Book of Matthew - Chapter 13 - Verse 2

This Bible verse, found in the book of Matthew in the New Testament, describes how large crowds of people gathered around Jesus to hear him teach. The crowds were so numerous that Jesus had to go onto a ship and sit while the people stood on the shore listening to him. This image of Jesus on a ship with the multitude on the shore is a powerful symbol of the way in which he attracted and engaged with people during his ministry. It shows how his message resonated with many and drew them in, eager to hear his words and be in his presence. This verse highlights the impact that Jesus had on people's lives and the importance of his teachings to those who followed him. It is a reminder of the way in which Jesus was able to connect with and inspire people from all walks of life.

In the theological interpretation of the verse, the image of Jesus teaching from a boat while a crowd gathers around him on the shore carries symbolic significance. The boat represents a place of stability and safety in the midst of chaos and tumultuous waters, which can be seen as a metaphor for the world. By going into the boat and sitting down, Jesus takes on the role of a teacher or preacher, imparting spiritual knowledge and wisdom to the eager listeners on the shore. The act of the whole multitude standing on the shore while Jesus sits in the boat may also symbolize the traditional relationship between teacher and disciples, where the teacher imparts knowledge from a place of authority and the disciples receive it with reverence and humility. This scene highlights the importance of seeking spiritual guidance and wisdom from a higher source, represented by Jesus, in order to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life.