Book of Matthew - Chapter 12 - Verse 2

In this verse, the Pharisees approach Jesus with a concern about the actions of his disciples on the Sabbath day. The Pharisees were a religious sect known for their strict adherence to Jewish laws, including those regarding the Sabbath. According to their interpretation of the law, any work done on the Sabbath was considered unlawful. When the Pharisees saw Jesus' disciples picking grain to eat on the Sabbath, they viewed it as a violation of the Sabbath law. By pointing out this behavior, the Pharisees were challenging Jesus' authority and commitment to upholding the Jewish laws and traditions. Jesus, in response to their criticism, later explains that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, not as a burden, and that acts of mercy and kindness are always permitted. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between Jesus and the religious leaders of his time regarding the interpretation and application of religious laws.

When the Pharisees saw Jesus' disciples picking and eating grains on the Sabbath, they accused them of breaking the Sabbath law. The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic Law, including observing the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship. Their interpretation of the law emphasized rigid adherence to the rules, even at the expense of showing compassion. However, Jesus challenged their legalistic approach by pointing to the heart of the matter - that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. In this passage, the word "lawful" carries the connotation of being according to the regulations prescribed by the religious leaders of the time. Jesus' response to the Pharisees' accusation reveals a different interpretation of the Sabbath, emphasizing mercy and compassion over legalistic observance. This highlights the importance of understanding the principles behind the law rather than simply following rules for the sake of tradition.