Mark 7:8
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.
Original Language Analysis
ἀφέντες
laying aside
G863
ἀφέντες
laying aside
Strong's:
G863
Word #:
1 of 21
to send forth, in various applications (as follow)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 21
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐντολὴν
the commandment
G1785
ἐντολὴν
the commandment
Strong's:
G1785
Word #:
4 of 21
injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεοῦ
of God
G2316
θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
6 of 21
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
κρατεῖτε
ye hold
G2902
κρατεῖτε
ye hold
Strong's:
G2902
Word #:
7 of 21
to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
παράδοσιν
the tradition
G3862
παράδοσιν
the tradition
Strong's:
G3862
Word #:
9 of 21
transmission, i.e., (concretely) a precept; specially, the jewish traditionary law
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ξεστῶν
of pots
G3582
ξεστῶν
of pots
Strong's:
G3582
Word #:
13 of 21
by implication, (of friction) to boil or heat); a vessel (as fashioned or for cooking) (or perhaps by corruption from the latin <i>sextarius</i>, the
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
14 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ποτηρίων·
cups
G4221
ποτηρίων·
cups
Strong's:
G4221
Word #:
15 of 21
a drinking-vessel; by extension, the contents thereof, i.e., a cupful (draught); figuratively, a lot or fate
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
16 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τοιαῦτα
such
G5108
τοιαῦτα
such
Strong's:
G5108
Word #:
19 of 21
truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)
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 7:8 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.