King James Version
What Does Mark 7:9 Mean?
“And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. reject: or, frustrate”
Context
7
Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
8
For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
9
And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. reject: or, frustrate
10
For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death:
11
But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(9) **Full well ye reject.**—The adverb is peculiar to St. Mark, and has in it the ring of a scathing and indignant irony. The word “reject” is hardly formal enough, the Greek conveying the idea, as in Galatians 3:15, Hebrews 7:18, of “rescinding” or “repealing.” This the Pharisees practically did when they added traditions which pretended to be interpretations, but were in reality at variance with it.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Mark 7:9 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 Mark 7:9
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge