Matthew 7:13-14 Strait talk about narrow and wide gates

2021-10-23: Matthew 7: Search the scriptures (case study from Acts 17:11)
2021-11-01: Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley (related to discerning judgment)
Matthew 7:1-6 Eye of the separation measure
2021-09-20:Matthew 7:3-23 A splitting feat of how the swine flew on pearls at a wide gait
2022-02-07: Matthew 7:3-5 Beams and motes: the devil is in the details
2021-08-30: Matthew 7:6 The hunt for holy hound splits (related page)
Matthew 7:7-10 Ask and seek and knock gifts to children
Matthew 7:11 Good gifts and bad gifts
Matthew 7:12 Not so golden rules
2021-11-01: Matthew 7:13-14 Strait talk about narrow and wide gates (this page) (not ready)
Matthew 7:15 Sheep dogs and wolf dogs
Matthew 7:16 Observation of fruit inspection
2021-11-20: Matthew 7:17-20 Fruit trees programmed to produce fruit of their kind
Matthew 7:21-23 Sermon on the Mount before the summary

The summary of the houses built on rock and sand follow.

Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. [kjv]

παντα ουν οσα εαν θελητε ινα ποιωσιν υμιν οι ανθρωποι ουτως και υμεις ποιειτε αυτοις ουτος γαρ εστιν ο νομος και οι προφηται [gnt]

7:12	to the left	(so do) not (be) sick/distressed if/when
7:12	to the left	you desire that (them, good things) are done to you
7:12	to the right	by men. Thus also do (them, good things) to them.
7:12	to the right	(for) this is the law
7:12	to the left	and the prophets. [newly planted ones going before]

Bottom line: Do good to all without expecting anything in return. That is, love neighbor as oneself. What Jesus says is a declarative design rule. How might one achieve this? How can one decide between alternatives (sides)? Better check the next verses.

[shared expectations, opposite of Epicurean philosophy]

More: Matthew 7:15 Sheep dogs and wolf dogs

More: Matthew 7:17-20 Fruit trees programmed to produce fruit of their kind

More: Matthew 7:12 Not so golden rules

Did you hear about the bear hunter?

Please bear with me. He saw a sign that said bear left. So he went home. And he barely got there as there was trouble a-bruin.

The problem with deer crossing signs is that deer can't read. At least, not very well. There is (at least) one exception.

Which deer knows that he can read?

At Christmas, Rudolf knows that his nose is, well, red. And he surely knows it! And don't call him Shirley. That's Olive, the other reindeer.

Have you ever crossed a deer? How about a dear left in stitches? How about cross-stitches? How about crass-stitches?

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

What is the traditional interpretation of these verses?

What is the wide and broad way?
What is the destruction?
What is the narrow way?
What is the life?

Who decides the answers to these questions?

Provide some Bible references to support your answers.

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

Search term: What is the Narrow Gate that Jesus spoke about?

Microsoft CoPilot top answer: The narrow gate, as mentioned by Jesus in Matthew 7:13-14, represents a path of genuine, sacrificial love from the heart, contrasting with the wide gate that leads to destruction. Jesus urges people to choose the narrow path to true life, emphasizing the difficulty and effort required to enter this path. The narrow gate signifies the necessity of believing in Jesus Christ and following Him, as He is the only way to eternal life. The contrast between the narrow gate and the wide gate highlights the importance of genuine faith and the challenges of following Jesus in a world that often pulls people away from Him. GotQuestions.org (as of 2025-08-20)

The ancient Greek word "διδαχή" ≈ "teaching" as in "didactic"

[fork in the road]
The start of the Didache (second sentence), sometimes called the Teaching of the Apostles, states the negative Golden Rule.

English: There are two ways, one of life and one of death, and there is a great difference between these two ways. (Holmes, p. 344)
English: Now this is the way of life: First, you shall love God, who made you. Second, you shall love your neighbor as yourself; but whatever you do not wish to happen to you, do not do to another. (Holmes, p. 344)

Greek: Ὁδοὶ δύο εἰσί, μία τῆς ζωῆς καὶ μία τοῦ θανάτου, διαφορὰ δὲ πολλὴ μεταξὺ τῶν ὁδῶν. Didache [1.1]
Greek: Ἡ μὲν οὖν ὁδὸς τῆς ζωῆς ἐστιν αὕτη· πρῶτον ἀγαπήσεις τὸν θεὸν τὸν ποιήσαντά σε, δεύτερον τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν· πάντα δὲ ὅσα ἐὰν θελήσῃς μὴ γίνεσθαί σοι, καὶ σὺ ἄλλῳ μὴ ποίει. Didache [1.2]

Might the writers of the Didache recognize that there are logical issues with the positive Golden Rule and, therefore, used the negative Golden Rule?

[Didache, negative version of love thy neighbor as yourself]

More: Matthew 7:12 Not so golden rules

More: Didache: The doctrine of teaching

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

Which way do you really want to go?

1. wide/broad way
2. narrow way
Are you sure you're on the right road? Where is this sign located?

What do you do if someone changes the sign? [common cartoon antic]
What do you do if someone changes the translation? [leaven, moving mountains/definitions]

More: Matthew 24:15-20 Delimiting the boundary of the region of a mountain

More: Matthew Mustard seeds and moving mountains

More: Matthew 21:17-23 Connecting the fig tree curse with moving this mountain

Psalms 118:19 Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD: [kjv]

ανοιξατε μοι πυλας δικαιοσυνης εισελθων εν αυταις εξομολογησομαι τω κυριω [lxx]

118:20 This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter. [kjv]

αυτη η πυλη του κυριου δικαιοι εισελευσονται εν αυτη [lxx]

118:21 I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. [kjv]

118:22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. [kjv]

118:23 This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. [kjv]

118:24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. [kjv]

Psalms 118 talks of "gates" of "righteousness". Are these the same "gates" described by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 7:13-14? Early Church Father Clement appears to assume this. 1 Clement 47-48 (omitted).

The verses after are often quoted. Was the "stone" rejected because men prefer to build their own "houses" of "stone" as in big pieces of "sand"?

Psalms 118:19

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KJV: Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD:

Hebrew: פתחו לי שערי צדק אבא בם אודה יה׃

Greek: ανοιξατε μοι πυλας δικαιοσυνης εισελθων εν αυταις εξομολογησομαι τω κυριω

Psalms 118:20

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KJV: This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter.

Hebrew: זה השער ליהוה צדיקים יבאו בו׃

Greek: αυτη η πυλη του κυριου δικαιοι εισελευσονται εν αυτη

Psalms 118:21

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KJV: I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation.

Hebrew: אודך כי עניתני ותהי לי לישועה׃

Greek: εξομολογησομαι σοι οτι επηκουσας μου και εγενου μοι εις σωτηριαν

Psalms 118:22

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KJV: The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.

Hebrew: אבן מאסו הבונים היתה לראש פנה׃

Greek: λιθον ον απεδοκιμασαν οι οικοδομουντες ουτος εγενηθη εις κεφαλην γωνιας

Psalms 118:23

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KJV: This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.

Hebrew: מאת יהוה היתה זאת היא נפלאת בעינינו׃

Greek: παρα κυριου εγενετο αυτη και εστιν θαυμαστη εν οφθαλμοις ημων

Psalms 118:24

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KJV: This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Hebrew: זה היום עשה יהוה נגילה ונשמחה בו׃

Greek: αυτη η ημερα ην εποιησεν ο κυριος αγαλλιασωμεθα και ευφρανθωμεν εν αυτη

Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen. [kjv]

πολλοι γαρ εισιν κλητοι ολιγοι δε εκλεκτοι [gnt]

Who are the "many"?
What does it mean to be "called"?
How are the "many" culled to get the "few"?
Who are the "few"? Is there a curfew?
What does it mean to be "chosen"? Are the "chosen" nice? What is the mean value of the "chosen"?

Who are the "elect"? How might being "elected" differ from being "called"? Can we "vote" (e.g., use opinion) on what this verse means? If you do not agree with the "majority", might you be "ostracized"? Is there "rock" hard evidence? The "sands" of "time" will tell. Let us cultivate some ideas much as one might cull the "birds".

Many (sheep of pray) are called. The few (birds of prey) are culled.

[code words]

More: Matthew 22:14 Election callings of the chosen elect

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

In Matthew 7, Jesus talks of the "straight" "gate" and "wide" "area". The TR (Textus Receptus) adds the "gate" to the "wide" "area". What exactly is a "strait" "gate"? The ancient Greek word "πλατύς" ≈ "wide, flat" and is related to the English word "flat" and "platypus" as, literally, "flat feet".

How "many" is "many"? How "few" is "few"?

What does the word translated as "leadeth" mean?
What is the "life"? Is this eternal "life"?
What is the "loss" - translated as "destruction"? Is this eternal "destruction"?

[Psalm 23, He Leadeth Me (hymn)]

More: Matthew 22:14 Election callings of the chosen elect

More: Streets: Flowing after a path into a plaza

More: Song: He leadeth me

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

intrate per angustam portam … lata porta … spatiosa … ducit … perditionem … multi … intrant per … [v]

Here are some Latin words.

