Phrase Finder

A prophet is not without honour

Posted by ESC June 19, 2003In reply to Meaning and source of a phrase posted by KateB on June 19, 2003

Can someone please tell me the source of, and exact meaning of the phrase "A prophet is not recognised in his own land".
Thank you

It's from the Bible (See Bible Gateway at bible.gospelcom.net/ ) It appears several times including:

King James Version:
Matthew 13:57
And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.

New International Version
Matthew 13:57
And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor."
(Whole Chapter: Matthew 13 In context: Matthew 13:56-58)

I think it means people will respect and believe an "out-of-town expert" quicker than a hometown boy (or girl). If they've seen you grow up, it's hard to take you serious.

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