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Matthew 15:1-21 Blind leading the blind
by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640


1. Matthew 15:1-21 Blind leading the blind
This page is under development. It needs to be split into several parts.

2. Matthew 15:1-21 Blind leading the blind
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]

Bad heart list Heart and treasure Greek letter Chiasm 0

The start of Matthew 15 has some interactions with the religious establishment and a short discourse with what Peter calls a "parable". The laundry list of "sins", some of which are mistranslated, and unusual for Jesus to say, appear to form a chiasm or "X" of (related) meaning, and with no middle element.

Information sign More: Chiasmus patterns

3. Matthew 15:1 Scribes and Pharisees
Verse routeMatthew 15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, [kjv]
Verse routeτοτε προσερχονται τω ιησου απο ιεροσολυμων φαρισαιοι και γραμματεις λεγοντες [gnt]

Bird Pig
This verse starts an interaction and a short discourse.
The "Pharisees" fit the model of the "birds" or "eye" as in false leaders who use others for their own benefit.

The "scribes" fit the model of the "pigs" or "hands" as in those who work for the "birds". In this case, in more of an academic role. The "pig" could be a soldier (e.g., in the Crusades), part of an inquisition (torturing, killing, etc.) or some more benign role such as a "scribe" to support the "birds".

Information sign More: Matthew 5:13-16 Animal crackers

4. Matthew 15:1
   Matthew 15:1 
 All 
KJV: Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Greek: τοτε προσερχονται τω ιησου οι απο ιεροσολυμων γραμματεις και φαρισαιοι και γραμματεις λεγοντες

5. Matthew 15:2 Ancient and senior elders
Verse routeMatthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. [kjv]
Verse routeδια τι οι μαθηται σου παραβαινουσιν την παραδοσιν των πρεσβυτερων ου γαρ νιπτονται τας χειρας οταν αρτον εσθιωσιν [gnt]
Verse routediscipulitransgrediuntur traditionem seniorumlavant manuspanem manducant [v]

The ancient Greek word "πρεσβύτερος""older (of two people), advanced in life, senior" and comes from "πρέσβυς""elderly, aged". This word is the source of the English word "Presbyterian".

Information sign More: Shepherds and Presbyterians

6. Strongs - wash

7. Usage - wash
*G3538 *17 νίπτω (nip'-to) : to cleanse (especially the hands or the feet or the face); ceremonially, to perform ablution:--wash. Compare G3068.
Word usage per chapter Words: ενιψα ενιψαμην ενιψατο ενιψεν=2 νιπτειν=2 νιπτεις νιπτονται νιψαι=3 νιψαμενος νιψασθαι νιψης νιψω νιψωνται

The ancient Greek word "νίζω""wash (hands or feet of another), purge, cleanse". A back-formation of this word is that used in the above verse.

8. Matthew 15:2 Wash
Verse routeMatthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. [kjv]
Verse routeδια τι οι μαθηται σου παραβαινουσιν την παραδοσιν των πρεσβυτερων ου γαρ νιπτονται τας χειρας οταν αρτον εσθιωσιν [gnt]
Verse routediscipulitransgrediuntur traditionem seniorumlavant manuspanem manducant [v]

Sheep
The "disciples" fit the model of the "sheep" or "hair". Their "head" is Jesus.

The Greek translated as "why" is that of "through what".
The ancient Greek word "νίζω""wash (hands or feet of another), purge, cleanse".

Interestingly, in the animal and body part model, the "feet" as "fish" need "washed" in the "blood" but the "hands" as "pigs" or "sheep" and the "head" as Jesus do not. The "birds", apparently, are beyond hope.

Information sign More: Matthew 5:33-37: Hairs of the head - yes no
Information sign More: No sword no shoes no service on the way
Information sign More: Song: Are you washed in the blood?

9. Matthew 15:2 Transgress
Verse routeMatthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. [kjv]
Verse routeδια τι οι μαθηται σου παραβαινουσιν την παραδοσιν των πρεσβυτερων ου γαρ νιπτονται τας χειρας οταν αρτον εσθιωσιν [gnt]
Verse routediscipulitransgrediuntur traditionem seniorumlavant manuspanem manducant [v]

The Greek for "transgress" means, literally, "walk beyond". The ancient Greek word "παραβάτην""transgressor" is meaning, literally, one who "walks beyond" (where they are supposed to go).

10. Galatians 2:18 Transgressor
Verse routeGalatians 2:18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. [kjv]
Verse routeει γαρ α κατελυσα ταυτα παλιν οικοδομω παραβατην εμαυτον συνιστανω [gnt]

Paul uses the ancient Greek word "παραβάτην""transgressor" is meaning, literally, one who "walks beyond" (where they are supposed to go). Matthew and Luke, the "transgressions" (e.g., Lord's Prayer and after) do not use this word that means "transgression".

The word translated as "destroyed" has a primary meaning of "reside" as in "making a residence". Did Paul actually "destroy" the Jewish system of law? Did he "reside" in that system?

The Greek word translated "build" has the Greek word for "house" in it. One should not "build" a "house" of those things again in another similar form. Has the church "rebuilt" parts of ritual and tradition to replace the Jewish system it replaced?

Information sign More: Matthew 5: 17 Leave the light on but do not use the law as a residence inn
Information sign More: Matthew 6: 14-15: Forget about the debts, sins and trespasses

11. Jesus and the law and Zaccheaus
Jesus and Zaccheaus: (verb). A few verses later is the Palm Sunday entrance of Jesus.
Verse routeLuke 19:5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ως ηλθεν επι τον τοπον αναβλεψας ο ιησους ειπεν προς αυτον ζακχαιε σπευσας καταβηθι σημερον γαρ εν τω οικω σου δει με μειναι [gnt]
Verse route19:7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ιδοντες παντες διεγογγυζον λεγοντες οτι παρα αμαρτωλω ανδρι εισηλθεν καταλυσαι [gnt]

Jesus and the law and the prophets: (verb). This is near the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount.
Verse routeMatthew 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. [kjv]
Verse routeμη νομισητε οτι ηλθον καταλυσαι τον νομον η τους προφητας ουκ ηλθον καταλυσαι αλλα πληρωσαι [gnt]

The English is "fulfill" or "fill full". The Greek for "complete" can involve adding or taking away - as in a sculpture where parts of the material are chipped away.

Information sign More: Luke 19: A short discussion on stature
Information sign More: Matthew 5: 17 Leave the light on but do not use the law as a residence inn

12. Catalyst as a noun
Jesus and the Last Supper: This was already "prepared".
Verse routeMark 14:14 … The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? [kjv]
Verse routeκαι οπου εαν εισελθη ειπατε τω οικοδεσποτη οτι ο διδασκαλος λεγει που εστιν το καταλυμα μου οπου το πασχα μετα των μαθητων μου φαγω [gnt]

Mary and Joseph: Luke did not use the Greek word for "inn".
Verse routeLuke 2:7 … there was no room for them in the inn. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ετεκεν τον υιον αυτης τον πρωτοτοκον και εσπαργανωσεν αυτον και ανεκλινεν αυτον εν φατνη διοτι ουκ ην αυτοις τοπος εν τω καταλυματι [gnt]

Jesus and the Father's house: Place to "remain", Latin used "mansions".
Verse routeJohn 14:2 In my Father's house are many mansions: … I go to prepare a place for you. [kjv]
Verse routeεν τη οικια του πατρος μου μοναι πολλαι εισιν ει δε μη ειπον αν υμιν οτι πορευομαι ετοιμασαι τοπον υμιν [gnt]



Information sign More: Luke 2:7 no room at the inn
Information sign More: The Last Supper: the guest-chamber
Information sign More: Meno Paradox: Seeking to learn what you do not know
Information sign More: Matthew 5: 17 Leave the light on but do not use the law as a residence inn

13. Matthew 15:2 Traditions
Verse routeMatthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. [kjv]
Verse routeδια τι οι μαθηται σου παραβαινουσιν την παραδοσιν των πρεσβυτερων ου γαρ νιπτονται τας χειρας οταν αρτον εσθιωσιν [gnt]
Verse routediscipulitransgrediuntur traditionem seniorumlavant manuspanem manducant [v]

The ancient Greek word "παράδοσις""transmission, transfer" and comes from two Greek words. In context, it can mean "tradition" as something "transmitted" or "handed over" from generation to generation as in "beyond" the current generation.

The "traditions" of men that form man's additions to God's law is what Jesus refers to as "jots" as "opinions" or "spots" and "tittles" as "horns" or "rules". These are usually enforced, deceptively, using "oaths".

Information sign More: Going beyond the prefix para
Information sign More: Matthew 5:18 The true reality of jots and tittles
Information sign More: Matthew 5:33-37 Reasoning about oaths - yes no

14. Tradition betrayed
Verse routeMatthew 15:2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. [kjv]
Verse routeδια τι οι μαθηται σου παραβαινουσιν την παραδοσιν των πρεσβυτερων ου γαρ νιπτονται τας χειρας οταν αρτον εσθιωσιν [gnt]
Verse routediscipulitransgrediuntur traditionem seniorumlavant manuspanem manducant [v]

Verse route10:4 Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. [kjv]
Verse routeσιμων ο καναναιος και ιουδας ο ισκαριωτης ο και παραδους αυτον [gnt]

The Greek word for "tradition" or "hand over" is related to the Greek word for "betray" or "hand over". The ancient Greek word "παράδοσις""transmission, transfer" and comes from two Greek words. In context, it can mean "tradition" as something "transmitted" or "handed over" from generation to generation as in "beyond" the current generation. The word is related to the Greek word for "betray".

15. Matthew 10:4
   Matthew 10:4 
 All 
KJV: Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.
Greek: σιμων ο κανανιτης καναναιος και ιουδας ο ισκαριωτης ο και παραδους αυτον

16. Strongs - tradition

17. Usage - tradition
*G3862 *13 παράδοσις (par-ad'-os-is) : from G3860; transmission, i.e. (concretely) a precept; specially, the Jewish traditionary law:--ordinance, tradition.
Word usage per chapter Words: παραδοσει παραδοσεις=2 παραδοσεων παραδοσιν=9

*G3860 *119 παραδίδωμι (par-ad-id'-o-mee) : from G3844 and G1325; to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit:--betray, bring forth, cast, commit, deliver (up), give (over, up), hazard, put in prison, recommend.

