Matthew 11:29

learn of me i. e. "become my disciples;" an idea also conveyed by the word "yoke," which was used commonly among the Jews for the yoke of instruction. Stier quotes from the Mishna, "Take upon you the yoke of the holy kingdom." Men of Belial="Men without the yoke," "the uninstructed."

for(or, because) I am meek and lowly in heart The character of Jesus described by Himself; cp. 2 Corinthians 10:1, "the meekness and gentleness of Christ." It is this character that brings rest to the soul, and therefore gives us a reason why men should become His disciples.

rest unto your souls Cp. Jeremiah 6:16, "Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein."

unto your souls Not relief from externalbodily toil.

my burden is light Contrast with this the burden of the Pharisees, ch. Matthew 23:4, "heavy burdens and grievous to be borne."