Mark 12:13 (KJV)

What does Mark 12:13 mean?

Mark 12:13 describes how some Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus with the intention of trapping him by his own words. Their goal was not honest questioning, but to find something Jesus said that could be used against him.

In this scene, religious leaders (the Pharisees) and political supporters of Herod (the Herodians) are working together, even though they usually disagreed. They approach Jesus during his public teaching in Jerusalem, looking for a way to accuse him or discredit him. This verse sets up the confrontation that follows, showing the tension and opposition Jesus faced from different groups.

The Greek behind Mark 12:13

• The word "catch" (ἀγρεύσωσιν, agreusōsin) is often used for hunting or trapping, which highlights that their approach was sneaky and meant to ensnare Jesus, not to seek real answers.
• "Words" (λόγος, logos) here refers to what Jesus might say; the focus is on twisting his speech rather than his actions.
• The phrase "to" (ἵνα, hina) introduces their purpose, making it clear that their mission was intentional and planned, not a casual encounter.

Why Mark 12:13 matters

• Mark 12:13 shows unlikely groups (Pharisees and Herodians) joining forces against Jesus, underlining how threatening his message seemed to different parts of society.
• The verse prepares the reader for the challenge and trick question that follows, helping us understand the hostile environment Jesus was operating in.
• It clarifies that the questions put to Jesus in the following verses are not sincere but are designed to trap him, which shapes how we read his responses.