18. Matthew 15:2
   Matthew 15:2 
 All 
KJV: Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Greek: δια τι οι μαθηται σου παραβαινουσιν την παραδοσιν των πρεσβυτερων ου γαρ νιπτονται τας χειρας αυτων οταν αρτον εσθιωσιν
Latin: quare discipuli tui transgrediuntur traditionem seniorum non enim lavant manus suas cum panem manducant

19. Matthew 15:3 Tradition as a transgression
Verse routeMatthew 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? [kjv]
Verse routeο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν αυτοις δια τι και υμεις παραβαινετε την εντολην του θεου δια την παραδοσιν υμων [gnt]

Jesus turns their reasoning back to them. That is, they are accusing the disciples of what, in a general sense, they are themselves doing but they do not see any connection (until Jesus elaborates).

Here are some ways to "transgress". Man can introduce "traditions", often with "oaths", that keep one from following all the laws of God. This is called the "yoke" of "compulsion".

[Dr. Dobson]

Information sign More: Amos 5: The yoke of compulsion
Information sign More: Matthew 11:28-30 Restful and useful yoke that is not easy

20. Matthew 15:3
   Matthew 15:3 
 All 
KJV: But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?
Greek: ο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν αυτοις δια τι και υμεις παραβαινετε την εντολην του θεου δια την παραδοσιν υμων

21. Transgression progression
 ▶ 
 + 
 - 
 1 
 2 
 3 
 4 
The Pharisees gained power at the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. Since the walls were being rebuilt to defend Jerusalem, they wanted to create a wall of laws to keep the people from straying from the word of God. This "wall" might be compared to a "pit" or "abyss".
Fulfill
Jesus talks about "transgression" and "tradition" in Matthew 15:1-27.

[permit law, non-monotonic logic, negation by failure, life, walls, Joshua]

Information sign More: Amos 5: The yoke of compulsion

22. Matthew 15:4 Bad mouth
Verse routeMatthew 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. [kjv]
Verse routeο γαρ θεος ειπεν τιμα τον πατερα και την μητερα και ο κακολογων πατερα η μητερα θανατω τελευτατω [gnt]

Jesus uses the example of honoring father and mother. The Greek word for "honor" is that of placing "value". The Greek word translated "curseth" is that of, literally, "bad words". There are other Greek words for what in English is called a "curse". The Greek for "die" is that of "end in". Whose "death" it is must be inferred?

When you "dishonor" your mother or father, and your children can hear or observe, you are teaching your children that they can "dishonor" you (regardless of age).

Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

23. Matthew 15:4
   Matthew 15:4 
 All 
KJV: For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Greek: ο γαρ θεος ενετειλατο λεγων ειπεν τιμα τον πατερα σου και την μητερα και ο κακολογων πατερα η μητερα θανατω τελευτατω

24. Matthew 15:5 Corban
Verse routeMatthew 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; [kjv]
Verse routeυμεις δε λεγετε ος αν ειπη τω πατρι η τη μητρι δωρον ο εαν εξ εμου ωφεληθης ου μητιμησει τονπατερα αυτου [gnt]

That is, by declaring something a "gift" to God (a man-made rule), as if God needs that "gift", one can side-step rules that come from God. By using a man-made tradition to side-step or get around God's rules, they have, in effect, made God's law of no effect.

In Mark, the name for this policy, to be clarified by Jesus, is provided as "corban". Mark is Peter's Gospel as told to Mark.

Why might Jesus have not wanted to use the Aramaic name "corban" for this "tradition"?

Information sign More: Good gifts and bad gifts
Information sign More: Matthew 5:23-24 Alterated gifts

25. Mark 7:10-11 Corban
The same idea of meaning and word changes have been present since language began.
Verse routeMark 7:10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: [kjv]
Verse routeμωυσης γαρ ειπεν τιμα τον πατερα σου και την μητερα σου και ο κακολογων πατερα η μητερα θανατω τελευτατω [gnt]

This verse is the setup for the "euphemism" in the next verse. The word "corban" was a way (loophole) to say that one did not need to honor any obligations to others such as father or mother.
Verse route7:11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. [kjv]
Verse routeυμεις δε λεγετε εαν ειπη ανθρωπος τω πατρι η τη μητρι κορβαν ο εστιν δωρον ο εαν εξ εμου ωφεληθης [gnt]



Information sign More: Equivocation deception between names and meanings

26. Matthew 5:33-36 Oath problems
Verse routeMatthew 5:33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: [kjv]

Verse route5:34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: [kjv]

Verse route5:35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. [kjv]

Verse route5:36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. [kjv]

Some problems with oaths: In making decisions, one should take into consideration what one does not know. That is, a deception.

Discuss: Has any church throughout history ever required followers to go against what Jesus said? If so, provide some examples.

Information sign More: Matthew 5:33-37 Reasoning about oaths - yes no
Information sign More: Oaths and vows and wells
Information sign More: Oaths hidden in a creed

27. Matthew 15:5
   Matthew 15:5 
 All 
KJV: But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
Greek: υμεις δε λεγετε ος αν ειπη τω πατρι η τη μητρι δωρον ο εαν εξ εμου ωφεληθης ου μη τιμησει τον πατερα αυτου

28. Strongs - make void

29. Usage - make void
*G208 *3 ἀκυρόω (ak-oo-ro'-o) : from G1 (as a negative particle) and G2964; to invalidate:--disannul, make of none effect.
Word usage per chapter Words: ακυροι ακυρουντες ηκυρωσατε=1


30. Matthew 15:6 To no effect
Verse routeMatthew 15:6 And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ηκυρωσατε τον λογον του θεου δια την παραδοσιν υμων [gnt]

The TR (Textus Receptus) adds words and phrases and changes the Greek word for "reasoning" to that of "commandment". The word translated as "make void" or "none effect" is used once in this form in the GNT (Greek New Testament). It appears to be a play on words.

English: ... and make void the reasoning of God ... (word order of the Greek)
Greek: ... και ηκυρωσατε τον λογον του θεου ...
English: ... and the master sata-ton reasoning of God ... (play on words)

The play on words would indicate the word "the" as grammatically feminine. This might suggest the woman mixing in the leaven or false doctrine in the fourth kingdom parable where a similar play on words was such that "measures three" had several play on word meanings including "Satan three".

Information sign More: Matthew 13:33 Fourth kingdom parable: measures three

31. Matthew 13:33 Play on words
Verse routeMatthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. [kjv]
Verse routeαλλην παραβολην ελαλησεν αυτοις ομοια εστιν η βασιλεια των ουρανων ζυμη ην λαβουσα γυνη ενεκρυψεν εις αλευρου σατα τρια εως ου εζυμωθη ολον [gnt]

Here are some play on word possibilities for (less usual) "measures" "three" where the allusions meld together and need not be exact. These do not work for the (more usual) "three" "measures".

Can you think of ways that these allusions might be "encrypted" in the "wheat" or "meal"?

☐ Greek: σατα τρια (sata tria) as "measures three" (as written)
☐ Greek: σαταν τρια (satan tria) as "satan three"
☐ Greek: σαταρίς τρια (sataris tria) as "woman's headress three"
☐ Greek: στατηρα τρια (statira tria) as "temple tax coin three"
☐ Greek: στατηρα (statira) as "temple tax coin"
The Greek for "wheat" or "meal" appears to be a play on word allusion to "freedom".

Information sign More: Matthew 17:24-27 Tacky attacks on a senseless tax
Information sign More: Matthew 13:33 Fourth kingdom parable: measures three

32. Matthew 15:6
   Matthew 15:6 
 All 
KJV: And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.
Greek: και ου μη τιμηση τον πατερα αυτου η την μητερα αυτου και ηκυρωσατε την εντολην τον λογον του θεου δια την παραδοσιν υμων

33. Hypocritical distinctions
Hypocrite
The ancient Greek word "ὑποκριτής""actor, pretender" and comes from "ὑποκρίνομαι""answer, interpret, play a part as an actor".

Since one cannot determine what someone is thinking, one needs to compare what someone is saying with what God says to detect important differences. A deceiver would want to change what the people think that God is saying to avoid such a comparison.
A modern English "hypocrite" says to do something but they actually do something else.

An ancient Greek "hypocrite" says to do something, and they may in fact do this something, but their thoughts (heart) is not in line with what they say. They are "pretending". In this case, as a deception to have dominion over other human beings.

[salesperson]

Information sign More: An actor as a hypocrite is not real

34. Matthew 15:7-8
Verse routeMatthew 15:7 Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, [kjv]
Verse routeυποκριται καλως επροφητευσεν περι υμων ησαιας λεγων [gnt]
Verse route15:8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. [kjv]
Verse route ο λαος ουτος τοις χειλεσιν με τιμα η δε καρδια αυτων πορρω απεχει απ εμου [gnt]

The Greek word for "hypocrite" meant "acting" or "pretending". Jesus, through Isaiah, indicates the definition of the "hypocrite" as someone who "pretends" to honor God (with their "lips") but their "heart" does not do this. They can do exactly what they are saying and are then not "hypocrites" in the modern sense. Instead, they are just pretending to honor God.

Information sign More: An actor as a hypocrite is not real

35. Matthew 15:7
   Matthew 15:7 
 All 
KJV: Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,
Greek: υποκριται καλως προεφητευσεν επροφητευσεν περι υμων ησαιας λεγων

36. Matthew 15:8
   Matthew 15:8 
 All 
KJV: This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
Greek: εγγιζει μοι ο λαος ουτος τω στοματι αυτων και τοις τοις χειλεσιν με τιμα η δε καρδια αυτων πορρω απεχει απ εμου

37. Matthew 15:9 Vain traditions
Verse routeMatthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. [kjv]
Verse routeματην δε σεβονται με διδασκοντες διδασκαλιας ενταλματα ανθρωπων [gnt]

Jesus says that they "teach" the "doctrines" or "teachings" of "men" which is of "no effect" or "vain" in worshiping God.

The ancient Greek word "διδάσκαλος""teacher, master" and comes from the ancient Greek word "διδάσκω""teach, instruct, train". The English of the KJV (King James Version) often uses a different English word when the Greek uses the same word. This is the case of the German words "lernen""learn" and "lehren""teach". The Old English word "lehrete""teach". Germanic influence on English and Pennsylvania Dutch (German):

From the German: The teacher did not learn me to learn.

Information sign More: Teaching and learning and mathematics

38. Matthew 15:9
   Matthew 15:9 
 All 
KJV: But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Greek: ματην δε σεβονται με διδασκοντες διδασκαλιας ενταλματα ανθρωπων

39. Matthew 15:10 Common crowds
Verse routeMatthew 15:10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: [kjv]
Verse routeκαι προσκαλεσαμενος τον οχλον ειπεν αυτοις ακουετε και συνιετε [gnt]

Fish Digamma Logo: Volkswagen Volkswagen Beetle

Jesus will now explain to the "crowd" which is often referred to as the "fish" or "feet". Thus, one is a "fisher" of "men".

