Mark 11:17
And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.
Mark 11:17 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, Jesus is referencing the Old Testament scripture that speaks of God's desire for His house to be a place of prayer for all nations. By quoting this scripture, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of worship and prayer in the temple. He is confronting the religious leaders of his time for turning the house of God into a place filled with corruption and greed, comparing them to thieves who have defiled a sacred space. Jesus is highlighting the need for true reverence and devotion to God, rather than using religion for personal gain. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to approach God with sincerity and purity of heart, and to uphold the sanctity of places of worship. It challenges us to ensure that our actions reflect true worship and honor towards God, rather than being driven by selfish motives. Ultimately, Jesus' words in this verse call for a return to the foundational purpose of the temple as a house of prayer and worship for all people.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is quoting a passage from the Old Testament, specifically from the book of Isaiah (Isaiah 56:7). The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of reverence and respect for the house of God. Jesus is expressing his frustration with the corruption that has infiltrated the temple, turning it into a place for dishonest practices instead of prayer and worship. By referencing the prophecy from Isaiah, Jesus is reminding the people of the true purpose of the temple as a sacred space for communion with God. The word study of the phrase "den of thieves" sheds light on the idea of exploitation and manipulation that was taking place in the temple. Thieves typically steal and take advantage of others, reflecting the dishonest behaviors that were occurring in the temple. Through this powerful statement, Jesus challenges the religious leaders to reflect on their actions and return the temple to its intended state as a house of prayer for all nations.
Mark 11:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he taught, and said unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations? but ye have made it a den of robbers.
World English Bible
He taught, saying to them, “Isn’t it written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations?’ But you have made it a den of robbers!”
Douay-Rheims
And he taught, saying to them: Is it not written: My house shall be called the house of prayer to all nations, but you have made it a den of thieves.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he taught, saying vnto them, Is it not written, Mine house shalbe called the house of prayer vnto all nations? but you haue made it a denne of theeues.