Matthew 6:7

7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.

Matthew 6:7 in Other Translations

KJV
7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
ESV
7 "And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.
NLT
7 “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again.
MSG
7 "The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God.
CSB
7 When you pray, don't babble like the idolaters, since they imagine they'll be heard for their many words.

Matthew 6:7 In-Context

5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.
8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “ ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,

Cross References 2

  • 1. Ecclesiastes 5:2
  • 2. 1 Kings 18:26-29
Scripture quoted by permission.  Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.  NIV®.  Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica.  All rights reserved worldwide.