"intratus" ≈ "enter, gone into".
"per" ≈ "through, by means of"
"porta" ≈ "gate" and is the source of the English words "port", "portal", etc.
"latus" ≈ "wide, broad"
"spatiosus" ≈ "spacious, roomy".
"perditio" ≈ "ruin, destruction" and is the source of the English word "perdition".
"multus" ≈ "much, many".

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

… angusta porta … via … ducit … vitam … pauci … inveniunt … [v]

"porta" ≈ "gate" and is the source of the English words "port", "portal", etc.
"inventus" ≈ "come upon, meet with, find, discover" and is the source, through French, of the English word "invent".

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

Matthew 7:13
Strong	Used	Unique	Word	Part of speech
G1525	195	1	εισελθατε	verb 2nd person aorist active imperative 2nd person plural
G4728	3	2	στενης	adjective genitive singular feminine
G4439	10	3	πυλης	noun genitive singular feminine
G4116	1	1	πλατεια	adjective nominative singular feminine
G2149	1	1	ευρυχωρος	adjective nominative singular feminine
G3598	101	5	οδος	noun nominative singular feminine
G520	15	2	απαγουσα	verb present active participle nominative singular feminine
G684	18	9	απωλειαν	noun accusative singular feminine
G1525	195	2	εισερχομενοι	verb present middle/passive deponent participle nominative plural masculine

Unique words may have a play on word meaning.

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Matthew 7:14
Strong	Used	Unique	Word	Part of speech
G4728	3	1	στενη	adjective nominative singular feminine
G4439	10	4	πυλη	noun nominative singular feminine
G2346	10	1	τεθλιμμενη	verb perfect passive participle nominative singular feminine
G3598	101	5	οδος	noun nominative singular feminine
G520	15	2	απαγουσα	verb present active participle nominative singular feminine
G3641	41	7	ολιγοι	adjective nominative plural masculine
G2147	175	2	ευρισκοντες	verb present active participle nominative plural masculine

Unique words may have a play on word meaning.

Matthew 7:13

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KJV: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

Greek: εισελθετε εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατειαη πυλη και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης

Latin: intrate per angustam portam quia lata porta et spatiosa via quae ducit ad perditionem et multi sunt qui intrant per eam

Wessex: Ganged enn (sic) þurh þaet narewe geat. for-þan þaet geat ys swiðe wid. & se weig is swiðe rum þe to for-spillendnysse gelaet. & swiðe manige synde þe þurh þane weig fareð.

Wycliffe: Entre ye bi the streyt yate; for the yate that ledith to perdicioun is large, and the weie is broode, and there ben many that entren bi it.

Tyndale: Enter in at the strayte gate: for wyde is ye gate and broade is the waye that leadeth to destruccion: and many ther be which goo yn therat.

Gothic: inngaggaith thairh aggwu daur, unte braid daur jah rums wigs sa brigganda in fralustai, jah managai sind thai inngaleithandans thairh thata.

Luther: Gehet ein durch die enge Pforte! Denn die Pforte ist weit, und der Weg ist breit, der zur Verdammnis abführet; und ihrer sind viel, die darauf wandeln.

Matthew 7:14

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KJV: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

Greek: οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην

Latin: quam angusta porta et arta via quae ducit ad vitam et pauci sunt qui inveniunt eam

Wessex: Eala hu nara & hu angsum ys þaet geat. & se weig. þe to lyfe ge-laet. & swiðe feawe synde þe þanne weig findeð.

Wycliffe: Hou streit is the yate, and narwy the weye, that ledith to lijf, and ther ben fewe that fynden it.

Gothic: hvan aggwu thata daur jah thraihans wigs sa brigganda in libainai, jah fawai sind thai bigitandans thana.

Luther: Und die Pforte ist enge, und der Weg ist schmal, der zum Leben führet; und wenig ist ihrer, die ihn finden.

*G1525 *0 εἰσέρχομαι (ice-er'-khom-ahee) : from G1519 and G2064; to enter (literally or figuratively):--X arise, come (in, into), enter in(-to), go in (through).

Words: εισελευσεσθαι εισελευσεται=3 εισελευσομαι εισελευσονται=5 εισεληλυθαν εισεληλυθατε εισελθατε=1 εισελθατω εισελθε=4 εισελθειν=36 εισελθη=9 εισελθης=4 εισελθητε=10 εισελθοντα=5 εισελθοντες=4 εισελθοντι εισελθοντος=3 εισελθοντων=2 εισελθουσα=2 εισελθουσαι=2 εισελθουσης εισελθωμεν εισελθων=20 εισελθωσιν=2 εισερχεσθε εισερχεσθωσαν εισερχεται εισερχησθε εισερχομεθα εισερχομενην εισερχομενοι=2 εισερχομενον εισερχομενος=3 εισερχομενου εισερχομενους=2 εισηλθατε εισηλθεν=43 εισηλθες=2 εισηλθομεν=2 εισηλθον=12

The ancient Greek word "εἰσέρχομαι" ≈ "go or come in/into"and comes from two Greek words.

"εις" ≈ "into" and "ἔρχομαι" ≈ "go, come" (perspective dependent).

The ancient Greek word "ἐλθών" ≈ "go, come" comes from "ἔρχομαι" ≈ "go, come". English uses two words with different connotations for the same Greek word. Think "move"!

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "εἰσέρχομαι" ≈ "go or come in/into"and comes from two Greek words.

"εις" ≈ "into" and "ἔρχομαι" ≈ "go, come" (perspective dependent).

The ancient Greek word "ἐλθών" ≈ "go, come" comes from "ἔρχομαι" ≈ "go, come". English uses two words with different connotations for the same Greek word. Think "move"!

The first "enter" an "εισελθατε" ≈ "enter" is unique to the GNT (Greek New Testament) but appears in the LXX (Septuagint).

Psalms 100:1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. [kjv]

ψαλμος εις εξομολογησιν αλαλαξατε τω κυριω πασα η γη [lxx]

100:2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. [kjv]

δουλευσατε τω κυριω εν ευφροσυνη εισελθατε ενωπιον αυτου εν αγαλλιασει [lxx]

100:3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. [kjv]

γνωτε οτι κυριος αυτος εστιν ο θεος αυτος εποιησεν ημας και ουχ ημεις λαος αυτου και προβατα της νομης αυτου [lxx]

100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. [kjv]

εισελθατε εις τας πυλας αυτου εν εξομολογησει εις τας αυλας αυτου εν υμνοις εξομολογεισθε αυτω αινειτε το ονομα αυτου [lxx]

In verses 2 and 4, the exact word for "enter" appears only one time in the GNT, in the "gate" verses in the Sermon on the Mount. Might the "pasture", (later the word for "custom" and then "law") and the "courtyards" relate to the "wide" area?

More: Against the law: out-law or in-law

More: Psalm 100:1-5 Giving thanks

Acts 20:37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, [kjv]

ικανος δε κλαυθμος εγενετο παντων και επιπεσοντες επι τον τραχηλον του παυλου κατεφιλουν αυτον [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἐπί" ≈ "on, upon" as in the prefix of the English word "epicenter" which is, literally, "on the center".

Note the Greek prefix for "on" is also used as the prefix for the verb "fall on". These two words are, literally, "on -falling on".

They are surely "weeping" but do not call them Shirley. [Movie: Airplane]

[gates]

More: The weeping and the gnashing of the teeth

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

The ancient Greek prefix "διά" ≈ "through" as in the prefix of the English word "diameter". Jesus uses the adjacent pairs of words for "come/go in" and "through/by" twice. It appears that one is in one place and going "through" a "gate" and then being in another place on the other side of the "gate".

Is it the same "gate" in both verses or are there two different "gates"? Each "gate" appears to "lead" to a different "way" or "path" - one "wide" and one "scattered" or "smashed".

How might "entering in" relate to a "way of life" or "diet" of what Jesus wants one to do?

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

"διά" ≈ "through" (preposition)
"της" ≈ "(of) the" (genitive feminine singular)
"δῐαίτης" ≈ "(of) way of life" (genitive feminine singular)

The Greek words for "through" "(of) the" can be a play on words with "(of) way of life"

The English word "diet" comes, through French, from the Latin word "diaeta" ≈ "diet, regimen" (Medieval "assembly") and which comes from the ancient Greek word "δίαιτα" ≈ "way of living, residence, health regimen" and related meanings.

Job 5:3 I have seen the foolish taking root: but suddenly I cursed his habitation. [kjv]

εγω δε εωρακα αφρονας ριζαν βαλλοντας αλλ ευθεως εβρωθη αυτων η διαιτα [lxx]

The English word "diet" comes, through French, from the Latin word "diaeta" ≈ "diet, regimen" (Medieval "assembly") and which comes from the ancient Greek word "δίαιτα" ≈ "way of living, residence, health regimen" and related meanings.

