King James Version
What Does Matthew 12:5 Mean?
“Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless?”
Context
3
But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him;
4
How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread , which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests?
5
Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless?
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But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.
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But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **The priests in the temple profane the sabbath.**—The work of the priests, as described, *e.g.,* in Numbers 28:9, viz., slaying victims, placing the shewbread, involved an amount of labour which, in work of any other kind, would have broken the Sabbath rest; yet no one blamed the priests, for they were serving in the Temple of Jehovah.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 12:5 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 Matthew 12:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge