King James Version

What Does Mark 8:36 Mean?

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

Context

And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(36, 37) **His own soul.**—Better, *life* in both verses. The word “lose” is not the same as in Mark 8:35, and had, perhaps, better be rendered *forfeit,* as implying, what the other word does not necessarily imply, the idea of a penalty.

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 8:36 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.