What was the main food at the Diet of Worms in 1521? When Luther would not recant, the Pope declared Luther a heretic in the Edict of Worms. This was the famous "here I stand" declaration by Luther.

More: Martin Luther

Job 5:3

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KJV: I have seen the foolish taking root: but suddenly I cursed his habitation.

Hebrew: אני ראיתי אויל משריש ואקוב נוהו פתאם׃

Greek: εγω δε εωρακα αφρονας ριζαν βαλλοντας αλλ ευθεως εβρωθη αυτων η διαιτα

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "στενή" ≈ "narrow, tight" and is the source of the English word "stenography" (e.g., shorthand) as, literally, "narrow writing". The English word "strait" means "narrow" is in the "Strait" of "Gibraltar", (Pillars of Hercules), the "Bering" "Strait" (between Russia and Alaska), "straitjacket", etc. The modern Greek word "στενή" (steh-NEE) ≈ "narrow".

The Middle English word "streit" ≈ "strait" and is from the Latin word "stringo" ≈ "compress, tighten" which is the source of English words such as "strict".

The British rock band Dire Straits was formed in 1977. A popular single song was Sultans of Swing.

USS Haynsworth

The English word "strait" means "narrow".

How did the huge Persian army get across the Dardanelles?

For the Persian army to get from Asia Minor (Turkey) to Greek, it was necessary to cross over. The best places to do this is called the Dardanelles or the Bosporus (literally, "cow crossing" in folk etymology). These crossing points separate the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea.

More: Persian invasions of Greece

Herodotus reports that Xerxes, son of Darius, about 482 BC, had two pontoon bridges built across the Hellespont.

Herodotus reports that a storm destroyed the bridges and Xerxes had the builders executed (beheaded) and had the straight itself whipped (300 lashes) as a punishment.

The engineers then used ships lashed together with planks between them to allow the army to cross. Additional anchors were added to each ship to keep them from moving too much.

Some of those techniques are still used today.

More: Persian invasions of Greece

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

A play on words is that of "narrow" or "tight" with "fast" or "not eating".

"στενή" ≈ "narrow, tight".
"νῆστῐ" ≈ "not eating, hungry" (vocative singular).

"νῆστις" ≈ "not eating, hungry" (adjective), literally "having no eating".
"νηστεία" ≈ "fast, fasting" (noun)

What is the spiritual importance of "not eating"?

Matthew 6:18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. [kjv]

οπως μη φανης τοις ανθρωποις νηστευων αλλα τω πατρι σου τω εν τω κρυφαιω και ο πατηρ σου ο βλεπων εν τω κρυφαιω αποδωσει σοι [gnt]

"νηστεία" ≈ "fast, period of not eating, fasting" (feminine noun).
"νῆστις" ≈ "hungry, starved, fasting" (adjective)
"νηστεύω" ≈ "fasting, abstaining from food" (verb) which is usually self-imposed.

Some play on words may be with the following.

"νίζω" ≈ "wash (feet)".
"νήφω" ≈ "be or stay sober, level-headed".

The modern Greek word "ύφαλος" (EE-fa-los) ≈ "reef" is from the ancient Greek word "ύφαλος" ≈ "reef" as in a "rock" near the surface of the water but beneath the water it.

More: Matthew 6:16-18 The appearance of fast food disappearing

*G4081 *6 πηλός (pay-los') : perhaps a primary word; clay:--clay.

Words: πηλον=5 πηλου

The ancient Greek word "πηλός" ≈ "clay, earth, mud" (masculine or feminine). Figuratively it could be a "dolt" or "blockhead".

"πηλοῖς" ≈ "clay"(dative plural)

The modern Greek word "πηλός" (pee-LOS) ≈ "clay".

"πύλη" ≈ "wing of gates, entrance".
"πηλοί" ≈ "clay" (nominative/vocative plural)

*G4081 *6 πηλός (pay-los') : perhaps a primary word; clay:--clay.

Usage

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πηλον *5

John 9:6 ... and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
John 9:11 ... that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine ...
John 9:14 ... when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
John 9:15 ... He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, ...

πηλου

Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump ...

John 9:14 And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. [kjv]

ην δε σαββατον εν η ημερα τον πηλον εποιησεν ο ιησους και ανεωξεν αυτου τους οφθαλμους [gnt]

… lutum fecit … aperuit oculos … [v]

The ancient Greek word "πηλός" ≈ "clay, earth, mud" (masculine or feminine). Figuratively it could be a "dolt" or "blockhead".

"πηλοί" ≈ "clay" (nominative/vocative plural)
"πηλοῖς" ≈ "clay"(dative plural)

The modern Greek word "πηλός" (pee-LOS) ≈ "clay".

Jesus uses the word for "eye", literally a (folk etymology) of a "hole" into a "chamber", as a "bird" "house", as a false "leader" being the "lamp" of the "body". What is the possible symbolism of Jesus "opening" the "eyes" of the "blind"?

More: Matthew 6:22 Lamp of the body

More: Blind goats and prison pits in Matthew

More: Matthew 15:1-21 Blind leading the blind

John 9:14

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KJV: And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.

Greek: ην δε σαββατον οτε εν η ημερα τον πηλον εποιησεν ο ιησους και ανεωξεν αυτου τους οφθαλμους

Latin: erat autem sabbatum quando lutum fecit Iesus et aperuit oculos eius

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

T-shirt: In a world without fences, who needs Gates

Saying by Scott McNealy (1990's): In a world without fences and walls, who needs Gates and Windows? (i.e., Bill Gates and Microsoft Windows)

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

"πύλη" ≈ "wing of gates, entrance"
"πηλοί" ≈ "clay" (nominative/vocative plural)

Might the "gate" or "gates" be compared to "clay", "earth", "mud", "sand", etc.? How about a "stone" as a big piece of "sand"?

Are there "clay" "pigeons", "birds" or even "wolves" that prefer the "sand" or "clay" of human infrastructure?

More: Revelation 13:1 Hunt for a monstrous beast

More: Matthew 10:16 An unworldly thorny issue that is for the pigeon birds

More: Flipping the pigeon bird as reality or perception

Matthew 21:13 And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. [kjv]

και λεγει αυτοις γεγραπται ο οικος μου οικος προσευχης κληθησεται υμεις δε αυτον ποιειτε σπηλαιον ληστων [gnt]

"ληστής" ≈ "robber, bandit" who uses force to steal or plunder. The word is from "ληΐς" ≈ "booty, spoil".
"κλέπτης" ≈ "thief, deceitful person" as in the first part of the English word "kleptomaniac".

Jesus uses the phrase "den" of "robbers". A "thief" uses deception. A "robber" uses force.

"σπήλαιον" ≈ "grotto, cave, cavern, den, lair".
"τᾰ̀ σπήλαιᾰ" ≈ "the caves" (nominative)
"τῶν σπηλαίων" ≈ "(of the) caves" (genitive)
"τοῖς σπηλαίοις" ≈ "the caves" (dative)
"τοῖς σπηλαίοις" ≈ "the caves" (accusative)
"σπήλαιᾰ" ≈ "caves" (vocative)

Matthew 21:13

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KJV: And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Greek: και λεγει αυτοις γεγραπται ο οικος μου οικος προσευχης κληθησεται υμεις δε αυτον εποιησατε ποιειτε σπηλαιον ληστων

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

Slide the "S" duplication and the similar sounding vowels.

[not eating]

"τῆς" ≈ "the" (feminine genitive singular)
"τοῖς" ≈ "the" (dative neuter plural)
"στενῆς" ≈ "narrow, tight" (feminine genitive singular)
"στενοῖς" ≈ "narrow, tight" (dative neuter plural)
"πύλης" ≈ "gate" (feminine genitive singular)
"σπηλαίοις" ≈ "the caves, dens, lairs" (dative neuter plural)

[sheep count, monastery fumigation]

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Where are the "corners" of the "wide area" or "plaza"?

Are they like the "four" "winds"? What are the "four" "winds"?

More: Matthew 6:5 Prayer acting in a corner

More: An unlawful wind as an air of the spirit

More: Matthew 11:7-9 Shaken in the wind

Revelation 7:1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. [kjv]

μετα τουτο ειδον τεσσαρας αγγελους εστωτας επι τας τεσσαρας γωνιας της γης κρατουντας τους τεσσαρας ανεμους της γης ινα μη πνεη ανεμος επι της γης μητε επι της θαλασσης μητε επι παν δενδρον [gnt]

"ἄνεμος" ≈ "wind, breeze, gale" and often used in verses with Satan or the devil as "accuser" throwing/breathing accusations.
"ἄνομος" ≈ "without law" which could be "lawless", "impious", "unmusical", "illegal", etc.
"γωνία" ≈ "corner, angle" and "σιαγών" ≈ "jaw, jawbone".
"ἀγωνα" ≈ "gathering, contest, competition" and is the source of the English word "agony".
Where are the "four" "corners" of the "earth"?
What would happen if the "wind" were to stop "blowing"?

More: Matthew 5:39 Turning the other cheek

More: Against the law: out-law or in-law

More: The weeping and the gnashing of the teeth

What might be the "four" "winds"?

