ἀγαπήσεις, etc. Jesus replies by citing Deuteronomy 6:5, which inculcates supreme, devoted love to God, and pronouncing this the great (μεγάλη) and greatest, first (πρώτη) commandment. The clauses referring to heart, soul, and mind are to be taken cumulatively, as meaning love to the uttermost degree; with “all that is within” us (πάντα τὰ ἐντός μου, Psalms 103:1). This commandment is cited not merely as an individual precept, but as indicating the spirit that gives value to all obedience.

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Old Testament