Mark 7:2
And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἰδόντες
when they saw
G1492
ἰδόντες
when they saw
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
2 of 14
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτοῦ
of his
G846
αὐτοῦ
of his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 14
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
κοιναῖς
with defiled
G2839
κοιναῖς
with defiled
Strong's:
G2839
Word #:
7 of 14
common, i.e., (literally) shared by all or several, or (ceremonially) profane
χερσίν
hands
G5495
χερσίν
hands
Strong's:
G5495
Word #:
8 of 14
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
ἔστιν
G2076
Cross References
Acts 10:28And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.Romans 14:14I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
Historical Context
First-century Palestinian Jewish context under Roman occupation shapes the narrative. Archaeological discoveries confirm Gospel accounts' historical accuracy. Ancient sources (Josephus, Tacitus) corroborate biblical timeline and cultural details. Early church fathers interpreted these Christologically, seeing Old Testament fulfillment and New Covenant establishment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse reveal Christ's person and work in redemptive history?
- What transformation should this truth produce in your thinking, affections, and behavior?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Mark 7:2 This passage continues Mark's fast-paced narrative demonstrating Jesus' divine authority, miraculous power, and confrontation with religious establishment. The theological themes include Christ's deity, sacrificial mission, call to discipleship, and inauguration of God's kingdom. Reformed interpretation emphasizes sovereign grace, substitutionary atonement, and transformation through regeneration.