Matthew 7:5 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Self-examination must come first; once we deal honestly with our own sin, we can truly help others with theirs.
What Does Matthew 7:5 Mean?
Jesus names the problem plainly: hypocrisy, the pretense of one whose outward role does not match his inward condition. Yet the verse does not end in condemnation. It opens a path forward.
Notice that Jesus does not forbid helping a brother with the speck; He commands us to become fit for it. When we have let God remove the beam through repentance, our sight is cleared, and we can serve others gently rather than proudly. True correction flows from a heart first corrected, and it seeks restoration, not victory.
Matthew 7:5 in the Original Language
hupokrites (ὑποκριτής), 'hypocrite' -- originally an actor wearing a mask, one who plays a part not his own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 7:5
What does Matthew 7:5 mean?
Self-examination must come first; once we deal honestly with our own sin, we can truly help others with theirs.