What does Matthew 15:6 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 15:6 refers to a specific tradition of the Pharisees and teachers of the law that Jesus was addressing. In the broader context, Jesus is critiquing the Pharisees for their strict adherence to human traditions over the commandments of God.

The verse follows a quotation from the Ten Commandments, which instructs children to honor their father and mother.

In this particular case, Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for allowing people to say that whatever help they might have offered to their parents is "a gift devoted to God," thereby nullifying their responsibility to their parents.

The underlying message is that the Pharisees’ tradition subverts the direct command of God to honor one's parents.

The deeper meaning touches on the prioritization of divine law over human customs and the integrity of one's faith practice.

Historical Context

This verse is set in the context of first-century Judea, where religious leaders like the Pharisees and scribes were highly influential.

These groups were known for their rigid interpretation of the Torah and for adding numerous traditions and oral laws that they considered equally binding.

The specific tradition referenced in Matthew 15:6 is known as "Corban," a practice where one could pledge money or property to the temple, which would exempt them from using those resources for other obligations, such as supporting their parents.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted in various ways.

One perspective emphasizes that true obedience to God involves not just external conformity to laws but also the internal disposition of the heart.

Another interpretation focuses on the authority of Jesus as he confronts established religious traditions, asserting that his teaching supersedes that of the Pharisees.

This passage is also seen as an example of Jesus' call to genuine morality as opposed to mere legalism.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can serve as a reminder to evaluate whether one's actions, especially religious practices, genuinely reflect the values and commands of Scripture.

It challenges believers to consider if their traditions or personal rules may inadvertently lead them away from fulfilling fundamental moral duties, like caring for family members.

It also encourages the prioritization of God's commands over social or cultural pressures.

Cross-References

• Exodus 20:12 - "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee."
• Mark 7:11-13 - "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.

And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye."

• Isaiah 29:13 - "Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:"

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek text of this verse that warrant closer examination include:

• "Honour" (τιμήσει, timēsei): Refers to showing respect or value, often associated with caring for someone's needs.
• "Father or his mother" (πατέρα ἢ τὴν μητέρα αὐτοῦ, patera ē tēn mētera autou): These terms denote direct blood relations, pointing to the importance of familial bonds in Jewish culture.
• "Free" (ἀκυρόω, akuroō): Means to invalidate or disregard, suggesting the nullification of responsibility.
• "Commandment of God" (ἐντολὴν τοῦ Θεοῦ, entolēn tou Theou): Refers to the divine laws or orders as given through Scripture.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient religions, the concept of honoring one's parents was not unique to Judaism.

Many cultures had similar expectations. For example, in ancient Rome, the patria potestas gave fathers significant power over their family, illustrating the high regard for paternal authority. Confucianism also places a strong emphasis on filial piety.

However, the twist in this Judeo-Christian context is the criticism of a religious practice that undermines family responsibilities, presenting a unique ethical stance that challenges the preeminence of religious tradition over familial duties.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology and social sciences may intersect with this verse in understanding the effects of honoring or not honoring parents. The principle of caring for one's parents could be seen as beneficial for societal cohesion and individual mental health.

However, adherence to tradition at the expense of core family relations could be seen as potentially detrimental to personal and communal well-being, reflecting the importance of prioritizing interpersonal responsibilities over rigid institutional practices.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have examined this verse.

For instance:

• John Calvin comments that Christ exposes the scribes and Pharisees' inventions to safeguard their own interests under the guise of religion.
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary notes that Jesus pointed out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who appeared pious but were actually greedy and self-serving.
• The Pulpit Commentary includes the observation that Jesus is highlighting the difference between the moral law of God, which is perpetual, and human traditions, which can become corrupt.

These experts collectively underscore the central message of Jesus that calls for authentic faithfulness to God's commandment over adherence to man-made traditions.