMP) -- A pearl. From margaros; a pearl.">pearls.</a> 46When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold all he had and bought it.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/13-46.htm">Matthew 13:46</a> When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold all he had and bought it. <a href="/proverbs/2-4.htm">Proverbs 2:4</a> if you seek it like silver and search it out like hidden treasure, <a href="/philippians/3-7.htm">Philippians 3:7-8</a> But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. / More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ <a href="/isaiah/55-1.htm">Isaiah 55:1-2</a> “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! / Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods. <a href="/revelation/21-21.htm">Revelation 21:21</a> And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, with each gate consisting of a single pearl. The main street of the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. <a href="/luke/14-33.htm">Luke 14:33</a> In the same way, any one of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be My disciple. <a href="/1_kings/10-2.htm">1 Kings 10:2</a> She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones. And she came to Solomon and spoke to him all that was on her mind. <a href="/colossians/2-3.htm">Colossians 2:3</a> in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. <a href="/job/28-18.htm">Job 28:18</a> Coral and quartz are unworthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies. <a href="/1_peter/1-7.htm">1 Peter 1:7</a> so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. <a href="/1_timothy/6-18.htm">1 Timothy 6:18-19</a> Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share, / treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life. <a href="/proverbs/3-14.htm">Proverbs 3:14-15</a> for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold. / She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire compares with her. <a href="/revelation/3-18.htm">Revelation 3:18</a> I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. <a href="/psalms/119-72.htm">Psalm 119:72</a> The law from Your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-9.htm">1 Corinthians 2:9</a> Rather, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Again, the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:like.<a href="/matthew/16-26.htm">Matthew 16:26</a> For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?<a href="/matthew/22-5.htm">Matthew 22:5</a> But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:<a href="/proverbs/3-13.htm">Proverbs 3:13-18</a> Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding… seeking.<a href="/job/28-18.htm">Job 28:18</a> No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies.<a href="/psalms/4-6.htm">Psalm 4:6,7</a> There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us… <a href="/psalms/39-6.htm">Psalm 39:6,7</a> Surely every man walketh in a vain shew: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/zechariah/11-10.htm">Beautiful</a> <a href="/amos/6-4.htm">Choice</a> <a href="/matthew/11-8.htm">Fine</a> <a href="/zechariah/11-13.htm">Goodly</a> <a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Heaven</a> <a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Heavens</a> <a href="/daniel/11-20.htm">Jewel</a> <a href="/matthew/7-6.htm">Jewels</a> <a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Kingdom</a> <a href="/zephaniah/1-11.htm">Merchant</a> <a href="/matthew/7-6.htm">Pearls</a> <a href="/mark/1-36.htm">Quest</a> <a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Reign</a> <a href="/matthew/10-11.htm">Search</a> <a href="/matthew/7-8.htm">Searching</a> <a href="/matthew/12-47.htm">Seeking</a> <a href="/zechariah/14-21.htm">Trader</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/matthew/23-27.htm">Beautiful</a> <a href="/luke/1-53.htm">Choice</a> <a href="/matthew/16-2.htm">Fine</a> <a href="/luke/21-5.htm">Goodly</a> <a href="/matthew/13-47.htm">Heaven</a> <a href="/matthew/13-47.htm">Heavens</a> <a href="/matthew/13-46.htm">Jewel</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Jewels</a> <a href="/matthew/13-47.htm">Kingdom</a> <a href="/genesis/23-16.htm">Merchant</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Pearls</a> <a href="/mark/1-36.htm">Quest</a> <a href="/matthew/13-47.htm">Reign</a> <a href="/matthew/18-12.htm">Search</a> <a href="/matthew/16-4.htm">Searching</a> <a href="/matthew/21-46.htm">Seeking</a> <a href="/songs/3-6.htm">Trader</a><div class="vheading2">Matthew 13</div>1. <a href="/matthew/13-1.htm">The parable of the sower and the seed;</a> 18. <a href="/matthew/13-18.htm">the explanation of it.</a> 24. <a href="/matthew/13-24.htm">The parable of the weeds;</a> 31. <a href="/matthew/13-31.htm">of the mustard seed;</a> 33. <a href="/matthew/13-33.htm">of the leaven;</a> 36. <a href="/matthew/13-36.htm">explanation of the parable of the weeds.</a> 44. <a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">The parable of the hidden treasure;</a> 45. <a href="/matthew/13-45.htm">of the pearl;</a> 47. <a href="/matthew/13-47.htm">of the drag net cast into the sea.