Mark 12:15 (KJV)

What does Mark 12:15 mean?

Mark 12:15 shows Jesus responding to a tricky question about paying taxes by asking to see a coin, knowing that those questioning him were not sincere. Jesus recognizes their attempt to trap him and calls out their motives before moving the conversation forward with a practical request.

In this scene, religious leaders are trying to catch Jesus in his words by asking if it is lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus, aware of their hypocrisy, challenges them by asking, “Why tempt ye me?” and requests a “penny” (a Roman coin, likely a denarius) to make his point. This sets up his famous teaching about giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.

The Greek behind Mark 12:15

• ὑπόκρισις (hypokrisis, G5272): This word means “hypocrisy” or pretending to have motives or beliefs that one does not truly possess. Jesus sees through the false intentions of those questioning him, highlighting that their question is not genuine.
• πειράζω (peirazō, G3985): Translated here as “tempt,” this word often means to test or try someone, usually with a hidden motive. Jesus directly addresses their attempt to trap him rather than seeking honest guidance.
• δηνάριον (dēnarion, G1220): Rendered “penny” in the KJV, this refers to a Roman coin used for the tax in question. Jesus’ request for the coin brings the issue into concrete terms and shifts the focus from theory to reality.

Why Mark 12:15 matters

• Mark 12:15 makes clear that Jesus is not fooled by outward appearances or clever questions; he sees the true intentions behind people’s words.
• The verse sets up the famous teaching about the relationship between civic duty and spiritual responsibility, which follows in the next verses.
• By asking for the coin, Jesus brings the debate into the real world, showing that faith and daily life are not separate and that practical wisdom is needed in dealing with difficult questions.