Consider the "scattered" "path".

#2: Weeds, TC9: No false witness.	#3: Tree: TC8: No stealing
#4: Leaven: TC7: No adultery	#7: Harvest: TC6: No killing/murder

Consider the parable of the wedding feast.

#5: Those to the (treasure in the) field :: wide area :: life
#6: Those to merchandise (pearl of great price) :: wide area :: outer darkness
#2, #3, #4, #7: Remnant (destroyed) :: scattered path :: furnace of fire

More: Matthew 22:1-14 Parable of the wedding feast

More: Against the law: out-law or in-law

More: The weeping and the gnashing of the teeth

*G4113 *9 πλατεῖα (plat-i'-ah) : feminine of G4116; a wide "plat" or "place", i.e. open square:--street.

Usage

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πλατεια *1 of 9

Revelation 21:21 ... one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, ...

Words: πλατεια=1 πλατειαις=2 πλατειας=5 πλατειων

*G4113 *9 πλατεῖα (plat-i'-ah) : feminine of G4116; a wide "plat" or "place", i.e. open square:--street.

Usage

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πλατειας *5

Luke 10:10 ... not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say,
Luke 14:21 ... Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, ...
Acts 5:15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on ...
Revelation 11:8 And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which ...
Revelation 22:2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side ...

πλατειαις *2

Matthew 12:19 ... his voice in the streets.
Luke 13:26 ... thou hast taught in our streets.

πλατειων

Matthew 6:5 ... and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen ...

πλατεια

Revelation 21:21 ... one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, ...

*G4116 *1 πλατύς (plat-oos') : from G4111; spread out "flat" ("plot"), i.e. broad:--wide.

Usage

All

πλατεια

Matthew 7:13 ... the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad ...

Words: πλατεια=1

The ancient Greek word "πλατύς" ≈ "wide, flat" and is related to the English word "flat" and is the source of the English words "platitude" and "platypus" (flat feet).
The English word "plaza" is from the Spanish word "plaza" ≈ "town-square, central place of gathering" which is from the Latin word "platea" ≈ "broad way, street, open space" which is from the ancient Greek word "πλατεῖα" ≈ "wide, broad" which is short for the ancient Greek word "πλατεῖα ὁδός" ≈ "broad way".

More: Streets: Flowing after a path into a plaza

Percy Platypus and His Friends, by Marijane Landis, which aired from 1955 until 1974, from WGAL TV 8 in Lancaster PA.
The ancient Greek word "πλατύς" ≈ "wide, flat" and is related to the English word "flat" and is the source of the English words "platitude" and "platypus" (flat feet).

*G4143 *66 πλοῖον (ploy'-on) : from G4126; a sailer, i.e. vessel:--ship(-ing).

Words: πλοια=5 πλοιον=33 πλοιου=11 πλοιω=15 πλοιων=2

The ancient Greek word "πλοῖον" ≈ "boat, ship" which comes from "πλέω" ≈ "sail".

The ancient Greek word "τα πλοῖα" ≈ "the boats" (as used). Is it "better together" or "bitter together"?

*G4143 *66 πλοῖον (ploy'-on) : from G4126; a sailer, i.e. vessel:--ship(-ing).

Usage

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πλοια *5 of 66

Mark 4:36 ... even as he was in the ship. And there were also ...
Luke 5:7 ... were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.
Luke 5:11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook ...
James 3:4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and ...
Revelation 18:19 ... were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of ...

Luke 5:11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him. [kjv]

και καταγαγοντες τα πλοια επι την γην αφεντες παντα ηκολουθησαν αυτω [gnt]

Saying: Your ship has arrived!.
The ancient Greek word "πλοῖον" ≈ "boat, ship" which comes from "πλέω" ≈ "sail".

The ancient Greek word "τα πλοῖα" ≈ "the boats" (as used). Is it "better together" or "bitter together"?

The ancient Greek word "τα πλοῖα" ≈ "the boats". The prefix of the next word in the gate verse is that of "good".

The 1934 song "On the Good Ship Lollipop" was the signature song of Shirley Temple which she sang when she was six years old.

Luke 5:11

All

KJV: And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

Greek: και καταγαγοντες τα πλοια επι την γην αφεντες απαντα παντα ηκολουθησαν αυτω

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

There appear to be many "boats" (plural) for the "many".

How "many" "boats" are needed?

"πλατεῖα" ≈ "wide, broad" (unique translation as adjective, usual is "plaza" as noun)
"τα πλοῖα" ≈ "the boats".

[widen the prisons]

More: Matthew 23:5 Broad prison boxes and head shackles

Matthew 23:5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, [kjv]

παντα δε τα εργα αυτων ποιουσιν προς το θεαθηναι τοις ανθρωποις πλατυνουσιν γαρ τα φυλακτηρια αυτων και μεγαλυνουσιν τα κρασπεδα [gnt]

Paraphrase: But all their works they do to be seen [as Athena, yes, Greek goddess of birds and snakes, etc.] of men. They widen (wide area) their phylacteries (prisons, sanctuaries) and make great the borders [head shackles].
The TR adds "of their garments" which breaks the model.

More: Matthew 23:5 Broad prison boxes and head shackles

Revelation 18:19 And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness ! for in one hour is she made desolate. [kjv]

και εβαλον χουν επι τας κεφαλας αυτων και εκραξαν κλαιοντες και πενθουντες λεγοντες ουαι ουαι η πολις η μεγαλη εν η επλουτησαν παντες οι εχοντες τα πλοια εν τη θαλασση εκ της τιμιοτητος αυτης οτι μια ωρα ηρημωθη [gnt]

What type of "boats" may be meant?

The ancient Greek word "χους" ≈ "dust". The modern Greek word "χάος" (HA-os) ≈ "chaos, disorder".
The English word "woe" appears many times in the Bible. Think of a "bird" of prey (eagle, hawk, owl, vulture, etc.) swooping down. Sometimes the English word "alas" is used for "woe".

More: Genesis 1:6-8 A gaping gap between chasm and chaos

More: Revelation 18:1-24 Cagey birds and the end of Babylon

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

"ὁδός" ≈ "way, path" as in the last part of the English words "method" and "exodus".

There is a different "way" in each of these two verses.

The "broad" "way" to the "loss". What is the "loss"? A context is needed for "destruction". More context is needed for eternal "destruction"
The "scattered" "way" to the "life". What is the "life"? A context is needed for eternal "life".

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ὁδός" ≈ "way, path" as in the last part of the English words "method" and "exodus". Early Christians were said to follow the "way".

Where are the two "paths" or "ways" located? Are the two "paths" bi-directional? Can you go both ways?

Is the "path" or "way" a process, a destination, both, etc.?

Matthew 11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. [kjv]

ο γαρ ζυγος μου χρηστος και το φορτιον μου ελαφρον εστιν [gnt]

1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. [kjv]

ιακωβ δε εγεννησεν τον ιωσηφ τον ανδρα μαριας εξ ης εγεννηθη ιησους ο λεγομενος χριστος [gnt]

The Greek for "yoke" is, literally, "two going together". There is a play on words of "useful", not "easy", with "Christ". Today these words mean the same thing and are pronounced the same.

"χρηστός" ≈ "useful". Without the play on words: My yoke is useful.
"χριστός" ≈ "anointed one, Christ". With the play on words: My yoke is Christ.

Paul uses the same play on words in Romans 16 where false teachers will use "useful" "words" rather than "Christ" "words"

More: Romans 16 A belly-ache pun on useful Christ-like words

There are interesting words in the intervening verses 18 to 29.

Details are left as a future topic.

More: Matthew 11:20-30 Upgraded baby yokes revealed

*G684 *18 ἀπώλεια (ap-o'-li-a) : from a presumed derivative of G622; ruin or loss (physical, spiritual or eternal):--damnable(-nation), destruction, die, perdition, X perish, pernicious ways, waste.

Words: απωλεια=4 απωλειαν=9 απωλειας=5

The ancient Greek word "απώλεια" ≈ "loss" and comes from "ἀπόλλυμι" ≈ "destroy, perish" which comes from two Greek words.

The ancient Greek prefix "ᾰ̓πο" ≈ "away" and implies some distance of separation.
The ancient Greek word "‎ὄλλῡμῐ" ≈ "destroy" which appears to be related to the Latin word "aboleo" ≈ "retard, destroy" which is the source of the English word "abolish".

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "απώλεια" ≈ "loss". In context, it can mean "destruction". Is there a personal "loss" when one sacrifices and does and "remains" doing good "works"?

The prefix "ἀπό" ≈ "away from" which has an idea of a "separating distance".
"λεῖος" ≈ "smooth, level, hairless" and cognate to the Latin word "levis" ≈ "smooth" which is the source of the English word "level".
"λεία" ≈ "smooth" (feminine singular nominative)

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "απώλεια" ≈ "loss". In context, it can mean "destruction". Is there a personal "loss" when one sacrifices and does and "remains" doing good "works"?

