New Testament
Matthew 9:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Jesus arrived at the ruler's house, he saw flute players and a crowd of people wailing loudly.
Compare translations
And when Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise,
What Matthew 9:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus arrives at the house of a ruler, likely a synagogue leader, where mourning is taking place. The presence of flute players and a crowd wailing indicates that a death has occurred, as these were common practices in Jewish mourning rituals. The loud noise signifies the deep sorrow and grief of the people. Jesus, known for his compassion and ability to heal, enters this somber scene. His arrival suggests that he is about to bring hope and transformation to a situation filled with despair. This moment sets the stage for a significant miracle, as Jesus often intervened in times of crisis, demonstrating his authority over life and death. The contrast between the mourning and the hope Jesus brings is a powerful theme in the Gospels, illustrating his role as a healer and comforter in times of trouble.
How to apply Matthew 9:23 to your life
When faced with grief or loss, remember that Jesus can bring hope and healing. Just as he entered a situation of mourning, he can enter our lives and transform our despair into hope. Seek his presence in difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Matthew 9:18–26)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 9:23
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 9:23
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:23 mean?
Matthew 9:23 describes Jesus arriving at a ruler's house where mourning is taking place. The presence of flute players and a crowd wailing indicates that a death has occurred, highlighting the sorrow of the people.
What is the significance of the flute players in Matthew 9:23?
The flute players in Matthew 9:23 are part of Jewish mourning customs, which included music and loud wailing to express grief. Their presence emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the depth of sorrow experienced by the community.
How does Matthew 9:23 relate to themes of hope?
Matthew 9:23 contrasts the deep mourning in the ruler's house with the hope that Jesus brings. His arrival signifies the potential for transformation and healing in a time of despair.
What can we learn from Matthew 9:23 about dealing with grief?
Matthew 9:23 teaches that even in times of deep sorrow, Jesus can bring hope and healing. It encourages individuals to seek his presence during difficult moments in their lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.