Matthew 15:6

KJV

And honour not his father or his mother, [he shall be free]. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} honour {G5091} not {G3364} his {G846} father {G3962} or {G2228} his {G846} mother {G3384}, he shall be free. Thus {G2532} have ye made {G208} the commandment {G1785} of God {G2316} of none effect {G208} by {G1223} your {G5216} tradition {G3862}.

Complete Jewish Bible

then he is rid of his duty to honor his father or mother.' Thus by your tradition you make null and void the word of God!

Berean Standard Bible

he need not honor his father or mother with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition.

American Standard Version

he shall not honor his father. And ye have made void the word of God because of your tradition.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Matthew 15:6, Jesus issues a searing indictment against the religious leaders of His day, specifically the Pharisees and scribes, for their hypocrisy in prioritizing human traditions over the explicit commandments of God. He exposes their practice of "Corban," a vow that allowed individuals to dedicate their resources to God, thereby circumventing their divinely mandated responsibility to financially support and care for their aging parents, effectively nullifying the fifth commandment. This verse underscores a fundamental conflict between external religious observance and genuine obedience to God's heart.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees and scribes in [Matthew 15](/matthew/15 "Matthew 15 - Jesus Confronts Pharisaic Traditions and Heals Many"). The chapter opens with the religious leaders challenging Jesus' disciples for not adhering to the "tradition of the elders" concerning ceremonial handwashing before eating ([Matthew 15:1-2](/matthew/15-1-2 "Matthew 15:1-2 - Pharisees Question Disciples' Handwashing")). Jesus immediately turns the tables, accusing them of violating God's commandments for the sake of their own traditions ([Matthew 15:3](/matthew/15-3 "Matthew 15:3 - Jesus Rebukes Pharisees")). He then provides a specific example of this transgression: their perversion of the command to honor parents through the Corban vow, which is the direct context for [Matthew 15:6](/matthew/15-6 "Matthew 15:6 - Nullifying God's Command"). This discussion segues into Jesus' teaching on true defilement, emphasizing that what defiles a person comes from within the heart, not from external practices or lack thereof ([Matthew 15:10-20](/matthew/15-10-20 "Matthew 15:10-20 - What Truly Defiles a Person")). The entire passage highlights Jesus' consistent challenge to the legalistic and hypocritical religious system of His time.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "tradition of the elders" (or oral law) held significant authority among the Pharisees, often considered on par with, or even superior to, the written Torah. This body of tradition developed over centuries, aiming to interpret and apply the Mosaic Law to daily life. One such tradition involved the "Corban" vow, derived from the Hebrew word *qorban* (קרבן), meaning "a gift dedicated to God." This practice allowed a person to declare their property or money as consecrated to God, making it legally unavailable for any other use, including supporting their parents. While the intention might have been pious, the abuse of this vow created a loophole that enabled individuals to evade their moral and familial obligations, specifically the Fifth Commandment to [honor one's father and mother](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment"). This practice was a direct violation of the spirit, if not the letter, of the divine law, revealing a system where external religious performance could be used to justify internal moral neglect.
* **Key Themes:** [Matthew 15:6](/matthew/15-6 "Matthew 15:6 - The Conflict of Traditions") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Matthew's Gospel and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the **Supremacy of God's Word** over human traditions. Jesus unequivocally asserts that no human-made rule, regardless of its antiquity or religious sanction, can nullify or supersede a divine commandment. This sets a foundational principle for discerning true piety. Secondly, the passage exposes the **Hypocrisy and Legalism** prevalent among the religious elite. The Pharisees meticulously observed external rituals and human interpretations of the law while neglecting the weightier matters of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness, as Jesus often pointed out (e.g., [Matthew 23:23](/matthew/23-23 "Matthew 23:23 - Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees")). Their legalism allowed them to exploit religious loopholes for personal convenience, demonstrating a disconnect between outward appearance and inward character. Thirdly, the verse highlights the importance of **True Filial Piety**. The commandment to honor parents, found in [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment") and [Deuteronomy 5:16](/deuteronomy/5-16 "Deuteronomy 5:16 - The Command to Honor Parents"), extends beyond mere respect to include practical care and provision, especially for aging parents. Jesus condemns the tradition that undermined this fundamental family and moral obligation. Finally, it illustrates the crucial distinction between the **Spirit and the Letter of the Law**, emphasizing that true obedience involves understanding and living out the divine intent behind the commandments, rather than merely adhering to external regulations or finding ways to circumvent their ethical demands.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **honour (Greek, _timáō'_):** From G5091, meaning "to prize, i.e. fix a valuation upon; by implication, to revere." In this context, it signifies more than mere respect; it implies valuing and providing for one's parents, especially in their old age, recognizing their inherent worth and the divine mandate to care for them. Jesus' use of this word highlights the deep ethical and practical implications of the commandment.
* **none effect (Greek, _akyróō'_):** From G208, meaning "to invalidate, disannul, make void, or deprive of authority." This is a strong term, indicating that the Pharisees' tradition did not merely neglect or diminish the commandment, but actively rendered it powerless and without legal or moral force in practice. It implies a deliberate act of nullification, stripping God's command of its intended impact.
* **tradition (Greek, _parádosis'_):** From G3862, meaning "transmission, i.e. (concretely) a precept; specially, the Jewish traditionary law." This refers to the oral traditions passed down by the elders, which the Pharisees elevated to the status of divine law. Jesus here directly contrasts these human-made precepts with the "commandment of God," exposing the danger of elevating human interpretations above divine revelation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And honour not his father or his mother, [he shall be free]."**: This clause, though seemingly incomplete in the KJV, reflects the practical outcome of the Corban vow. Jesus is summarizing the Pharisees' teaching: if a person declares their assets "Corban" (dedicated to God), they are then "free" from the obligation to use those assets to support their parents. The implied context is that by making such a vow, one could avoid their filial duty, even if their parents were in dire need. Jesus presents this as a direct consequence of their tradition, not a divine allowance.
* **"Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."**: This is Jesus' direct and forceful accusation. The word "Thus" (G2532, *kaí*) connects the preceding example of neglecting parents to the broader principle. Jesus asserts that by upholding and promoting human traditions like Corban, the Pharisees have actively "made of none effect" (G208, *akyróō*) the clear and authoritative "commandment of God" (G1785, *entolḗ* G2316, *theós*). This statement highlights the profound spiritual danger of elevating human precepts above divine revelation, demonstrating how religious zeal can ironically lead to disobedience.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs several potent **Literary Devices** in this verse to emphasize His condemnation. The primary device is **Contrast**, starkly juxtaposing "the commandment of God" with "your tradition." This highlights the inherent conflict between divine authority and human invention when the latter deviates from the former. There is also a strong element of **Irony**: those who claim to be the guardians of God's law are, in fact, the ones nullifying it through their own self-serving interpretations. The phrase "made... of none effect" (akyróō) serves as a powerful **Hyperbole** or strong condemnation, conveying Jesus' outrage at their audacity in rendering God's word powerless. Furthermore, Jesus' statement functions as a direct **Accusation** or rhetorical indictment, leaving no ambiguity about His judgment of their practices.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 15:6 stands as a profound theological statement on the nature of true obedience and the authority of God's Word. It teaches us that genuine piety is not found in meticulous adherence to human-made rules or external rituals, especially when those traditions undermine the clear ethical and moral demands of divine law. The passage underscores the principle that God values heartfelt obedience and practical love over religious performance that lacks substance. It challenges believers across all ages to constantly evaluate their traditions, cultural norms, and personal preferences against the unchanging standard of God's revealed will, ensuring that no human construct inadvertently diminishes the impact or authority of His commandments in their lives. The fifth commandment, to honor parents, is not merely a suggestion but a foundational pillar of societal and familial well-being, reflecting God's design for intergenerational care and respect.

