Matthew 23:4 Meaning and Explanation
“For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus accuses the leaders of piling crushing demands on others while refusing to lift a finger to help carry them.
What Does Matthew 23:4 Mean?
The picture is of loading a pack animal or a laborer with weight too heavy to bear. The leaders multiplied rules and obligations, laying them on ordinary people, yet offered no compassion or assistance to those struggling under the load.
True spiritual leadership lightens burdens rather than adding to them. Jesus, by contrast, would soon say, 'Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' Where religion becomes a weight that wears people down, something has gone wrong. Those who guide others in God's ways are called to serve, to share the load, and to lead with mercy.
Matthew 23:4 in the Original Language
phortion (φορτίον), 'burden' -- a load to be carried, here the weight of accumulated demands placed on others.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 23:4
What does Matthew 23:4 mean?
Jesus accuses the leaders of piling crushing demands on others while refusing to lift a finger to help carry them.