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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 12:14 "Teacher," they said, "we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? 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You aren&#8217t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not? <a href="/nlt/mark/12.htm">New Living Translation</a> “Teacher,” they said, “we know how honest you are. You are impartial and don’t play favorites. You teach the way of God truthfully. Now tell us—is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? <a href="/esv/mark/12.htm">English Standard Version</a> And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?” <a href="/bsb/mark/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?” <a href="/blb/mark/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And having come, they say to Him, "Teacher, we know that You are true, and to You there is no care about any one; for You do not look on the appearance of men, but teach the way of God on the basis of the truth. Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not? Should we pay or not pay?" <a href="/kjv/mark/12.htm">King James Bible</a> And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? <a href="/nkjv/mark/12.htm">New King James Version</a> When they had come, they said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are true, and care about no one; for You do not regard the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? <a href="/nasb_/mark/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> They came and said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and do not care what anyone thinks; for You are not partial to anyone, but You teach the way of God in truth. Is it permissible to pay a poll-tax to Caesar, or not? <a href="/nasb/mark/12.htm">NASB 1995</a> They came and said to Him, &#8220Teacher, we know that You are truthful and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay a poll-tax to Caesar, or not? <a href="/nasb77/mark/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And they came and said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful, and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay a poll-tax to Caesar, or not? <a href="/lsb/mark/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And they came and said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay a tax to Caesar, or not? <a href="/amp/mark/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a> They came and said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and have no personal bias toward anyone; for You are not influenced by outward appearances or social status, but in truth You teach the way of God. Is it lawful [according to Jewish law and tradition] to pay the poll-tax to [Tiberius] Caesar, or not? <a href="/csb/mark/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> When they came, they said to him, “Teacher, we know you are truthful and don’t care what anyone thinks, nor do you show partiality but teach the way of God truthfully. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay or shouldn’t we? ” <a href="/hcsb/mark/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> When they came, they said to Him, &#8220Teacher, we know You are truthful and defer to no one, for You don&#8217t show partiality but teach truthfully the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? <a href="/asv/mark/12.htm">American Standard Version</a> And when they were come, they say unto him, Teacher, we know that thou art true, and carest not for any one; for thou regardest not the person of men, but of a truth teachest the way of God: Is it lawful to give tribute unto C锟絪ar, or not? <a href="/cev/mark/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> They went to him and said, "Teacher, we know that you are honest. You treat everyone with the same respect, no matter who they are. And you teach the truth about what God wants people to do. Tell us, should we pay taxes to the Emperor or not?" <a href="/erv/mark/12.htm">English Revised Version</a> And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest not for any one: for thou regardest not the person of men, but of a truth teachest the way of God: Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? <a href="/gwt/mark/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> When they came to him, they said, "Teacher, we know that you tell the truth. You don't favor individuals because of who they are. Rather, you teach the way of God truthfully. Is it right to pay taxes to the emperor or not? Should we pay taxes or not?" <a href="/gnt/mark/12.htm">Good News Translation</a> They came to him and said, "Teacher, we know that you tell the truth, without worrying about what people think. You pay no attention to anyone's status, but teach the truth about God's will for people. Tell us, is it against our Law to pay taxes to the Roman Emperor? Should we pay them or not?" <a href="/isv/mark/12.htm">International Standard Version</a> They came and told him, "Teacher, we know that you are sincere. You don't favor any individual, because you pay no attention to external appearance. Rather, you teach the way of God truthfully. