Meaning of Matthew 6:17

This instruction from Jesus, found within his discourse on righteous practices in the Sermon on the Mount, directs his followers away from performative piety and towards genuine devotion. The act of fasting, a practice common among Jews at the time, was often accompanied by outward signs of mourning and self-abasement, such as neglecting personal grooming. Jesus, however, advises his disciples to fast in a manner that does not draw undue attention to themselves or seek human praise. By applying oil to one's head and washing one's face, one would appear outwardly normal, as if not fasting at all. This is not to deny the internal spiritual discipline of fasting, but rather to emphasize that its purpose is between the individual and God, not a spectacle for others.

Context and Background

In the first century, fasting was a significant religious discipline among Jews, often observed on specific days or in times of mourning and repentance. The Pharisees, in particular, were known for their public displays of fasting, often seeking to be recognized for their piety. This was frequently accompanied by a somber demeanor and unkempt appearance, which served as visual cues to others that they were engaged in a religious act. Jesus' teaching here is a direct counterpoint to this outward-focused approach to righteousness, aligning with his broader critique of hypocrisy.

Key Themes and Messages

The central message is one of sincerity and inward devotion. Jesus is teaching that religious acts, including fasting, should be motivated by a genuine desire to please God, not by a need for human validation. The emphasis is on the private nature of true worship, where the focus is on the relationship with the divine, rather than on the performance for an audience. This promotes a humble and unobtrusive spirituality.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The spiritual significance lies in the disconnection of outward appearance from inner spiritual state. True fasting is a discipline of the soul, a self-denial for spiritual growth and communion with God. By advising against outward signs of distress, Jesus encourages believers to maintain a normal outward life while inwardly engaging in spiritual disciplines. This application extends beyond fasting to all acts of righteousness: they should be done with a pure heart, not for recognition.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a pivotal part of Jesus' teaching on true righteousness, which contrasts with the superficial righteousness of some religious leaders of his day. It underscores the biblical emphasis on the heart's condition over outward ritualism. Throughout the Old Testament, prophets like Isaiah (Isaiah 58:6-7) condemned fasting that was not accompanied by justice and compassion, highlighting that God desires a holistic righteousness. Jesus' teaching here refines and intensifies this message, focusing on the internal motivation behind all religious practices.

Analogies

One could liken this instruction to a person who, when giving a gift to a loved one, does so with genuine affection and without expecting public applause. The joy of giving is in the act itself and the love it expresses, not in the fanfare surrounding it. Similarly, fasting is an act of devotion to God, and its reward is in the spiritual benefit and closeness to God, not in the admiration of others. Another analogy could be a musician practicing diligently in private for the love of music and personal improvement, rather than performing solely for applause.

Relation to Other Verses

This teaching is in direct parallel with Jesus' instructions on giving to the needy (Matthew 6:2-4) and praying (Matthew 6:5-6), where he also advises against performing these acts publicly to be seen by others. In both instances, he contrasts the hypocritical practice of seeking human praise with the sincere practice of doing these things in secret, with the understanding that God, who sees in secret, will reward them. This forms a cohesive ethical framework for his disciples within the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the internal disposition of the believer in all matters of faith and practice.