</a> 53. <a href="/matthew/13-53.htm">Jesus is a prophet without honor in his own country.</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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/13.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/13.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Again, This word indicates a continuation of a series of parables Jesus is teaching. It connects this parable to the previous ones in <a href="/matthew/13.htm">Matthew 13</a>, emphasizing the varied aspects of the kingdom of heaven. The repetition underscores the importance of understanding the multifaceted nature of God's kingdom.the kingdom of heaven This phrase is a central theme in Jesus' teachings, referring to God's sovereign rule and reign. It is a spiritual kingdom that Jesus inaugurated through His ministry, death, and resurrection. The kingdom of heaven is both a present reality and a future hope, as seen in the Lord's Prayer (<a href="/matthew/6-10.htm">Matthew 6:10</a>) where believers pray for God's kingdom to come.is like a merchant The merchant represents someone who is actively seeking something of great value. In the ancient world, merchants were often seen as shrewd and discerning, traveling great distances to find and trade valuable goods. This imagery suggests the intentional and diligent pursuit of spiritual truth and the kingdom of God.in search of fine pearls. Pearls were highly prized in the ancient world, often more valuable than gold. They symbolize something of immense worth and beauty. The merchant's search for fine pearls illustrates the quest for the ultimate truth and the incomparable value of the kingdom of heaven. This can be connected to <a href="/proverbs/2-4.htm">Proverbs 2:4-5</a>, which speaks of seeking wisdom as one would search for hidden treasures. The parable highlights the idea that the kingdom of heaven is worth any sacrifice, as seen in the merchant's willingness to seek diligently for the finest pearls.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/m/merchant.htm">Merchant</a> Represents a person who is actively seeking something of great value. In the context of this parable, the merchant symbolizes those who are earnestly seeking the kingdom of heaven. 2. <a href="/topical/f/fine_pearls.htm">Fine Pearls</a> Symbolize the kingdom of heaven or the truths and values of God's kingdom. Pearls were highly valued in ancient times, representing something precious and worth sacrificing for. 3. <a href="/topical/k/kingdom_of_heaven.htm">Kingdom of Heaven</a> A central theme in Jesus' teachings, representing God's reign and rule, both in the present spiritual sense and in the future fulfillment.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_the_kingdom.htm">The Value of the Kingdom</a> The kingdom of heaven is of incomparable worth, deserving our utmost pursuit and sacrifice. <a href="/topical/a/active_seeking.htm">Active Seeking</a> Like the merchant, we are called to actively seek God's kingdom and His truths, not passively wait for them to come to us. <a href="/topical/s/sacrificial_commitment.htm">Sacrificial Commitment</a> True discipleship may require us to give up earthly treasures or comforts to gain the eternal value of God's kingdom. <a href="/topical/d/discernment_in_pursuit.htm">Discernment in Pursuit</a> Just as the merchant discerns the value of fine pearls, we must discern what is truly valuable in our spiritual journey.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_matthew_13.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Matthew 13</a> <a href="/q/what_are_the_pearly_gates.htm">What are the pearly gates?</a> <a href="/q/why_avoid_casting_pearls_before_swine.htm">Why did Jesus advise against casting pearls before swine?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_jewelry.htm">What does the Bible say about wearing jewelry?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_sacred_in_matthew_7_6.htm">What is sacred in Matthew 7:6?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/matthew/13.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(45) Like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls.--Here again the illustration would commend itself to the thoughts of the fishermen of Galilee. The caprices of luxury in the Roman empire had given a prominence to pearls, as an article of commerce, which they had never had before, and have probably never had since. They, rather than emeralds and sapphires, were the typical instance of all costliest adornments (<a href="/matthew/7-6.htm" title="Give not that which is holy to the dogs, neither cast you your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.">Matthew 7:6</a>; <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm" title="In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with modesty and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;">1Timothy 2:9</a>). The story of Cleopatra, the fact that the opening of a new pearl market was one of the alleged motives which led the Emperor Claudius to invade Britain, are indications of the value that was then set on the "goodly