What does Matthew 23:17 mean?

Explanation

The verse, Matthew 23:17, is part of a larger discourse where Jesus is reproaching the Pharisees and scribes for their hypocrisy and blindness to the true meaning and spirit of the Law.

In this specific verse, Jesus calls out those who argue about whether the gold or the temple is greater, stating that they are "fools and blind." The literal interpretation is that they are overly concerned with the material wealth (the gold), instead of understanding that it is the temple, which is consecrated to God, that gives the gold any significance or holiness.

The deeper meaning implies a criticism of the leaders' misguided priorities, they value the gold offered as temple offerings, yet fail to recognize the sacredness of the temple itself as a place of worship and the presence of God.

Here, Jesus is rebuking them for missing the point of true worship and the deeper spiritual values, becoming entangled in superficial and materialistic concerns.

Historical Context

Matthew 23 is set near the end of Jesus' ministry, a time when the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities in Jerusalem is reaching a climax.

In the Jewish tradition, the Temple in Jerusalem was the holiest site and the center of Jewish worship.

At the time of Jesus, it was a grand structure, thanks in part to the renovations commissioned by Herod the Great.

The Pharisees were a religious and social movement in Judaism that emphasized strict interpretation and observance of the Torah.

They held significant influence over the people, and their teachings often included extensive rules and interpretations of the law.

In this part of Matthew, Jesus is denouncing their practices of leading the people astray with their legalism and hypocrisy, rather than guiding them towards a more heartfelt adherence to God's commandments.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse is often interpreted in the light of Jesus' teaching on the importance of inner spiritual integrity over external religious ceremonies.

The statement places less value on material offerings and more on the sacredness it represents, God's dwelling place among humans.

Different denominations might emphasize various aspects of this teaching, such as the Protestant focus on faith over works, or the Catholic balance between faith and its outward expression.

In a broader sense, theologians might relate this teaching to the concept of idolatry, prioritizing material or earthly things over God, and a call to focus on what is truly important in one's spiritual life.

Practical Applications

The teaching in Matthew 23:17 can remind individuals to examine their priorities, encouraging them not to get lost in the materialistic aspects of religion, such as wealth, buildings, or outward rituals, but rather to focus on the more profound spiritual truths these elements symbolize.

In everyday life, this could mean placing more emphasis on the intent behind one's actions and ensuring that outward religious expressions align with a heart that seeks to honor God.

Cross-References

• Matthew 23:19 - "Ye fools and blind: whether is greater, the altar, or the gift that sanctifieth the altar?"
• Matthew 6:19-21 - "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth...

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven..."

• 1 Samuel 15:22 - "Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice..."
• Hosea 6:6 - "For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings."

Language Study

In the phrase "Ye fools and blind," the Greek word for "fools" is "μωροί" (moroi), which can imply moral senselessness, and "blind" is "τυφλοί" (typhloi), suggesting a spiritual or mental blindness.

The Greek word "μεῖζον" (meizon), translated as “greater,” carries the connotation of greater importance or significance in this context.

Another important term is “sanctifieth” from the Greek “ἁγιάζει” (hagiazei), which means to make holy or to consecrate. This term underscores the argument that it is the sacredness of the temple that imparts holiness to the gold.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this verse to other ancient religious contexts, many religions at the time also placed a high value on physical temples and sacrifices.

For example, in ancient Greek and Roman religions, there was an emphasis on temple offerings to the gods.

Yet, within Jewish tradition, there was also a strong prophetic tradition that emphasized the importance of moral behavior and a heartfelt relationship with God over mere ritualistic practice, as seen in the writings of Isaiah and Micah.

Scientific Perspectives

While there are no direct scientific implications in this verse, the broader psychological concept of cognitive biases might be relevant.

The passage could be interpreted as a critique of the Pharisees' inability to see what is truly important due to cognitive biases like the overvaluation of commodities (like gold) or authority (the temple), which are common human tendencies.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse typically reflect on the themes of hypocrisy and misdirected religious focus.

Renowned biblical scholars such as William Barclay and John Calvin emphasize Jesus' critique of the Pharisees' external adherence to the Law without understanding its inner spiritual meaning.

Contemporary commentaries often discuss the relevance of this message in modern religious practice, urging believers to look beyond physical wealth and superficial piety to the deeper call of a relationship with God.