7:1–13 Although the NIV presents 7:1–13 as a separate unit, it is important to note that the discussion about Jewish traditional ideas of “clean” and “unclean,” begun in 7:1–13, continues in 7:14–23. Moreover, this topic sets the stage for the episode in 7:24–30, where Jesus deals with a gentile woman’s request for his ministry. The preceding summary passage (6:53–56) is thus a transitional point, and in chapter 7 we should recognize the beginning of a new section in Mark’s narrative.

The Pharisees (last encountered in 3:6) and the teachers of the law (“scribes,” last mentioned in 3:22) reappear here as critics of the behavior of Jesus’ disciples. This reminds us of 2:18–28, where Jesus’ disciples were also criticized for their violation of religious practices of the Pharisees. That the c…