pearls" of the parable. Such a merchant seeking them, either on the shores of the Mediterranean, or as brought by caravans to other traders from the Persian Gulf or the Indian Ocean, must have been a familiar presence to the fishermen of Capernaum. The parable in its spiritual bearing, has, of course, much that is common with the preceding. But there is this marked and suggestive difference. The "search" is presupposed, The man has been seeking the "goodly pearls" of wisdom, holiness, and truth, and has found them in at least some of their lower forms. Then he is led to the higher knowledge of communion with the life of Christ, and for that is content to resign all that he had before prized most highly. Such, in the records of the New Testament, was the history of St. Paul when he counted "all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord" (<a href="/philippians/3-8.htm" title="Yes doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,">Philippians 3:8</a>). Such, in after days, was the history of Justin Martyr and Augustine. Such, in our own time, has been that of many noble and true-hearted seekers after truth and holiness. Such will evermore be the history of those who are faithful in a very little, and who, "willing to do the will of God, shall know of the doctrine whether it be of God" (<a href="/john/7-17.htm" title="If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.">John 7:17</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/13.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 45, 46. - The parable of the pearl merchant, Matthew only. Observe in this parable that the merchant is accustomed to deal in pearls, and is searching for good ones, when he meets with one worth more than the others he possesses all put together. If the former parable described one who finds the gospel as it were by chance (e.g. the woman of Samaria), this speaks of one who has long been searching for truth (e.g. Andrew and John, the Ethiopian eunuch). Verse 45. - Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man. Evidently no poor man, but a rich wholesale dealer (ἔμπορος: cf. <a href="/revelation/18-23.htm">Revelation 18:23</a>; not κάπηλος, "a retailer;" cf. <a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm">2 Corinthians 2:17</a>). Seeking. According to the usual manner of his life. Goodly pearls. He eared nothing about the inferior kinds or specimens. The man aimed high; he got more than he can have thought possible (<a href="/matthew/7-7.htm">Matthew 7:7, 8</a>). Origen (Commentary, in loc.; Huet, 1. p. 210) has much curious matter about the different kinds of pearls. <a href="/commentaries/matthew/13-45.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Again, Πάλιν (Palin) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3825.htm">Strong's 3825: </a> Probably from the same as pale; anew, i.e. back, once more, or furthermore or on the other hand. the ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. kingdom βασιλεία (basileia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_932.htm">Strong's 932: </a> From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm. of τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. heaven οὐρανῶν (ouranōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3772.htm">Strong's 3772: </a> Perhaps from the same as oros; the sky; by extension, heaven; by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the Gospel. is ἐστὶν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. like ὁμοία (homoia) Adjective - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3664.htm">Strong's 3664: </a> Like, similar to, resembling, of equal rank. From the base of homou; similar. a merchant ἐμπόρῳ (emporō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1713.htm">Strong's 1713: </a> A merchant, trader; one on a journey. From en and the base of poreuomai; a tradesman. in search of ζητοῦντι (zētounti) Verb - Present Participle Active - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2212.htm">Strong's 2212: </a> To seek, search for, desire, require, demand. Of uncertain affinity; to seek; specially, to worship, or to plot. fine καλοὺς (kalous) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2570.htm">Strong's 2570: </a> Properly, beautiful, but chiefly good, i.e. Valuable or virtuous. pearls. μαργαρίτας (margaritas) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3135.htm">Strong's 3135: </a> A pearl. From margaros; a pearl. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/matthew/13-45.htm">Matthew 13:45 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/matthew/13-45.htm">NT Gospels: Matthew 13:45 Again the Kingdom of Heaven is like (Matt. Mat Mt) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/matthew/13-44.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Matthew 13:44"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Matthew 13:44" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/matthew/13-46.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Matthew 13:46"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Matthew 13:46" /></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>