1. Matthew 5:36 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does Jesus speak of turning hair black or white?

Matthew 5:36 (ESV)

36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.

Turning hair white is likely a reference to the wisdom of old age, while turning hair black could refer to the strength of youth. 1 In either case, hairs also belong to God (Matthew 10:30) and we do not have control over our life.