* [Mark 7:8-13](/mark/7-8-13 "Mark 7:8-13 - Jesus Rebukes Pharisees for Neglecting God's Command")
* [Isaiah 29:13](/isaiah/29-13 "Isaiah 29:13 - Worship Taught by Human Rules")
* [Colossians 2:8](/colossians/2-8 "Colossians 2:8 - Beware of Human Philosophy and Empty Deception")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 15:6 serves as a timeless and convicting mirror for believers today, prompting us to examine the subtle ways human traditions, cultural norms, or even well-intentioned religious practices might inadvertently overshadow or contradict God's clear instructions. It challenges us to move beyond a superficial or legalistic understanding of faith to embrace a genuine, heart-level obedience that prioritizes God's commands above all else. This means cultivating a discerning spirit, constantly measuring our actions and beliefs against the authoritative Word of God. We must ask ourselves if our "religious" activities are truly aligned with God's heart for justice, mercy, and love, or if they sometimes become convenient excuses to neglect uncomfortable but essential biblical mandates, particularly those related to caring for family and the vulnerable. The call to honor parents, for instance, extends beyond mere sentiment to practical care and support, reminding us that true faith is demonstrated through tangible acts of love and responsibility.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or within my community might human traditions, cultural expectations, or even church practices inadvertently diminish the authority or application of God's Word?**
* **How can I ensure that my expressions of faith are rooted in genuine obedience to God's commandments, rather than merely external adherence or finding loopholes for personal convenience?**
* **Beyond respect, what practical steps can I take to truly "honor" my parents and elders, recognizing this as a foundational divine mandate, even when it requires personal sacrifice?**

