Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
Moreover, when ye fast - referring, probably, to private and voluntary fasting, which was to be regulated by each individual for himself; though in spirit it would apply to any fast.
Be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces - х afanizousin (G853)] - literally, 'make unseen;' very well rendered "disfigure." They went about with a slovenly appearance, and ashes sprinkled on their head.
That they may appear unto men to fast. It was not the deed, but reputation for the deed which they sought; and with this view those hypocrites multiplied their fasts. And are the exhausting fasts of the Church of Rome, and of Romanizing Protestants, free from this taint?
Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.