The ancient Greek word "ὄχλος""multitude, crown" and may, thorough the Greek digamma (i.e.., two gammas with an "F" or "V" sound), be related to the German word "Volk""people" as in "Volkswagen" and to the English word "folk".

Information sign More: Matthew 5:13-16 Animal crackers
Information sign More: Greek digamma

40. Matthew 15:10 Hear and understand
Verse routeMatthew 15:10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: [kjv]
Verse routeκαι προσκαλεσαμενος τον οχλον ειπεν αυτοις ακουετε και συνιετε [gnt]

The Greek word for "hear" assumes "understanding". Otherwise, one must indicate so.

The Greek word translated as "understand" is that of literally "together understand". Jesus does not use this word in a good way.

Thus, Jesus is saying "listen" with implied "understand" and "together understand", not in a good sense. Those listening might have been puzzled if they assumed the normal meaning of the spoken words. The Pharisees appeared to have felt "entrapped".

Information sign More: A wise opportunity to be prudent
Information sign More: A prudent approach to a wise understanding
Information sign More: A wise fool should not be prudish about being prudent

41. Matthew 15:10
 All 
KJV: And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand:
Greek: και προσκαλεσαμενος τον οχλον ειπεν αυτοις ακουετε και συνιετε

42. Matthew 15:11 Make common
Verse routeMatthew 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. [kjv]
Verse routeου το εισερχομενον εις το στομα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον αλλα το εκπορευομενον εκ του στοματος τουτο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]
Verse routeintrat in os coinquinatprocedit ex orecoinquinat … [v]

The KJV meaning of "defile" appears to come from the Latin word "coinquino""defile, pollute, contaminate" and not from the ancient Greek word "κοινόω""make common, share". In the Cambridge Greek Lexicon (two large volumes), the meaning of "make unholy" or "defile" is definition 19 of 19 definitions. The other definitions fit closely the idea of "make common". The Greek word translated as "defile" is that of "making common" and is the word used as "Koine" as "Koine" "Greek" or "Common" "Greek" as spoken by the people and not by learned poets. "Vulgar" Latin is "Common" Latin as spoken by the people. To "make common" or "take for granted" something that is "sacred" can be taken as "defiled".

43. Matthew 15:11 Distinction
Verse routeMatthew 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. [kjv]
Verse routeου το εισερχομενον εις το στομα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον αλλα το εκπορευομενον εκ του στοματος τουτο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]
Verse routeintrat in os coinquinatprocedit ex orecoinquinat … [v]

Distinction: The KJV makes assumptions that can be inferred but appear to not be explicitly stated in the text. What comes out of the "mouth" can "defile" a man but only if it "makes common" what is to be "holy".

Discuss: Does "dressing down" such as wearing tattered "blue jeans" to church (i.e., looking like a bum) in any way "make common" or "defile" the person dressing as such? Explain.

44. Strongs - defile

45. Usage - defile
*G2840 *14 κοινόω (koy-no'-o) : from G2839; to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially):--call common, defile, pollute, unclean.
Word usage per chapter Words: κεκοινωκεν κεκοινωμενους κοινοι=6 κοινου=2 κοινουντα=2 κοινωσαι=2

The ancient Greek word "κοινωνία""community, fellowship".

The exact Greek word used here is only used in Matthew in these verses (three times) and in the corresponding verses in Mark (two verses). This word can be a play on words with the following.

46. Diogenes Laertius
In the work of ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes Laertius, Kratos makes a comment. This is a play on the Greek for "new" with "and" and "brain" or "mind". Here are the ancient Greek words.

47. Matthew 9:17 Double meaning
Verse routeMatthew 9:17 Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved. [kjv]
Verse routeουδε βαλλουσιν οινον νεον εις ασκους παλαιους ει δε μηγε ρηγνυνται οι ασκοι και ο οινος εκχειται και οι ασκοι απολλυνται αλλα βαλλουσιν οινον νεον εις ασκους καινους και συντηρουνται [gnt]

As translated: ... but they put new wine into new bottles and both are preserved.
Greek word order: ... but they put wine new into bottles new and both are preserved.
Play on words: ... but they put new wine into bottles and mind and both are preserved.

That is, the new "doctrine" of the "wine" (as in "drink my blood") is put into the containers (body) and the "mind" and, thus, both body and mind are preserved (resurrected). If one puts new "doctrine" of the "wine" into the old containers (body) those containers are not preserved (resurrected)

Information sign More: Matthew 9:17-18 Old and new garments and bottles

48. Matthew 15:11 Mouth as on opening
Verse routeMatthew 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. [kjv]
Verse routeου το εισερχομενον εις το στομα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον αλλα το εκπορευομενον εκ του στοματος τουτο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]
Verse routeintrat in os coinquinatprocedit ex orecoinquinat … [v]

Say and hear
The ancient Greek word "στόμα""opening, mouth" and is the source of the English word "stomach" (that which contains food entering from the mouth). The English medical term "stoma" refers to an "opening".
The modern Greek word "στόμα" (STO-ma) ≈ "mouth, person".

Jesus will more fully explain this verse in verses 17-18.

In Revelation, a "two-mouthed" "sword" will come out of a "mouth".

49. A peace of the mouth of the sword
Verse routeRevelation 1:16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εχων εν τη δεξια χειρι αυτου αστερας επτα και εκ του στοματος αυτου ρομφαια διστομος οξεια εκπορευομενη και η οψις αυτου ως ο ηλιος φαινει εν τη δυναμει αυτου [gnt]

Sword horizontalThe ancient Greek word "στόμα""mouth" and could mean the "face", source of a body of water, opening in the earth, the front opening of something, etc. An interesting idiom in the Greek is that of letting the "mouth of the sword" do the talking. This might be similar to saying "let my sword do the talking".

The "sword" here is, literally, a "two" "mouth" "sword".

Information sign More: A peace of the mouth of the sword

50. Matthew 15:11 Incoming and outgoing
Verse routeMatthew 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. [kjv]
Verse routeου το εισερχομενον εις το στομα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον αλλα το εκπορευομενον εκ του στοματος τουτο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]
Verse routeintrat in os coinquinatprocedit ex orecoinquinat … [v]

Input and output
Jesus will explain the ideas of this verse in a few verses.
Humans have the ability to generate thoughts from learning (e.g., the environment, others, etc.). This includes ways to deceive others to become "great" and "oppress" others with "toils" which is the definition of the Greek word for "evil" as used by Jesus.

Information sign More: The full assurance of information
Information sign More: Some bits about information
Information sign More: Algorithmic Information Theory

51. Free as in speech, not as in beer

Open Source software saying: Free as in speech, not as in beer.

Software is not "free". Even if the "bits" cost nothing, there is a cost to leaning and using and supporting the software. The idea of "it" from "bit" is from John Archibald Wheeler.

Information sign More: John Archibald Wheeler
Information sign More: John 8: The true reality of a free wheat harvest

52. Matthew 15:11
 All 
KJV: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Greek: ου το εισερχομενον εις το στομα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον αλλα το εκπορευομενον εκ του στοματος τουτο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον
Latin: non quod intrat in os coinquinat hominem sed quod procedit ex ore hoc coinquinat hominem

53. Matthew 15:12 Feeling entrapped by a reasoning
Verse routeMatthew 15:12 Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? [kjv]
Verse routeτοτε προσελθοντες οι μαθηται λεγουσιν αυτω οιδας οτι οι φαρισαιοι ακουσαντες τον λογον εσκανδαλισθησαν [gnt]

The "disciples" "came" "saying". It is assumed they were addressing to Jesus. The TR adds the extra words for what should just be inferred.

The ancient Greek word "σκάνδαλον""trap, snare" as in entice, tempt, etc. The KJV translates as "offended" the Greek word that means to "entrap". The Pharisees felt "entrapped" (by their own reasoning) by what Jesus had said. This may have "offended" them in the modern sense of the word but the Greek word just means "entrapped".

The ancient Greek word "λόγος""rational explanation, reasoning" and is the source of the English word "logic" The Greek translated as "saying" is that of "reasoning". Obviously Jesus "spoke" but it is the "reasoning" that is important and that sometimes goes beyond the "saying".

Information sign More: Matthew 11:6: Idiomatic misinterpretations that offend

54. Matthew 11:6: Idiomatic misinterpretations that offend
Verse routeMatthew 11:6 And blessed is he, who soever shall not be offended in me. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι μακαριος εστιν ος αν μη σκανδαλισθη εν εμοι [gnt]

Stumbling block Reflexive deception
The ancient Greek word "σκάνδαλον""trap, snare" as in entice, tempt, etc. Jesus is speaking in Matthew 11:6.
The Greek word "blessed" here means "happy". The "offended" means "entrapped" as in being "tricked" or "deceived". Or is it? How could someone be "deceived" by Jesus? How could someone be "deceived" by themselves or someone else about what Jesus really means?

A simple idiom as "misinterpret" may explain this and other verses in the GNT.

Information sign More: Matthew 11:6: Idiomatic misinterpretations that offend

55. Matthew 11:5-6 Bottom-up forward-chaining
Message of Jesus to John the Baptist (in physical prison):
Verse routeMatthew 11:5 The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. [kjv]

Six noun‑verb pairs decoded
6. poor=fallenbeggars start gospel=good news preached
5. dead=asleep then raised=wake up you deadhead
4. deaf=not listening then hear=listen and understand repent
3. lepers=sinners then cleansed=be born againcleansed in the blood Ask
2. lame=passive then walk=active start walking in righteousness Seek
1. blind=not seeing then sight=look up/ahead and see God & others Knock
The top-down verses (in English) may be more understandable as a bottom-up progression (as events unfold in time) using the Greek meanings of the words. Approaches to change: (stop, repent, be cleansed and walk).


Verse route11:6 And blessed is he, who soever shall not be offended in me. [kjv]
Verse routeblessidsclaundrid … [wy]
Verse routehappyoffended … [ty]


56. Matthew 11:5-6 Diagram
Ways 1
The ways that six items can be ordered is 6! = 6*5*4*3*2*1 = 720 ways. Of these six items in Matthew 11:6, only two sequences fit - forward or backwards. Is this a coincidence?
Verse routeMatthew 11:5 The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. [kjv]
Verse route11:6 And blessed is he, who soever shall not be offended in me. [kjv]


57. Probability
Permute 1
The ways that six items can be ordered is 6! = 6*5*4*3*2*1 = 720 ways. Of these six items in Matthew 11:6, only two sequences fit - forward or backwards. Is this a coincidence?

