Mark 12:32

KJV

And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he:

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the scribe {G1122} said {G2036} unto him {G846}, Well {G2573}, Master {G1320}, thou hast said {G2036} the {G1909} truth {G225}: for {G3754} there is {G2076} one {G1520} God {G2316}; and {G2532} there is {G2076} none {G3756} other {G243} but {G4133} he {G846}:

Complete Jewish Bible

The Torah-teacher said to him, "Well said, Rabbi; you speak the truth when you say that he is one, and that there is no other besides him;

Berean Standard Bible

“Right, Teacher,” the scribe replied. “You have stated correctly that God is One and there is no other but Him,

American Standard Version

And the scribe said unto him, Of a truth, Teacher, thou hast well said that he is one; and there is none other but he:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 12:32 captures a pivotal moment of theological affirmation where a Jewish scribe, deeply impressed by Jesus' exposition of the greatest commandment, unequivocally declares the foundational truth of Israel's faith: the absolute singularity of God. This rare instance of agreement between Jesus and a religious leader underscores the profound spiritual insight of the scribe and highlights the undisputed nature of monotheism as a cornerstone of biblical revelation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the climax of a series of challenging encounters between Jesus and various Jewish religious factions in Jerusalem, as recorded in [Mark 11-12](/mark/11 "Mark 11-12 - Jesus' Authority Challenged"). Prior to this interaction, Jesus skillfully navigates traps set by the Pharisees and Herodians concerning taxes to Caesar ([Mark 12:13-17](/mark/12-13-17 "Mark 12:13-17 - Paying Taxes to Caesar")), and then by the Sadducees regarding the resurrection and marriage ([Mark 12:18-27](/mark/12-18-27 "Mark 12:18-27 - The Question About the Resurrection")). Unlike these groups, who sought to entrap Him, the scribe approaches Jesus with a seemingly sincere question about the "first commandment of all" ([Mark 12:28](/mark/12-28 "Mark 12:28 - The Scribe's Question")). Jesus' profound and concise answer, quoting the [Shema from Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4-5 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Shema") and adding the command to love one's neighbor from [Leviticus 19:18](/leviticus/19-18 "Leviticus 19:18 - Love Your Neighbor"), elicits the scribe's remarkable affirmation in [Mark 12:32](/mark/12-32 "Mark 12:32 - The Scribe's Affirmation"). This moment of shared understanding stands in stark contrast to the preceding antagonistic exchanges.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Scribes (Greek: *grammateús*) were highly educated professionals in ancient Judaism, serving as experts in the Mosaic Law, interpreters of Scripture, and often as legal advisors and teachers. They were meticulous in copying and preserving the Torah and were deeply respected for their knowledge. The foundational confession of Israel, the Shema ("Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one"), found in [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema"), was recited daily and formed the bedrock of Jewish monotheism, distinguishing Israel from the polytheistic nations surrounding them. For a scribe to affirm Jesus' teaching so readily, particularly on such a central tenet, indicates either a genuine openness to Jesus' wisdom or a strategic attempt to assess His theological alignment. Jesus' subsequent commendation of the scribe in [Mark 12:34](/mark/12-34 "Mark 12:34 - Jesus Commends the Scribe") suggests the former, portraying the scribe as one "not far from the kingdom of God."

