Matthew 23:22

"He who swears by the temple, swears by it and by him who has been living in it."

Key Reflection

In first-century Judaism, the temple was not just a building but the very dwelling place of God, reflecting his presence and authority. When someone swore by the temple, they were essentially pledging their word under the witness of Yahweh himself, as the temple housed the divine presence according to Jewish belief. This verse underscores the immense significance of the temple in first-century society, illustrating how deeply intertwined it was with religious and legal practices.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 22. The throne of God. Heaven is his throne, Mt 5:34. It is so called as being the place where he sits in glory. Jesus says, here, that all who swear at all, do in fact swear by God, or the oath is good for nothing. To swear by an altar, a gift, or a temple, is of no force, unless it be meant to appeal to God himself. The essential thing in an oath is calling God to witness our sincerity. If a real oath is taken, therefore, God is appealed to. If not, it is foolish and wicked to swear by anything else.

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