New Testament
Matthew 5:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But I tell you, anyone who is angry with his brother without cause will face judgment. Anyone who calls his brother 'Raca' will answer to the council. And anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
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But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
What Matthew 5:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of anger and contempt towards others. He teaches that being angry without a valid reason can lead to judgment, highlighting the importance of our attitudes and words. Calling someone 'Raca,' a term of insult, puts one at risk of facing the council, while labeling someone a 'fool' can lead to severe consequences, described as the danger of hell fire. This teaching underscores that our relationships and how we treat others are crucial in God's eyes. It reveals that even our thoughts and words can have significant spiritual implications, urging us to cultivate love and respect rather than anger and disdain.
How to apply Matthew 5:22 to your life
To apply this teaching, we should strive to manage our anger and speak kindly to others. Instead of letting frustration lead to insults, we can choose to communicate with love and understanding. This approach fosters healthier relationships and aligns with Jesus' call to love one another.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 5:22 mean?
Matthew 5:22 teaches that being angry without a valid reason can lead to judgment. It emphasizes the importance of our attitudes and words towards others, warning against insults and contempt.
What is the meaning of 'Raca' in Matthew 5:22?
'Raca' is an Aramaic term used as an insult, implying someone is worthless or foolish. In this verse, calling someone 'Raca' puts one at risk of facing judgment from the council.
What are the consequences mentioned in Matthew 5:22?
The verse outlines that being angry without cause can lead to judgment, calling someone 'Raca' can result in facing the council, and labeling someone a 'fool' can lead to the danger of hell fire.
How can I apply Matthew 5:22 in my life?
To apply this teaching, focus on managing your anger and speaking kindly to others. Choose love and understanding in your communication to foster healthier relationships.
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