Information sign More: Matthew 11:1-6: Trapped by an offensive misinterpretation of Jesus

58. Matthew 15:12
 All 
KJV: Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?
Greek: τοτε προσελθοντες οι μαθηται αυτου ειπον λεγουσιν αυτω οιδας οτι οι φαρισαιοι ακουσαντες τον λογον εσκανδαλισθησαν

59. Matthew 15:13 Plants and roots
Verse routeMatthew 15:13 But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. [kjv]
Verse routeο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν πασα φυτεια ην ουκ εφυτευσεν ο πατηρ μου ο ουρανιος εκριζωθησεται [gnt]

Field of wheat and taresEvery "plant" not "planted" by God will be "rooted up".
These words are part of the word "neophyte" as in "newly planted" and translated by the KJV as "novice".

Two chapters earlier Jesus related the second kingdom parable of the "wheat" and the "tares" or "weeds". The "weeds" were planted by the "birds" (of the evil one) and not by God.

Information sign More: Matthew 13:24-30,36-43 Second kingdom parable: fault-tolerant approach to the toleration paradox
Information sign More: Neophyte

60. Neophyte
Verse route1 Timothy 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. [kjv]
Verse routeμη νεοφυτον ινα μη τυφωθεις εις κριμα εμπεση του διαβολου [gnt]

A "neophyte" is someone who is new to something. Internet jargon sometimes uses the term "newbie" which is abbreviated as "newb", "noob", etc. The similar looking term (using the zero "0" for "o") "n00b" usually means "a stupid person".

Today, the word "neophyte" often has a pejorative or negative implication.

In the Middle Ages, the Catholic church used the term "neophyte" to refer to a new convert to Christianity. This term came from Paul's letter to Timothy in the GNT.

The Greek word «νεόφυτος» literally means "newly planted".

61. Matthew 15:13 Rooted up
Verse routeMatthew 15:13 But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. [kjv]
Verse routeο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν πασα φυτεια ην ουκ εφυτευσεν ο πατηρ μου ο ουρανιος εκριζωθησεται [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ῥίζα""root" of a plant and, later, as a math root such as the square root of two. It is related to the Latin word "radix""root" and the English word "root" from the Old English word "wyrt""root".

The exact Greek word used by Jesus, once in the GNT, can be a play on words with "be separated" and, as such, can be a further play on words "barley-eyed" is in the verses before the "beam" and "twig" or "mote" verses. The idea appears to be that they will not be "rooted up" externally but will "separate" themselves from the love of Christ.

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Information sign More: Matthew 13:3-23 First kingdom parable: sower

62. Strongs - rooted up

63. Usage - rooted up
*G1610 *4 ἐκριζόω (ek-rid-zo'-o) : from G1537 and G4492; to uproot:--pluck up by the root, root up.
Word usage per chapter Words: εκριζωθεντα εκριζωθησεται=1 εκριζωθητι εκριζωσητε


64. Matthew 15:13
 All 
KJV: But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.
Greek: ο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν πασα φυτεια ην ουκ εφυτευσεν ο πατηρ μου ο ουρανιος εκριζωθησεται

65. Matthew 15:14 Blind leaders
Verse routeMatthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]
Verse routeαφετε αυτους τυφλοι εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται [gnt]

Hot! Do not touch! Blind leading the blind Do not look at this!
This is an example of a reflexive relationship since the blind are leading both others who are blind and themselves who are blind.
The ancient Greek word "τυφλός""blind, dark, unseen" and is related to the English word "deaf" and the German word "taub""deaf".

The ancient Greek word "ὁδηγός""guide" as in one who "shows the way" and comes from two words. This word can be a play on words with "the but earth".

Information sign More: Reflexive relationships in the Bible

66. Matthew 15:14 Blind leaders
Verse routeMatthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]
Verse routeαφετε αυτους τυφλοι εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται [gnt]

The Greek word translated "let" is the same word that is sometimes translated "forgive". The base meaning is that of "letting go". The Greek word for "both" can be a play on words with "not a plant".

Discuss: Does Jesus indicate that "leadership" or "leaders" or needed? Can one just do what Jesus wants without the rules, traditions, oaths, etc., of the religious establishment?
 
What did the blind say to the drapes?
The blind man tried to make an appointment with the optician. What was he told?
[coffee stains, semicolons]

67. Matthew 15:14 Both
Verse routeMatthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]
Verse routeαφετε αυτους τυφλοι εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται [gnt]

The Greek word for "both" can be a play on words with "not a plant" or "both plants" (the word "plant" was used in the previous verse), or "not light", or "both terrified".

68. Matthew 15:14 Ditch
Verse routeMatthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]
Verse routeαφετε αυτους τυφλοι εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται [gnt]

The Greek word for "ditch" can be a play on words with the Greek word for "help". The "ditch", if deep enough, be taken as an "abyss". The exact Greek word used by Jesus for "fall" is used in only one other verse in Matthew.

Information sign More: Valleys and ditches
Information sign More: As abyss of linen

69. Matthew 15:24-26
Verse routeMatthew 15:24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. [kjv]
Verse routeο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν ουκ απεσταλην ει μη εις τα προβατα τα απολωλοτα οικου ισραηλ [gnt]
Verse route15:25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. [kjv]
Verse routeη δε ελθουσα προσεκυνει αυτω λεγουσα κυριε βοηθει μοι [gnt]
Verse route15:26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. [kjv]
Verse routeο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν ουκ εστιν καλον λαβειν τον αρτον των τεκνων και βαλειν τοις κυναριοις [gnt]


70. Matthew 15:24
 All 
KJV: But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Greek: ο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν ουκ απεσταλην ει μη εις τα προβατα τα απολωλοτα οικου ισραηλ

71. Matthew 15:25
 All 
KJV: Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.
Greek: η δε ελθουσα προσεκυνει αυτω λεγουσα κυριε βοηθει μοι

72. Matthew 15:26
 All 
KJV: But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs.
Greek: ο δε αποκριθεις ειπεν ουκ εστιν καλον λαβειν τον αρτον των τεκνων και βαλειν τοις κυναριοις

73. Both blind and ditch summary
Verse routeMatthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]
Verse routeαφετε αυτους τυφλοι εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται [gnt]

Hot! Do not touch! Blind leading the blind Do not look at this!

The Greek word for "both" can be a play on words with "not a plant" or "both plants" (the word "plant" was used in the previous verse), or "not light", or "both terrified".

The Greek word for "ditch" can be a play on words with the Greek word for "help". The "ditch", if deep enough, be taken as an "abyss" which is a play on words with "not wool" as in "not linen".

Information sign More: Neophyte
Information sign More: As abyss of linen

74. Matthew 24:29 Darkness and light
Verse routeMatthew 24:29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: [kjv]
Verse routeευθεως δε μετα την θλιψιν των ημερων εκεινων ο ηλιος σκοτισθησεται και η σεληνη ου δωσει το φεγγος αυτης και οι αστερες πεσουνται απο του ουρανου και αι δυναμεις των ουρανων σαλευθησονται [gnt]

Eclipse typesThis description that fits an eclipse is part of the "Olivet Discourse" in Matthew 24:1-51 and 25:1-46 (101 verses), Mark 13:1-37 and Luke 21:4-36. It is one of the larger discourses spoken by Jesus and, at the disciple's request, deals with the "End Times" or, as a play on words, "All of it".

By contrast, the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5, 6, 7 spans 111 verses.

The exact Greek word used by Jesus for "fall" is used by him in only one other place in Matthew, the verse of the "blind leading the blind falling into a ditch"
[Abraham Lincoln]

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75. Strongs - ditch

76. Usage - ditch
*G999 *3 βόθυνος (both'-oo-nos) : akin to G900; a hole (in the ground); specially, a cistern:--ditch, pit.
Word usage per chapter Words: βοθυνον=3


77. Strongs - leader

78. Usage - leader
*G3595 *5 ὁδηγός (hod-ayg-os') : from G3598 and G2233; a conductor (literally or figuratively (teacher)):--guide, leader.
Word usage per chapter Words: οδηγοι=3 οδηγον οδηγου

The word used by Jesus three times in Matthew, never in a positive sense, and can be a play on words with "the but earth". The other two times, by Luke and Paul, do not fit that play on words.

Where does Jesus say you should be a "leader"? Jesus says you should "follow" "behind" him. The Greek word for "follow" is, literally, "not leading" or "not commanding".

Information sign More: Matthew 10:38-39 Commanded to follow in the cross walk
Information sign More: Non sequitur: to follow or not follow Jesus

79. Glasses to see
Blind leading the blind
How can you find your glasses when you need your glasses to see where your glasses are? Unless you look in a mirror you will not see them on your forehead. This is a catch-22 situation.

Somewhat like the blind leading the blind.

Movie: Wreck-It-Ralph


80. Usage - blind
*G5185 *50 τυφλός (toof-los') : from, 5187; opaque (as if smoky), i.e. (by analogy) blind (physically or mentally):--blind.
Word usage per chapter Words: τυφλε τυφλοι=14 τυφλοις=2 τυφλον=6 τυφλος=15 τυφλου=3 τυφλους=4 τυφλω τυφλων=4

More on the "blind men and the elephant" is part of Belief issues and reader response.

81. Astronomy
Astronomers study the stars. Thales of Miletus was a pre-Socratic philosopher who studied astronomy. A story about him was included in Aesop's Fables. Thomas Aquinas (late 1200's) writes the following.

When Thales was leaving his house to look at the stars he fell into a ditch; while he was bewailing the fact an old woman remarked to him: "You, O Thales, cannot see what is at your feet and you expect to see what is in the heavens?"
 
Why did the blind man fall into the well?
Astronomy is a very difficult subject.


Information sign More: Thomas Aquinas
Information sign More: Matthew 11:1-6: Trapped by an offensive misinterpretation of Jesus

82. Matthew 15:14
 All 
KJV: Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
Greek: αφετε αυτους οδηγοι εισιν τυφλοι τυφλων εισιν οδηγοι τυφλος δε τυφλον εαν οδηγη αμφοτεροι εις βοθυνον πεσουνται
Latin: sinite illos caeci sunt duces caecorum caecus autem si caeco ducatum praestet ambo in foveam cadunt
Wessex: Lateð hy. hy sinden blinde. & blindere ladtewes. Se blinde. gyf he blindne laet. hyo falleð bege on aenne pett.
Wycliffe: Suffre ye hem; thei ben blynde, and leederis of blynde men. And if a blynd man lede a blynd man, bothe fallen doun in to the diche.
Luther: Lasset sie fahren! Sie sind blind und Blindenleiter. Wenn aber ein Blinder den andern leitet, so fallen sie beide in die Grube.
Spanish: Dejadlos; son ciegos guías de ciegos; y si el ciego guiare al ciego, ambos caerán en el hoyo.

