In the Bible, “Corban” refers to a gift or offering dedicated to God. It is mentioned in Mark 7:11-12, where some religious leaders used it as a means to evade their obligations to care for their parents by declaring their resources as devoted to God.
Scripture
9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition!
10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’
11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)—
12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother,
13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”
Meaning of Corban in the Bible
The concept of “Corban,” as indicated in Mark 7:11-12, highlights a significant tension between human traditions and divine commandments. In this context, the religious leaders capitalized on the idea of dedicating their resources to God as a way to absolve themselves of the moral and familial duty to honor their parents, which was a commandment (Exodus 20:12). The term “Corban” thus serves as a critique of inauthentic religiosity—where the appearance of piety is leveraged to sidestep ethical responsibilities. This illustrates how sacred practices, when misconstrued, can lead to a neglect of fundamental moral obligations, emphasizing that the true essence of worship should be accompanied by genuine love and care for others.
Moreover, the broader theological implications of Corban speak to God’s desire for a heart aligned with His will, prioritizing compassion and obedience over hollow religious observance. In Matthew 15:8-9, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees by quoting Isaiah, stating, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” This further underscores the notion that God values actions rooted in love and moral integrity over mere ritualistic offerings. Thus, the idea of Corban challenges believers to examine their own motivations and ensure that their faith is reflected not just in acts of worship, but in their treatment of others, particularly the most vulnerable among them.
Expanding on the theme of Corban, we see that it serves as a representation of the broader conflict between ritual and reality in religious practice. The misuse of Corban illustrates that individuals can manipulate religious concepts for their own benefit, often justifying actions that contradict foundational ethical teachings. In this regard, the principle of Corban invites a reflection on how religious sentiments can be weaponized to avoid personal responsibility. The sacredness attributed to offerings in a religious context can create an illusion of righteousness, allowing people to overlook the significance of their interpersonal obligations, especially towards those who depend on their care.
Additionally, the discourse surrounding Corban can be linked to the New Testament’s broader message regarding the spirit of the Law versus the letter of the Law. The emphasis on internal disposition over externals calls believers to consider not only their actions but the motivations that prompt these actions. Throughout various passages, there is a consistent reminder that God seeks a genuine relationship with His people—one characterized by mercy, justice, and humility (as seen in the prophetic writings). As Jesus’ ministry progresses, he repeatedly calls for a deeper understanding of the Law that emphasizes love and service, suggesting that Corban, while appearing religiously significant, ultimately falls short when it neglects the call to empathy and moral duty to one’s neighbors. This reinforces the teaching that authentic faith is demonstrated through active engagement with and support for others, particularly those who are in need.
The Concept of Dedication to God
Corban, derived from the Hebrew word “qorban,” signifies something that is dedicated or set apart for God. In biblical times, items or offerings labeled as corban were considered sacred and were often used in religious rituals or sacrifices. This concept emphasizes the importance of dedicating one’s resources, time, and efforts to God, reflecting a commitment to spiritual priorities over material concerns.
The Tension Between Tradition and True Worship
The use of corban also highlights the tension between human traditions and the essence of true worship. While the practice of declaring something as corban was intended to honor God, it could be misused to circumvent moral obligations, such as caring for one’s family. This misuse serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for religious practices to become mere rituals that distract from genuine faith and ethical behavior.
The Call for Authenticity in Faith
Corban invites believers to examine the authenticity of their faith and practices. It challenges individuals to consider whether their offerings and commitments genuinely reflect their devotion to God or if they are merely superficial gestures. This broader meaning encourages a deeper introspection about the motivations behind one’s actions and the importance of aligning them with the core values of love, compassion, and integrity in one’s relationship with God and others.
How to Live a Life of Dedication and Service
Living a life of dedication and service is truly at the heart of what it means to follow Christ. It begins with a genuine relationship with God, where prayer and scripture become your guiding lights. As you immerse yourself in His word, you’ll find that serving others is not just an obligation but a joyful expression of your faith. Look for opportunities in your daily life—whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, helping a neighbor in need, or simply offering a listening ear to a friend. Remember, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, showing us that true greatness comes from humility and love. Embrace the small acts of kindness, for they often have the most profound impact. As you dedicate your time and talents to others, you’ll discover a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment, reflecting the love of Christ in everything you do.
Bible References to the Meaning of Corban:
Matthew 15:3-6: 3 He answered them, “And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?
4 For God commanded, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’
5 But you say, ‘Whoever tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is a gift for God”—
6 he need not honor his father. So for the sake of your tradition you have made void the word of God.
Leviticus 27:1-8: 1 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying,
2 “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, If anyone makes a special vow to the Lord involving the valuation of persons,”
3 then the valuation shall be made by the priest, according to the ability of the one who vowed to make it.
4 But if the vow is an oath to the Lord, then all of its valuation shall be according to the shekel of the sanctuary.
5 If the person is from five years old up to twenty years old, the valuation shall be for a male twenty shekels, and for a female ten shekels.
6 And if the person is from a month old up to five years old, the valuation shall be for a male five shekels of silver, and for a female the valuation shall be three shekels of silver.
7 If the person is sixty years old or older, then your valuation for a male shall be fifteen shekels, and for a female ten shekels.
8 But if he is too poor to pay the valuation, then he shall be made to stand before the priest, and the priest shall value him; the priest shall value him according to what the vower can afford.
Numbers 30:1-2: 1 Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes of the people of Israel, saying, “This is what the Lord has commanded.
2 If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.