King James Version
What Does Matthew 5:36 Mean?
“Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.”
Context
34
But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:
35
Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool : neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.
36
Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
37
But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
38
Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(36) **By** **thy head.**—This is apparently chosen as an extreme instance of a common oath in which men found no reference to God. Yet here, too, nothing but an implied reference to Him fits it to be an oath at all. He made us, and not we ourselves, and the hairs of our head are not only numbered, but are subject in all their changes to His laws, and not to our volition.
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 5:36 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 5:36
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge