New Testament
Mark 7:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that external factors, such as food or rituals, do not determine a person's spiritual purity.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Nothing that enters a person from the outside can make them unclean. It's what comes out of a person that makes them unclean."
There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that external factors, such as food or rituals, do not determine a person's spiritual purity. Instead, it is the internal thoughts, intentions, and actions that reveal one's true character. The focus is on the heart and mind, suggesting that moral and spiritual cleanliness comes from within. This teaching challenges the traditional Jewish laws about dietary restrictions and emphasizes a deeper understanding of what it means to be defiled. Jesus is pointing out that it is not the physical act of eating that makes someone unclean, but rather the negative thoughts and behaviors that can arise from within a person. This shifts the focus from external observance of laws to internal moral integrity, highlighting the importance of one's inner life in relation to God. Explore related righteousness.
How to apply Mark 7:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our inner thoughts and motivations rather than just our outward actions. We should strive to cultivate a pure heart and mind, focusing on kindness, honesty, and love. By doing so, we can ensure that our actions reflect our true character and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 7:15 mean?
Mark 7:15 means that external things, like food or rituals, do not make a person spiritually unclean. Instead, it is the negative thoughts and actions that come from within a person that truly defile them.
What is the meaning of 'unclean' in Mark 7:15?
In Mark 7:15, 'unclean' refers to spiritual impurity that arises from a person's thoughts and behaviors, rather than from external sources like food or customs.
How does Mark 7:15 relate to dietary laws?
Mark 7:15 challenges traditional dietary laws by stating that what enters the body does not defile a person. Instead, it emphasizes that moral integrity and purity come from within.
What can we learn from Mark 7:15?
From Mark 7:15, we learn to focus on our inner thoughts and motivations. It encourages us to cultivate a pure heart and mind, ensuring our actions reflect our true character.
The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
Unlock the full Mark summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Mark — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 16 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Mark summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.