83. Matthew 15:15 Phrase the parable
Verse routeMatthew 15:15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. [kjv]
Verse routeαποκριθεις δε ο πετρος ειπεν αυτω φρασον ημιν την παραβολην [gnt]
Verse routerespondensPetrus dixitnobis parabolam … [v]

*G5419 *2 φράζω (frad'-zo) : probably akin to G5420 through the idea of defining; to indicate (by word or act), i.e. (specially), to expound:-- declare.
Word usage per chapter Words: φρασον=2

This word is used only one time in the GNT. The TR adds this word in the second kingdom parable of the wheat and the tares.

84. Matthew 15:15 Parable parts
Verse routeMatthew 15:15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. [kjv]
Verse routeαποκριθεις δε ο πετρος ειπεν αυτω φρασον ημιν την παραβολην [gnt]
Verse routerespondensPetrus dixitnobis parabolam … [v]

What did Jesus say that would be considered a "parable"? In general, the word "parable" and "proverb" are interchangeable. In many cases, they contain code words where nouns are substituted with other nouns to get the intended meaning.

In the explanation provided by Jesus, as recorded by Matthew, all three parts of the "parable" should be answered in some satisfactory way.

Information sign More: Parables and secret codes used and explained by Jesus

85. Strongs - explain

86. Matthew 15:15
 All 
KJV: Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.
Greek: αποκριθεις δε ο πετρος ειπεν αυτω φρασον ημιν την παραβολην ταυτην
Latin: respondens autem Petrus dixit ei edissere nobis parabolam istam

87. Strongs - still

88. Usage - still
*G188 *1 ἀκμήν (ak-mane') : accusative case of a noun ("acme") akin to ake (a point) and meaning the same; adverbially, just now, i.e. still:--yet.
Word usage per chapter Words: ακμην=1

This word is used one time in the GNT.

The ancient Greek word "ἀκμή""edge or point, peak condition" as in the first part of the word "acropolis". The last of twelve meanings in the Cambridge Greek Lexicon is that of "still" which is the meaning in the GNT.

A related word and a play on word is that of the ancient Greek word "ἀκμής""not weary, fresh, tireless". One can see how this meaning could come from the previous word. Do you get the "point"?

When drawing triangles, there are three points to keep in mind.

Information sign More: Matthew 6:5 Prayer acting in a corner

89. Matthew 15:16 Stupid question
Verse routeMatthew 15:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [kjv]
Verse routeο δε ειπεν ακμην και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε [gnt]
Verse routeadhucsine intellectu … [v]

Does Jesus sound condescending what talking to Peter? Is Peter stupid? One might think so from the translations, here and in other places.

Does Jesus think that what he said should be clear. Instead of repeating what he said slower and louder, Jesus says the same thing using different words.

DilbertA common cartoon theme in Dilbert is that of the manager not being understood by employees. A typical managerial way to address the problem is to repeat what was said, only louder and more slowly. As if that is the source of the problem.
Is the KJV translation accurate?

90. Matthew 15:16 Translations
Verse routeMatthew 15:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [kjv]
Verse routeο δε ειπεν ακμην και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε [gnt]
Verse routeadhucsine intellectu … [v]

NIV (New International Version): “Are you still so dull?” Jesus asked them.

NLT (New Living Translation): “Don’t you understand yet?” Jesus asked.

Berean Literal Bible: And He said, "Are you also still without understanding?"

Good News Translation: Jesus said to them, "You are still no more intelligent than the others".

The Latin word "adhuc""so far, thus far, still, yet".

91. Matthew 15:16
 All 
KJV: And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?
Greek: ο δε ιησους ειπεν ακμην και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε
Latin: at ille dixit adhuc et vos sine intellectu estis

92. Strongs - understanding

93. Usage - understanding
*G801 *5 ἀσύνετος (as-oon'-ay-tos) : from G1 (as a negative particle) and G4908 συνετός; unintelligent; by implication, wicked:--foolish, without understanding.
*G4908 *4 συνετός (soon-et'-os) : from G4920; mentally put (or putting) together, i.e. sagacious:--prudent. Compare G5429.
Word usage per chapter Words: ασυνετοι=2 ασυνετος ασυνετους ασυνετω συνετω συνετων=3

The prefix alpha or "α" negates what follows.

The Greek word translated as "without understanding" can be a play on words with, literally, "not" and "together" and "mind". A modern term from psychology would be "group think" where a group may get out of touch with reality and make strange decisions and take strange actions, etc.

Information sign More: Groupthink

94. Groupthink decisions
Groupthink - before Groupthink - after

In a group that thinks in a similar manner, one must be careful about voicing an opinion that is contrary to the group opinion.

Voicing an opinion that is not the group opinion risks suffering the anger of the group.

Walter Lippman: When all think alike, then no one is thinking.

Information sign More: Groupthink

95. The emperor's new cloths
Verse routeMatthew 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. [kjv]
Verse routeεν εκεινω τω καιρω αποκριθεις ο ιησους ειπεν εξομολογουμαι σοι πατερ κυριε του ουρανου και της γης οτι εκρυψας ταυτα απο σοφων και συνετων και απεκαλυψας αυτα νηπιοις [gnt]
Verse routesapientibusprudentibusrevelastiparvulis [v]

The Greek for "wise" is that of "knowing a lot of facts". The Greek translated as "prudent" is more like "clever" as in "understanding rules".

Book: The emperor has no clothes
A deceptive "oath" posing as a "creed" brings to mind the story of "The emperor's new clothes" whereby the emperor is convinced of invisible clothes. A young child knew better and said so directly.
The story is from 1837 by Danish author Hans Christian Anderson (Ugly Duckling, etc.).

Information sign More: A wise opportunity to be prudent
Information sign More: A prudent approach to a wise understanding
Information sign More: A wise fool should not be prudish about being prudent
Information sign More: Oaths hidden in a creed

96. Elite snobbery in Matthew
Verse routeMatthew 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. [kjv]
Verse routeεν εκεινω τω καιρω αποκριθεις ο ιησους ειπεν εξομολογουμαι σοι πατερ κυριε του ουρανου και της γης οτι εκρυψας ταυτα απο σοφων και συνετων και απεκαλυψας αυτα νηπιοις [gnt]
Verse routesapientibusprudentibusrevelastiparvulis [v]

Verse route15:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [kjv]
Verse routeο δε ειπεν ακμην και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε [gnt]
Verse routeadhucsine intellectu … [v]

Jesus uses the Greek word twice in Matthew. It is often translated as "understanding" or, sometimes (inaccurately) as "prudent", to mean that of "elitism" or "snobbery" as in those of the religious elite (e.g., "birds", "pigs", etc.) who desire to be "greater" than the common person.

Since having an "elite" or "snobbish" "understanding" is not good, it is good for Peter to be without an "elite" or "snobbish" "understanding".

Information sign More: A prudent approach to a wise understanding

97. Matthew 15:16 Statements and questions
Verse routeMatthew 15:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [kjv]
Verse routeο δε ειπεν ακμην και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε [gnt]
Verse routeadhucsine intellectu … [v]

English has ways to unambiguously express a question. In many languages, including Greek, a statement and a question are written in exactly the same way. To make a statement a question, one raises the voice at the end of the statement. These non-written hints are not in the Greek text. Jesus does not use the Greek word for "understanding" in a good sense. Thus, what Jesus says appears to be in a good sense. The only place Jesus uses this word in a somewhat good sense is in the first kingdom parable in Matthew 13 about the sewer and seed. In that case, Jesus is using joke-license to make a play on words.

This first statement of Jesus may seem out of place, but provides the first half of the explanation of the "plant" "planted" by God. The second half is from the list of sins in later verses. Jesus would normally use the Greek word "again" to indicate that he was summarizing and extended discourse of many verses. Here, that would not fit very well and it is clear he is "phrasing" out the parable.

Information sign More: Matthew 13:24-30,36-43 Second kingdom parable: fault-tolerant approach to the toleration paradox
Information sign More: A prudent approach to a wise understanding

98. Together understanding as an elite snob
Verse routeMatthew 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. [kjv]

The "wise" are the "clever" or "cunning" (in their own eyes). The "prudent" are, literally, "together understanding" as in "group think". Jesus appears to use this word to refer to "elite snobs" as in those who want to be "great" by "oppressing" others.

Verse route15:10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: [kjv]
Verse route15:13 But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. [kjv]
Verse route15:15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. [kjv]
Verse route15:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [kjv]


99. Matthew 15:17 Give way to more food
Jesus makes a distinction between the "belly" and the "heart" using the Greek word for "understand" that does not have a negative connotation.
Verse routeMatthew 15:17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? [kjv]
Verse routeου νοειτε οτι παν το εισπορευομενον εις το στομα εις την κοιλιαν χωρει και εις αφεδρωνα εκβαλλεται [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀφεδρών""toilet" and comes from "ἕδρα""seat", as in "cathedral", "polyhedron", etc.
The prefix "ἀπο""away from" which has an idea of a "separating distance".

The English word "draught" is an older and obsolete word for "outhouse" as a "toilet".

The ancient Greek word "χωρέω""give way, make way". That is, what goes in pushes out what is there such that what is in "gives way" or "makes way" to what is coming in.

Information sign More: John 21:24-25 Giving way to the gospel writing style of John

100. Matthew 15:17
 All 
KJV: Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?
Greek: ουπω ου νοειτε οτι παν το εισπορευομενον εις το στομα εις την κοιλιαν χωρει και εις αφεδρωνα εκβαλλεται
Latin: non intellegitis quia omne quod in os intrat in ventrem vadit et in secessum emittitur
Wessex: Ne on-gyte ge. þaet all þaet on þanne muð gaeð. gaeð on þa wambe. & byð on forðgan asended.
Wycliffe: Vndurstonden ye not, that al thing that entrith in to the mouth, goith in to the wombe, and is sent out in to the goyng awei?
Luther: Merket ihr noch nicht, daß alles, was zum Munde eingehet, das gehet in den Bauch und wird durch den natürlichen Gang ausgeworfen?

