King James Version

What Does Colossians 2:21 Mean?

Colossians 2:21 in the King James Version says “(Touch not; taste not; handle not;” — study this verse from Colossians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“(Touch not; taste not; handle not;”

Colossians 2:21 · KJV

Context

19

And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.

20

Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, rudiments: or, elements

21

(Touch not; taste not; handle not;

22

Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

23

Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. neglecting: or, punishing, or, not sparing

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
(Touch not; taste not; handle not; Paul provides examples of regulations characterizing false teaching: mē hapsē, mēde geusē, mēde thiгēs (μὴ ἅψῃ, μηδὲ γεύσῃ, μηδὲ θίγῃς, "Don't handle, don't taste, don't touch"). The progression moves from minimal contact (touch) through consumption (taste) to any connection (handle), creating comprehensive prohibition. Such ascetic restrictions promised spiritual purity through material abstinence.

The staccato rhythm and emphatic negations convey the oppressive, joyless character of legalism—a religion of prohibitions rather than positive relationship. This anticipates verse 23: such regulations appear wise but lack power to restrain fleshly indulgence. Legalism promises mastery over flesh through external restriction but produces either proud self-righteousness (if rules are kept) or defeated guilt (when broken).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Both Jewish and Greek religious systems featured ascetic practices: dietary restrictions, sexual abstinence, property renunciation. Such disciplines were considered evidence of spiritual advancement and mastery over bodily passions. Gnostic movements developing in this era particularly emphasized asceticism, viewing matter as inherently evil and requiring suppression. Paul will argue (v. 23) that such approaches are powerless against genuine sin.

Reflection Questions

  1. What prohibitions do you or your Christian community emphasize that Scripture doesn't actually require?
  2. How does your spirituality focus on what you don't do versus who you're becoming in Christ?
  3. Can you distinguish between biblical holiness and man-made asceticism designed to demonstrate spiritual superiority?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 6 words
Μὴ1 of 6

“not”

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

ἅψῃ2 of 6

“(Touch”

G680

properly, to attach oneself to, i.e., to touch (in many implied relations)

μηδὲ3 of 6

“not”

G3366

but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor

γεύσῃ4 of 6

“taste”

G1089

to taste; by implication, to eat; figuratively, to experience (good or ill)

μηδὲ5 of 6

“not”

G3366

but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor

θίγῃς6 of 6

“handle”

G2345

to manipulate, i.e., have to do with; by implication, to injure

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Colossians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Colossians 2:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Colossians 2:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Timothy 4:3Isaiah 52:11Genesis 3:32 Corinthians 6:17

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