Matthew 5:36
Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
Original Language Analysis
μήτε
Neither
G3383
μήτε
Neither
Strong's:
G3383
Word #:
1 of 15
not too, i.e., (in continued negation) neither or nor; also, not even
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κεφαλῇ
head
G2776
κεφαλῇ
head
Strong's:
G2776
Word #:
4 of 15
the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively
ὅτι
because
G3754
ὅτι
because
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 15
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
Historical Context
Ancient peoples couldn't artificially color hair as modern technology allows. Jesus's point: you can't even change this small thing by will alone, so don't make grand oaths as if you control outcomes. Only God controls the future.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing your limitations over life and future events create humility in your speech?
- In what areas do you speak presumptuously as if you control outcomes only God controls?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
You cannot even control your hair color naturally (in ancient times without dye), so how can you swear by your own head? This illustrates human powerlessness and God's sovereignty over even small details. Since you control nothing ultimately, speak humbly and truthfully, recognizing your limitations.