Definition: Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 13:44. It’s a pretty rich and symbolic idea! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is talking about the true value of the Kingdom of Heaven – which is much more valuable than any material thing. Think of it like this: A Hidden Treasure: The Kingdom of Heaven isn’t something you just find . It's hidden, waiting to be discovered. A Field: The field represents our lives, our earthly possessions, and our time. Finding It: When we find the Kingdom, we’re not just holding onto things; we’re actively seeking it. We’re putting it away for good. Joy and Selling: When we find it, we’re filled with joy and feel happy about it! We don't just keep it – we sell it! Let’s unpack it a bit: “The which when a man hath found…” : This is key. It's not about simply having the kingdom, but about finding it. “…he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath” : Jesus means we don’t just keep it; we enjoy it! We’re filled with happiness and actively work to protect it. “Sells” suggests a sense of stewardship – being careful not to lose or waste this treasure. “…and buyeth that field.” : This is the big payoff. When you find the Kingdom, you buy what’s been hidden. It's about moving on to something better and more valuable. It's a symbolic act of leaving behind what was before for something even greater. Overall Meaning: Jesus is saying that the true richness of life isn't found in material wealth but in spiritual growth, faith, and living a life that’s aligned with God's Kingdom. Finding the Kingdom means moving beyond things we have to something more fulfilling and meaningful. In short, it’s about a shift from possession to purpose. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or concept? Give you a different analogy?