Keraia
Mark 7

Mark 7:8

The Tradition of the Elders · Mark 7:1–13
Read Mark 7

Translations

Modern
You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men.”
Traditional
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.
Literal
Having left the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men.”
Latin
Relinquentes enim mandatum Dei, tenetis traditionem hominum, baptismata urceorum et calicum: et alia similia his facitis multa.

Original

Greek
English
You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men.”

Notes

Mark 7:6–8

Jesus first responds by quoting Isaiah 29:13 (from the Greek version). This passage speaks about the problem of treating human ideas as if they were God’s commands.

It describes well what was happening with the Pharisees. They had replaced God’s law with their own traditions (human rules and teachings).

Mark 7:1–23

This account does not connect directly to what comes before it. It simply fits a general setting, such as "At one point in the ministry of Jesus."

After Mark sets the scene (7:1–4), he introduces the Pharisees' question (7:5). Then Jesus responds to the question (6–23).

The first part of the response focuses on two Old Testament passages (7:6–13). It also includes a two-part critique (strong criticism) of the Pharisees’ traditions (7:6–8, 9–13).

In the second part, Jesus explains what truly defiles a person (what makes someone unclean before God; 7:14–23).

Theme notes and profiles

The Pharisees Legalism The Limitations of Law

Events

Parallels

Matthew 15:1–9

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Corban Heal, Healing Holiness Hypocrisy Mark, Gospel of Miracle Pharisees Scribe Tradition

Topics

Ablution: General Scriptures Concerning Commandments of Men Ecclesiasticism: Traditional Rules of the Jewish Hypocrisy: General Scriptures Concerning Jesus, the Christ: He Justifies his Disciples in Eating Without Washing Their Hands (At Capernaum) Pharisees: Traditions of, in Regard to The Washing of Hands Purification: Scriptures Relating To Purification: Traditions of the Elders Concerning Seek Truth Tradition: Commandments of Men