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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Mark 12:39 and to have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/mark/12-39.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/19/41_Mrk_12_39.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Mark 12:39 - Warning against the Scribes" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="and to have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets." /><script type="application/javascript" 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align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad19.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/mark/12-38.htm" title="Mark 12:38">◄</a> Mark 12:39 <a href="/mark/12-40.htm" title="Mark 12:40">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/mark/12.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/mark/12.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/mark/12.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/mark/12.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />and have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/mark/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />and to have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/mark/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />and first seats in the synagogues, and first places at the feasts;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/mark/12.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/mark/12.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/mark/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />and seats of honor in the synagogues, and places of honor at banquets,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/mark/12.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/mark/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />and chief seats in the synagogues, and places of honor at banquets,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/mark/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />and best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/mark/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />and [they love] the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of distinction <i>and</i> honor at banquets,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/mark/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />the best seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/mark/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />the front seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/mark/12.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />and chief seats in the synagogues, and chief places at feasts:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/mark/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />They like the front seats in the synagogues and the best seats at banquets. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/mark/12.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />and chief seats in the synagogues, and chief places at feasts:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/mark/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />and to have the front seats in synagogues and the places of honor at dinners.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/mark/12.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />who choose the reserved seats in the synagogues and the best places at feasts. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/mark/12.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />and to have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/mark/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />and to have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/mark/12.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/mark/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />and the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/mark/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/mark/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />and to occupy the best seats in the synagogues and at dinner parties,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/mark/12.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />and to get the best seats in the synagogues and the best places at feasts, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/mark/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />and first seats in the synagogues, and first couches at the banquets,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/mark/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />and first seats in the synagogues, and first places at the feasts;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/mark/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> and first seats in the synagogues, and first couches in suppers,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/mark/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And first seats in synagogues, and first place at tables in first meals:<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/mark/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />And to sit in the first chairs, in the synagogues, and to have the highest places at suppers: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/mark/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />and to sit in the first chairs in the synagogues, and to have the first seats at feasts,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/mark/12.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/mark/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets!<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/mark/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And the front seats in the synagogues, and the head places at banquets;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/mark/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />And the best seats in the synagogue and top rooms at feasts,<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/mark/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />and the first seats in the synagogues, and the first places at suppers;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/mark/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br /><FR>and the first seats in the synagogues, and the first couches at the suppers.<Fr><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/mark/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />and the principal seats in the synagogues, and the first couch at suppers:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/mark/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />and to have the first seats in their synagogues, and at their feasts:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/mark/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />and to occupy the best seats in the synagogues and at dinner parties,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/mark/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br /><FR>and the first seats in the synagogues, and the first places at the feasts;<Fr><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/mark/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br /><FR>and <Fr><i>the</i><FR> chief seats in the synagogues, and uppermost places at feasts;<Fr><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/mark/12-39.