📖 1. Biblical Origin

• Corban (also spelled Korban or Qorban) comes from the Hebrew word קָרְבָּן (qorbān), meaning “offering,” “gift,” or “something brought near [to God].”

• It appears in Mark 7:11 and is also referenced indirectly in Matthew 15:5.

Mark 7:11 (KJV) —

“But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.”

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🕎 2. Meaning in Hebrew and Jewish Tradition

• In the Old Testament (especially in Leviticus and Numbers), qorbān refers broadly to sacrifices and offerings presented to God — not just animal sacrifices, but also grain or other gifts.

• The root verb qarab (קָרַב) means “to draw near” — so qorbān literally means something that brings you near to God.

Examples in the Torah:

• Leviticus 1:2: “When any of you brings an offering (qorbān) to the Lord…”

• Used throughout Leviticus and Numbers for temple sacrifices.

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✝️ 3. Jesus’ Teaching About “Corban”

In Mark 7, Jesus criticizes some Pharisees and scribes for misusing the concept of Corban.

They were allowing people to declare their possessions “Corban” (dedicated to God), which made those possessions unavailable to help their parents — thus breaking the commandment to “honor your father and mother.”

So, Jesus exposes how a religious vow was being used to avoid moral duty.

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🌿 4. Modern Meaning as a Name

As a modern given name, Corban has been adopted in English-speaking countries, especially among Christians, due to its biblical connection.

It’s interpreted symbolically to mean:

“A gift to God,” or “an offering dedicated to God.”

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📜 Summary

Name Language Meaning Biblical Context

Corban (קָרְבָּן) Hebrew Offering, gift to God Found in Mark 7:11; denotes something dedicated to God

Root Verb קָרַב (qarab) To draw near Refers to bringing offerings near to God

Symbolic Meaning Today — “Gift to God,” “Devoted to God” Used as a Christian name

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Beautiful!