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    In Context

    What Is the Parable of the Ten Virgins — In Biblical Context

    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.

    Quick Answer

    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)

    The Biblical Context

    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.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Matthew 25:4, sits inside Matthew 25. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps."
    — Matthew 25:4 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Matthew 25:13
    "Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."

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    Meaning

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