"εἰς" ≈ "into"
"ἔργᾰ" ≈ "works" (plural).
"μενη" ≈ "abide, remain".

The ancient Greek word "ἔργον" (er-gon) ≈ "work" is the source of the physics term "erg" for work and is related to many other PIE (Proto Indo-European) words for "work".

Matthew 10:12 And when ye come into an house, salute it. [kjv]

εισερχομενοι δε εις την οικιαν ασπασασθε αυτην [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "εἰσέρχομαι" ≈ "go or come in/into"and comes from two Greek words.

From your perspective on the outside, you would "go in" to "the" "house".
From the perspective of those on the inside, you wold "come in" to "the" "house".

The Greek is "the" "house" and not any "house".

Paraphrase: but then (when you) come/go into the house, salute/greet it.

To what does the "house" refer? You could say, "house it going today?".

Do you greet the "house" as a structure?
Do you greet the people in the "house"?

Note the use of "into" as a prefix to the verb "come into" and as a preposition for "into". This is, literally, "into-come/go into". This idea is important in negating the idea.

Matthew 10:12 And when ye come into an house, salute it. [kjv]

εισερχομενοι δε εις την οικιαν ασπασασθε αυτην [gnt]

"εἰς" ≈ "into".
"ἔργᾰ" ≈ "works" (plural).
"μενη" ≈ "abide, remain".

Does the play on words fit with this verse?

Matthew 10:12

All

KJV: And when ye come into an house, salute it.

Greek: εισερχομενοι δε εις την οικιαν ασπασασθε αυτην

*G2346 *10 θλίβω (thlee'-bo) : akin to the base of G5147; to crowd (literally or figuratively):--afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble.

Words: θλιβεσθαι θλιβομεθα θλιβομενοι=3 θλιβομενοις=2 θλιβουσιν θλιβωσιν τεθλιμμενη=1

The ancient Greek word "θλίβω" ≈ "squeeze, compress, oppress, afflict".

The ancient Greek word "τετριμμένος" ≈ "rubbed, worn out" from "τρίβω" ≈ "rub, grind, waste, wear away" and is cognate with the Latin word "tero" ≈ "rub, wear away, consume". (obliterate)

*G2346 *10 θλίβω (thlee'-bo) : akin to the base of G5147; to crowd (literally or figuratively):--afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble.

Usage

All

θλιβομενοι *3

2 Corinthians 4:8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; ...
2 Corinthians 7:5 ... rest, but we were troubled on every side; without ...
Hebrews 11:37 ... goat skins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

θλιβομενοις *2

2 Thessalonians 1:7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, ...
1 Timothy 5:10 ... feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every ...

τεθλιμμενη

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto ...

θλιβωσιν

Mark 3:9 ... because of the multitude, lest they should throng him.

θλιβομεθα

2 Corinthians 1:6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation ...

θλιβεσθαι

1 Thessalonians 3:4 ... before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, ...

θλιβουσιν

2 Thessalonians 1:6 ... God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "θλίβω" ≈ "squeeze, compress, oppress, afflict".

The ancient Greek word "τετριμμένος" ≈ "rubbed, worn out" from "τρίβω" ≈ "rub, grind, waste, wear away" and is cognate with the Latin word "tero" ≈ "rub, wear away, consume" (obliterate).

[play on words]

Leviticus 22:24 Ye shall not offer unto the LORD that which is bruised, or crushed, or broken, or cut; neither shall ye make any offering thereof in your land. [kjv]

θλαδιαν και εκτεθλιμμενον και εκτομιαν και απεσπασμενον ου προσαξεις αυτα τω κυριω και επι της γης υμων ου ποιησετε [lxx]

That which has broken testicles, or is crushed or gelt or mutilated, —you shall not offer them to the Lord, neither shall you° sacrifice them upon your land. [bs3]

Leviticus 22:24

All

KJV: Ye shall not offer unto the LORD that which is bruised, or crushed, or broken, or cut; neither shall ye make any offering thereof in your land.

Hebrew: ומעוך וכתות ונתוק וכרות לא תקריבו ליהוה ובארצכם לא תעשו׃

Greek: θλαδιαν και εκτεθλιμμενον και εκτομιαν και απεσπασμενον ου προσαξεις αυτα τω κυριω και επι της γης υμων ου ποιησετε

Brenton: That which has broken testicles, or is crushed or gelt or mutilated, —you shall not offer them to the Lord, neither shall you° sacrifice them upon your land.

Isaiah 18:7 In that time shall the present be brought unto the LORD of hosts of a people scattered and peeled, and from a people terrible from their beginning hitherto; a nation meted out and trodden under foot, whose land the rivers have spoiled, to the place of the name of the LORD of hosts, the mount Zion. [kjv]

εν τω καιρω εκεινω ανενεχθησεται δωρα κυριω σαβαωθ εκ λαου τεθλιμμενου και τετιλμενου και απο λαου μεγαλου απο του νυν και εις τον αιωνα χρονον εθνος ελπιζον και καταπεπατημενον ο εστιν εν μερει ποταμου της χωρας αυτου εις τον τοπον ου το ονομα κυριου σαβαωθ επεκληθη ορος σιων [lxx]

In that time shall presents be brought to the Lord of hosts from a people afflicted and peeled, and from a people great from henceforth and for ever; a nation hoping and yet trodden down, which is in a part of a river of his land, to the place where is the name of the Lord of hosts, the mount Sion. [bs3]

Isaiah 18:7

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KJV: In that time shall the present be brought unto the LORD of hosts of a people scattered and peeled, and from a people terrible from their beginning hitherto; a nation meted out and trodden under foot, whose land the rivers have spoiled, to the place of the name of the LORD of hosts, the mount Zion.

Hebrew: בעת ההיא יובל שי ליהוה צבאות עם ממשך ומורט ומעם נורא מן הוא והלאה גוי קו קו ומבוסה אשר בזאו נהרים ארצו אל מקום שם יהוה צבאות הר ציון׃

Greek: εν τω καιρω εκεινω ανενεχθησεται δωρα κυριω σαβαωθ εκ λαου τεθλιμμενου και τετιλμενου και απο λαου μεγαλου απο του νυν και εις τον αιωνα χρονον εθνος ελπιζον και καταπεπατημενον ο εστιν εν μερει ποταμου της χωρας αυτου εις τον τοπον ου το ονομα κυριου σαβαωθ επεκληθη ορος σιων

Brenton: In that time shall presents be brought to the Lord of hosts from a people afflicted and peeled, and from a people great from henceforth and for ever; a nation hoping and yet trodden down, which is in a part of a river of his land, to the place where is the name of the Lord of hosts, the mount Sion.

Isaiah 28:14 Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. [kjv]

δια τουτο ακουσατε λογον κυριου ανδρες τεθλιμμενοι και αρχοντες του λαου τουτου του εν ιερουσαλημ [lxx]

Therefore hear you° the word of the Lord, you° afflicted men, and you° princes of this people that is in Jerusalem. [bs3]

Isaiah 28:14

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KJV: Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem.

Hebrew: לכן שמעו דבר יהוה אנשי לצון משלי העם הזה אשר בירושלם׃

Greek: δια τουτο ακουσατε λογον κυριου ανδρες τεθλιμμενοι και αρχοντες του λαου τουτου του εν ιερουσαλημ

Brenton: Therefore hear you° the word of the Lord, you° afflicted men, and you° princes of this people that is in Jerusalem.

Jeremiah 2:13 For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water. [kjv]

οτι δυο πονηρα εποιησεν ο λαος μου εμε εγκατελιπον πηγην υδατος ζωης και ωρυξαν εαυτοις λακκους συντετριμμενους οι ου δυνησονται υδωρ συνεχειν [lxx]

There are two "evils". that have been "made" that involve two places.

1. Fountain (source) of living water. Might this correspond to the "wide" "way"?
2. Dug out scattered/broken pits that can hold no water. Might this correspond to the "scattered" "way"?

Barnabas makes a connection to this verse (11.2, omitted).

More: Matthew 10:8-10 The way out of the pit

More: Jeremiah 2:1-16

*G2353 *1 θρέμμα (threm'-mah) : from G5142; stock (as raised on a farm):--cattle.

Usage

All

θρεμματα

John 4:12 ... children, and his cattle?

Words: θρεμματα=1

The ancient Greek word "θρέμμα" ≈ "nursling, animal, creature" from "τρέφω" ≈ "make grow, maintain, rear".

The ancient Greek word "τετριμμένος" ≈ "rubbed, worn out" from "τρίβω" ≈ "rub, grind, waste, wear away" and is cognate with the Latin word "tero" ≈ "rub, wear away, consume" (obliterate).

[play on words]

John 4:12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? [kjv]

μη συ μειζων ει του πατρος ημων ιακωβ ος εδωκεν ημιν το φρεαρ και αυτος εξ αυτου επιεν και οι υιοι αυτου και τα θρεμματα αυτου [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "θρέμμα" ≈ "nursling, animal, creature" from "τρέφω" ≈ "make grow, maintain, rear".

