Book of Matthew - Chapter 6 - Verse 17

When interpreting the verse "But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face," it is important to understand the context in which it was said. In this verse from the book of Matthew, Jesus is teaching his followers about the importance of fasting in a way that is not meant to draw attention to oneself. By anointing one's head and washing their face while fasting, they are being reminded to maintain a sense of normalcy and not display outward signs of their spiritual discipline. This verse emphasizes the idea that fasting should be a personal practice done for the purpose of connecting with God, rather than seeking recognition from others. It encourages humility and authenticity in one's devotion to God. By following this teaching, believers can ensure that their fasting is done with the right intentions and without seeking praise or admiration from others.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face," it is crucial to understand the context in which it was written. In this verse, Jesus is addressing the issue of fasting, a common practice in Jewish culture at the time. The act of fasting was often done as a sign of mourning or repentance, but Jesus challenges his disciples to fast discreetly, without drawing attention to themselves. By instructing his followers to anoint their heads and wash their faces while fasting, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of sincerity in their spiritual practices. This verse serves as a reminder that true devotion to God should come from the heart, rather than seeking outward recognition from others. In a word study of this verse, the term "anoint" carries the connotation of refreshing or nourishing, while "wash" symbolizes purification or cleansing. Therefore, the act of anointing and washing in this context may represent a spiritual renewal and purification, highlighting the inner transformation that should accompany fasting. Overall, this verse challenges believers to approach fasting with humility and authenticity, focusing on their relationship with God rather than seeking approval or admiration from others.