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DmwDTC71zvQ?start=4235" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/mark/12.htm">Warning against the Scribes</a></span><br><span class="reftext">38</span>In His teaching Jesus also said, “Watch out for the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, to receive greetings in the marketplaces, <span class="reftext">39</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and to have</a> <a href="/greek/4410.htm" title="4410: prōtokathedrias (N-AFP) -- A chief (most honorable) seat. From protos and kathedra; a sitting first, i.e. Preeminence in council.">the chief seats</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tais (Art-DFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4864.htm" title="4864: synagōgais (N-DFP) -- From sunago; an assemblage of persons; specially, a Jewish synagogue; by analogy, a Christian church.">synagogues</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4411.htm" title="4411: prōtoklisias (N-AFP) -- From protos and klisia; a reclining first at the dinner-bed, i.e. Preeminence at meals.">the places of honor</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">at</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tois (Art-DNP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1173.htm" title="1173: deipnois (N-DNP) -- A dinner, an afternoon or evening meal. From the same as dapane; dinner, i.e. The chief meal.">banquets.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">40</span>They defraud widows of their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Matthew 23:6-7</a></span><br />They love the places of honor at banquets, the chief seats in the synagogues, / the greetings in the marketplaces, and the title of ‘Rabbi’ by which they are addressed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/20-46.htm">Luke 20:46</a></span><br />“Beware of the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, and they love the greetings in the marketplaces, the chief seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/2-3.htm">James 2:3</a></span><br />If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, “Here is a seat of honor,” but say to the poor man, “You must stand” or “Sit at my feet,”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/6-5.htm">Matthew 6:5</a></span><br />And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/11-43.htm">Luke 11:43</a></span><br />Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the chief seats in the synagogues and the greetings in the marketplaces.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/3_john/1-9.htm">3 John 1:9</a></span><br />I have written to the church about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/23-5.htm">Matthew 23:5</a></span><br />All their deeds are done for men to see. They broaden their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/14-7.htm">Luke 14:7-11</a></span><br />When Jesus noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, He told them a parable: / “When you are invited to a wedding banquet, do not sit in the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited. / Then the host who invited both of you will come and tell you, ‘Give this man your seat.’ And in humiliation, you will have to take the last place. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/25-6.htm">Proverbs 25:6-7</a></span><br />Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the place of great men; / for it is better that he says to you, “Come up here!” than that you should be demoted in the presence of the prince. Even what you have seen with your own eyes,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/5-5.htm">1 Peter 5:5</a></span><br />Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/2-3.htm">Philippians 2:3</a></span><br />Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-16.htm">Romans 12:16</a></span><br />Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but associate with the lowly. Do not be conceited.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/32-21.htm">Job 32:21-22</a></span><br />I will be partial to no one, nor will I flatter any man. / For I do not know how to flatter, or my Maker would remove me in an instant.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/3-14.htm">Isaiah 3:14-15</a></span><br />The LORD brings this charge against the elders and leaders of His people: “You have devoured the vineyard; the plunder of the poor is in your houses. / Why do you crush My people and grind the faces of the poor?” declares the Lord GOD of Hosts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ezekiel/34-2.htm">Ezekiel 34:2-3</a></span><br />“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? / You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/james/2-2.htm">James 2:2,3</a></b></br> For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; … </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Banquets</a> <a href="/matthew/27-65.htm">Best</a> <a href="/mark/12-29.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/mark/7-4.htm">Couches</a> <a href="/mark/6-26.htm">Dinner</a> <a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Feasts</a> <a href="/mark/12-30.htm">First</a> <a href="/mark/10-19.htm">Honor</a> <a href="/mark/12-33.htm">Important</a> <a href="/zechariah/9-6.htm">Occupy</a> <a href="/mark/3-25.htm">Parties</a> <a href="/mark/12-38.htm">Places</a> <a href="/matthew/24-26.htm">Rooms</a> <a href="/mark/11-15.htm">Seats</a> <a href="/luke/20-46.htm">Suppers</a> <a href="/mark/1-39.htm">Synagogues</a> <a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Uppermost</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/luke/20-46.htm">Banquets</a> <a href="/mark/14-11.htm">Best</a> <a href="/mark/14-1.htm">Chief</a> <a href="/luke/20-46.htm">Couches</a> <a href="/luke/7-36.htm">Dinner</a> <a href="/luke/12-36.htm">Feasts</a> <a href="/mark/13-8.htm">First</a> <a href="/luke/14-7.htm">Honor</a> <a href="/luke/7-6.htm">Important</a> <a href="/luke/14-9.htm">Occupy</a> <a href="/luke/9-14.htm">Parties</a> <a href="/mark/13-8.htm">Places</a> <a href="/luke/12-3.htm">Rooms</a> <a href="/mark/14-15.htm">Seats</a> <a href="/luke/20-46.htm">Suppers</a> <a href="/mark/13-9.htm">Synagogues</a> <a href="/luke/11-43.htm">Uppermost</a><div class="vheading2">Mark 12</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-1.htm">Jesus tells the parable of the tenants</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-13.htm">He avoids the snare of the Pharisees and Herodians about paying tribute to Caesar;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-18.htm">convicts the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">28. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-28.htm">resolves the scribe, who questioned of the first commandment;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">35. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-35.htm">refutes the opinion that the scribes held of the Christ;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">38. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-38.htm">bidding the people to beware of their ambition and hypocrisy;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">41. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/mark/12-41.htm">and commends the poor widow for her two mites, above all.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/mark/12.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/mark/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/mark/12.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>and to have the chief seats in the synagogues</b><br>In the first-century Jewish culture, synagogues were central to community life, serving as places of worship, teaching, and gathering. The "chief seats" were the most prominent positions, often reserved for respected leaders, elders, or those of high social status. These seats were typically located at the front, facing the congregation, symbolizing authority and honor. The desire for these seats reflects a deeper issue of pride and the pursuit of status, which Jesus frequently criticized. In <a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Matthew 23:6</a>, Jesus similarly condemns the scribes and Pharisees for their love of the best seats, highlighting their hypocrisy and self-righteousness. This critique aligns with the broader biblical theme that true greatness in God's kingdom is marked by humility and service, as seen in <a href="/mark/10-43.htm">Mark 10:43-44</a>, where Jesus teaches that whoever wants to become great must be a servant.