More: Oaths and vows and wells

John 4:12

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KJV: Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?

Greek: μη συ μειζων ει του πατρος ημων ιακωβ ος εδωκεν ημιν το φρεαρ και αυτος εξ αυτου επιεν και οι υιοι αυτου και τα θρεμματα αυτου

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

The Greek word translated as "narrow" is that of "scattered" or "smashed". The ancient Greek word "στενή" ≈ "narrow, tight".

"θλίβω" ≈ "squeeze, compress, oppress, afflict".
"τετριμμένος" ≈ "rubbed, worn out" from "τρίβω" ≈ "rub, grind, waste, wear away" and is cognate with the Latin word "tero" ≈ "rub, wear away, consume" (obliterate).
"θρέμμα" ≈ "nursling, animal, creature" from "τρέφω" ≈ "make grow, maintain, rear".

[play on words]

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ζωή" ≈ "living, property, life" (feminine) and is the first part of the English word "zoology". Is there a context for eternal "life"?

What "life" might be meant? How about the "life" of personal "loss" by being "into" "remaining" to do good "works"?

Who might want to "tunnel" into that "life" in order to "feed" off of the "works" of others? Would "wolves" do this? Has Jesus talked about this previously in the Sermon on the Mount? How about in the previous chapter?

Jesus then announces the punishment/recompense for the "goats" and the reward for the "sheep" on the "right" as the "righteous".

Matthew 25:46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. [kjv]

και απελευσονται ουτοι εις κολασιν αιωνιον οι δε δικαιοι εις ζωην αιωνιον [gnt]

In the kingdom parables 2 and 7, the "angels" "burn" those who appear to be neither "sheep" nor "goats".

Here, in the parable of the "sheep" and "goats", Jesus as God and King sends the "goats" to "everlasting" "punishment".

#2: Weeds, TC9: No false witness.	#3: Tree: TC8: No stealing
#4: Leaven: TC7: No adultery	#7: Harvest: TC6: No killing/murder

Consider the parable of the wedding feast.

#5: Those to the (treasure in the) field :: wide area :: life
#6: Those to merchandise (pearl of great price) :: wide area :: outer darkness
#2, #3, #4, #7: Remnant (destroyed) :: scattered path :: furnace of fire

More: Matthew 22:1-14 Parable of the wedding feast

More: Against the law: out-law or in-law

Discuss: Does "everlasting punishment" require some form of "consciousness"? Is this the same as the kingdom parables 2 and 7 as being "burned" in the "fire"?

More: Matthew 25:31-46 Parable of the sheep and goats

Matthew 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: [kjv]

μη θησαυριζετε υμιν θησαυρους επι της γης οπου σης και βρωσις αφανιζει και οπου κλεπται διορυσσουσιν και κλεπτουσιν [gnt]

The "lay not up" relates to "myth serpent", where the made-up "serpentize" might be similar to the made-up "tennising".
The "moth" and "rust" "corrupt" is that of "your" "fasting" and "food" "disappear" (becomes invisible). The "break through" is that of "dig in" as to a "crypt" or "hidden place" or in "digging" a "canal" (Aristotle).

Play- on-word paraphrase: It is a myth that through a serpent you can treasurize your treasure here on the earth where your (fasting) and food disappear and clever deceptive thieves dig a channel and steal (take away something or bring in something to achieve their deceptive goals). [think Trojan Horse]

More: Daniel: Bel and the disappearing food

More: Matthew 6:19-21: A treasury of treasures of which to treasure

*G3641 *41 ὀλίγος (ol-ee'-gos) : of uncertain affinity; puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat:--+ almost, brief(-ly), few, (a) little, + long, a season, short, small, a while.

From the Cambridge Greek Lexicon (volume 2. p. 999), the ancient Greek word "ὀλίγος" ≈ "little in size, value, duration, etc.". The GNT meaning of "few" is definition 8 or 9 of 10 definitions.

Let's not start a "feud" over the "few". The Latin word "paucus" ≈ "little, few".

1. little in size or weight ‑ puny	6. little in intensity
2. little in significance	7. little in amount
3. little in value or worth	8. few in number
4. little in extent or area	9. few opposed to large
5. little in duration	10. only a little ‑ time, space, distance, etc.

More: The Cambridge Greek Lexicon

*G3641 *41 ὀλίγος (ol-ee'-gos) : of uncertain affinity; puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat:--+ almost, brief(-ly), few, (a) little, + long, a season, short, small, a while.

Words: ολιγα=6 ολιγαι ολιγας=2 ολιγην ολιγης ολιγοι=7 ολιγοις ολιγον=13 ολιγος=2 ολιγου ολιγω=4 ολιγων ολιγως

"ὀλίγοι" ≈ "little in size, value, duration, etc." (plural).
"ὦ" ≈ "oh (joy or pain)".
"λυκοί" ≈ "wolves" (could be a type of "bird").

[fish and gills]

*G3641 *41 ὀλίγος (ol-ee'-gos) : of uncertain affinity; puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat:--+ almost, brief(-ly), few, (a) little, + long, a season, short, small, a while.

Usage

All

ολιγοι *7 of 41

Matthew 7:14 ... unto life, and few there be that find it.
Matthew 9:37 ... is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
Matthew 22:14 ... are called, but few are chosen.
Luke 10:2 ... is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord ...
Luke 13:23 ... unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And ...
Acts 17:12 ... and of men, not a few.
1 Peter 3:20 ... while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight ...

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Why might Jesus use the phrase "and" "few"? My fish joke will gill you! Debate is very important to fisherman.

"και" ≈ "and" (conjunction).
"ὀλίγοι" ≈ "few, little, small" (plural) from "ὀλίγος" ≈ "few, little, small".
"καίω" ≈ "light, kindle, set on fire, burn, burn up, make very cold (frost)".

The ancient Greek word "λυκοί" ≈ "wolves" (used in the next verse) from "λύκος" ≈ "wolf" but could be a "jackdaw", "starling", "thrush", or similar bird.

Greek (as written): ... and few ...
Play on words: ... I burn wolves/birds ... (similarity of "g" and "k" sound)

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Can a "wolf" or "bird" "accept" Jesus?
Is Jesus then "inside" that "wolf" or "bird"?
Does the "wide" "area" have a "border" or "wall"?

Assume that these are answered with a "yes". How long, then, might Jesus need to be in the "wolves" or "birds" that have come "inside" the "wall" of the "wide" "area"?

[Matthew 18 and two or three, Jonah]

Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. [kjv]

These "two" or "three" appear to be the "hand", "foot" (for "two") and "eye" (for "three") that "gather together" for the purpose of "entrapment".

From the previous verses:

You as the "one" "little one" "accepts" "on" the "name" (of Jesus).
The "two" or "three" "gather together" "into" the "name" (of Jesus).

You are not alone. Jesus is in the "middle" with you, if you both "agree", to help withstand the "entrapment" of the "hand", "foot" and "eye" as they attempt to "entrap" you and as you try to "block" them ("cut" or "pluck" them out and "cast" away).

More: Matthew 18:18-20 Middle agreement to have anything done

1 2 3 4 5 + - ▶

Who is greatest? This is a part of Matthew 18.

You and Jesus (in you) must agree. That establishes a shared expectation of what is "good".

1. Love God and God's rules.
2. Love neighbor as oneself.

If not agreed, it appears that God will decide.

Matthew 18:2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, [kjv]

18:5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. [kjv]

18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. [kjv]

18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. [kjv]

The "sheep" are those that have "come into being" and are "forgiven".

More: Matthew 7:12 Not so golden rules

More: Matthew 18:18-20 Middle agreement to have anything done

Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. [kjv]

ου γαρ εισιν δυο η τρεις συνηγμενοι εις το εμον ονομα εκει ειμι εν μεσω αυτων [gnt]

18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? [kjv]

τοτε προσελθων ο πετρος ειπεν αυτω κυριε ποσακις αμαρτησει εις εμε ο αδελφος μου και αφησω αυτω εως επτακις [gnt]

The same word "εις" ≈ "into" where the meaning can be modified by context. The Greek word for "into" can, in context, mean "against" as in getting "into" your face, tearing "into" you, etc. The two ships crashed "into" each other.

The ancient Greek word "εις" ≈ "into". In context, it can mean "against". The ancient Greek word "ἐν" ≈ "in".

Translators tend to take great liberty in translating the Greek.

18:20 .. gathered together in my name ...
18:21 ... sin against me ...

Using the same meaning for the same word results in the two following choices. One way:

18:20 .. gathered together into my name ... (and "you")
18:21 ... sin into me ... (as the "you")

The other way:

18:20 .. gathered together against my name ... (and "you")
18:21 ... sin against me ... (as the "you")

There may be other ways. In the preceding verses, the "little ones" or "believers" (of any age) were connected with "you" as the "one" (one cookie rule).

Matthew 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? [kjv]

Peter then interrupts with a question which some pastors attribute to Peter making awkward statements. Peter tends to think as a scientist. What did Jesus say that might have lead Peter to make such an interruption?

