# render unto Caesar

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/render-unto-caesar
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To give (something) to one's state or government, especially in the form of a tax payment.

## Examples

- You must render unto Caesar what is required by law.
- Even if you dislike the current tax policy, you still have to render unto Caesar every April.
- The merchant grumbled about the high tariffs, yet he knew he must render unto Caesar his fair share to keep his business operating legally.

## Origin

From the Holy Bible (Matthew, 22:21): Then he said to them, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.” (KJV; spelling modernized) (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.