Mark 7:6 (KJV)

What does Mark 7:6 mean?

Mark 7:6 describes Jesus responding to religious leaders by quoting the prophet Isaiah, saying that although people may honor God with their words, their hearts are actually distant from Him. Jesus is calling out hypocrisy—outward respect for God that does not match inward reality.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees and scribes who have criticized His disciples for not following certain traditions. By referencing Isaiah, Jesus points out that these leaders focus on external rituals while neglecting genuine devotion. The verse highlights the difference between saying the right things about God and truly meaning them in one’s heart.

The Greek behind Mark 7:6

• ὑποκριταί (hypokritai): This word means "hypocrites" and originally referred to actors on a stage. Here, Jesus uses it to accuse the religious leaders of putting on a show of devotion while lacking sincerity.
• τιμᾷ (timáō): Translated as "honoureth," this word means to show respect or value. The Greek emphasizes outward actions or words that appear respectful.
• καρδία (kardia): This is the word for "heart," often understood in Greek as the center of thought, feeling, and will—not just emotion. Jesus is saying their true selves are far from God, not just their feelings.
• πόρρω (porrō): Translated as "far," this word stresses real distance, not just a small gap. The verse underlines how deep the separation is between outward honor and inward reality.

Why Mark 7:6 matters

• Mark 7:6 clears up the idea that religious words or rituals alone are enough to please God; it stresses that genuine inner devotion is what matters most.
• The verse sets the tone for the larger discussion in Mark 7, where Jesus challenges traditions that overshadow true faith and love for God.
• By quoting Isaiah, Jesus connects His criticism to a long-standing problem in Israel’s history, showing that this issue of empty worship is not new but has always been a concern.