Matthew 15:4 (KJV)

What does Matthew 15:4 mean?

Matthew 15:4 states that God commanded people to honor their father and mother, and warned that anyone who curses their father or mother deserves death. This verse highlights the seriousness with which God views respect for parents, drawing from commandments found in the Hebrew Scriptures.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to religious leaders who have challenged Him about His disciples’ traditions. Jesus responds by reminding them of God’s clear command about honoring parents, showing that this commandment is not just a tradition but a direct order from God. By quoting both the positive command to honor and the severe warning against cursing parents, Jesus emphasizes how important this principle was in the law given to Israel.

The Greek behind Matthew 15:4

• "τιμάω" (timaō, G5091) means "to honor" or "to value highly." In this context, it refers to showing respect, care, and support for one’s parents, not just outward politeness.
• "καταρασθαι" (katarasthai, G2551) is translated "to curse." This word carries the sense of speaking evil of, insulting, or wishing harm upon someone, which in this case is directed at one’s parents.
• "τελευτάτω θανάτῳ" (teleutatō thanatō, G5053 + G2288) means "let him die the death." This phrase is a strong legal expression in Greek, indicating the most severe penalty under the law.

Why Matthew 15:4 matters

• Matthew 15:4 clarifies that honoring parents is not just a cultural expectation but a direct command from God, rooted in the Ten Commandments and reinforced by Jesus.
• By quoting both the command to honor and the warning against cursing, Jesus exposes how some religious traditions had started to undermine or sidestep God’s original intent.
• This verse sets up the contrast Jesus is about to make between God’s commandments and human traditions, helping readers see the weight and seriousness of what God has said compared to man-made rules.