Mark 2:21
No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse.
Mark 2:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This particular verse, found in the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament, uses the metaphor of sewing to convey a deeper spiritual truth. The act of sewing a new piece of cloth onto an old garment was a common practice in ancient times to repair clothing. However, in this analogy, Jesus is highlighting the importance of understanding the compatibility of new teachings with old beliefs. Just as sewing a new piece of cloth onto an old garment can lead to tearing and damage, attempting to force new beliefs or practices onto existing traditions or beliefs can result in conflict and division. This verse serves as a caution against hasty or careless attempts to mix incompatible ideologies, reminding us to approach spiritual growth and change with wisdom and discernment.
Theological Overview
The verse "No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment..." found in the Bible teaches a valuable lesson about the importance of understanding context and the repercussions of mixing incompatible elements. This metaphorical saying attributed to Jesus highlights the idea that new and old beliefs or practices should not be combined haphazardly. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that trying to blend new ways of thinking or living with old habits or traditions can result in conflict and disruption. The imagery of sewing a new piece of cloth onto an old garment illustrates the potential damage that can occur when incompatible elements are forced together. This verse encourages individuals to consider the consequences of trying to merge conflicting ideologies or practices, emphasizing the need for discernment and wisdom when navigating change and growth in one's spiritual journey.
Mark 2:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
No man seweth a piece of undressed cloth on an old garment: else that which should fill it up taketh from it, the new from the old, and a worse rent is made.
World English Bible
No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made.
Douay-Rheims
No man seweth a piece of raw cloth to an old garment: otherwise the new piecing taketh away from the old, and there is made a greater rent.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Also no man soweth a piece of newe cloth in an olde garment: for els the newe piece that filled it vp, taketh away somewhat from the olde, and the breach is worse.