Matthew 5:23 (KJV)

What does Matthew 5:23 mean?

Matthew 5:23 says that if you are about to offer a gift to God at the altar and suddenly remember that someone has something against you, you should stop and address that relationship first. The verse highlights the importance of making things right with others before continuing with acts of worship.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, teaching about the deeper meaning of righteousness. The setting is a Jewish context where bringing a gift to the altar was a central act of worship. Jesus points out that reconciliation with others is so important that it takes priority over religious rituals.

The Greek behind Matthew 5:23

• "Gift" (δῶρον, dōron) refers to an offering or sacrifice brought to God. This word emphasizes that the act is something meant for God, not just a casual gesture.
• "Altar" (θυσιαστήριον, thysiastērion) is the place of sacrifice in the temple. Mentioning the altar highlights the seriousness and sacredness of the moment being described.
• "Rememberest" (μνημονεύσῃς, mnēmoneusēs) means to recall or bring to mind. The Greek suggests an active realization, not just a passing thought, making the responsibility to act clear.
• "Ought" (τι, ti) means "anything" or "something." The Greek here is broad, showing that even small grievances are included, not just major offenses.

Why Matthew 5:23 matters

• Matthew 5:23 corrects the idea that religious rituals alone are enough to please God, stressing that relationships with others are just as important.
• The verse connects personal relationships with spiritual life, showing that unresolved conflict can affect one’s worship.
• This teaching fits into the wider Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus deepens the understanding of the law by focusing on the heart and motives, not just outward actions.