Matthew 22:17

Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?

Tell {G2036} us {G2254} therefore {G3767}, What {G5101} thinkest {G1380} thou {G4671}? Is it lawful {G1832} to give {G1325} tribute {G2778} unto Caesar {G2541}, or {G2228} not {G3756}?

So tell us your opinion: does Torah permit paying taxes to the Roman Emperor or not?"

So tell us what You think: Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”

Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Cæsar, or not?

Commentary

Context

The question posed in Matthew 22:17 is part of a series of traps laid for Jesus by various religious and political factions in Jerusalem during His final week before the crucifixion. Specifically, this query comes from a coalition of the Pharisees and the Herodians. The Pharisees, known for their strict adherence to Jewish law and their opposition to Roman occupation, joined forces with the Herodians, who supported the Herodian dynasty and Roman rule for political stability. Their combined aim was to ensnare Jesus, forcing Him to take a position that would either alienate the Jewish populace (if He supported paying taxes to Rome) or provide grounds for His arrest by the Roman authorities for sedition (if He opposed it). This was a highly charged political and religious issue in first-century Judea.

Key Themes

  • The Intent to Trap Jesus: The core motive behind the question is not genuine inquiry but a malicious attempt to discredit or incriminate Jesus. They sought to expose Him as either a Roman collaborator or a revolutionary.
  • Divine Wisdom vs. Human Cunning: The situation highlights the stark contrast between the deceptive wisdom of men and the profound, unassailable wisdom of Jesus. They thought they had devised a perfect dilemma, but Jesus' response demonstrates His superior insight.
  • The Nature of Authority: The question touches upon the complex relationship between earthly political authority (Caesar) and divine authority. It forces a consideration of where ultimate allegiance lies.

Linguistic Insights

The word "tribute" in this verse translates from the Greek word kēnsos (κῆνσος), which specifically refers to the Roman poll tax or census tax. This was a direct head tax levied on every adult male, signifying Roman dominion and deeply resented by many Jews as a symbol of their subjugation and an affront to their religious freedom (as it often involved images of the emperor, which were seen as idolatrous). This particular tax was distinct from other customs or duties and was a flashpoint for Jewish nationalist sentiment.

Practical Application

This passage offers timeless lessons on navigating complex ethical and civic dilemmas:

  • Discerning Motives: Like Jesus, we are called to look beyond the surface of questions and situations to discern the true intentions of others. Not all inquiries are genuine; some are designed to mislead or trap.
  • Balancing Allegiances: While Jesus' full answer is given in Matthew 22:21, this question sets the stage for understanding the Christian's dual citizenship—in both the earthly kingdom and the Kingdom of God. It implies a responsibility to both, without compromising ultimate allegiance to God.
  • Wisdom in Response: Jesus' handling of this trap serves as a model for how to respond to challenging questions with wisdom, grace, and truth, avoiding the pitfalls of extreme positions. It underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance in difficult situations. Believers are encouraged to understand their role as citizens who submit to governing authorities while prioritizing their devotion to God.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Luke 2:1

    ¶ And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

  • Romans 13:6

    For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

  • Romans 13:7

    ¶ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

  • Matthew 17:25

    He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?

  • Acts 28:22

    But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.

  • Ezra 7:24

    Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.

  • Jeremiah 42:20

    For ye dissembled in your hearts, when ye sent me unto the LORD your God, saying, Pray for us unto the LORD our God; and according unto all that the LORD our God shall say, so declare unto us, and we will do [it].