### FAQ
**What is "Corban" and how did it relate to Matthew 15:6?**

Answer: "Corban" (from the Hebrew *qorban*) literally means "a gift dedicated to God." In the context of Matthew 15:6, it refers to a Jewish vow or practice where an individual could declare their property or money as consecrated to God, making it unavailable for any other use. While seemingly pious, this tradition was abused by some to avoid their divinely mandated responsibility to care for and financially support their aging parents. By declaring their assets "Corban," they could claim they were unable to use those resources for their parents' needs, effectively nullifying the commandment to [honor one's father and mother](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment"). Jesus condemned this practice as a prime example of prioritizing human tradition over God's clear command, demonstrating hypocrisy.

**Does this passage mean all traditions are bad?**

Answer: No, this passage does not mean all traditions are inherently bad. Jesus' condemnation is specifically directed at traditions that "make the commandment of God of none effect" ([Matthew 15:6](/matthew/15-6 "Matthew 15:6 - Nullifying God's Command")). The issue is not tradition itself, but when human traditions are elevated above or contradict God's revealed Word. There can be many beneficial traditions in faith and culture that enhance life, preserve history, and facilitate worship, as long as they remain subordinate to biblical truth and do not become a means to circumvent divine commands. The key is discernment: does a tradition lead us closer to God and His will, or does it, perhaps subtly, pull us away or provide an excuse for disobedience? Paul, for instance, speaks of "traditions" that are to be upheld if they are in line with apostolic teaching ([2 Thessalonians 2:15](/2_thessalonians/2-15 "2 Thessalonians 2:15 - Hold to the Traditions")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 15:6, with Jesus' sharp rebuke of the Pharisees, profoundly highlights His role as the ultimate interpreter and embodiment of God's law. Unlike the Pharisees who twisted traditions to nullify divine commands, Jesus consistently upheld the true spirit and intent of the Torah, declaring that He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). His life perfectly exemplified honoring God and parents, demonstrating the very filial piety the Pharisees neglected. Through His teachings, Jesus exposed the superficiality of external religious observance, pointing instead to the transformation of the heart as the source of true righteousness ([Matthew 15:18-19](/matthew/15-18-19 "Matthew 15:18-19 - What Comes from the Heart")). Ultimately, Christ's perfect obedience, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross, fulfilled the demands of the law that humanity could not meet. He established a new covenant, not based on external rules or human traditions, but on the indwelling Holy Spirit who empowers believers to live out God's commands from a place of love and genuine desire to honor Him, transforming hearts to obey God's will rather than circumvent it ([Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant Written on Hearts"); [Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3-4 "Romans 8:3-4 - The Law Fulfilled in Us")). Thus, Jesus is the answer to the legalism and hypocrisy He condemned, offering true freedom and the power to live a life that genuinely honors God and others, not by human tradition, but by divine grace.

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

1 Timothy 5:8

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

Jeremiah 8:8

How do ye say, We [are] wise, and the law of the LORD [is] with us? Lo, certainly in vain made he [it]; the pen of the scribes [is] in vain.

Psalms 119:126

¶ It is time for [thee], LORD, to work: [for] they have made void thy law.

Mark 7:13

Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.

Hosea 4:6

¶ My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.

Malachi 2:7

For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

Malachi 2:9

Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law.