The Parable of the Pearl or the Pearl of Great Price is a parable told by Jesus in explaining the value of the Kingdom of Heaven, according to Matthew 13:45-46. Other uses of this title refer to this parable.

In explaining the value of the Kingdom of Heaven, Jesus relates the story of a trader who discovered an extremely valuable pearl. The trader sold all that he had to raise money to purchase the pearl; with the final result that he was wealthier than before. The implied analogy was that the Kingdom of Heaven was of such worth that his disciples should gladly be willing to give up their wealth and comfort to obtain it.

From the Gospel of Matthew (KJV):

13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

13:46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

From the Gospel of Thomas (Patterson-Meyer Translation):

76. Jesus said, "The Father's kingdom is like a merchant who had a supply of merchandise and found a pearl. That merchant was prudent; he sold the merchandise and bought the single pearl for himself. So also with you, seek his treasure that is unfailing, that is enduring, where no moth comes to eat and no worm destroys."

See also

• Hymn of the Pearl

Christian texts | Parables of Jesus

Köstliche Perle | Multevalora Perlo | முத்து உவமை | 尋珠的比喻