Mark 12:43: Meaning Explained
And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, ‹Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast...
Jesus calls his followers over and says the widow gave more than anyone else, even though she gave the least money.
What’s Happening Here
Jesus points out that the widow's tiny gift is actually worth more than all the big gifts from rich people. This surprises his disciples.
Key Words
Why It Matters
Jesus measures giving not by amount but by sacrifice. The widow gave everything; others gave just some of what they had.
Did You Know?
This is called the 'Widow's Mite' story. It teaches that what matters is not how much you give, but how much it costs you.
Tradition Spectrum
Word Study
Cross References
Frequently asked questions
What does Mark 12:43 mean?
Jesus calls his followers over and says the widow gave more than anyone else, even though she gave the least money.
What is the context of Mark 12:43?
Jesus points out that the widow's tiny gift is actually worth more than all the big gifts from rich people. This surprises his disciples.
Why does Mark 12:43 matter?
Jesus measures giving not by amount but by sacrifice. The widow gave everything; others gave just some of what they had.
What's a surprising detail about Mark 12:43?
This is called the 'Widow's Mite' story. It teaches that what matters is not how much you give, but how much it costs you.
References
- Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
- Abbott-Smith, G. (1921) A Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament. Edinburgh: T&T Clark. [Public Domain]
- Brown, F., Driver, S.R. and Briggs, C.A. (1906) A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament. Oxford: Clarendon Press. [Public Domain]
- Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]