A prophet is not without honour

Posted by ESC on June 19, 2003

In 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.

• Prophet without honor ESC 06/19/03
  • Prophet without honor Barney 06/19/03
    • Profit without honour Lewis 06/19/03