Matthew 6:2

KJV

Therefore when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G3767} when {G3752} thou doest {G4160} thine alms {G1654}, do {G4537} not {G3361} sound a trumpet {G4537} before {G1715} thee {G4675}, as {G5618} the hypocrites {G5273} do {G4160} in {G1722} the synagogues {G4864} and {G2532} in {G1722} the streets {G4505}, that {G3704} they may have glory {G1392} of {G5259} men {G444}. Verily {G281} I say {G3004} unto you {G5213}, They have {G568} their {G846} reward {G3408}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So, when you do tzedakah, don't announce it with trumpets to win people's praise, like the hypocrites in the synagogues and on the streets. Yes! I tell you, they have their reward already!

Berean Standard Bible

So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.

American Standard Version

When therefore thou doest alms, sound not a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have received their reward.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Jesus issues a profound warning against performing acts of righteousness, specifically alms-giving, with the intention of gaining human recognition. He exposes the hypocrisy of those who publicize their charity in synagogues and streets, likening their behavior to sounding a trumpet to announce their good deeds. Jesus declares that such individuals have already received their full and only reward—the fleeting praise of people—thereby forfeiting any eternal commendation from God. This verse lays bare the critical importance of pure motives in spiritual practices, emphasizing that true righteousness is performed for God's eyes alone.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse initiates Jesus' detailed instructions on righteous practices, following the overarching principle established in [Matthew 6:1](/matthew/6-1 "The Principle of Righteousness Before God"), which warns against doing good deeds "to be seen of men." [Matthew 6:2](/matthew/6-2 "Alms-Giving for Show") serves as the first of three specific examples—alms-giving, prayer ([Matthew 6:5-15](/matthew/6-5-15 "Instructions on Prayer")), and fasting ([Matthew 6:16-18](/matthew/6-16-18 "Instructions on Fasting"))—where Jesus contrasts the hypocritical practices of His day with the genuine, God-honoring approach. These instructions are integral to the broader [Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5 "The Sermon on the Mount"), which redefines true righteousness not merely as outward obedience to the Law, but as an internal transformation of the heart and motive.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Alms-giving (charity) was a cornerstone of Jewish piety, considered a highly meritorious act alongside prayer and fasting. It was a tangible expression of faithfulness to the Mosaic Law, which commanded care for the poor and vulnerable (e.g., [Deuteronomy 15:7-11](/deuteronomy/15-7-11 "Lending to the Poor")). During the Second Temple period, public displays of piety were common, and some religious leaders, particularly the Pharisees, were known for their meticulous adherence to external rituals, sometimes to the neglect of internal heart attitudes. Synagogues were central places for community gathering, worship, and public announcements, while streets were bustling thoroughfares. The hyperbolic phrase "sound a trumpet before thee" likely refers to drawing public attention to one's charitable acts, perhaps through loud pronouncements or conspicuous displays, rather than a literal trumpet blast. This behavior was driven by a desire for social esteem and religious prestige within the community.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme is the **sincerity of motive** in religious acts. Jesus challenges the superficiality of outward performance, asserting that the true value of a deed is determined by the heart's intention, not public acclaim. This ties into the broader theme of **inward righteousness versus outward show**, a recurring motif throughout the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus emphasizes the spirit of the Law over mere legalistic observance (e.g., [Matthew 5:21-48](/matthew/5-21-48 "Jesus' Teachings on the Law")). Another key theme is the **warning against hypocrisy**, explicitly naming "hypocrites" as those whose religious acts are a performance. Their actions are designed to impress men, not God, leading to a discussion on the **nature of reward**. Jesus teaches that those who seek human glory receive only that, forfeiting the eternal reward from the Father who "sees in secret" ([Matthew 6:4](/matthew/6-4 "Reward for Secret Giving")). This highlights the ultimate futility of seeking earthly praise over divine approval.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **alms (Greek, _eleēmosýnē'_):** From ἔλεος; compassionateness, i.e. (as exercised towards the poor) beneficence, or (concretely) a benefaction:--alms(-deeds). This word underscores that charitable giving is fundamentally an act of mercy and compassion, flowing from a heart moved by the needs of others. Jesus' teaching here is not against the act of giving itself, but against the distortion of this compassionate act into a self-serving display.