101. Strongs - without understanding

102. Usage - without understanding
Word usage per chapter Words: ανοητοι=4 ανοητοις ανοητους ασυνετοι=2 ασυνετος ασυνετους ασυνετω


103. Mark 7:18-19
The verses in Mark (from Peter's memory) essentially mirror what is in Matthew but with changes that break the model as presented by Jesus and recorded by Matthew.

Verse routeMark 7:18 And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it can not defile him; [kjv]
Verse routeκαι λεγει αυτοις ουτως και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε ου νοειτε οτι παν το εξωθεν εισπορευομενον εις τον ανθρωπον ου δυναται αυτον κοινωσαι [gnt]

The words translated as "understanding" and "perceive" are the same word in Greek (the first one negated within the word).
Verse route7:19 Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εισπορευεται αυτου εις την καρδιαν αλλ εις την κοιλιαν και εις τον αφεδρωνα εκπορευεται καθαριζων παντα τα βρωματα [gnt]


104. Mark 7:18
   Mark 7:18 
 All 
KJV: And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it can not defile him;
Greek: και λεγει αυτοις ουτως και υμεις ασυνετοι εστε ου νοειτε οτι παν το εξωθεν εισπορευομενον εις τον ανθρωπον ου δυναται αυτον κοινωσαι
Latin: et ait illis sic et vos inprudentes estis non intellegitis quia omne extrinsecus introiens in hominem non potest eum communicare
Wessex: Ða cwaeð he. & sende ge swa ungleawe ne on-geate ge. þt eall þt utan cymð on þane mann gangende. ne maig hine be-smiten.
Wycliffe: And he seide to hem, Ye ben vnwise also. Vndurstonde ye not, that al thing without forth that entreth in to a man, may not defoule hym?
Luther: Und er sprach zu ihnen: Seid ihr denn auch so unverständig? Vernehmet ihr noch nicht, daß alles, was außen ist und in den Menschen gehet, das kann ihn nicht gemein machen?

105. Mark 7:19
   Mark 7:19 
 All 
KJV: Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?
Greek: οτι ουκ εισπορευεται αυτου εις την καρδιαν αλλ εις την κοιλιαν και εις τον αφεδρωνα εκπορευεται καθαριζον καθαριζων παντα τα βρωματα

106. Mark 7:20-23
Verse routeMark 7:20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. [kjv]
Verse routeελεγεν δε οτι το εκ του ανθρωπου εκπορευομενον εκεινο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]
Verse route7:21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, [kjv]
Verse routeεσωθεν γαρ εκ της καρδιας των ανθρωπων οι διαλογισμοι οι κακοι εκπορευονται πορνειαι κλοπαι φονοι [gnt]
Verse route7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: [kjv]
Verse routeμοιχειαι πλεονεξιαι πονηριαι δολος ασελγεια οφθαλμος πονηρος βλασφημια υπερηφανια αφροσυνη [gnt]
Verse route7:23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. [kjv]
Verse routeπαντα ταυτα τα πονηρα εσωθεν εκπορευεται και κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]

In Mark, Peter's Gospel, the words "evil" and "thoughts" are combined. The translates of the KJV then appear to have combined them in Matthew. There are twelve sins listed. This appears to break a model that fits the eight sins listed. (see below)

107. Mark 7:20
   Mark 7:20 
 All 
KJV: And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.
Greek: ελεγεν δε οτι το εκ του ανθρωπου εκπορευομενον εκεινο κοινοι τον ανθρωπον

108. Mark 7:21
   Mark 7:21 
 All 
KJV: For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
Greek: εσωθεν γαρ εκ της καρδιας των ανθρωπων οι διαλογισμοι οι κακοι εκπορευονται μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι φονοι

109. Mark 7:22
   Mark 7:22 
 All 
KJV: Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
Greek: κλοπαι μοιχειαι πλεονεξιαι πονηριαι δολος ασελγεια οφθαλμος πονηρος βλασφημια υπερηφανια αφροσυνη

110. Mark 7:23
   Mark 7:23 
 All 
KJV: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
Greek: παντα ταυτα τα πονηρα εσωθεν εκπορευεται και κοινοι τον ανθρωπον

111. Strongs - and these

112. Usage - and these
*G2548 *24 κἀκεῖνος (kak-i'-nos) : from G2532 and G1565; likewise that (or those):--and him (other, them), even he, him also, them (also), (and) they.
Word usage per chapter Words: κακεινα=4 κακεινη κακεινοι=7 κακεινον=3 κακεινος=8 κακεινους


113. Matthew 15:18
Verse routeMatthew 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. [kjv]
Verse routeτα δε εκπορευομενα εκ του στοματος εκ της καρδιας εξερχεται κακεινα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]

The Greek translated as "and they" is that of "and these". The Greek word can be a play on words with "bad-is". As with many play on words, carry the two thoughts together.
English: ... and these defile the man.
English: ... bad-you make common the man.

The two Greek words for "and these" and "make common" both start with "κ" (kappa) and sound somewhat similar.

Jesus will now provide a more detailed explanation in the form of a list that has an interesting pattern.

114. Matthew 15:18
 All 
KJV: But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
Greek: τα δε εκπορευομενα εκ του στοματος εκ της καρδιας εξερχεται κακεινα κοινοι τον ανθρωπον

115. Matthew 15:19 Heart
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

Since Jesus only explained the first part, this part should answer the following.
Heart and treasure
The ancient Greek word "καρδία""heart" as a source of emotion, but could mean "mind", "stomach", "inner part". It is related to the Latin word "cor""heart".

Information sign More: Matthew 6:19-21: A treasury of treasures of which to treasure
Information sign More: Matthew 13:44 Fifth kingdom parable: treasure in a field
Information sign More: Matthew 13:51-53 Eighth kingdom parable: treasure of new and old codes

116. Chiasmus patterns
Greek letter Chiasm 0
Example start pattern: Then ending pattern:
The English word "chiasmus" is from the Latin word "chiasmus""chiasmus" and is from the ancient Greek word "χιασμός""crossing" which is from "χιάζω""mark with a chi, shape like a chi".
In general, a "chiasm" consists of an intersection or crossing of two series that can be interpreted as the form of the letter "X". By contrast, a "chiasmus" is a literary device whereby there is an inversion of the elements of phrases that do not use the same words. A "antimetabole" is similar but may repeat the same word or words.

There is a deceptive relationship between a chiasmus and the following.

117. Matthew 15:19 Chiasm
Chiasm 5
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

Here as a chiasm using (related) meaning rather than words. With an even number of meanings, there is no middle meaning. Let us look at each pair working from pairs 1 to 4.

118. Strongs - blasphemy

119. Usage - blasphemy
*G988 *18 βλασφημία (blas-fay-me'-ah) : from G989; vilification (especially against God):--blasphemy, evil speaking, railing.
Word usage per chapter Words: βλασφημια=4 βλασφημιαι=3 βλασφημιαν=3 βλασφημιας=8

The Greek word "blasphemy" means, literally, to "speak evil" or "speak bad".

The ancient Greek word "βλασφημία""word of evil omen, defamation, speech against God" and comes from the words for "bad" or "harmful" and "speak" or "fame" (as in traveling news).

This word for "blasphemy" can be a play on words with "plant" or "vegetation". The "weeds" or "tares" are "planted" by the "evil one" or, from the previous parable, the "birds".

120. Matthew 13:26 Planted
Here is a verse from the second kingdom parable of the wheat and the weeds or tares.
Verse routeMatthew 13:26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. [kjv]
Verse routeοτε δε εβλαστησεν ο χορτος και καρπον εποιησεν τοτε εφανη και τα ζιζανια [gnt]

This word for "blasphemy" can be a play on words with "plant" or "vegetation". The "weeds" or "tares" are "planted" by the "evil one" or, from the previous parable, the "birds".

121. Matthew 13:26
 All 
KJV: But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.
Greek: οτε δε εβλαστησεν ο χορτος και καρπον εποιησεν τοτε εφανη και τα ζιζανια

122. Matthew 15:19 Blasphemy
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

A false teacher can speak "blasphemies" in a very eloquent, convincing and deceptive way. Think of Satan with Eve, the examination of Jesus by the devil, etc.

Jesus uses the "birds" as a model of false leaders. They may speak "blasphemies" but the look so pretty and sound so nice, and so on. This is one way to take the Lord's name in "vain".

Discuss: How do you detect when someone is speaking "blasphemy" against Jesus? The only people who get upset when hearing "blasphemy" are those who understand what is being said.

Information sign More: Speaking evil in a famous way

123. Exodus 20:7 Do not take God's name in vain
Verse routeExodus 20:7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. [kjv]
Verse routeου λημψη το ονομα κυριου του θεου σου επι ματαιω ου γαρ μη καθαριση κυριος τον λαμβανοντα το ονομα αυτου επι ματαιω [lxx]

C 3The Greek for "vain" is that of "making of no effect". Which of the following is worse?
The ancient Greek word "μάταιος""vain, futile, empty, worthless".

Information sign More: Matthew 12:30-37 Pardon the idle word counting
Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

124. Strongs - thoughts

125. Usage - thoughts
*G1261 *14 διαλογισμός (dee-al-og-is-mos') : from G1260; discussion, i.e. (internal) consideration (by implication, purpose), or (external) debate:--dispute, doubtful(-ing), imagination, reasoning, thought.
Word usage per chapter Words: διαλογισμοι=4 διαλογισμοις διαλογισμον διαλογισμος διαλογισμου διαλογισμους=3 διαλογισμων=3

The ancient Greek word "διαλογισμός""balancing of accounts" and means, literally, "through reasoning". This is more than just random "thoughts". This is a "logical reasoning of thoughts", and perhaps not in a good sense. The modern Greek word "διαλογισμός" (thee-a-lo-y-SMOS) ≈ "meditation, rumination".

Interestingly, this word comes from "διαλογή""sorting out" as in "votes" or "emotional state".

126. Psalms 104:34-35
Verse routePsalms 104:34 My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD. [kjv]
Verse routeηδυνθειη αυτω η διαλογη μου εγω δε ευφρανθησομαι επι τω κυριω [lxx]
Verse route104:35 Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD. [kjv]
Verse routeεκλιποισαν αμαρτωλοι απο της γης και ανομοι ωστε μη υπαρχειν αυτους ευλογει η ψυχη μου τον κυριον [lxx]

Interestingly, this word comes from "διαλογή""sorting out" as in "votes" or "emotional state". Do we all need to be in the same "boat"? Do we all need to be in the same "vote"?