* **Key Themes:** This interaction contributes significantly to several key themes within the Gospel of Mark and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Monotheism**, powerfully affirmed by the scribe's declaration that "there is one God; and there is none other but he." This reiterates the absolute uniqueness and singularity of the God of Israel, a truth central to the entire biblical narrative. Another theme is **Spiritual Discernment versus Legalism**. While many religious leaders were blinded by their rigid adherence to tradition and their desire to trap Jesus, this scribe demonstrates a spiritual insight that recognizes the true essence of the Law—love for God and neighbor—as articulated by Jesus. This highlights that genuine understanding of God's will transcends mere intellectual knowledge of the Law. Finally, the passage touches on the theme of **Jesus' Authority and Wisdom**. Despite being challenged, Jesus consistently demonstrates unparalleled wisdom and authority in His interpretations of the Law, even earning the respect and affirmation of those who were ostensibly His theological opponents.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **scribe (Greek, _grammateús'_):** From *gramma*, meaning a writer or letter. This term refers to a professional copyist, secretary, or, most commonly in the New Testament, an expert in the Mosaic Law. Scribes were highly educated and influential figures in Jewish society, responsible for interpreting and teaching the Scriptures. The fact that a scribe affirms Jesus' words lends significant weight to the statement, as it comes from one deeply learned in the very Law Jesus is expounding.
* **Master (Greek, _didáskalos'_):** From *didáskō*, meaning to teach. This word denotes an instructor or teacher. The scribe addresses Jesus as "Master," acknowledging His authority and competence as a teacher of divine truth, even if not fully recognizing His divine nature. This title, coming from a recognized teacher of the Law, signifies respect for Jesus' profound understanding and articulation of spiritual matters.
* **one (Greek, _heîs'_):** A primary numeral meaning "one." In this context, *heîs* carries a powerful theological weight, emphasizing not merely numerical singularity but absolute uniqueness, exclusivity, and incomparability. When applied to God, as in "one God," it asserts that there is no other deity besides Him, distinguishing the God of Israel from all pagan gods and affirming His sole sovereignty and existence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth:"** This opening clause sets the scene for the scribe's remarkable affirmation. His use of "Well" (Greek: *kalōs*, meaning "excellently" or "rightly") and "Master" (Greek: *didáskalos*, "teacher") indicates genuine respect and agreement. The phrase "thou hast said the truth" (Greek: *alētheia*) is a direct and unequivocal acknowledgment that Jesus' summary of the greatest commandment is not merely accurate but embodies divine truth itself. This is a rare moment of unreserved commendation from a religious leader.
* **"for there is one God;"** This is the core theological statement affirmed by the scribe, echoing the foundational confession of Israel, the Shema, found in [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema"). The Greek phrase *heîs theós* (one God) powerfully asserts the absolute monotheism of the Jewish faith. It is a declaration against polytheism and idolatry, emphasizing the singularity, uniqueness, and supreme sovereignty of the Creator God. This truth is non-negotiable and central to the identity of Israel.
* **"and there is none other but he:"** This reinforcing clause further emphasizes the exclusivity of God. The Greek *ou állos plēn autós* ("no other except Him") leaves no room for ambiguity. It underscores that God is not just one among many, but the *only* God. This statement is a profound theological affirmation of God's incomparable nature and His sole claim to worship and allegiance, solidifying the monotheistic declaration.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices. **Affirmation** is central, as the scribe explicitly validates Jesus' teaching, creating a moment of unexpected harmony amidst the usual conflict. This serves to underscore the undeniable truth of Jesus' words, even for those learned in the Law. The scribe's statement itself is a powerful **Monotheistic Declaration**, echoing the ancient confession of the Shema and reinforcing a core theological tenet. This declaration functions as a **Rhetorical Agreement**, where the scribe's words, intended to affirm Jesus, also serve to highlight the universal and foundational nature of the truth being discussed. The scene also presents a subtle **Contrast** between the scribe's sincere seeking and the malicious intentions of the other religious groups who had previously questioned Jesus. This contrast elevates the scribe's spiritual discernment and sets him apart, ultimately leading to Jesus' commendation that he was "not far from the kingdom of God" ([Mark 12:34](/mark/12-34 "Mark 12:34 - Jesus Commends the Scribe")).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The scribe's affirmation of "one God" in [Mark 12:32](/mark/12-32 "Mark 12:32 - The Scribe's Affirmation") is a profound theological statement, reinforcing the absolute monotheism that underpins the entire biblical narrative. This truth is not merely a numerical count but speaks to God's unique nature, His incomparable power, and His sole claim to worship and allegiance. It establishes the foundation for understanding God's character as unchanging, sovereign, and utterly distinct from all created beings or false deities. This singularity of God is the bedrock upon which all other theological truths are built, including the unity of His will, the consistency of His revelation, and the singular path to salvation. The scribe's recognition of this truth, as articulated by Jesus, highlights the essential harmony between the Law and the Spirit, demonstrating that true spiritual insight aligns with God's foundational self-revelation.

* [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema: Hear, O Israel")
* [Isaiah 45:5](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5 - I am the Lord, and there is no other")
* [1 Corinthians 8:4-6](/1_corinthians/8-4-6 "1 Corinthians 8:4-6 - There is but one God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scribe's ready affirmation of Jesus' teaching in [Mark 12:32](/mark/12-32 "Mark 12:32 - The Scribe's Affirmation") offers a powerful model for believers today. In an age of increasing relativism and spiritual confusion, the unwavering declaration of "one God" remains a timeless and essential truth. This passage calls us to a deeper commitment to the foundational doctrines of our faith, particularly the unique and sovereign nature of God. It encourages us to approach spiritual inquiry with genuine sincerity, much like the scribe, seeking to understand and affirm divine truth rather than merely engaging in intellectual debate or seeking to find fault. Furthermore, it reminds us that true spiritual discernment can transcend superficial differences and unite us around core biblical principles. When we recognize and affirm the truth, especially concerning the nature of God, we draw closer to the heart of His kingdom, just as the scribe was "not far from the kingdom of God" ([Mark 12:34](/mark/12-34 "Mark 12:34 - Jesus Commends the Scribe")). Our faith is strengthened when we stand firm on the absolute singularity and supremacy of the one true God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the scribe's affirmation of "one God" challenge or reinforce your understanding of God's nature?**
* **In what ways can we, like the scribe, demonstrate genuine spiritual discernment and a willingness to affirm truth, even when it comes from unexpected sources?**
* **What are some foundational truths about God that you hold dear, and how do you actively affirm them in your daily life?**
* **How might acknowledging the "one God" impact your worship, your prayers, and your trust in His sovereignty?**

