Matthew 9:14

The Superiority of the New

9:14 Then John’s 1  disciples came to Jesus 2  and asked, “Why do we and the Pharisees 3  fast often, 4  but your disciples don’t fast?”

Matthew 6:17

6:17 When 5  you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face,

1 sn John refers to John the Baptist.

2 tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been supplied in the translation for clarity.

3 sn See the note on Pharisees in 3:7.

4 sn John’s disciples and the Pharisees followed typical practices with regard to fasting and prayer. Many Jews fasted regularly (Lev 16:29-34; 23:26-32; Num 29:7-11). The zealous fasted twice a week on Monday and Thursday.

5 tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.