Matthew 10:12

12 And as ye enter into a house salute it.

Matthew 10:12 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 10:12

And when ye come into an house
Or the "house"; that is, the house of an hospitable man, when, upon inquiry, found out:

salute it;
meaning the inhabitants of it; or, as the Persic version reads, those of the household, especially the master of the family. Some copies add, saying, peace be to this house, as in ( Luke 10:5 ) and so read the Vulgate Latin, and Munster's Hebrew Gospel; and is a very just, and proper explanation of saluting: for the usual form of salutation among the Jews was in such words; of which (See Gill on Matthew 5:47) by which is meant all kind of happiness, and prosperity, temporal, spiritual, and eternal.

Matthew 10:12 In-Context

10 nor scrip for the way, nor two body coats, nor sandals, nor a staff: for the workman is worthy of his nourishment.

11 But into whatsoever city or village ye enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and there remain till ye go forth.

12 And as ye enter into a house salute it.

13 And if the house indeed be worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.

14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, as ye go forth out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit. 'the:' it hardly alludes to the house in ver. 11, for ver. 13 seems to preclude this. It is going into the house, in contrast with the street.