What Is the Parable of the Ten Virgins?
What Is the Parable of the Ten Virgins? Jesus taught that five wise virgins who kept oil in their lamps were ready when the bridegroom came, while five foolish ones were shut out—teaching the importance of spiritual readiness.
Key verse: Matthew 25:4 (KJV)
Jesus taught that five wise virgins who kept oil in their lamps were ready when the bridegroom came, while five foolish ones were shut out—teaching the importance of spiritual readiness.
Jesus taught that five wise virgins who kept oil in their lamps were ready when the bridegroom came, while five foolish ones were shut out—teaching the importance of spiritual readiness.
"But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps." — Matthew 25:4 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
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The Biblical Answer
Found in Matthew 25:1-13, the parable of the ten virgins illustrates the need for constant spiritual preparedness. Ten virgins waited for a bridegroom; five were wise and brought extra oil, while five were foolish and did not. When the bridegroom arrived at midnight, only the wise virgins had enough oil to light their lamps and enter the wedding feast. The foolish virgins were left outside. Jesus concluded with the warning: 'Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour.' The oil represents spiritual readiness—a genuine, sustained relationship with God that cannot be borrowed from others at the last moment.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Fasting?
What the Bible teaches about fasting, its purpose, and how to fast in a way that honors God.
Key Scripture References
"But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps."
"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
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Yes — the Bible teaches that Jesus is fully God and fully man, the second person of the Trinity.
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Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
Related Reading
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The Parable of the Ten Virgins
Matthew 25:13 • Judgment & Readiness
Parable of the Ten Virgins Quiz
Wise and foolish — be ready, for the bridegroom cometh (Matthew 25).
Romans 8:38-39 Commentary
In-depth study • Inseparable Love of God
Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Matthew. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Matthew on day 284 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Is the Parable of the Ten Virgins?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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