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Mark 12:7

But those husbandmen said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours.

Mark 12:7 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the New Testament, the parable of the tenants is being told by Jesus. The husbandmen, who are supposed to take care of a vineyard, represent the religious leaders of the time. The heir mentioned in the verse refers to Jesus himself, who came to bring salvation and establish God's kingdom on earth. The husbandmen, in their greed and jealousy, conspire to kill the heir so that they can take his inheritance for themselves. This act symbolizes the rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders and their refusal to accept his authority and teachings. The verse serves as a warning against greed, pride, and the rejection of God's messengers. It showcases the consequences of refusing to acknowledge and submit to God's rightful authority.

Theological Overview

In this passage from the Gospel of Luke, the theological interpretation centers around the concept of greed and the rejection of God's authority. The parable of the tenant farmers reflects the rejection of Jesus as the son and heir of God, symbolizing the rejection of God's ultimate authority. The tenant farmers' decision to kill the heir in order to claim the inheritance for themselves serves as a metaphor for humanity's tendency to reject God's plan and prioritize earthly desires over spiritual values. The word "heir" in this context carries profound theological significance, representing Jesus as the rightful inheritance of God's kingdom and highlighting the rejection and violence faced by God's messengers throughout history. By exploring the deeper implications of this verse, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of recognizing and accepting God's authority in their lives, rather than succumbing to the temptations of greed and selfishness.

Mark 12:7 in other translations

American Standard Version

But those husbandmen said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours.

World English Bible

But those farmers said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’

Douay-Rheims

But the husbandmen said one to another: This is the heir. Come let us kill him and the inheritance shall be ours.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But ye husbandmen said among themselues, This is the heire: come, let vs kill him, and the inheritance shalbe ours.