TRV
Mark 7:1
Bible Versions
¶ Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem.
The P'rushim and some of the Torah-teachers who had come from Yerushalayim gathered together with Yeshua
Then the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus,
And there are gathered together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, who had come from Jerusalem,
-
Matthew 15:1
¶ Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, -
Matthew 15:20
These are [the things] which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man. -
Mark 3:22
¶ And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. -
Luke 5:17
¶ And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was [present] to heal them. -
Luke 11:53
And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge [him] vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things: -
Luke 11:54
Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.
Commentary on Mark 7:1 (KJV)
Mark 7:1 sets the stage for a significant confrontation between Jesus and the religious establishment of His day. This verse introduces key figures who consistently challenged Jesus' authority and teachings throughout His ministry.
Context
This verse opens a pivotal section in Mark's Gospel where Jesus addresses the tension between human tradition and God's commandments. By this point, Jesus' fame has spread widely throughout Galilee, and His teachings and miracles have drawn large crowds, but also increasing scrutiny from religious leaders. The arrival of "the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes" is not accidental. They represent the established religious authority, and their journey "from Jerusalem" signifies that they are not just local critics but official delegates from the religious capital, likely sent to investigate or challenge Jesus more formally. This gathering is a deliberate act of religious scrutiny, setting the stage for the debate about ceremonial washing and the true nature of defilement that follows.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "came together unto him" (Greek: synagontai pros auton) suggests a deliberate, organized assembly rather than a casual encounter. It implies that these religious leaders specifically sought Jesus out, indicating their intent to engage Him. The "Pharisees" were a prominent Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to both the written Law and extensive oral traditions. The "scribes" were legal experts, scholars, and teachers of the Mosaic Law, often associated with the Pharisees, and were the authoritative interpreters of scripture. Their combined presence, especially from "Jerusalem," underlines the official and serious nature of their inquiry.
Practical Application
Mark 7:1 reminds us that genuine faith often faces scrutiny from those who prioritize external rituals or human traditions over the heart of God's Word. It challenges us to examine our own motives and sources of authority. Are we seeking to understand truth, or are we coming with preconceived notions and a desire to find fault? This encounter foreshadows Jesus' consistent teaching that true righteousness comes from within, not from outward observance alone. It encourages believers to always prioritize a sincere heart and obedience to God's direct commands over any human-made rules or expectations, much like Samuel's declaration that obedience is better than sacrifice.