Perhaps Peter added 2 (agreeing) plus 2 (gathered together) plus 3 (gathered together) to get 7.

Verse 1 says "at that same time". The verses right before in chapter 17 are for Peter to go get a "fish" and take the "coin" from the "mouth" of the "fish" and give it to the religious authorities "in place of" Jesus and Peter. Peter had not yet done this and had a lot on his mind at the time.

More: Matthew 17:24-27 Tacky attacks on a senseless tax

More: Matthew 18:21-22 The forgiving tymes they are a changin

More: Matthew 18:18-20 Middle agreement to have anything done

Matthew 12:40 For as Jonas was … in the whale's belly; … [kjv]

ωσπερ γαρ ην ιωνας εν τη κοιλια του κητους … [gnt]

The KJV (King James Version) moves the "three" "days" and "three" "nights" from after the "whale" to before the "belly". [temple woken up]

Greek: ... for as Jonah was in the belly of the whale ...
Play on words: ... for as the ages was (are) in the wolves of the wall ...

Might the "wolves" and the "wall" be related to the "wide" "area" connected by the "narrow" "gates"?

[Spoonerisms, Anabaptist book]

More: Punishment by Spoonerisms: switched consonants

More: Romans 16 A belly-ache pun on useful Christ-like words

More: Matthew 12:38-40 Sign sign everywhere a sign

*G2147 *175 εὑρίσκω (hyoo-ris'-ko) : heuro hyoo'-ro, which (together with another cognate form) heureo hyoo-reh'-o is used for it in all the tenses except the present and imperfect to find (literally or figuratively):--find, get, obtain, perceive, see.

Words: ευραμεν ευραμενος ευρεθεις ευρεθη=17 ευρεθημεν ευρεθην ευρεθηναι ευρεθησαν=2 ευρεθησομεθα ευρεθητε ευρεθω=2 ευρεθωσιν ευρειν=5 ευρεν=16 ευρες=2 ευρη=5 ευρηκα=2 ευρηκαμεν=2 ευρηκεναι ευρησει=8 ευρησεις ευρησετε=10 ευρησομεν ευρησουσιν=2 ευρητε=2 ευρισκει=12 ευρισκομεθα ευρισκομεν ευρισκον=4 ευρισκοντες=2 ευρισκω=6 ευροιεν ευρομεν=2 ευρον=33 ευροντες=8 ευρουσα ευρουσαι ευρω ευρωμεν ευρων=10 ευρωσιν=3 ηυρισκετο

The ancient Greek word "εὑρίσκω" ≈ "happen upon by chance, find, discover" and is the source of the English word "eureka" as in "I have found it". A play on words may be with "εύρος" ≈ "wind, breath",

*G2147 *175 εὑρίσκω (hyoo-ris'-ko) : heuro hyoo'-ro, which (together with another cognate form) heureo hyoo-reh'-o is used for it in all the tenses except the present and imperfect to find (literally or figuratively):--find, get, obtain, perceive, see.

Usage

All

ευρισκοντες *2 of 175

Matthew 7:14 ... and few there be that find it.
Acts 4:21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish ...

The ancient Greek word "εὑρίσκω" ≈ "happen upon by chance, find, discover" and is the source of the English word "eureka" as in "I have found it". A play on words may be with "εύρος" ≈ "wind, breath",

Jeremiah 50:7 All that found them have devoured them: and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers. [kjv]

παντες οι ευρισκοντες αυτους καταναλισκον αυτους οι εχθροι αυτων ειπαν μη ανωμεν αυτους ανθ ων ημαρτον τω κυριω νομη δικαιοσυνης τω συναγαγοντι τους πατερας αυτων [lxx]

Jeremiah 50:7

All

KJV: All that found them have devoured them: and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.

Hebrew: כל מוצאיהם אכלום וצריהם אמרו לא נאשם תחת אשר חטאו ליהוה נוה צדק ומקוה אבותיהם יהוה׃

Greek: παντες οι ευρισκοντες αυτους καταναλισκον αυτους οι εχθροι αυτων ειπαν μη ανωμεν αυτους ανθ ων ημαρτον τω κυριω νομη δικαιοσυνης τω συναγαγοντι τους πατερας αυτων

Lamentations 1:6 And from the daughter of Zion all her beauty is departed: her princes are become like harts that find no pasture, and they are gone without strength before the pursuer. [kjv]

και εξηλθεν εκ θυγατρος σιων πασα η ευπρεπεια αυτης εγενοντο οι αρχοντες αυτης ως κριοι ουχ ευρισκοντες νομην και επορευοντο εν ουκ ισχυι κατα προσωπον διωκοντος [lxx]

"νόμος" ≈ "custom, law, pasture".

[pasture]

More: Against the law: out-law or in-law

Lamentations 1:6

All

KJV: And from the daughter of Zion all her beauty is departed: her princes are become like harts that find no pasture, and they are gone without strength before the pursuer.

Hebrew: ויצא מן בת ציון כל הדרה היו שריה כאילים לא מצאו מרעה וילכו בלא כח לפני רודף׃

Greek: και εξηλθεν εκ θυγατρος σιων πασα η ευπρεπεια αυτης εγενοντο οι αρχοντες αυτης ως κριοι ουχ ευρισκοντες νομην και επορευοντο εν ουκ ισχυι κατα προσωπον διωκοντος

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "εὑρίσκω" ≈ "happen upon by chance, find, discover" and is the source of the English word "eureka" as in "I have found it". A play on words may be with "εύρος" ≈ "wind, breath",

The exact word used by Jesus for "found" is used two times in the LXX, by Jeremiah, and both times it is not in a good sense.

*G520 *15 ἀπάγω (ap-ag'-o) : from G575 and G71; to take off (in various senses):--bring, carry away, lead (away), put to death, take away.

Words: απαγαγων απαγε απαγετε απαγομενοι απαγομενους απαγουσα=2 απαχθηναι απηγαγον=7

The ancient Greek word "ἀπάγω" ≈ "lead away". Only in the GNT is the meaning that of "lead" without the idea of "away" with an idea of a separating distance.
The ancient Greek word "αγάπη" ≈ "totally devoted to, love" (noun) from which we get the word "agape" and "ἀγαπῶ" ≈ "devoted to" (verb) as a contracted form of "ἀγαπάω" ≈ "devoted to" (verb).

*G520 *15 ἀπάγω (ap-ag'-o) : from G575 and G71; to take off (in various senses):--bring, carry away, lead (away), put to death, take away.

Usage

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απαγουσα *2 of 15

Matthew 7:13 ... and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and ...
Matthew 7:14 ... and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and ...

Genesis 49:27 Benjamin shall ravin as a wolf: in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil. [kjv]

βενιαμιν λυκος αρπαξ το πρωινον εδεται ετι και εις το εσπερας διαδωσει τροφην [lxx]

Benjamin, as a ravening wolf, shall eat still in the morning, and at evening he gives food. [bs3]

ravaging (snatching up, harpoon, rapture) wolf (bird)
multi-colored flag
rampant homosexuality
wolf dog verses sheep dog

Saul, later Paul, was of the tribe of "Benjamin".

[vespers, seven spirits]

More: Vespers in the west at evening

More: Matthew 7:15 Sheep dogs and wolf dogs

More: Genesis 49:1-33 Jacob's blessings

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

In both verses, the Greek word for "lead away" is made up of two parts.

The prefix "ἀπο" ≈ "away from" which has an idea of a "separating distance".
The verb "άγω" ≈ "lead, go"

From the Cambridge Greek Lexicon (volume 1, p. 158), the ancient Greek word "ἀπάγω" ≈ "lead away". Only in the GNT is the meaning that of "lead".

Definitions 2 to 13 are narrowed meanings of primary meaning 1.

1. lead away	8. divert, distract (jury, audience)
2. drive or lead away (animals)	9. bring, convey or guide back
3. transport or take away	10. lead back, withdraw
4. take or go away	11. recall, compel to withdraw
5. remove or escort away	12. pay tribute, send back (in return)
6. arrest or deliver over	13. take in/away (opinions, assertions)
7. draw aside or back (archer)	14. lead towards life or destruction (GNT)

How does the English meaning of the verses change if the usual definition of that Greek word is used?

What is the "life"?
What is the "loss"?

More: The Cambridge Greek Lexicon

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Verse	As translated	Possible Greek meaning
7:13	leads into loss/destruction	leads away from into loss/destruction
7:14	leads into life	leads away from into life

How does the English meaning of the verses change if the usual definition of that Greek word is used?

Jesus is using non-verbal communication and needs to talk in such a way as to avoid trouble with spies (reporting back), later translators who might change what he is saying, etc. Play on words help accomplish both objectives.

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

*	Masc. Sing.	Masc. Plural	Fem. Sing.	Fem. Plural	Neuter Sing.	Neuter Plural
Nom.	αὐτὁς	αὐτοί	αὐτἡ	αὐταί	αὐτό	αὐτά
Gen.	αὐτοῦ	αὐτῶν	αὐτῆς	αὐτῶν	αὐτοῦ	αὐτῶν
Dat.	αὐτῷ	αὐτοῖς	αὐτῇ	αὐταῖς	αὐτῷ	αὐτοῖς
Acc.	αὐτόν	αὐτούς	αὐτήν	αὐτάς	αὐτό	αὐτά

The words translated as "thereat" and "it" are feminine (genitive and accusative). and are not ambiguous in and of themselves, unlike, for example, masculine and neuter genitive and dative.
There are four feminine nouns to which "αὐτής" ≈ "(of) her/it" (genitive) or "αὐτήν" ≈ "her/it" (accusative) could refer.

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

There are many feminine nouns to which "αὐτής" ≈ "(of) her/it" (genitive) or "αὐτήν" ≈ "her/it" (accusative) could refer. To complicate matters, some of the play on words are also feminine.

"πύλη" ≈ "wing of gates, entrance"

"πλᾰτεῖᾰ" ≈ "street, square, flat (of the hand)"

"ὁδός" ≈ "way, path"

"ἀπώλειον" ≈ "loss"

"ζωή" ≈ "living, property, life"

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Which feminine noun best fits the feminine pronoun in each of the two verses? Pronouns almost always refer to some noun that has already been stated.

verse	text	noun choice for pronoun it
7:13	many ... come in through it:	gate, (broad) way/path, loss
7:14	few ... find it:	gate, (scattered) way/path, loss, life

More: Pronouns

1 2 3 4 5 + - ▶

Notice that there are cost for everything. A profit can be made for each possible trade-off. Thus, all are profitable to some extent but some choices are more profitable than others.

In general, the extremes of either side are suboptimal. Most people prefer to migrate to the extremes of any issue rather than finding a compromise somewhere in the middle.

Discuss: How have churches through history handled compromise in regards to faith in Jesus?

More: 2 Timothy 3:13-17 All writings are surely written

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

Paraphrase. Go/come in through the [way of life] narrow gate [cave] seeing that wide [the ships] and broad [good calling] the path that leads away [devotion] into the loss/destruction and many there are who go/come in [into works remain]through it

7:13	to the right	Go /come in through the [way of life] narrow/tight gate [cave]
7:13	to the left	seeing that wide [the ships] and broad [good calling] the path
7:13	to the left	that leads away [devotion] into the loss (from doing good)
7:13	to the left	and many there are who go/come in [into works remain]
7:13	to the left	through it.

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

Paraphrase. Seeing that narrow (is) the gate [clay/sand] and scattered [but cattle] the path that leads away into the life and few there are who find it

7:14	to the right	seeing that narrow/tight (is) the gate [clay/sand]
7:14	to the right	and scattered [but cattle feeding] the path that leads away [devotion]
7:14	to the left	into the life (as a wolf/bird inside as a sheep)
7:14	to the right	and few [I burn wolves/birds] there are
7:14	to the right	who will find it.

7:13	to the right	Go /come in through the [way of life] narrow/tight gate [cave]
7:13	to the left	seeing that wide [the ships] and broad [good calling] the path
7:13	to the left	that leads away [devotion] into the loss (from doing good)
7:13	to the left	and many there are who go/come in [into works remain]
7:13	to the left	through it.
7:14	to the right	seeing that narrow/tight (is) the gate [clay/sand]
7:14	to the right	and scattered [but cattle feeding] the path that leads away [devotion]
7:14	to the left	into the life (as a wolf/bird inside as a sheep)
7:14	to the right	and few [I burn wolves/birds] there are
7:14	to the right	who will find it.

You might think that Jesus should have provided warnings about verses such as these getting changed. One might want to check the next verse.

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [kjv]

προσεχετε απο των ψευδοπροφητων οιτινες ερχονται προς υμας εν ενδυμασιν προβατων εσωθεν δε εισιν λυκοι αρπαγες [gnt]

Dogs are known as man's best friend. The dog breed is related to the wolf breed and can interbreed. Two dogs may appear similar, but one may be a sheep dog and another a wolf dog.

A sheep dog is like a bishop who travels around keeping the faithful in line.
A wolf dog or ravenous wolf is a (false ) leader or eye in the church not sparing the flock. Jesus uses the word "wolf" in a manner similar to how he refers to the "birds".

Jesus warns of this. It might be important and useful to distinguish these types of dogs.

More: Interbreeding

More: Matthew 10: 28-31 Taking care of the sparrows

More: Crying wolf for the search and seizure of the rapture

More: Matthew 7:15 Sheep dogs and wolf dogs

Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [kjv]

εισελθατε δια της στενης πυλης οτι πλατεια και ευρυχωρος η οδος η απαγουσα εις την απωλειαν και πολλοι εισιν οι εισερχομενοι δι αυτης [gnt]

7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [kjv]

προσεχετε απο των ψευδοπροφητων οιτινες ερχονται προς υμας εν ενδυμασιν προβατων εσωθεν δε εισιν λυκοι αρπαγες [gnt]

Can the "wolves" be "inside" the "wide" "area" rather than being "inside" the "clothing" of "sheep"?
Can the "wolves" effectively switch the direction signs by "rapturing" or "snatching" the meaning of "lead away (from)" to "lead (to)"

More: Seeking a research way to search

Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [kjv]

οτι στενη η πυλη και τεθλιμμενη η οδος η απαγουσα εις την ζωην και ολιγοι εισιν οι ευρισκοντες αυτην [gnt]

7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [kjv]

προσεχετε απο των ψευδοπροφητων οιτινες ερχονται προς υμας εν ενδυμασιν προβατων εσωθεν δε εισιν λυκοι αρπαγες [gnt]

Can the "wolves" "inside" the "wide" area effectively switch the direction signs by "rapturing" or "snatching" the meaning of "lead away (from)" to "lead (to)"? People understand a New York or New England accent even with the almost silent letter "r".

[fish gills]

Some words:

"κοντός" ≈ "(short) pole" which led to the modern Greek word "κοντός" (kon-TOS) ≈ "pole".
"δορῠφόρος" ≈ "(long) speer".
"ἀκόντιον" ≈ "javelin".
"ἄκων" ≈ "unwilling, dart, javelin".

Luke 13:23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, [kjv]

ειπεν δε τις αυτω κυριε ει ολιγοι οι σωζομενοι ο δε ειπεν προς αυτους [gnt]

13:24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. [kjv]

αγωνιζεσθε εισελθειν δια της στενης θυρας οτι πολλοι λεγω υμιν ζητησουσιν εισελθειν και ουκ ισχυσουσιν [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "αγονία" ≈ "contest, competition". This is an active striving as in athletic competition. It is not a passive thought process.

What people remembered in Luke is not what is in Matthew. The two "gates" become one. The word for "door" is changed and thus loses the play on words. The "strait" is not "straight" but "narrow" as in the "strait" of "Gibraltar" or the "Bering" "strait".

The KJV translates as "not be able" the Greek that is "not strong (enough)". To be "strong" enough to "enter in" the "gate" to "loss" or "destruction" one needs to be a "wolf" or "bird" and "few" do this.

More: An opposite angle on the agony of punishment

More: Matthew 5:39 Turning the other cheek

Luke 13:23

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KJV: Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,

Greek: ειπεν δε τις αυτω κυριε ει ολιγοι οι σωζομενοι ο δε ειπεν προς αυτους

Luke 13:24

All

KJV: Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

Greek: αγωνιζεσθε εισελθειν δια της στενης πυλης θυρας οτι πολλοι λεγω υμιν ζητησουσιν εισελθειν και ουκ ισχυσουσιν

Here is a paraphrase parable loosely based on some of the parables of Jesus.

1. Man one believed but spent all his time crusading for the belief that Jesus was one substance and fully human and fully God.
2. Man two believed but spent all his time crusading for the belief that Jesus was really God but just appeared to be human.
3. Man three believed but ignored the beliefs of man one and man two and went around doing good works, avoiding glory, and being passive when confronted.

Who did the will of the Father?

What happened to the men?

Man two condemned and executed man three for heresy. Man one wanted to condemn and execute man three for heresy but settled for condemning and executing man two for heresy. Compare and contrast this parable with the history of the church.

[partisan warfare, wash each other's feet]

More: Matthew 21:28-32 Will of the Father

Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley (two sides)
Matthew 7:3-5 Beams and motes: the devil is in the details (two sides)
Matthew 7:6 The hunt for holy hound splits (split)
Matthew 7:7-10 Ask and seek and knock gifts to children (two sides)
Matthew 7:11 Good gifts and bad gifts (two sides continued)
Matthew 7:12 Not so golden rules (declarative design rule)
Matthew 7:13-14 Strait talk about narrow and wide gates (this page) (operational implementation)
Matthew 7:15 Sheep dogs and wolf dogs (operational implementation continued)
Matthew 7:17-20 Fruit trees programmed to produce fruit of their kind (decision procedures)
Matthew 7:21-23 Sermon on the Mount before the summary
Matthew 7:24-27 Building a house on sand
Matthew 7:24-27 Rain, rivers and wind: code word interpretation