<p><b>and the places of honor at banquets</b><br>Banquets in ancient Jewish society were significant social events, often reflecting one's social standing and influence. The "places of honor" were the most prestigious seats, usually near the host, indicating a person's importance and favor. This desire for recognition and status at social gatherings is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings. In <a href="/luke/14-7.htm">Luke 14:7-11</a>, Jesus advises taking the lowest place at a banquet, emphasizing humility and the principle that those who exalt themselves will be humbled. The cultural context of honor and shame in the ancient Near East further underscores the importance placed on social status and public recognition. Jesus' teachings challenge this cultural norm, promoting a counter-cultural message that values humility and service over social prestige. This message is consistent with the prophetic call for justice and humility found throughout the Old Testament, such as in <a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a>, which calls for walking humbly with God.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/j/jesus_christ.htm">Jesus Christ</a></b><br>The central figure in the Gospel of Mark, who is teaching in the temple courts and addressing the behavior of the scribes.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/s/scribes.htm">Scribes</a></b><br>Jewish religious leaders and teachers of the Law, known for their knowledge and interpretation of the Scriptures. In this passage, Jesus criticizes their desire for status and recognition.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/s/synagogues.htm">Synagogues</a></b><br>Jewish places of worship and community gathering, where the scribes sought the "chief seats" to display their prominence.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/b/banquets.htm">Banquets</a></b><br>Social gatherings where the scribes desired "places of honor," reflecting their pursuit of social status and recognition.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a></b><br>The city where these events take place, specifically in the temple courts, highlighting the religious and cultural context of Jesus' teachings.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_pride_and_hypocrisy.htm">The Danger of Pride and Hypocrisy</a></b><br>Jesus warns against the scribes' behavior, which is rooted in pride and hypocrisy. Believers are called to examine their own hearts for similar tendencies.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_humility.htm">The Call to Humility</a></b><br>True greatness in the Kingdom of God is marked by humility and service, not by seeking honor and recognition from others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_authentic_worship.htm">The Importance of Authentic Worship</a></b><br>Worship should be focused on God, not on gaining status or approval from others. Believers should prioritize genuine devotion over outward appearances.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_leadership_in_the_church.htm">The Role of Leadership in the Church</a></b><br>Church leaders are called to serve humbly, setting an example of Christ-like leadership rather than seeking personal glory.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/evaluating_our_motives.htm">Evaluating Our Motives</a></b><br>Believers should regularly assess their motives in both religious and social settings, ensuring they align with the teachings of Christ.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_mark_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Mark 12</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_'great_judgment'_in_ezekiel_25_11.htm">Do they exploit and take advantage of widows?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/key_events_in_jesus'_third_year.htm">What events marked Jesus' third year of ministry?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/did_jesus_pray_to_avoid_crucifixion.htm">Did Jesus pray to The Father to prevent the crucifixion? Yes. (Matthew 26:39; Mark 14:36; Luke 22:42) No. (John 12:27)</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_was_the_bible's_roman_centurion.htm">Who was the Roman Centurion in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/mark/12-39.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">and [to have]</span><br /><span class="grk">καὶ</span> <span class="translit">(kai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> </span><span class="str2">And, even, also, namely. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">the chief seats</span><br /><span class="grk">πρωτοκαθεδρίας</span> <span class="translit">(prōtokathedrias)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4410.htm">Strong's 4410: </a> </span><span class="str2">A chief (most honorable) seat. From protos and kathedra; a sitting first, i.e. Preeminence in council.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐν</span> <span class="translit">(en)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> </span><span class="str2">In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">ταῖς</span> <span class="translit">(tais)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Dative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">synagogues</span><br /><span class="grk">συναγωγαῖς</span> <span class="translit">(synagōgais)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4864.htm">Strong's 4864: </a> </span><span class="str2">From sunago; an assemblage of persons; specially, a Jewish 'synagogue'; by analogy, a Christian church.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and</span><br /><span class="grk">καὶ</span> <span class="translit">(kai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> </span><span class="str2">And, even, also, namely. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">[the] places of honor</span><br /><span class="grk">πρωτοκλισίας</span> <span class="translit">(prōtoklisias)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4411.htm">Strong's 4411: </a> </span><span class="str2">From protos and klisia; a reclining first at the dinner-bed, i.e. Preeminence at meals.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">at</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐν</span> <span class="translit">(en)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> </span><span class="str2">In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">banquets.</span><br /><span class="grk">δείπνοις</span> <span class="translit">(deipnois)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Neuter Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1173.htm">Strong's 1173: </a> </span><span class="str2">A dinner, an afternoon or evening meal. From the same as dapane; dinner, i.e. The chief meal.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/mark/12-39.htm">Mark 12:39 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/mark/12-39.htm">NT Gospels: Mark 12:39 And the best seats in the synagogues (Mar Mk Mr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/mark/12-38.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Mark 12:38"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Mark 12:38" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/mark/12-40.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Mark 12:40"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Mark 12:40" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>