What was Corban in the Bible?
Temple Treasury In Jerusalem
Corban is a term found in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew 27:6 and Mark 7:11. From a biblical point of view, let’s delve into the meaning and significance of Corban and its connection to the Temple Treasury in Jerusalem.
In Mark 7:11, Jesus addresses the issue of Corban when he confronts the Pharisees about their practice of declaring their property as Corban, which means devoted to God, in order to avoid helping their parents financially. This term, derived from the Greek word korban, signifies a gift dedicated to God or something set apart for sacred use. The Pharisees were using this practice as a loophole to neglect their responsibility to care for their aging parents, which goes against the command to honor father and mother (Exodus 20:12).
In the context of Matthew 27:6, the chief priests took the thirty pieces of silver that Judas Iscariot returned after betraying Jesus and used it to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners. This incident highlights the corruption and misuse of funds in the Temple Treasury, which was meant for the upkeep of the temple and for charitable purposes.
The Temple Treasury in Jerusalem was a designated place where offerings and donations were collected for the maintenance of the temple and to support the priests and the poor (Mark 12:41-44). It was supposed to be a sacred fund used for the service of God and the welfare of the community.
From a biblical perspective, the misuse of Corban and the Temple Treasury by the religious leaders of Jesus’ time serve as a warning against hypocrisy, greed, and neglecting the weightier matters of the law such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23).
In conclusion, the concept of Corban and the Temple Treasury in the Bible emphasize the importance of genuine devotion to God, integrity in financial matters, and caring for the needs of others. It serves as a reminder to prioritize righteousness and compassion over religious rituals and material wealth.