Mark 7:4

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

And when they returned from the open shopping markets they refused to eat [anything] until they washed themselves [or “it,” that is, the food, thoroughly]. There were also many other traditions which they [strictly] observed, like washing cups, pots and copper kettles [thoroughly].) [Note: The most accurate Greek manuscripts do not add “and beds” in this verse].

Cross References

Matthew 23:25

'It is too bad for you hypocritical experts in the Law of Moses and [you] Pharisees! For you [carefully] wash the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they [i.e., such evil people] are full of greed and uncontrolled desire.

Matthew 23:26

You blind Pharisees! First wash the inside of the cup and dish, so [then] the outside will be clean also.

Matthew 27:24

So, when Pilate saw that he was not convincing anyone, but that a riot was brewing instead, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd saying, “I am not responsible for this man’s blood. [Note: Some ancient manuscripts say “righteous man’s blood”]. You tend to the matter.”

Mark 7:8

You disregard the commandment of God and [yet] hang onto the traditions of men.”

John 2:6

Now there were six clay water jars there, used by the Jews for ceremonial washings [i.e., for hands, utensils, etc.]. Each one held from 17 to 26 gallons.

John 3:25

[About then] a dispute arose between John’s disciples and a Jew over ceremonial cleansing.

Hebrews 9:10

since, with foods and drinks and various [ceremonial] washings, they are only outward regulations imposed until the time when everything would be made right [i.e., under the New Agreement].

James 4:8

Come close to God and He will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinful people [i.e., this is an exhortation to repent of moral and spiritual corruption], and purify your hearts, you double-minded people.

1 John 1:7

But, if we live in the light [of righteousness] just like God [constantly] lives in the light [of righteousness], we can truly share a relationship with one another and [can know that] the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, continues to cleanse [our spirits] from all of our sins.