# Mark Chapter 7
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## Summary
Jesus challenges the traditions of the Pharisees claiming they cling to traditions rather than the commandments of God. Jesus then offers a parable with the message it is what comes out of a person rather than what comes into a person that defiles them. Jesus travels to Tyre and Sidon 

## Imagery and Themes

A key theme from this passage is the notion of *clean* and *unclean*. Jesus disciples are criticised for unclean hands used to eat [7:5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+7%3A5&version=ESV); Jesus preaches about what defiles (makes unclean) a person [7:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+7%3A15&version=ESV); Jesus heals a child of an gentile with an unclean spirit [7:29-30](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+7%3A29-30&version=ESV).

Jesus here addresses notions of what has been traditionally considered unclean and or marginal. There is a clear indication that the old wineskin has failed to recognise what is important and in so doing exchanged the commandments of God for the traditions of men. A clear warning for each successive generation that those who purport to stand in defense of truth run the risk of instead of rejecting it in favour of their own interpretation.

There is a clear challenge here with the gentile woman being graciously granted her request of Jesus despite not being of the right social group. The notion of exclusive attention from YHWH is old wineskin and a foreshadowing of the one new man in Christ with the abolition of division between groups.

Again we see Jesus charge someone he has healed to remain silent yet this only causes them to proclaim his deeds more zealously. Perhaps then an intentional ploy? Perhaps not. It's unclear why at this point, but nevertheless is significant action enough to warrant inclusion within the narrative.