What does "Raca" mean in Matthew 5:22?

Meaning and Etymology

The term “Raca” appears in Matthew 5:22, where it is preserved in most Greek manuscripts as an Aramaic transliteration (ῥακά). In the Berean Standard Bible, the verse states:

“But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell.” (Matthew 5:22)

In Aramaic, “Raca” (related to raq or reqa) conveys the sense of “empty,” “worthless,” or “fool.” It was used as an insult implying that a person was devoid of sense or value. The word was both a cry of contempt and a verbal slight against one’s intellect or moral standing.

Cultural and Linguistic Background

In the first-century Jewish context, Aramaic was a common spoken language in daily life, while Hebrew remained a liturgical and scriptural language. Greek was also prevalent throughout the Roman Empire. Given these multilingual surroundings, many people in Galilee and Judea would easily recognize terms like “Raca.” The presence of this Aramaic term in a Greek Gospel underscores a cultural reality: Aramaic phrases were often retained for emphasis or to preserve their pungency as direct personal expressions.

Rabbinic sources and various historical documents (including some passages in the Talmud) show that insults referring to someone as “empty” or lacking wisdom were not unusual. However, using such insults in a public or malicious way risked significant social and religious ramifications, as it signaled hatred rather than mere admonishment.

Biblical Manuscript Evidence

The reading “Raca” in Matthew 5:22 is widely attested across ancient manuscripts, such as Codex Vaticanus and Codex Sinaiticus. The consistency of this word in the textual tradition reflects the strong integrity of Matthew’s Gospel in transmission. Early Christian writings also reference this passage, showing that “Raca” was recognized as an important and authentic term. The precise choice to preserve the Aramaic word rather than render it into Greek highlights its rhetorical impact.

In addition to these major manuscripts, the textual stability of the phrase is corroborated in the writings of early Christian scholars, including church fathers who recognized “Raca” as a unique expression of contempt. This strong manuscript and patristic support testifies to the reliability of Matthew’s message and the careful preservation of Jesus’ words throughout church history.

Context within the Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 5:22 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus elevates the discussion of righteousness beyond external actions and into the realm of heart attitudes. In the immediate context, He contrasts the mere prohibition against murder with a deeper principle: anger and derogatory words can carry moral guilt. By including the term “Raca,” Jesus warns against contemptuous scorn that demeans another person’s worth.

This verse also contrasts “Raca” with calling someone “fool.” Although both are strong expressions, each highlights the seriousness of using belittling language. Jesus’ teaching underscores that hateful or abusive speech can be as damaging as physical harm, thus emphasizing personal responsibility in relationships and communication.

Historical Usage and Parallel Terms

Though “Raca” as an Aramaic term does not commonly appear outside the New Testament, parallel concepts appear in other ancient Aramaic literature where “empty-headed” or “empty one” is used. Some Jewish texts reflect a similar idea when chastising others for foolish or reckless behavior. In the Greco-Roman world, publicly insulting someone could bring severe legal or social consequences; Jesus’ instruction is notable for placing spiritual and eternal weight on verbal offenses, rather than merely social or legal ramifications.

Moral and Theological Significance

1. The Value of Human Life: By condemning insults like “Raca,” the passage highlights the principle that every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Even a seemingly casual word of contempt stands in opposition to the scriptural call to love one’s neighbor (Leviticus 19:18, reaffirmed by Jesus in Matthew 22:39).

2. Guarding the Heart: Jesus’ sermon consistently addresses internal motives. Belittling remarks are not harmless but reveal the state of the speaker’s heart. They can foster division, bitterness, and hatred—traits incongruent with the humility and love that characterize genuine faith.

3. Accountability Before God: The text warns that those who speak such words will be “subject to the Sanhedrin,” and ultimately liable to divine judgment “subject to the fire of hell.” The language signals that God cares about issues of the heart as much as outward actions. Jesus’ call is to pursue reconciliation and kindness rather than hostility (Matthew 5:23–24).

Application for Believers and Non-Believers

1. Respect in Speech: The teaching encourages careful, respectful communication. Words have power to build up or tear down. Disciplining our speech is part of moral responsibility.

2. Reconciliation: Immediately after warning about “Raca,” Jesus exhorts listeners to seek reconciliation with others. This highlights the priority of restoring broken relationships—demonstrating forgiveness, grace, and mutual respect.

3. Heart Transformation: The real transformation Jesus envisions goes beyond just avoiding insulting terms. Rather, it requires a changed heart that produces good fruit (Matthew 7:17–20). This transformation is central to living out the higher righteousness Jesus describes throughout the Sermon on the Mount.

Modern-Day Relevance

In our time, insults may take new forms—be they in person or via social media—but the destructive power remains. The principle behind “Raca” extends to any language that demeans another’s intrinsic worth. The teaching in Matthew 5:22 counters a culture that often normalizes derogatory speech, challenging individuals to honor others and seek peace.

Conclusion

“Raca” in Matthew 5:22 is a derogatory Aramaic term meaning “empty,” “worthless,” or “fool.” In preserving this word, the Gospel underscores the severity of contemptuous language and points to a higher standard of relational conduct. The passage insists that attitudes of the heart—expressed through words—carry profound spiritual implications.

Rooted in a robust manuscript tradition, this teaching calls each person to reflect on speech, strive for reconciliation, and uphold the sacred worth of every individual. The warning against uttering “Raca!” reminds us that ultimately, God judges not only physical actions but also the words that flow from the heart.