* **sound a trumpet (Greek, _salpízō'_):** From σάλπιγξ; to trumpet, i.e. sound a blast (literally or figuratively):--(which are yet to) sound (a trumpet). This verb, used metaphorically, vividly portrays the ostentatious behavior of those who seek to draw attention to their charitable acts. It implies a loud, public announcement, a desire to ensure that everyone notices their "generosity."
* **hypocrites (Greek, _hypokritḗs'_):** From ὑποκρίνομαι; an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e. (figuratively) a dissembler ("hypocrite":--hypocrite. Jesus uses this term to describe those who perform religious duties for show, like actors on a stage. Their outward piety is a mask, concealing an inner motive of self-glory rather than genuine devotion to God or compassion for others.
* **reward (Greek, _misthós'_):** Apparently a primary word; pay for service (literally or figuratively), good or bad:--hire, reward, wages. This term refers to the compensation or wages received for an action. Jesus' declaration that the hypocrites "have their reward" signifies that the human praise they crave is the *only* recompense they will receive. It is a complete and final payment, leaving no further reward from God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee,"**: Jesus begins with "Therefore" (G3767, _oûn_), linking this specific instruction to the general principle of [Matthew 6:1](/matthew/6-1 "The Principle of Righteousness Before God"). He addresses the individual ("thou") directly, emphasizing personal responsibility. The command "do not sound a trumpet before thee" is a vivid, hyperbolic prohibition against publicizing one's acts of charity. It condemns any behavior—whether literal or figurative—that draws attention to oneself for the purpose of receiving human praise.
* **"as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men."**: Jesus identifies the "hypocrites" (G5273, _hypokritḗs_) as the negative example. These individuals perform their charitable deeds in the most public venues—the synagogues, centers of religious life, and the streets, bustling public thoroughfares—precisely "that they may have glory of men." Their ultimate motive is revealed: not genuine compassion or devotion to God, but the desire for human applause, recognition, and social standing.
* **"Verily I say unto you, They have their reward."**: Jesus concludes with a solemn, authoritative declaration, prefaced by "Verily" (G281, _amḗn_), emphasizing the absolute truth of His statement. The phrase "They have their reward" (G568, _apéchō_ with G3408, _misthós_) signifies that they have received their payment in full. The Greek verb _apéchō_ was often used in commercial contexts to mean "to receive in full," or "to have received payment." Thus, the fleeting praise of men is the *only* reward they will ever get for such actions, implying that no further, eternal reward from God awaits them.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs several potent literary devices in [Matthew 6:2](/matthew/6-2 "The Warning Against Ostentatious Giving") to convey His message with clarity and impact. The most prominent is **Hyperbole** in the phrase "sound a trumpet before thee." While it's possible some form of public announcement accompanied large donations, the image of literally blowing a trumpet to herald one's alms is an exaggeration designed to vividly illustrate the extreme and ostentatious desire for public attention. This serves to condemn the *spirit* of self-promotion rather than a specific literal action. Jesus also uses **Contrast**, setting up a clear dichotomy between the actions of "hypocrites" who seek "glory of men" and the implied ideal of secret, sincere giving for God's approval. This contrast highlights the two opposing motivations and their respective outcomes. Finally, there is an element of **Irony** in Jesus' declaration, "They have their reward." The irony lies in the fact that what the hypocrites consider a "reward"—human praise—is presented by Jesus as a final, insufficient payment that precludes any true, eternal reward from God. Their perceived gain is, in fact, their ultimate loss.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 6:2 is a foundational text for understanding the nature of true righteousness in God's kingdom. It underscores that God values the internal disposition and motive of the heart far more than external performance. This teaching challenges the legalistic and performance-driven religiosity common in Jesus' day and still prevalent today, asserting that actions done for human applause, no matter how outwardly "good," are spiritually bankrupt in God's eyes. It shifts the focus from horizontal (man-to-man) validation to vertical (man-to-God) accountability, emphasizing that our ultimate audience and rewarder is God alone. This principle extends beyond alms-giving to all areas of Christian life, including prayer, worship, service, and evangelism, calling believers to cultivate a heart of humility and sincerity that seeks God's glory above all else.

* [Proverbs 16:2](/proverbs/16-2 "The Lord Weighs the Motives")
* [Luke 18:9-14](/luke/18-9-14 "The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector")
* [1 Corinthians 4:5](/1_corinthians/4-5 "God Judges Motives")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse serves as a piercing mirror, inviting us to critically examine the motives behind our spiritual disciplines and acts of service. It challenges the inherent human desire for recognition and applause, reminding us that true spiritual reward comes not from the fleeting praise of people, but from the eternal approval of God, who sees what is done in secret. In a world saturated with social media and public platforms, the temptation to "sound a trumpet" before our good deeds is ever-present. This passage calls us to cultivate a radical humility, to find our satisfaction in God's knowledge of our actions, and to prioritize His glory above our own. It encourages a life of quiet, consistent faithfulness, where our acts of love and generosity are driven by genuine compassion and devotion, rather than a desire for public validation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are my primary motivations when I engage in acts of charity or service? Am I seeking human praise or God's approval?**
* **How does the pervasive culture of public display (e.g., social media) challenge or reinforce the temptation to "sound a trumpet" before my good deeds?**
* **What does it mean practically to "do alms in secret" in my daily life?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart that is content with God's knowledge of my actions, even when they go unnoticed by others?**

### FAQ

**What does Jesus mean by "sound a trumpet before thee"?**

Answer: Jesus is using a **hyperbole**, an intentional exaggeration for emphasis. He is not suggesting that people literally blew trumpets before giving alms. Instead, the phrase vividly illustrates the actions of those who conspicuously publicize their charitable deeds to draw attention to themselves and gain human praise. It refers to any behavior, whether subtle or overt, that seeks to make one's generosity known to others for the purpose of self-glorification, rather than giving out of genuine compassion or devotion to God. It highlights the desire for public recognition over sincere, private piety.

**Who are the "hypocrites" Jesus refers to in this verse?**

Answer: The term "hypocrites" (Greek: _hypokritḗs_) literally means "an actor" or "one who wears a mask." In this context, Jesus is referring to religious individuals, often the scribes and Pharisees, who performed their spiritual duties (like alms-giving, prayer, and fasting) not out of true devotion or love for God, but as a performance designed to impress others. Their outward display of piety masked an inner motive of self-promotion and a desire for human glory. Jesus uses this term to expose the disconnect between their external religious acts and their internal, self-serving intentions, contrasting their behavior with the genuine righteousness He calls His followers to embody.

**What does Jesus mean when He says, "They have their reward"?**

Answer: When Jesus says, "They have their reward," He means that those who perform good deeds for the purpose of receiving human praise have already received their full and final payment. The Greek word for "have" (_apéchō_) was commonly used in financial transactions to signify "to receive in full" or "to have received payment in full." Therefore, the fleeting applause, admiration, or social standing they gain from people is the *only* reward they will ever get for those actions. They have "cashed out" their spiritual capital for earthly recognition, thereby forfeiting any eternal commendation or blessing from God, who rewards those who seek His approval in secret ([Matthew 6:4](/matthew/6-4 "Reward for Secret Giving")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Matthew 6:2](/matthew/6-2 "The Warning Against Ostentatious Giving") finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the hypocrites sought glory from men, Jesus, though fully God, "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Christ's Self-Emptying")). His entire life was an act of selfless giving, culminating in His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, an act of unparalleled charity not for human praise, but for the glory of God and the redemption of humanity ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "God's Love for the World")). Jesus consistently rejected earthly accolades and public spectacle, choosing instead to reveal His kingdom through humble service and sacrificial love. He taught His disciples to follow His example, emphasizing that true greatness in His kingdom is found not in being served, but in serving ([Matthew 20:26-28](/matthew/20-26-28 "Greatness Through Service")), and that all acts of righteousness should ultimately point to God, not to oneself ([Matthew 5:16](/matthew/5-16 "Let Your Light Shine")). Thus, Jesus Himself is the perfect embodiment of the principle taught in this verse: genuine righteousness is lived out in humility, for the Father who sees in secret, and culminates in the selfless, God-glorifying act of Calvary.

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

Matthew 6:5

¶ And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites [are]: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Matthew 6:16

¶ Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

James 2:15

If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

James 2:16

And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be [ye] warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what [doth it] profit?

John 5:41

I receive not honour from men.

2 Corinthians 9:6

¶ But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

2 Corinthians 9:15

Thanks [be] unto God for his unspeakable gift.