And let him that is in the field not turn back again for to take up his garment.
And {G2532} let {G1994} him that is {G5607} in {G1519} the field {G68} not {G3361} turn {G1519}{G1994} back {G3694} again {G1994} for to take up {G142} his {G846} garment {G2440}.
if someone is in the field, he must not turn back to get his coat.
And let no one in the field return for his cloak.
and let him that is in the field not return back to take his cloak.
No cross-references found for this verse.
Context
Mark 13:16 is part of Jesus' significant discourse on the Mount of Olives, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse. In this passage, Jesus warns His disciples about the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, and the severe tribulation that would precede His return. Specifically, verses 14-23 describe the urgent need for flight when the "abomination of desolation" stands where it ought not (a clear reference to a future desecration or destructive event, likely tied to the Roman siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD and perhaps a future end-time event). Jesus' instruction here emphasizes extreme urgency: those in the field should not even turn back to retrieve a garment, indicating that survival depends on immediate, unhesitating action.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "turn back again" uses the Greek word epistrephō (ἐπιστρέφω), which means to turn around, return, or convert. In this context, it powerfully conveys the idea of a complete reversal of direction or purpose, stressing that there should be no deviation from the immediate flight path. The "garment" (Greek: himation, ἱμάτιον) refers to the outer cloak, a common and often essential possession for warmth and protection in that culture. The injunction to leave it behind underscores the severity of the situation and the absolute priority of escape over material comfort or security.
Practical Application
While this verse has a specific historical context related to the destruction of Jerusalem, its principles resonate deeply for believers today: