Leaven of Herod

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Sixth Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel :  Mark 8:14-21*

*First Reading :James 1:12-18*

*Responsorial Psalm : 94:12-19*

*Leaven of Herod*

*1) The Biblical Meaning of “Leaven”*

In Jewish thought, leaven (yeast) often symbolized something that spreads quietly but powerfully. It can represent either good influence (as in the Kingdom of God, Matthew 13:33) or more often corrupting influence (Exodus 12; 1 Corinthians 5:6).

*Leaven*: Starts small, Works invisibly, Spreads thoroughly. Eventually transforms the whole dough. Here, Jesus uses it negatively — as a warning.

*2) The King Herod* 

The “Herod” in Mark 8 is Herod Antipas, ruler of Galilee during Jesus’ ministry.

*He was*: Politically calculating, Morally compromised (married Herodias unlawfully), Responsible for the execution of John the Baptist, Curious about Jesus but not committed (Luke 23:8–12)

*He represents*: Political opportunism, Fear-driven leadership, Superficial interest in spiritual things, Worldly power over spiritual truth

*3) What Is the “Leaven of Herod”?*

Scholars generally understand it in several connected ways:

*A) Political Worldliness* : Herod’s mindset was about: Maintaining power, Avoiding unrest, Protecting image. This is faith mixed with political ambition.

*B) Moral Compromise* : Herod silenced John because truth threatened his lifestyle (Mark 6:17–29). 

The “leaven” here may mean: Silencing truth to protect comfort, Choosing convenience over righteousness

*C) Demand for Signs Without Faith* : In Mark 8:11–13, the Pharisees demand a sign. In Luke 23:8, Herod wants to see Jesus perform miracles for entertainment.

This is: Spectator faith, Spiritual curiosity without repentance

*4) Why Is Jesus Warning the Disciples?*

In Mark 8:14–21, the disciples misunderstand Jesus, thinking He is talking about literal bread.

But Jesus is concerned about something deeper:

They had just witnessed: Feeding of the 5,000 (Mark 6), Feeding of the 4,000 (Mark 8). Yet they still worry about bread.

Jesus is warning them against: Spiritual dullness, Hardness of heart, Forgetting God’s past faithfulness. Thinking in worldly categories instead of Kingdom categories

The “leaven” spreads subtly — even disciples are not immune.

*5) The Deeper Spiritual Significance*

Jesus’ warning is timeless. 

The “leaven of Herod” today can look like: Using faith for influence or status, Blending Christianity with political ideology, Wanting Jesus to solve problems but not rule our lives, Avoiding truth when it threatens comfort, Entertainment-based spirituality

It spreads quietly — through attitudes more than actions.

*6) Points to Ponder*

*A) Examine Hidden Influences*

What subtle influences shape our thinking?

Politics? Culture? Image? Fear?

Leaven works invisibly.

*B) Beware of Power Without Surrender*

Herod was fascinated by Jesus — but never submitted.

We can admire Jesus without obeying Him.

*C) Remember God’s Faithfulness*

The disciples forgot the miracles of bread.

Spiritual forgetfulness opens the door to doubt.

Gratitude guards against corrupt leaven.

*D) Guard the Heart*

Jesus asks: “Do you still not understand? Are your hearts hardened?” (Mark 8:17)

The real danger is not wrong bread — it is a hardened heart.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*