Matthew 6:17
But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
Original Language Analysis
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κεφαλὴν
head
G2776
κεφαλὴν
head
Strong's:
G2776
Word #:
7 of 12
the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Ruth 3:3Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.Ecclesiastes 9:8Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.2 Samuel 12:20Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.
Historical Context
Anointing the head with oil and washing the face were normal grooming practices in ancient Palestine. Jesus instructs fasters to appear as on any normal day, keeping their spiritual discipline private between themselves and God, contrary to Pharisaic practice of conspicuous 'suffering.'
Questions for Reflection
- How can spiritual disciplines be practiced in ways that guard against pride and self-promotion?
- What does the instruction to maintain normal appearance while fasting teach about the heart versus external religion?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The command to 'anoint thine head, and wash thy face' when fasting instructs maintaining normal appearance rather than advertising spiritual discipline. This doesn't forbid corporate fasting or times when fasting may be public (Acts 13:2-3), but condemns self-promoting displays. The principle is that fasting should be 'unto the Lord' (Romans 14:6-8), not to impress observers. Maintaining normal appearance removes the temptation to pride and ensures proper motive.