Bible Strands
Matthew 25:7
Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The narrator addresses the reader at the moment the midnight cry announces the bridegroom’s arrival, shifting the scene from the announcement to the assembled virgins. This occurs within a parable Jesus delivers about the kingdom of heaven.
The words — The Greek verb ἠγέρθησαν (ēgerthēsan) translates literally as “arose,” and ἐκόσμησαν (ekosmēsan) means “trimmed.” These terms record the immediate physical preparation of the lamps upon hearing the announcement.
The thread — The prepared-lamp motif runs in Luke 12:35, which commands keeping lamps burning, and 2 Peter 3:14, which urges making every effort to be found spotless. Revelation 3:19 connects this readiness to earnest repentance under divine discipline.
Why it lands — The text requires immediate readiness when the appointed moment arrives, eliminating delayed preparation. It asks the reader to maintain constant vigilance and practical readiness rather than relying on last-minute intervention.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.
Cross-references
- Luke 12:35 Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning.
- 2 Peter 3:14 Therefore, beloved, as you anticipate these things, make every effort to be found at peace—spotless and blameless in His sight.
- Revelation 3:19 Those I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.
- Revelation 2:4 But I have this against you: You have abandoned your first love.
- Revelation 3:2 Wake up and strengthen what remains, which is about to die; for I have found your deeds incomplete in the sight of My God.