Why is Matthew 17:21 Missing from the Bible? A Detailed Explanation
Many Bible readers, especially those who delve into different translations or engage in detailed study, have likely encountered a peculiar situation: the verse Matthew 17:21 appears to be missing in some versions of the Bible. This can be a source of confusion and even concern for those who rely on the Bible as a definitive text. So, what's the story behind this apparent omission?
The "Missing" Verse: What's Actually Happening?
The core of the issue lies not with a physical removal of a verse, but rather with the way different ancient manuscripts of the Bible were translated and compiled over centuries. When we talk about Matthew 17:21 being "missing," we're referring to its absence in the most common English translations that rely on a particular set of Greek manuscripts, known as the Alexandrian text-type.
In the Greek New Testament, Matthew 17:20 reads:
"And Jesus said to them, 'Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, "Move from here to there," and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.'"
Then, many manuscripts continue with a verse that seems to be a further explanation of this powerful statement about faith:
"But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting." (Matthew 17:21, King James Version)
However, when you look at the vast majority of early and most reliable Greek manuscripts, this verse, Matthew 17:21, is simply not present. It appears to have been added later in some manuscript traditions, likely as a gloss or an explanatory note that eventually found its way into the main text.
The Role of Textual Criticism
The process of determining the most accurate and original wording of biblical texts is called textual criticism. Scholars compare thousands of ancient manuscripts, looking for consensus and evaluating the reliability of different readings. For the New Testament, particularly the Gospels, there are a multitude of Greek manuscripts dating back to the earliest centuries. These manuscripts, while remarkably consistent in many areas, do have variations.
The most influential text-type for modern translations of the New Testament is the Alexandrian text-type. This type is characterized by its early dating and its widespread use across the ancient Christian world, particularly in Egypt. Translations like the NIV, ESV, NASB, and even the modern KJV (which has a complex textual history) largely rely on manuscripts that reflect this text-type.
In these Alexandrian manuscripts, Matthew 17:20 is followed directly by verse 22:
"Now when he went into Galilee, the Pharisees and Sadducees came to him to test him. They asked him to send down fire from heaven to destroy them." (Matthew 17:22, ESV)
The verse about "prayer and fasting" is absent.
Why Does This Verse Appear in Some Bibles (Like the KJV)?
The King James Version (KJV) of 1611 was a landmark translation. However, the translators of the KJV did not have access to the wealth of early Greek manuscripts that modern scholars do. They primarily relied on a later collection of Greek manuscripts known as the Textus Receptus, or "Received Text."
The Textus Receptus, while containing much of the authentic biblical text, was itself compiled from manuscripts that were generally later in date and, in some instances, had already incorporated scribal additions or harmonizations. It's believed that Matthew 17:21 was present in some of the Greek manuscripts that the KJV translators consulted. This verse was likely added to harmonize Matthew's Gospel with similar passages in Mark's Gospel (Mark 9:29), which does include the element of prayer being necessary for casting out certain demons.
So, while the KJV includes Matthew 17:21, most modern, critical translations omit it because the scholarly consensus, based on the oldest and most numerous manuscripts, indicates it was not part of the original text written by Matthew.
What About the Meaning of the Verse?
Even though Matthew 17:21 is considered an addition by most scholars, the concept it conveys – that prayer and fasting can be instrumental in overcoming spiritual obstacles – is a theme found elsewhere in the Bible. The early church certainly valued prayer and fasting as vital spiritual disciplines.
The power of prayer is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. Jesus himself emphasized the importance of persistent prayer (Luke 18:1-8) and taught his disciples how to pray (Matthew 6:9-13). Fasting, often coupled with prayer, is depicted as a means of spiritual discipline, seeking God's guidance, and demonstrating dependence on Him (Joel 2:12; Acts 13:2-3).
Therefore, while the verse itself might be an interpolation, the theological sentiment it expresses aligns with broader biblical teachings on the efficacy of prayer and the discipline of fasting in a believer's walk with God.
In Summary
The "missing" Matthew 17:21 is a fascinating example of how biblical texts have been preserved and transmitted through history. It highlights the importance of:
- Understanding that the Bible we have today is the result of careful scholarly work, including textual criticism.
- Recognizing that different translations may have slight variations based on the textual evidence they prioritize.
- Appreciating the consistency of the core message of the Bible across its vast textual history, even with minor differences in wording.
For the average reader, this doesn't diminish the truth or power of God's Word. It simply points to the fascinating journey of the Bible from its ancient origins to our hands today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Matthew 17:21 get into some Bibles?
Matthew 17:21 was likely added to some later Greek manuscripts as a harmonization with Mark 9:29, where Jesus mentions prayer and fasting in relation to casting out a demon. The translators of the King James Version, relying on these later manuscripts (the Textus Receptus), included it in their translation.
Why do modern Bibles omit Matthew 17:21?
Modern critical translations omit Matthew 17:21 because the vast majority of the earliest and most reliable ancient Greek manuscripts do not contain this verse. Textual scholars, who study these ancient documents, have concluded that it was not part of the original Gospel of Matthew.
Does the absence of Matthew 17:21 mean the Bible has changed?
No, the absence of Matthew 17:21 in most modern Bibles does not mean the Bible has fundamentally changed. It signifies a scholarly consensus on the most accurate original wording based on extensive manuscript evidence. The core message and teachings of the Bible remain consistent.
Are there other verses that are sometimes missing in different Bible translations?
Yes, there are a few other passages and verses that appear in some translations (like the KJV) but are omitted or footnoted in others due to similar textual considerations. These are usually minor variations, and the essential doctrines of Christianity are not affected.