Information sign More: Matthew 14:21-36 The all in one boat fallacy and deception

127. Belief
If you believe what you like in the gospels, and reject what you don't like, it is not the gospel you believe, but yourself. Saint Augustine (Early Christian father)


Believe only parts of the Bible Cherry pick 2
Do people today pick and choose which parts of the Bible they will believe?
Do pastors today pick and choose which parts of the Bible they will believe? Do they then pass on those parts to their flock and not tell them about other parts?

Information sign More: Augustine of Hippo
Note that you can ignore parts of the Gospel that you do not know about or do not understand (ignorance of the law) or you can ignore parts of the Gospel in order to deceive others (and yourself).

128. Psalms 104:34
 All 
KJV: My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.
Hebrew: יערב עליו שיחי אנכי אשמח ביהוה׃
Greek: ηδυνθειη αυτω η διαλογη μου εγω δε ευφρανθησομαι επι τω κυριω

129. Psalms 104:35
 All 
KJV: Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.
Hebrew: יתמו חטאים מן הארץ ורשעים עוד אינם ברכי נפשי את יהוה הללו יה׃
Greek: εκλιποισαν αμαρτωλοι απο της γης και ανομοι ωστε μη υπαρχειν αυτους ευλογει η ψυχη μου τον κυριον

130. Matthew 15:19 Thoughts
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

The KJV combines "thoughts" or "dialog" as "through reasoning" and "evil" or "oppression" into one phrase which breaks the pattern to be covered. Was this done to obtain seven (7) sins?

The pattern, using the meaning of the Greek words, appears to create what is called a chiasm, usually of words, but here of (related) meaning.

This idea is part of a deception called a "false dilemma" whereby one creates two artificial choices to make someone thing that one must choose between the two choices provided. Creating "idols" is one way to create additional choices.

Jesus is careful to conceal or hide the actual meaning as the religious establishment, now and since then, would not be happy if they knew that what he said here applies to them.

Information sign More: False dilemma

131. Exodus 20:4 Do not make (and serve) idols
Verse routeExodus 20:4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: [kjv]
Verse routeου ποιησεις σεαυτω ειδωλον ουδε παντος ομοιωμα οσα εν τω ουρανω ανω και οσα εν τη γη κατω και οσα εν τοις υδασιν υποκατω της γης [lxx]

C 2The Greek for "graven image" is that of "idol". An "image" can be "graven" as in "inscribed" or "written" without it being an "idol". What are each of the following?

The KJV translates (from the Hebrew) as "likeness" the Greek word in the LXX (Septuagint) that is "similar".
The KJV translates (from the Hebrew) as "that is in" the Greek word in the LXX that is "such as". There are three examples provided: "heaven above", "earth beneath" and "water under the earth". The "ocean" is "water" but it is not "under" the "earth".

Information sign More: Average ocean depth
Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

132. First part: Did God really say?
Chiasm 1The first part of the process is that of deception. This is typically done by the "birds". That is, the "leader" or "eye".
The process starts with a "balancing of account" or "through reasoning" of what God wants and what man's tradition wants to use to side-step God's desires.

The idea of "mammon" is that, not of money, but of one's confidence in one's own abilities to do things (independent of God). That is a central idea of humanism.

Information sign More: Matthew 6:24 A wealth of logical ideas on mammon

133. Matthew 15:19 False witness
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

A "false witness" need not be that of testifying against someone, such as a neighbor. The "false witness" can be that of a "bird" "entrapping" someone in a deceptive "oath". This has the effect of "having dominion over" or "oppressing" that person.

Part of that deceptive "oath" gets buy-in to do "traditions" of the "birds" to have "dominion over" or "oppress by toils" or do "evil" to the other believers.

The "traditions" or "oaths" can be deceptive to the point that the believers actually believe they are doing what they are supposed to be doing. In that sense, both the "blind" and the "blind" "leaders" will "fall" into a "ditch" or "abyss".

Information sign More: Matthew 5:33-37 Reasoning about oaths - yes no
Information sign More: Oaths hidden in a creed

134. Exodus 20:16 Do not lie (against neighbor)
Verse routeExodus 20:16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. [kjv]
Verse routeου ψευδομαρτυρησεις κατα του πλησιον σου μαρτυριαν ψευδη [lxx]

C 9This commandment does not say "do not lie". Discuss: How can you "lie" and yet not bear "false witness" against one's "neighbor"?

The ancient Greek word"ψευδής""lying, false, untrue" and is the source of the English word (and prefix) "pseudo". An interesting "paradox" is the "liar paradox".or "Russell Paradox".
The ancient Greek word "μάρτυς""witness" and is the source of the English word "martyr". After the time of Jesus, so many "witnesses" for Christ were killed for their witness that the word meaning narrowed to a witness who is killed for their witness.

Jesus uses the word "neighbor" to refer to all human beings where "believers" are a subset of "neighbors".

Information sign More: Self-referential paradoxes
Information sign More: Bertrand Russell
Information sign More: A martyred witness to a translation error
Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

135. Matthew 15:19 Evil oppression
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

One Greek word for "evil" in the GNT is the ancient Greek word "πονηρός""oppressed by toils" and comes from the ancient Greek word "πονέω""to toil, labor".

Information sign More: Overly burdened in the cares and concerns of evil
Information sign More: Evil training is toilsome work: no pain no gain

136. Exodus 20:17 Coveting
Verse routeExodus 20:17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. [kjv]
Verse routeουκ επιθυμησεις την γυναικα του πλησιον σου ουκ επιθυμησεις την οικιαν του πλησιον σου ουτε τον αγρον αυτου ουτε τον παιδα αυτου ουτε την παιδισκην αυτου ουτε του βοος αυτου ουτε του υποζυγιου αυτου ουτε παντος κτηνους αυτου ουτε οσα τω πλησιον σου εστιν [lxx]
Verse routeconcupiscesdesiderabis … [v]

C 10The ancient Greek word "επιθυμία""desire, wish". The idea of "coveting" is that of wanting or desiring something that someone else has. This word comes from two Greek words.

To know that someone has something one wants, one needs some way to "measure" what is "coveted" and then want it in order to be "great" in some sense.

Information sign More: The coveting of greed
Information sign More: Matthew 18:1 Greatest and least in the kingdom
Information sign More: Matthew 18:2-11 Great children trapped in the middle
Information sign More: Matthew 17-18 The greatest little discourse

137. Hebrew covet
*H2530 חָמַד (khaw-mad') : a primitive root; to delight in:--beauty, greatly beloved, covet, delectable thing, (X great) delight, desire, goodly, lust, (be) pleasant (thing), precious (thing).

תחמד - covet The Hebrew word "תחמד" (tach-mod) ≈ "covet".
The ancient Greek word "επιθυμία""desire, wish". Note that the Hebrew word in the OT (Old Testament) and the Greek word in the LXX are the same but many other translations use two different words.

Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

138. Taken to extremes
Zeal, envy, covetA "desire" for an "object" or "goal" is not in itself bad.

However, things may go wrong.

139. Oppression summary
 ▶ 
 + 
 - 
 1 You and others 
 2 Do you oppress others? 
 3 Do others oppress you? 
 4 Do others oppress others? 
 5 Do you oppress you? 

The Greek translated as "evil" is that of "toil" as in "oppression" (word slide through Latin). The same diagram for "oppression" works for "deception".

140. Thoughts during prayer
Do you oppress yourself?Lord's Prayer, where the Greek for "evil" has the idea of "oppression".
How many of the following prayer segments do you think about when you pray the Lord's Prayer? Is there one of these which is, by far, the one thought about the most during the Lord's Prayer?

Information sign More: Matthew 4:1-11 Examining evil temptations

141. Oppression build
 ▶ 
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 1 Oppression 1 
 2 Oppression 2 
 3 Oppression 3 
 4 Oppression 4 

Discuss: Why does the world "hate" Christians?

142. Second part: You can be as a god.
Chiasm 2The second part of the process is that of getting buy-in from the followers who become "pigs" for the "birds".

143. Matthew 15:19 Thefts
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

The Greek word for "thefts" is associated with trickery and deception. The Greek word for "robber", on the other hand, is that of "theft" by force. The GNT sometimes mixes these words.

Example: Thieves break in to "steal" by taking something or putting something in such as ideas.
Example: The Trojan Horse. Who would give bad gifts (houses) to their children?
The Trojan horse was another "gift" that is the source of the saying "Beware of Greeks bearing gifts". The modern Greek word "Δούρειος ίππος" (THU-ree-os EEP-pos) ≈ "Trojan horse" and is in Greek, literally, "gift horse" with no mention of "Trojan".


Information sign More: A horse of another color: the name of Phillip
Information sign More: Good gifts and bad gifts
Information sign More: Gifts to children
Information sign More: Thieves and robbers

144. Exodus 20:15 Do not steal
Verse routeExodus 20:15 Thou shalt not steal. [kjv]
Verse routeου κλεψεις [lxx]

C 8The ancient Greek word "κλέπητς""thief, deceitful person" who uses trickery and deception and stealth to steal. The root is "κλέπτω""steal". These words are the source of the English word "kleptomania".
Discuss:

145. Matthew 15:19 Murders
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "φονεύω""murder, kill, slay". The modern Greek word "φονεύω" (fo-NEV-o) ≈ "murder, kill". Can someone "kill" by "deception"?

The ancient Greek word "φωνή""voice, sound" comes from the ancient Greek word "φως""light" and the ancient Greek word "νους""mind". That is, a "sound" or "voice" is "light" into the "mind".

The Greek word for "murders", as used by Jesus, can be a play on words on the Greek word for "voice" as in, literally, "light into the mind". In this case, the "murders" can be from false "light into the mind".

In modern Greek, both words sound the same. At that time, there would have been a slight difference in the vowels but the play on words would have been apparent.

146. Exodus 20:13 Do not kill
Verse routeExodus 20:13 Thou shalt not kill. [kjv]
Verse routeου φονευσεις [lxx]

C 6The ancient Greek word "φονεύω""murder, kill, slay". The modern Greek word "φονεύω" (fo-NEV-o) ≈ "murder, kill".

The Greek word means "murder" or "kill". The context determines the meaning.


Information sign More: Matthew 5:21 The killing judgment
Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

147. Killing and murdering
Verse routeMatthew 5:21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: [kjv]
Verse routeηκουσατε οτι ερρεθη τοις αρχαιοις ου φονευσεις ος δ αν φονευση ενοχος εσται τη κρισει [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "φονεύω""murder, kill, slay". The modern Greek word "φονεύω" (fo-NEV-o) ≈ "murder, kill". Can someone "kill" by "deception"?

