New Testament
Mark 12:42
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Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small copper coins, which make a farthing.
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And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.
What Mark 12:42 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a poor widow who gives a very small amount of money—just two copper coins, known as mites. Despite their low value, her offering is significant because it represents all she has. This act highlights the principle that the value of a gift is not determined by its monetary worth but by the heart and sacrifice behind it. Jesus observes her giving and contrasts it with the larger donations of the wealthy, emphasizing that they gave out of their abundance, while she gave out of her poverty. This story teaches us about true generosity and the importance of giving selflessly, regardless of our financial situation. It challenges societal views on wealth and encourages us to consider the intentions behind our actions. The widow's faith and commitment to God are commendable, showing that even the smallest contributions can have great significance in the eyes of God.
How to apply Mark 12:42 to your life
This verse encourages us to give generously, regardless of our financial situation. It reminds us that God values the heart behind our giving more than the amount. We should strive to be selfless in our contributions, whether they are financial or in service to others.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Widow's Offering (Mark 12:41–44)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 12:42 mean?
Mark 12:42 describes a poor widow who donates two small coins, highlighting that her offering, though minimal in monetary value, is significant because it represents her entire livelihood. This illustrates the idea that true generosity comes from the heart and the sacrifice behind the gift.
What is the significance of the widow's offering in Mark 12:42?
The widow's offering is significant because it shows that the value of a gift is not based on its amount but on the intention and sacrifice behind it. Her contribution, though small, is seen as greater than the larger donations of the wealthy who gave out of their surplus.
What does 'mites' mean in Mark 12:42?
In Mark 12:42, 'mites' refers to very small copper coins that were of little monetary value. Despite their low worth, the widow's two mites symbolize her complete trust and devotion to God.
What lesson can we learn from Mark 12:42?
Mark 12:42 teaches us that generosity is measured by the heart and sacrifice rather than the amount given. It encourages us to give selflessly and highlights that even small contributions can be significant when given with the right intentions.
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