Matthew 15:5
But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
Original Language Analysis
λέγετε
say
G3004
λέγετε
say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
3 of 17
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὃ
Whosoever
G3739
ὃ
Whosoever
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
4 of 17
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πατρὶ
to his father
G3962
πατρὶ
to his father
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
8 of 17
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μητρί
his mother
G3384
μητρί
his mother
Strong's:
G3384
Word #:
11 of 17
a "mother" (literally or figuratively, immediate or remote)
ὃ
Whosoever
G3739
ὃ
Whosoever
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
13 of 17
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἐὰν
G1437
ἐὰν
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
14 of 17
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
Historical Context
Corban (קָרְבָּן) means 'offering' or 'that which is brought near.' Once declared Corban, property was theoretically dedicated to God and unavailable for other uses, including parental support. The Mishnah (Nedarim 9:1) later acknowledged this created problems. Jesus exposes how this vow was manipulated to avoid the fifth commandment while maintaining appearance of piety.
Questions for Reflection
- How might you use spiritual commitments to avoid difficult responsibilities?
- What does it mean to honor God in family relationships?
- How can religious activity become an idol that hinders genuine obedience?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus exposes the Corban abuse: saying to parents 'It is a gift devoted to God' (Corban) allowed avoiding parental support. This exemplifies how religious activity can become excuse for moral failure. Reformed theology emphasizes that genuine piety never contradicts moral duty. The Pharisees prioritized ritual giving over family responsibility, inverting God's priorities. Their tradition made God's commandment ineffective.