Pastors who deceive by misrepresenting what the Bible says, either explicitly (by what they say) or implicitly (by what they do not say) appear to be engaging in "idle words" (words that do not work for Christ) and, if not satisfactorily accounted for later, appear to represent what is called the "unpardonable sin".

Information sign More: Matthew 12:30-37 Pardon the idle word counting
Information sign More: Matthew 5:21 The killing judgment

148. Matthew 10:28 Soul and body
Verse routeMatthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι μη φοβεισθε απο των αποκτεινοντων το σωμα την δε ψυχην μη δυναμενων αποκτειναι φοβεισθε δε μαλλον τον δυναμενον και ψυχην και σωμα απολεσαι εν γεεννη [gnt]

Jesus tells us who we should "fear" and it is not "fear" about the cares and concerns of this world. The most dangerous attacks are not from the outside but from the inside and involve deception.

One cannot "destroy the soul" by "killing" the body is in persecution (e.g., by the Roman administrations). The primary way to "destroy the soul" is through deception so that you "sell yourself out" or are "sold out".

Jesus provides an example in the next verse.

Information sign More: Matthew 10:26-27 The fear deception: focus on friends rather than Jesus

149. Matthew 10:29-31 Soul and body
Verse routeMatthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
Verse routeουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων [gnt]
Verse route10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
Verse routeυμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
Verse route10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
Verse routeμη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις [gnt]

Discuss:

150. Third part: Be a leader and influence people
Chiasm 3The third part of the process is that of the "pigs" performing or doing the deception. That is, the "muscle" or "hands".
This doing (e.g., Crusades, inquisitions, etc.) will often involve "murders" and "thefts", in the name of God using man's "traditions" and the deceptive "oaths" used to "oppress" or "have dominion" over other "believers".

The "thefts" can be that of a "tunnel" into the "mind" or "heart" in order to put in false and deceptive reasoning in others to get them to be part of the process.

Information sign More: Matthew 6:19-21: A treasury of treasures of which to treasure
Information sign More: Numbers 22:1-41 The false prophet Balaam

151. Matthew 15:19 Fornication
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

"Fornication" can be literal or figurative as in worshiping other Gods.

The idea of "fornication" is more general than "adultery". The idea of "fornication" does not require one to be "married".

In the Sermon on the Mount, it is the "reasoning" of "fornication" that is more general than just "fornication".

152. Exodus 20:3 Do not have any other gods
Verse routeExodus 20:3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. [kjv]
Verse routeουκ εσονται σοι θεοι ετεροι πλην εμου [lxx]

C 1
The Greek word in the LXX for "before" is "πλήν""with the exception of, except for".

The Greek for "other" is that of a "different other" rather than a "similar other".

This first commandment provides a working definition of "fornication" - serving other Gods.

153. Matthew 15:19 Adultery
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

"Adultery" can be literal or figurative as in worshiping other Gods.

The idea of "adultery" is more specific than "fornication". The idea of "adultery" assumes one is already "married".

154. Exodus 20:14 Do not commit adultery
Verse routeExodus 20:14 Thou shalt not commit adultery. [kjv]
Verse routeου μοιχευσεις [lxx]

C 7The ancient Greek word "μοιχός""adulterer". "Adultery" involves improper interaction outside marriage.

The OT has examples of one man with many wives but not woman with many husbands. This historical connection may go deeper in meaning with the meaning that, by context, Jesus implies in Matthew in the GNT.
The English word "adultery" and comes from the old French word "adultere""conjugal faith violation" and comes from the Latin word "adulter""unfaithful, unchaste". The modern Greek word "μοιχεία" (mee-KHEE-a) ≈ "adultery"

Information sign More: Matthew 5:27-28 Adulterated hearts
Information sign More: Matthew 5:31-32 Cutout the adultery and divorce
Information sign More: A top-down view of the woman caught in adultery
Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

155. Fourth part: Adultery and fornication
Chiasm 4The fourth part of the process is that of actual adultery and fornication.
The "adultery" and "fornication" is not in the literal sense, but in the sense of going against God and God's rules and the commandment to love neighbor as oneself.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus uses the phrase "reasoning" of "fornication" rather than "fornication" and this appears to refer, for example, to Balaam.

Information sign More: Matthew 5:27-28 Adulterated hearts

156. Matthew 15:19,14 Chiasmus build
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse routeεκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι [gnt]

 ▶ 
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 1 
 2 
 3 
 4 
 5 
 6 
The verse explains how the blind lead the blind into the pit (abyss).

Since all come out of the "heart", each should be somewhat abstract with concrete implications.

[code-driven vs. data-driven]
This sequence starts with the "through reasoning" of "fornication" and ends, as a constricting convergence (e.g., of a snake), with actual "adultery" and "fornication".

How does one get out of the pit (abyss)? Phrase: Turn a blind eye. ("hypocrite" or "actor"). [endorsements]

The Greek word for "murders" is a play on words with "sounds" as in (false) "light into the mind".

How does one get oneself out of such a convergence?
Verse route15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]


157. Matthew 15:19,14 Way into the pit
Ways 2
The (converging) chiasmus shows the way into the pit. One can continue along the false "way" with a false "God" and a false "Christ".

[code-driven vs. data-driven]
Verse routeMatthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [kjv]
Verse route15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [kjv]

Does Jesus say "let (forgive) them (the blind leaders, birds)" because there is no hope for the "birds" but there may be hope for the others? Jesus does not call the "followers" with a word for "followers"? Are they being "led" or are they being "oppressed" as "slaves" (or something else)?

158. Ten Commandments build
 ▶ 
 + 
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 1 
 2 
 3 
 4 
 5 
 6 
 7 
 8 
 9 
 10 
 11 
Here is a image build of paraphrased (shortened) commandments (words) from Exodus 20:1-26 as in the KJV.


Information sign More: Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

159. Chiasmus with Ten Commandments build
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 1 
 2 
 3 
 4 
 5 
 6 
 7 


Each of the eight (8) sins listed by Jesus as four (4) pairs can be associated with one of the Ten Commandments. The two not included are the following.

160. John 1:1-5 Four causes in a design and implementation model
Table illusion 2The ancient Greek word "αἰτία""cause, reason". Aristotle often used this word as "explanation". Each "cause" is a "why" question. These are briefly summarized here using the Aristotle's example of a "table". The more formal Latin and the less formal English words describing the Greek words are provided.
αίτια cause Latin Informal table cooking computer
ὕλη matter material substance wood ingredients data
εἶδος form formal pattern design recipe code
κινοῦν movement efficient agent carpentry making run
τέλος end final purpose dining eating result
Paul appears to use the four causes in writing to the Philippians. John appears to think in a top-down backward-chaining manner (much as a modern computer scientist). A top-down view of the four causes appears to fit John 1:1-5.

Information sign More: John 1:1-5 Four causes in a design and implementation model

161. Verse model using four causes
Here are Aristotle's four causes applied to what Jesus said about the "blind leaders" of the "blind followers" and "falling" into the "ditch" or "abyss".

Four causes and verse model
Greek English * Abstract Concrete Analogy
ὕλη matter 1 blasphemies through reasoning blind leaders
εἶδος form 2 false witness oppression by toils blind followers
κινοῦν movement 3 thefts murders falling
τέλος purpose 4 fornications adulteries ditch


162. Matthew 15:19
 All 
KJV: For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
Greek: εκ γαρ της καρδιας εξερχονται διαλογισμοι πονηροι φονοι μοιχειαι πορνειαι κλοπαι ψευδομαρτυριαι βλασφημιαι

163. Matthew 15:20
Verse routeMatthew 15:20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man. [kjv]
Verse routeταυτα εστιν τα κοινουντα τον ανθρωπον το δε ανιπτοις χερσιν φαγειν ου κοινοι τον ανθρωπον [gnt]

The process of all "these" things "defile", or "make common", and not eating with unwashed hands.

Note that eating with unwashed hands may not be sanitary and may result in the death of the body.

Eating with unwashed hands, by itself, does not result in the death of the body and soul (in hell).

164. Matthew 15:20
 All 
KJV: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.
Greek: ταυτα εστιν τα κοινουντα τον ανθρωπον το δε ανιπτοις χερσιν φαγειν ου κοινοι τον ανθρωπον

165. Matthew 15:21 Area of the coast
Verse routeMatthew 15:21 Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εξελθων εκειθεν ο ιησους ανεχωρησεν εις τα μερη τυρου και σιδωνος [gnt]

The Greek translated as "coasts" is that of "districts" or "regions" or "areas" or "parts". In context, these cities were along the "coasts" but that is not what Matthew wrote. There are other Greek words for "coast" that are not used here.

The ancient Greek word "μέρος""part, portion, share" and is the source of the ancient Greek word "μέριμνα""portion, part" and is related to the ancient Greek words for "care" is in the "cares of this world" and "anxious" is an about getting one's share or part.

This verse ends the interaction and the short discourse.

166. Matthew 15:21
 All 
KJV: Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.
Greek: και εξελθων εκειθεν ο ιησους ανεχωρησεν εις τα μερη τυρου και σιδωνος

167. Smyrna: weeds
Birds: (deceptive) blasphemies and reasoning
SM 2
SM slice 2

Theme: The good and bad seeds start to grow.

At each stage, there are both positive and negative aspects of the connections.

Information sign More: Matthew 13:24-30,36-43 Second kingdom parable: fault-tolerant approach to the toleration paradox
Information sign More: Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna
Information sign More: Sermon on the Mount: verse model

168. Pergamus: tree
Fish: (deceptive) witness (oaths) and evil (oppression)
SM 3
SM slice 3 Tree trunk

Theme: The good and bad seeds (two mutually exclusive choices, yes-yes no-no, etc.) become a tree with religious and secular power. Mammon represents confidence in one's own ability to do things. For example, take an oath thinking that one can fulfill the oath and that one is not being deceived by the oath taken.

At each stage, there are both positive and negative aspects of the connections.

Information sign More: Matthew 13:31-32 Third kingdom parable: mustard seeds and trees
Information sign More: Revelation 2:12-17 Pergamus
Information sign More: Matthew 6:24 A wealth of logical ideas on mammon
Information sign More: Sermon on the Mount: verse model

169. Thiatira: leaven
Pigs: (deceptive) thefts and murders
SM 4
SM slice 4

Theme: One bad apple makes the whole bunch go bad.

At each stage, there are both positive and negative aspects of the connections.

Information sign More: Matthew 13:33 Fourth kingdom parable: measures three
Information sign More: Revelation 2:18-29 Thyatira
Information sign More: Sermon on the Mount: verse model

170. End of page

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