Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
MATTHEW 6:16KJVWhat does Matthew 6:16 mean?
Matthew 6:16 warns against making a show of fasting to gain attention or approval from others. Jesus says that those who fast with a sad or exaggerated appearance, just to be seen by people, have already received all the recognition they will get—nothing more from God.
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his followers during the Sermon on the Mount, teaching them about genuine spiritual practices. He points out that some people, called "hypocrites," would purposely make themselves look miserable while fasting so others would notice and praise them for their devotion. Jesus emphasizes that true fasting is not about public display but about sincerity before God.
The Greek behind Matthew 6:16
- ὑποκριταί (hypokritai): This word means "hypocrites," referring to people who act or pretend, especially in religious matters. Here, it highlights the problem of putting on a show of piety rather than being sincere.
- ἀφανίζουσιν (aphanizousin): This verb means "they disfigure" or "make unrecognizable." The idea is that these people would alter their appearance to look especially gloomy, making their fasting obvious to others.
- μισθὸν (misthon): This word means "reward." Jesus uses it to say that public recognition is the only reward these people will get—they should not expect anything further from God.
Why Matthew 6:16 matters
- Matthew 6:16 clarifies that spiritual practices like fasting are meant to be between a person and God, not performed for human applause.
- This verse connects to the wider teaching in Matthew 6, where Jesus warns against doing good deeds just to be seen by others, whether giving, praying, or fasting.
- The verse helps correct the misunderstanding that outward displays of religion automatically please God; instead, Jesus stresses the importance of inner sincerity.