Matthew 5:22 (KJV)

What does Matthew 5:22 mean?

Matthew 5:22 warns that being angry with someone "without a cause," or insulting them with words like "Raca" (an insult meaning "empty-headed") or "fool," puts a person in danger of serious consequences, including judgment, council, or even "hell fire." Jesus is teaching that not just outward actions, but also inner attitudes and words toward others, matter deeply.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, expanding on the Old Testament commandment against murder. He shows that anger and contempt can be just as serious as physical violence in God's eyes. Jesus uses escalating examples—anger, calling someone "Raca," and calling someone a "fool"—to highlight how even our thoughts and words can have moral weight.

The Greek behind Matthew 5:22

• ῥακά (Raca, G4469): This is an Aramaic insult meaning "empty" or "worthless." Using this word shows contempt, and Jesus points out that such insults are not trivial in God's sight.
• μωρέ (moré, G3474): Translated "fool," this word carries a strong sense of moral failure or godlessness. Calling someone this is seen as a deep insult to their character.
• γέεννα (Geenna, G1067): Translated "hell," this refers to a place of final judgment. Jesus uses it to show the seriousness of harboring and expressing contempt.

Why Matthew 5:22 matters

• Matthew 5:22 clarifies that Jesus is concerned not just with external actions like murder, but also with inner attitudes and the words we use toward others.
• The verse connects to the broader theme of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus deepens the meaning of the law, showing that true righteousness goes beyond surface obedience.
• This teaching challenges the idea that only physical acts are sinful, emphasizing that anger and contempt can be just as spiritually dangerous.