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or shouldn't we?" <a href="/msb/mark/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> ?Teacher,? they said, ?we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?? <a href="/net/mark/12.htm">NET Bible</a> When they came they said to him, "Teacher, we know that you are truthful and do not court anyone's favor, because you show no partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay or shouldn't we?" <a href="/nheb/mark/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> When they had come, they asked him, "Teacher, we know that you are honest, and do not defer to anyone; for you are not partial to anyone, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? <a href="/wbt/mark/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And when they had come, they say to him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Cesar, or not? <a href="/wey/mark/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> So they came to Him. "Rabbi," they said, "we know that you are a truthful man and you do not fear any one; for you do not recognize human distinctions, but teach God's way truly. Is it allowable to pay poll-tax to Caesar, or not? <a href="/web/mark/12.htm">World English Bible</a> When they had come, they asked him, “Teacher, we know that you are honest, and don’t defer to anyone; for you aren’t partial to anyone, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/mark/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and they having come, say to Him, “Teacher, we have known that You are true, and You are not caring for anyone, for You do not look to the face of men, but in truth teach the way of God; is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not? May we give, or may we not give?” <a href="/blb/mark/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And having come, they say to Him, "Teacher, we know that You are true, and to You there is no care about any one; for You do not look on the appearance of men, but teach the way of God on the basis of the truth. Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not? Should we pay or not pay?" <a href="/ylt/mark/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and they having come, say to him, 'Teacher, we have known that thou art true, and thou art not caring for any one, for thou dost not look to the face of men, but in truth the way of God dost teach; is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not? may we give, or may we not give?' <a href="/slt/mark/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And they having come, say to him, Teacher, we know that thou art true, and thou carest not for any one: for thou lookest not to the face of men, but in truth thou teachest the way of God: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or no?<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/mark/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Who coming, say to him: Master, we know that thou art a true speaker, and carest not for any man; for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar; or shall we not give it? <a href="/cpdv/mark/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And these, arriving, said to him: “Teacher, we know that you are truthful and that you do not favor anyone; for you do not consider the appearance of men, but you teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to give the tribute to Caesar, or should we not give it?” <a href="/nabre/mark/12.htm">New American Bible</a> They came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man and that you are not concerned with anyone’s opinion. You do not regard a person’s status but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?” <a href="/nrsvce/mark/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and show deference to no one; for you do not regard people with partiality, but teach the way of God in accordance with truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/mark/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> They came and asked him, Master, we know that you are true, and you do not favor any man; for you are impartial, and you teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to give head-tax to Caesar or not? <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/mark/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But those came and asked him, “Teacher, we know that you are true, and that you are not motivated by care for any man, for you do not regard the person of the sons of men, but you teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to give head tax to Caesar or not? Should we give or should we not give?”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/mark/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And they came and said to him: Teacher, we know that you are true, and that you care for no one; for you do not regard the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? <a href="/godbey/mark/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And they having come, say to Him, Teacher, we know that thou art true, and there is not a care to thee for any one: for thou dost not look into the face of men, but thou dost teach the way of God in truth: is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? must we give, or must we not give? <a href="/haweis/mark/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And they come and say to him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest not for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to pay tribute to C锟絪ar, or not? <a href="/mace/mark/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a> when they were come, they said to him, master, we know that you are sincere, that you are not influenced by any one, for you have no regard to the person of men: but teach us the way of God according to truth, now should we pay tribute to Cesar, or no? shall we pay, or shall we not pay? <a href="/wey/mark/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> So they came to Him. "Rabbi," they said, "we know that you are a truthful man and you do not fear any one; for you do not recognize human distinctions, but teach God's way truly. Is it allowable to pay poll-tax to Caesar, or not? <a href="/worrell/mark/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And, coming, they say to Him, "Teacher, we know that Thou art true, and carest not for any one; for Thou lookest not into the face of men, but in truth teachest the way of God. Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? <a href="/worsley/mark/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> and these, when they came, said to Him, Master, we know that thou art a man of truth, and carest for no man; for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to pay tribute to Cesar, or not? should we give, or should we not give? <a href="/parallel/mark/12-14.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DmwDTC71zvQ?start=3984" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/mark/12.htm">Paying Taxes to Caesar</a> 13Later, they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to catch Jesus in His words. 14<a href="/greek/1320.htm" title="1320: Didaskale (N-VMS) -- A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor.">“Teacher,”</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/2064.htm" title="2064: elthontes (V-APA-NMP) -- To come, go. "></a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legousin (V-PIA-3P) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">they said,</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autō (PPro-DM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> <a href="/greek/1492.htm" title="1492: oidamen (V-RIA-1P) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">“we know</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ei (V-PIA-2S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">You are</a> <a href="/greek/227.htm" title="227: alēthēs (Adj-NMS) -- Unconcealed, true, true in fact, worthy of credit, truthful. TRUE.">honest</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: soi (PPro-D2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou."></a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/3199.htm" title="3199: melei (V-PIA-3S) -- It is a care, it is an object of anxiety, it concerns. A primary verb; to be of interest to, i.e. To concern.">seek favor</a> <a href="/greek/4012.htm" title="4012: peri (Prep) -- From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time.">from</a> <a href="/greek/3762.htm" title="3762: oudenos (Adj-GMS) -- No one, none, nothing. ">no one.</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">Indeed,</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/991.htm" title="991: blepeis (V-PIA-2S) -- (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at.">You are impartial</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases."></a> <a href="/greek/4383.htm" title="4383: prosōpon (N-ANS) -- From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person."></a> <a href="/greek/444.htm" title="444: anthrōpōn (N-GMP) -- A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being."></a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">and</a> <a href="/greek/1321.htm" title="1321: didaskeis (V-PIA-2S) -- To teach, direct, admonish. A prolonged form of a primary verb dao; to teach.">teach</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- 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/3598.htm" title="3598: hodon (N-AFS) -- A way, road, journey, path. Apparently a primary word; a road; by implication, a progress; figuratively, a mode or means.">way</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: ep’ (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">in accordance with</a> <a href="/greek/225.htm" title="225: alētheias (N-GFS) -- From alethes; truth.">the truth.</a> <a href="/greek/1832.htm" title="1832: exestin (V-PIA-3S) -- It is permitted, lawful, possible. ">Is it lawful</a> <a href="/greek/1325.htm" title="1325: dounai (V-ANA) -- To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.">to pay</a> <a href="/greek/2778.htm" title="2778: kēnson (N-AMS) -- A poll-tax. Of Latin origin; properly, an enrollment, i.e. a tax.">taxes</a> <a href="/greek/2541.htm" title="2541: Kaisari (N-DMS) -- Of Latin origin; Caesar, a title of the Roman emperor.">to Caesar</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not?</a> <a href="/greek/1325.htm" title="1325: dōmen (V-ASA-1P) -- To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.">Should we pay them</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.">not?”</a> <a href="/greek/1325.htm" title="1325: dōmen (V-ASA-1P) -- To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give."></a> 15But Jesus saw through their hypocrisy and said, “Why are you testing Me? Bring Me a denarius to inspect.