Matthew 21:13

Arabic Bible (GNA) Good News Arabic - 1993 (الترجمة العربية المشتركة)

وقال لهُم: «جاءَ في الكِتابِ: بَيتي بَيتُ الصّلاةِ، وأنتُم جَعَلْتُموهُ مغارَةَ لُصوصٍ!»

What Does This Mean?

Jesus is talking to people in the temple who were cheating others. He says his house should be a place for prayer, not stealing and cheating.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a special clubhouse where everyone comes to share toys and play nicely. But some kids start selling candy and not sharing fairly anymore. Jesus was upset because that's what happened in God’s special house, the temple.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this Gospel around AD 80-90 for Jewish Christians. It reflects a time when the temple practices were corrupted by greed and exploitation of the poor, contrary to its intended purpose as a place of prayer and worship.

Living It Out Today

Today, we might see businesses or religious organizations that prioritize profit over people's well-being. This verse reminds us to always keep our intentions pure in all spaces, ensuring they are places for positive interaction rather than exploitation.

Topics

• prayer
• integrity
• corruption
• worship
• justice
• temple

Related Verses

• Isaiah 56:7
• Mark 11:17
• John 2:16
• Psalm 84:2
• Ezekiel 44:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the temple important?

The temple was central to Jewish worship and community life, serving as a place for sacrifice and prayer. Its corruption would have been deeply troubling.

What does it mean when Jesus says 'den of thieves'?

This phrase indicates that the temple practices were exploitative and corrupt, contrary to their holy purpose, making them akin to a place where thieves operate.

How can we ensure our places of worship stay true to their purpose?

By focusing on genuine prayer, teaching God's word accurately, and maintaining integrity in all practices within the community.

What does this verse teach us about justice?

It emphasizes that where there is injustice or corruption, we must stand up for what is right and ensure that places intended for good are not misused.