### FAQ
**Why is the scribe's affirmation in Mark 12:32 so significant?**

Answer: The scribe's affirmation is significant for several reasons. First, it represents a rare moment of genuine theological agreement between Jesus and a Jewish religious leader in the Gospels, contrasting sharply with the frequent opposition Jesus faced. Scribes were experts in the Law, and their endorsement of Jesus' teaching on the greatest commandment and the singularity of God ([Mark 12:29-31](/mark/12-29-31 "Mark 12:29-31 - The Greatest Commandment")) lends credibility and weight to His message. It demonstrates that Jesus' teaching was not revolutionary in its core theological tenets but rather a profound distillation of existing truth. Furthermore, Jesus' commendation of the scribe in [Mark 12:34](/mark/12-34 "Mark 12:34 - Jesus Commends the Scribe") ("Thou art not far from the kingdom of God") highlights the spiritual insight of the scribe, who recognized the heart of God's Law beyond its mere legalistic framework.

**Does the declaration "there is one God" contradict the Christian doctrine of the Trinity?**

Answer: No, the declaration "there is one God" does not contradict the Christian doctrine of the Trinity; rather, it forms its foundational premise. The Trinity teaches that there is one God who eternally exists as three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This is not three gods, but one God in three persons. The Old Testament, including the Shema ([Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema")), firmly establishes God's absolute singularity and uniqueness, which is fully upheld in the New Testament. The New Testament then reveals the Trinitarian nature of this one God, particularly through the person and work of Jesus Christ and the sending of the Holy Spirit. Passages like [Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission") (baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and [2 Corinthians 13:14](/2_corinthians/13-14 "2 Corinthians 13:14 - The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ") (the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit) illustrate this triune reality within the context of monotheism. The scribe's statement affirms the *oneness* of God, which is the essential truth upon which the Trinitarian revelation builds.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The scribe's affirmation of "one God" in [Mark 12:32](/mark/12-32 "Mark 12:32 - The Scribe's Affirmation") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself. While the scribe's statement echoes the ancient monotheistic confession of Israel, Jesus, as the Son of God, fully embodies and reveals the very nature of this "one God." He is the one through whom God's ultimate revelation comes ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - God Has Spoken by His Son")), the one who declares, "I and my Father are one" ([John 10:30](/john/10-30 "John 10:30 - I and the Father are One")), and the one in whom "all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). The "one God" whom the scribe affirms is the God who sent His Son, Jesus, into the world, not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")), and to perfectly demonstrate the love for God and neighbor that is the essence of the greatest commandment ([Mark 12:29-31](/mark/12-29-31 "Mark 12:29-31 - The Greatest Commandment")). Thus, Jesus is not merely a teacher of the "one God" but is Himself the divine Son, through whom this singular God is fully known, worshipped, and reconciled to humanity. His life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate expression of the "one God's" redemptive plan for the world, inviting all to enter the kingdom of God through Him ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 4:39

Know therefore this day, and consider [it] in thine heart, that the LORD he [is] God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: [there is] none else.

Isaiah 46:9

Remember the former things of old: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else; [I am] God, and [there is] none like me,

Deuteronomy 4:35

Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the LORD he [is] God; [there is] none else beside him.

Isaiah 45:14

Thus saith the LORD, The labour of Egypt, and merchandise of Ethiopia and of the Sabeans, men of stature, shall come over unto thee, and they shall be thine: they shall come after thee; in chains they shall come over, and they shall fall down unto thee, they shall make supplication unto thee, [saying], Surely God [is] in thee; and [there is] none else, [there is] no God.

Isaiah 44:8

Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared [it]? ye [are] even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, [there is] no God; I know not [any].

Deuteronomy 5:7

Thou shalt have none other gods before me.

Deuteronomy 6:4

¶ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God [is] one LORD: