What does Matthew 6:3 mean?
But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: Matthew 6:3
Explanation
Matthew 6:3 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and speaks directly to the nature of giving to those in need. The passage suggests that charitable acts should not be done for public recognition or praise but should be kept private, between the giver and the recipient. This speaks to the deeper meaning of charity, which is to give selflessly and without seeking reward or acknowledgment. The mention of not letting “thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth” uses a metaphor that emphasizes utmost secrecy and humility in giving — that one should give so discreetly that it’s as if even the different parts of the body are unaware of the action.
Historical Context
During the time when Jesus was delivering the Sermon on the Mount, the Jewish community had structured practices around charity, prayer, and fasting. It was common for people to give alms publicly, sometimes announced with the sound of a trumpet. The Pharisees, a sect of Judaism at the time, were often criticized by Jesus for their outward displays of piety meant to garner them respect and honor in society. This teaching provided a contrast to the existing cultural norms on giving and emphasized genuine humility and discretion.
Theological Insights
From a theological perspective, this verse expresses the notion of anonymous charity as a principle within Christian ethics. This perspective has been interpreted in different ways. Some view it as an instruction against hypocrisy, teaching followers to act righteously for the sake of goodness itself rather than for recognition. Other theologians might emphasize how the verse suggests that true righteousness is not a performance but a deeply embedded personal virtue. There’s also the notion that God, who sees all acts done in secret, will reward the righteous, which shifts focus to divine rather than human approval.
Practical Applications
Practically, this verse encourages individuals to evaluate their motives when giving to others. It suggests that charitable actions should stem from a genuine desire to help others, not from the desire to boost one’s social status or ego. It can be applied by giving anonymously whenever possible, ensuring that the focus remains on the aid provided rather than the giver. It also invites people to reflect more broadly on their motivations and to cultivate humility and self-reflection in their actions.
Cross-References
- Matthew 6:4 – “That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.”
- Matthew 6:1 – “Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.”
- Proverbs 19:17 – “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.”
Language Study
In the original Greek text, the phrase “let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth” uses the verbs γινωσκέτω (ginōsketō) meaning “to know” and ποιεῖ (poiei) meaning “to do,” emphasizing the comprehension and action components of the analogy. This plays on the Hebrew concept of knowledge which often connotes a deeper understanding and intimacy, going beyond mere awareness to a personal, internalized knowledge.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
Many religions and cultures emphasize the importance of charitable giving and the value of humility in such acts. In Judaism, the concept of “tzedakah” represents charity given from sincere compassion. Islam too maintains this principle through “sadaqah,” where the spiritual reward for giving is considered to be greater when the act is done anonymously. These parallels suggest a universal recognition of the virtue of selfless giving across different religious traditions.
Scientific Perspectives
From a psychological viewpoint, studies on altruism show that performing charitable acts can lead to greater personal satisfaction and well-being when done without seeking external rewards. This aligns with the biblical teaching that intrinsic rather than extrinsic rewards are more valuable. It supports the idea that there are intrinsic psychological benefits linked to anonymous giving and that humans might be hardwired to find fulfillment in selfless acts.
Commentaries
Commentaries on Matthew 6:3 offer various interpretations. Some scholars, like William Barclay, emphasize the authenticity of charity taught by Jesus, contrasted with the ostentatious behavior of the Pharisees of his day. John Calvin points out the impossibility of literally not allowing one’s left hand to know what the right is doing, interpreting it as an admonishment to practice extreme self-denial when it comes to seeking praise. Modern-day commentators often focus on the spiritual discipline involved in charitable giving as a means to shape one’s character and grow in humility before God.
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