Book of Matthew - Chapter 15 - Verse 5

In this verse, Jesus is addressing the Pharisees who were criticizing the disciples for not following traditions. Jesus points out their hypocrisy by highlighting a practice called "Corban" where people would dedicate their money or possessions to God as a way to avoid taking care of their parents. By declaring their assets as a gift to God, these individuals were essentially neglecting their responsibility to honor and support their elderly parents. Jesus is condemning this behavior and emphasizing the importance of honoring one's parents and caring for them in their old age. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize love and compassion towards family members above rituals or traditions. It teaches us to not just go through the motions of religion, but to truly act with kindness and generosity towards those who have cared for us.

In this verse, Jesus is addressing the Pharisees' practice of using a loophole in the law to neglect their responsibility of caring for their parents. The word "gift" in this context refers to the practice of Corban, where someone could dedicate their property to the temple and then claim they no longer had the means to support their parents. This would allow them to avoid their obligation to honor their father and mother. By pointing out this hypocrisy, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of honoring one's parents, as commanded in the Old Testament. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the principle of honoring and caring for one's parents as a fundamental aspect of following God's will. It serves as a reminder that outward religious practices should not be used as an excuse to neglect our responsibilities towards our family and loved ones.