But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.

MARK 7:11KJV
Know the Bible

Mark 7:11 (KJV)

What does Mark 7:11 mean?

Mark 7:11 describes how some people in Jesus’ time would declare their possessions “Corban”—meaning dedicated to God as a gift—so they would not have to use those resources to help their parents. Jesus is pointing out that this tradition allowed people to avoid their responsibility to care for their father or mother.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees and teachers of the law, challenging them about their traditions. The setting is a discussion about why Jesus’ disciples do not follow certain ritual handwashing rules. Jesus uses the example of “Corban” to show how human traditions can be used to sidestep God’s command to honor one’s parents, highlighting a conflict between tradition and the intent of God’s law.

The Greek behind Mark 7:11

  • κορβᾶν (korban): This is a transliteration of a Hebrew word meaning “a gift” or “offering dedicated to God.” In this context, it refers to something set aside for religious purposes, making it unavailable for other uses—even helping one’s parents.
  • δῶρον (dōron): This Greek word means “gift.” It clarifies that “Corban” is understood as a gift or offering, not just a general promise or vow.
  • ὠφεληθῇς (ōphelēthēs): This word means “to be benefited” or “to profit.” It points out that the resources in question could have benefited the parents, but the tradition prevented that.

Why Mark 7:11 matters

  • Mark 7:11 clears up the misunderstanding that religious traditions should always be followed, showing that some traditions can actually contradict God’s commands.
  • This verse highlights Jesus’ criticism of using religious language or customs to avoid real moral responsibilities, especially caring for family.
  • Mark 7:11 connects to the wider passage by illustrating Jesus’ broader point: true obedience to God is not about outward rituals, but about honoring God’s intentions, such as caring for others.

Where else these words appear

“Corban” Greek G2878 · used in 2 verses

  • Matthew 27:6 And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.

“say” Greek G3603 · used in 11 verses

  • Mark 3:17 And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder:
  • Mark 15:16 And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band.
  • Colossians 1:24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

“by” Greek G5623 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
  • Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
  • 1 Corinthians 13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

“gift” Greek G1435 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
  • Matthew 23:18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.
  • Hebrews 5:1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins: