Parenthesis in the Bible

let the reader understand

Matthew inserts an explanatory aside that signals the reader must discern Daniel's prophetic reference carefully.

for the Pharisees and all the Jews... do not eat unless they wash

Mark pauses the narrative to explain Jewish washing customs for readers who may not know them.

let the reader understand

The warning is interrupted by a reader-directed explanation, sharpening the interpretive demand.

although Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples

John inserts a qualification so the reader does not misunderstand the preceding report.

It was Mary who anointed the Lord...

John pauses to identify Mary by a later-known event before continuing the Lazarus narrative.

while their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them

Paul inserts an explanatory clause showing how conscience witnesses inwardly.

by grace you have been saved

The saving-grace statement interrupts the sentence as a theological clarification later expanded in Ephesians 2:8.

it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him

Paul inserts a necessary theological qualification to avoid misunderstanding the subjection language.

by translation of his name, king of righteousness...

The writer pauses to explain the meaning of Melchizedek's name and title.

what they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality

Paul inserts an evaluative aside before returning to the Jerusalem leaders' response.