Why Was Matthew 17:21 Removed From The Bible?
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The Bible, a cornerstone of the Christian faith, holds immense importance. Yet, occasional discrepancies between translations can raise questions. One such instance is the absence of Matthew 17:21 in some modern Bible versions. This verse, mentioning prayer and fasting, is present in older translations like the King James Version (KJV) but omitted in newer ones like the New International Version (NIV). Let's explore the reasons behind this and its significance within the Christian faith.
The Missing Verse: Matthew 17:21
The verse in question reads: "Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting" (KJV). It appears in Matthew's account of Jesus healing a demon-possessed boy, following the disciples' unsuccessful attempt (Matthew 17:14-21). Here, Jesus explains their struggle, attributing it to a lack of sufficient faith, requiring prayer and fasting.
Why is it Missing in Some Translations?
The exclusion of Matthew 17:21 in modern translations stems from the meticulous process of Bible translation. Scholars rely on numerous ancient manuscripts, some dating back centuries. Variations exist between these manuscripts, raising questions about the original text.
Early Manuscript Evidence: The most critical factor is the absence of Matthew 17:21 in the earliest and most reliable Greek manuscripts, including Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Vaticanus. These manuscripts predate the KJV by centuries.
Possible Scribal Error: Some scholars believe the verse may have been accidentally copied from Mark's Gospel (Mark 9:29), which includes a similar passage mentioning fasting. This theory suggests that Matthew's inclusion might be an unintentional addition by a scribe during the copying process.
What Does This Mean for Christians?
The absence of Matthew 17:21 doesn't diminish the importance of prayer and fasting in Christian practice. These disciplines are encouraged throughout the Bible for spiritual growth and overcoming challenges (Matthew 6:16-18, Mark 9:29).
Understanding Bible Translation
The inclusion or exclusion of Matthew 17:21 highlights the meticulous process of Bible translation. Understanding these variations can deepen your appreciation for the Bible and the ongoing work of scholars in preserving its message.
Conclusion
The Bible, a rich tapestry of God's word, offers guidance and inspiration for Christians. While occasional variations exist in translations, the core message of faith, prayer, and overcoming challenges remains constant. Exploring these variations can enrich your understanding of the Bible and strengthen your faith journey.
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The Importance of Context
While Matthew 17:21 is absent in some translations, its core message remains in the Christian faith. The importance of prayer and faith for overcoming challenges is emphasized throughout the Bible. Here's how different translations approach this concept:
Translations Omitting the Verse: These translations, focusing on the earliest manuscripts, convey the importance of faith through Jesus' explanation in Matthew 17:20: "Because of your little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (NIV)
Translations Including the Verse: Some translations, like the NASB, include the verse but place it in brackets, acknowledging its presence in some manuscripts but prioritizing the weight of earlier ones.
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