If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.

MARK 7:16KJV
Know the Bible

Mark 7:16 (KJV)

What does Mark 7:16 mean?

Mark 7:16 is a call from Jesus for people to pay close attention and truly listen to what he is saying. The verse uses a familiar phrase to urge anyone who is able to understand to take his words seriously.

In the setting of Mark 7, Jesus is speaking to a crowd after confronting religious leaders about traditions and what truly makes a person unclean. This short statement is a way for Jesus to highlight the importance of his teaching, signaling that what he just said is especially important and worth careful thought.

The Greek behind Mark 7:16

  • "man" (τις, tis): This word is often used to mean "anyone" or "whoever," making the invitation open to all rather than a specific group.
  • "have" (ἔχω, echō): In this context, "have" means to possess or to be equipped with, emphasizing the ability or readiness to hear.
  • "ears" (ὦτα, ōta): "Ears" here is literal but also points to the ability to understand or perceive, not just physical hearing.
  • "hear" (ἀκούω, akouō): This word means more than just hearing sounds; it often carries the sense of truly listening, understanding, and taking to heart what is being said.

Why Mark 7:16 matters

  • Mark 7:16 shows that Jesus wants his listeners to move beyond surface-level hearing and truly grasp the deeper meaning of his teaching.
  • This verse connects to the larger discussion in Mark 7 about what really defiles a person, highlighting that understanding Jesus’ message is crucial.
  • The phrase is a common way Jesus signals a key teaching moment, helping readers recognize when something especially important is being said.

Where else these words appear

“ears” Greek G3775 · used in 35 verses

  • Matthew 10:27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.
  • Luke 4:21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

“man” Greek G1536 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:36 But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.