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Matthew 22:16</a> They sent their disciples to Him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and that You teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You seek favor from no one, because You pay no attention to external appearance. <a href="/luke/20-21.htm">Luke 20:21</a> “Teacher,” they inquired, “we know that You speak and teach correctly. You show no partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. <a href="/romans/13-7.htm">Romans 13:7</a> Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due. <a href="/1_peter/2-13.htm">1 Peter 2:13-17</a> Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, / or to governors as those sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. / For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorance of foolish men. ... <a href="/proverbs/24-23.htm">Proverbs 24:23</a> These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judgment is not good. <a href="/deuteronomy/16-19.htm">Deuteronomy 16:19</a> Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. <a href="/acts/5-29.htm">Acts 5:29</a> But Peter and the other apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. <a href="/romans/13-1.htm">Romans 13:1-2</a> Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. / Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. <a href="/1_timothy/2-1.htm">1 Timothy 2:1-2</a> First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— / for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. <a href="/exodus/23-2.htm">Exodus 23:2-3</a> You shall not follow the crowd in wrongdoing. When you testify in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd. / And do not show favoritism to a poor man in his lawsuit. <a href="/proverbs/29-25.htm">Proverbs 29:25</a> The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high. <a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a> Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. <a href="/james/2-1.htm">James 2:1</a> My brothers, as you hold out your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, do not show favoritism. <a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a> But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” <a href="/2_chronicles/19-7.htm">2 Chronicles 19:7</a> And now, may the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And when they were come, they say to him, Master, we know that you are true, and care for no man: for you regard not the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?Master.<a href="/mark/14-45.htm">Mark 14:45</a> And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him.<a href="/psalms/12-2.htm">Psalm 12:2-4</a> They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak… <a href="/psalms/55-21.htm">Psalm 55:21</a> The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.we know.<a href="/john/7-18.htm">John 7:18</a> He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.<a href="/2_corinthians/2-2.htm">2 Corinthians 2:2,17</a> For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me? … <a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1</a> Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;carest.<a href="/deuteronomy/33-9.htm">Deuteronomy 33:9,10</a> Who said unto his father and to his mother, I have not seen him; neither did he acknowledge his brethren, nor knew his own children: for they have observed thy word, and kept thy covenant… <a href="/2_chronicles/18-13.htm">2 Chronicles 18:13</a> And Micaiah said, As the LORD liveth, even what my God saith, that will I speak.<a href="/isaiah/50-7.htm">Isaiah 50:7-9</a> For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed… for thou.<a href="/exodus/23-2.htm">Exodus 23:2-6</a> Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment: … <a href="/deuteronomy/16-19.htm">Deuteronomy 16:19</a> Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.<a href="/2_chronicles/19-7.htm">2 Chronicles 19:7</a> Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.is it.<a href="/ezra/4-12.htm">Ezra 4:12,13</a> Be it known unto the king, that the Jews which came up from thee to us are come unto Jerusalem, building the rebellious and the bad city, and have set up the walls thereof, and joined the foundations… <a href="/nehemiah/9-37.htm">Nehemiah 9:37</a> And it yieldeth much increase unto the kings whom thou hast set over us because of our sins: also they have dominion over our bodies, and over our cattle, at their pleasure, and we are in great distress.<a href="/matthew/17-25.htm">Matthew 17:25-27</a> He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/22-21.htm">Caesar</a> <a href="/mark/4-38.htm">Carest</a> <a href="/matthew/22-21.htm">Cesar</a> <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Defer</a> <a href="/mark/12-12.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/mark/11-22.htm">God's</a> <a href="/matthew/23-28.htm">Honest</a> <a href="/mark/10-2.htm">Lawful</a> <a href="/mark/12-9.htm">Master</a> <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Partial</a> <a href="/matthew/23-23.htm">Pay</a> <a href="/mark/11-21.htm">Rabbi</a> <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Regardest</a> <a href="/mark/2-14.htm">Taxes</a> <a href="/mark/11-17.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/mark/10-35.htm">Teacher</a> <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Teachest</a> <a href="/matthew/22-19.htm">Tribute</a> <a href="/mark/10-29.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Truthful</a> <a href="/mark/7-28.htm">True.</a> <a href="/mark/12-12.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/mark/12-17.htm">Caesar</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-6.htm">Carest</a> <a href="/mark/12-17.htm">Cesar</a> <a href="/leviticus/19-15.htm">Defer</a> <a href="/mark/12-34.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/mark/12-17.htm">God's</a> <a href="/luke/8-15.htm">Honest</a> <a href="/luke/6-2.htm">Lawful</a> <a href="/mark/12-19.htm">Master</a> <a href="/luke/20-21.htm">Partial</a> <a href="/mark/12-15.htm">Pay</a> <a href="/mark/12-19.htm">Rabbi</a> <a href="/2_samuel/19-6.htm">Regardest</a> <a href="/luke/5-27.htm">Taxes</a> <a href="/luke/3-23.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/mark/12-19.htm">Teacher</a> <a href="/luke/20-21.htm">Teachest</a> <a href="/luke/20-22.htm">Tribute</a> <a href="/mark/12-32.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/john/3-33.htm">Truthful</a> <a href="/mark/13-6.htm">True.</a> <a href="/mark/13-6.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">Mark 12</div>1. <a href="/mark/12-1.htm">Jesus tells the parable of the tenants</a> 13. <a href="/mark/12-13.htm">He avoids the snare of the Pharisees and Herodians about paying tribute to Caesar;</a> 18. <a href="/mark/12-18.htm">convicts the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection;</a> 28. <a href="/mark/12-28.htm">resolves the scribe, who questioned of the first commandment;</a> 35. <a href="/mark/12-35.htm">refutes the opinion that the scribes held of the Christ;</a> 38. <a href="/mark/12-38.htm">bidding the people to beware of their ambition and hypocrisy;</a> 41. <a href="/mark/12-41.htm">and commends the poor widow for her two mites, above all.</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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>“Teacher,” they said, The term "Teacher" (Greek: Didaskalos) was a respectful title used for someone recognized as a rabbi or master of the law. In the context of <a href="/mark/12.htm">Mark 12</a>, the Pharisees and Herodians address Jesus with this title, acknowledging His authority and knowledge, even though their intentions are deceitful. This reflects the cultural practice of addressing religious leaders with respect, despite underlying motives.“we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. This statement acknowledges Jesus' integrity and impartiality. In the Gospels, Jesus is consistently portrayed as one who speaks the truth without regard for personal gain or fear of human opinion. This aligns with <a href="/proverbs/24-23.htm">Proverbs 24:23</a>, which emphasizes the importance of impartiality in judgment. The Pharisees and Herodians, however, use this truth to set a trap, highlighting the tension between Jesus' divine mission and human politics.Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Jesus' teaching is rooted in divine truth, as seen throughout His ministry. His impartiality is a reflection of God's character, as stated in <a href="/deuteronomy/10-17.htm">Deuteronomy 10:17</a>, where God is described as not showing partiality. This phrase underscores the recognition of Jesus' divine authority and His role as the ultimate teacher of God's will, fulfilling the prophetic expectation of a Messiah who would reveal God's truth.Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? The question of paying taxes to Caesar was a politically charged issue in first-century Judea. The Roman Empire imposed taxes on its subjects, which was a source of resentment among the Jewish people. The Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus between the nationalistic sentiments of the Jews and the authority of Rome. This reflects the historical tension between Jewish autonomy and Roman occupation, as well as the broader theme of allegiance to earthly versus divine authority.Should we pay them or not?” This question forces a dilemma: if Jesus says "yes," He risks alienating the Jewish populace who despise Roman rule; if "no," He could be accused of rebellion against Rome. The question highlights the broader biblical theme of the believer's relationship to secular authority, as later addressed in <a href="/romans/13.htm">Romans 13:1-7</a>, where Paul instructs Christians to submit to governing authorities. Jesus' response, which follows, demonstrates His wisdom in navigating earthly and divine obligations.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The central figure in this passage, known for His teachings and miracles. He is being questioned by the Pharisees and Herodians. 2. <a href="/topical/p/pharisees.htm">Pharisees</a> A religious group in Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and traditions. They often opposed Jesus. 3. <a href="/topical/h/herodians.htm">Herodians</a> A political group that supported Herod Antipas and Roman rule. They were typically at odds with the Pharisees but united against Jesus. 4. <a href="/topical/c/caesar.htm">Caesar</a> The Roman emperor at the time, representing the political authority and power of Rome. 5. <a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a> The city where this event takes place, a central location for Jewish religious life and Roman political control.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_teaching.htm">Integrity in Teaching</a> Jesus is recognized for His honesty and impartiality. As Christians, we should strive to emulate His integrity in our own lives, ensuring that our actions and words align with God's truth. <a href="/topical/w/wisdom_in_response.htm">Wisdom in Response</a> Jesus demonstrates wisdom in His response to a potentially divisive question. We should seek God's wisdom in our interactions, especially when faced with challenging or controversial issues. <a href="/topical/d/dual_citizenship.htm">Dual Citizenship</a> Jesus' response highlights the balance between our responsibilities to earthly authorities and our ultimate allegiance to God. We must navigate our roles as citizens of both heaven and earth with discernment. <a href="/topical/a/avoiding_traps.htm">Avoiding Traps</a> The Pharisees and Herodians attempted to trap Jesus with their question. We should be aware of situations where others may try to entangle us in disputes, and respond with grace and truth. <a href="/topical/u/understanding_authority.htm">Understanding Authority</a> Jesus acknowledges the legitimacy of earthly authority while maintaining God's supreme authority. This teaches us to respect and honor governmental structures while prioritizing our obedience to God.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_mark_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Mark 12</a> <a href="/q/how_do_jesus'_life_and_teachings_fulfill_god.htm">How does Jesus' life and teachings fulfill God's promise?</a> <a href="/q/who_were_the_herodians_in_the_bible.htm">Who were the Herodians in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/why_did_jesus_say_to_hate_our_parents.htm">Why did Jesus say to hate our parents?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_jesus'_tax_stance_fit_justice.htm">Mark 12:13-17: If Jesus endorses paying taxes to an oppressive regime, how does that square with calls for justice elsewhere in Scripture?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/mark/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(14) Thou regardest not the person of men.--The phrase is essentially Hebrew in its form, but had been made familiar by the Greek Version of the Old Testament. <a href="/commentaries/mark/12-14.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>“Teacher,” Διδάσκαλε (Didaskale) Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1320.htm">Strong's 1320: </a> A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor. they said, λέγουσιν (legousin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. “we know οἴδαμεν (oidamen) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> To know, remember, appreciate. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. You are εἶ (ei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. honest ἀληθὴς (alēthēs) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_227.htm">Strong's 227: </a> Unconcealed, true, true in fact, worthy of credit, truthful. TRUE. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. are swayed μέλει (melei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3199.htm">Strong's 3199: </a> It is a care, it is an object of anxiety, it concerns. A primary verb; to be of interest to, i.e. To concern. by no one. οὐδενός (oudenos) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3762.htm">Strong's 3762: </a> No one, none, nothing. Indeed, γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. You are impartial βλέπεις (blepeis) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_991.htm">Strong's 991: </a> (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at. [and] ἀλλ’ (all’) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. teach διδάσκεις (didaskeis) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1321.htm">Strong's 1321: </a> To teach, direct, admonish. A prolonged form of a primary verb dao; to teach. the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. way ὁδὸν (hodon) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3598.htm">Strong's 3598: </a> A way, road, journey, path. Apparently a primary word; a road; by implication, a progress; figuratively, a mode or means. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. in accordance with ἐπ’ (ep’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. [the] truth. ἀληθείας (alētheias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_225.htm">Strong's 225: </a> From alethes; truth. [ Now then, ] is it lawful ἔξεστιν (exestin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1832.htm">Strong's 1832: </a> It is permitted, lawful, possible. to pay δοῦναι (dounai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1325.htm">Strong's 1325: </a> To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give. taxes κῆνσον (kēnson) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2778.htm">Strong's 2778: </a> A poll-tax. Of Latin origin; properly, an enrollment, i.e. a tax. to Caesar Καίσαρι (Kaisari) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2541.htm">Strong's 2541: </a> Of Latin origin; Caesar, a title of the Roman emperor. or ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. not? οὔ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. Should we pay [them] δῶμεν (dōmen) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1325.htm">Strong's 1325: </a> To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give. or ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. not?” μὴ (mē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3361.htm">Strong's 3361: </a> Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/mark/12-14.htm">NT Gospels: Mark 12:14 When they had come they asked him (Mar Mk Mr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/mark/12-13.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Mark 12:13"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Mark 12:13" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/mark/12-15.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Mark 12:15"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Mark 12:15" /></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>