Matthew 15:1

1 Then the scribes and the Pharisees came to him from Jerusalem, and said, [Then scribes and Pharisees came nigh to him from Jerusalem, saying,]

Matthew 15:1 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 15:1

Then came to Jesus Scribes and Pharisees
After he had wrought so many miracles, particularly that of feeding five thousand men; besides women and children, with five loaves and two fishes: the fame of which had reached Jerusalem, and occasioned much talk there about him: the Scribes and Pharisees, who were his inveterate enemies, hearing thereof, came to him, where he was, in Galilee: to know the truth of these things, to converse with him, and to watch, and observe, what he said and did;

which were of Jerusalem, saying.
There were Scribes and Pharisees throughout the land, but those of Jerusalem were the chief; they were men of the greatest learning and abilities, and were more expert in their religion and customs: these were either sent by the sanhedrim at Jerusalem, or came of themselves; taking upon them a greater power, and authority of examining, correcting, directing, and advising.

Matthew 15:1 In-Context

1 Then the scribes and the Pharisees came to him from Jerusalem, and said, [Then scribes and Pharisees came nigh to him from Jerusalem, saying,]

2 Why break thy disciples the traditions of elder men [Why thy disciples break the traditions, either the teachings, of elder men]? for they wash not their hands, when they eat bread.

3 He answered, and said to them, Why [also] break ye the commandment of God for your tradition?

4 For God said, Honour thy father and thy mother [Honour thy father and mother], and he that curseth father or mother, die he by death.

5 But ye say, Whoever saith to father or mother [But ye say, Whoever shall say to the father or mother], Whatever gift is of me, it shall profit to thee;