New Testament
Mark 14:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Not during the festival," they said, "or the people might riot."
Compare translations
But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people.
What Mark 14:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the religious leaders are discussing their plans to arrest Jesus. They express concern about doing it during the festival, which is a significant time for the Jewish people. They fear that if they act against Jesus while the crowds are gathered for the Passover celebration, it could lead to a riot or an uproar among the people. This highlights their awareness of public sentiment and the potential backlash they could face. The leaders are trying to maintain control and avoid any disturbances that could arise from the people's loyalty to Jesus. Their decision reflects a strategic approach to handling a delicate situation, prioritizing their authority and the stability of the festival over their desire to eliminate Jesus. This moment sets the stage for the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, showing the tension between the religious authorities and the growing support for Jesus among the people.
How to apply Mark 14:2 to your life
This verse reminds us to consider the impact of our actions on others, especially in sensitive situations. It encourages us to be aware of the context and timing when making decisions, particularly when they could affect a larger community. We should strive for wisdom and discernment in our choices.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Mark 14:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Mark 14:2
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 14:2 mean?
Mark 14:2 describes the religious leaders' concern about arresting Jesus during the Passover festival. They fear that doing so could provoke a riot among the people who are gathered to celebrate.
What is the significance of the festival in Mark 14:2?
The festival mentioned in Mark 14:2 is Passover, a major Jewish celebration. It highlights the tension between the religious authorities and the public's loyalty to Jesus during a time of communal gathering.
Why did the leaders want to avoid an uproar in Mark 14:2?
The leaders wanted to avoid an uproar because they were concerned about maintaining control and stability during the festival. They recognized that acting against Jesus could lead to public unrest.
How does Mark 14:2 reflect on the relationship between Jesus and the authorities?
Mark 14:2 illustrates the growing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities. It reveals their fear of losing control and the increasing support Jesus has among the people.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.