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Luke

Luke front

Introduction to the Gospel of Luke

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Luke
  1. Introduction and purpose for writing (1:1-4)
  2. Birth of Jesus and his preparation for his ministry (1:5-4:13)
  3. Jesus’ ministry in Galilee (4:14-9:50)
  4. Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem
  5. Discipleship (9:51-11:13)
  6. Conflict and Jesus’ grief (11:14-14:35)
  7. Parables about things that are lost and found. Parables about honesty and dishonesty (15:1-16:31)
  8. Kingdom of God (17:1-19:27)
  9. Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (19:28–-44)
  10. Jesus in Jerusalem (19:45-21:4)
  11. Jesus’ teaching about his second coming (21:5–-36)
  12. Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (22:1–-24:53)
What is the Gospel of Luke about?

The Gospel of Luke is one of four books in the New Testament that describe some of the life of Jesus Christ. The authors of the gospels wrote about different aspects of who Jesus was and what he did. Luke wrote his gospel for a person named Theophilus. Luke wrote an accurate description of the life of Jesus so that Theophilus would be certain of what is true. However, Luke expected the gospel to encourage all believers, not just Theophilus.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Gospel of Luke” or “The Gospel according to Luke.” Or they may choose a title that may be clearer, for example, “The Good News about Jesus that Luke wrote.” (See: How to Translate Names)

Who wrote the Book of Luke?

This book does not give the name of the author. The same person who wrote this book also wrote the Book of Acts. In parts of the Book of Acts, the author uses the word “we.” This indicates that the author traveled with Paul. Most scholars think that Luke was this person traveling with Paul. Therefore, since early Christian times, most Christians have thought Luke was the author of both the Book of Luke and the Book of Acts.

Luke was a medical doctor. His way of writing shows that he was an educated man. He was probably a Gentile. Luke himself probably did not witness what Jesus said and did. But he said that he talked to many people who did.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What are the roles of women in the Gospel of Luke?

Luke described women in a very positive way in his gospel. For example, he often showed women being more faithful to God than most men. (See: faithful, faithfulness, unfaithful, unfaithfulness, trustworthy)

Why does Luke write so much about the final week of Jesus’ life?

Luke wrote much about Jesus’ final week. He wanted his readers to think deeply about Jesus’ final week and his death on the cross. He wanted people to understand that Jesus willingly died on the cross so that God could forgive them for sinning against him. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What are the Synoptic Gospels?

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because they have many similar passages. The word “synoptic” means to “see together.”

The texts are considered “parallel” when they are the same or almost the same among two or three gospels. When translating parallel passages, translators should use the same wording and make them as similar as possible.

Why does Jesus refer to himself as the “Son of Man”?

In the gospels, Jesus called himself the “Son of Man.” It is a reference to Daniel 7:13-14. In this passage there is a person described as a “son of man.” That means the person was someone who looked like a human being. God gave authority to the son of man to rule over the nations forever. And all the people will worship him forever.

Jews of Jesus’ time did not use “Son of Man” as a title for anyone. Therefore, Jesus used it for himself to help them understand who he truly was. (See: Son of Man, son of man)

Translating the title “Son of Man” can be difficult in many languages. Readers may misunderstand a literal translation. Translators can consider alternatives, such as “The Human One.” It may also be helpful to include a footnote to explain the title.

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Luke?

The following verses are not in the earliest manuscripts. The ULT and UST include these verses, but some other versions do not.

  • “Then an angel from heaven appeared to him, strengthening him. Being in agony, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down upon the ground.” (22:43–44)
  • “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (23:34)

The following verse is not included in many modern versions. Some versions put it into square brackets. Translators are advised not to translate this verse. However, if in the translators’ region, there are older versions of the Bible that include this verse, the translators can include it. If they are translated, it should be put inside square brackets ([]) to indicate that it was probably not original to Luke’s Gospel.

  • “For he was required to release one prisoner during the feast” (23:17)

(See: Textual Variants)

Luke 1

Luke 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:46-55, 68-79.

Special concepts in this chapter

“He will be called John”

Most people in the ancient Near East would give a child the same name as someone in their families. People were surprised that Elizabeth and Zechariah named their son John because there was no one else in their family with that name.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Luke’s language is simple and straightforward. He does not use many figures of speech.

Luke 1:1

Luke explains why he writes to Theophilus.

περὶ τῶν πεπληροφορημένων ἐν ἡμῖν πραγμάτων

“about those things that have happened among us” or “about those events that have happened among us”

ἐν ἡμῖν

No one knows for sure who Theophilus was. If he was a Christian, the word “us” here would include him and so be inclusive, and if not, it would be exclusive. (See: Inclusive and Exclusive “We” and Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

Luke 1:2

αὐτόπται καὶ ὑπηρέται γενόμενοι τοῦ λόγου

An “eyewitness” is a person who saw something happen, and a servant of the word is a person who serves God by telling people God’s message. You may need to make it clear how they were servants of the word. Alternate translation: “saw what had happened and served God by telling people his message” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὑπηρέται…τοῦ λόγου

OccurrenceNote

Luke 1:3

παρηκολουθηκότι

“carefully researched.” Luke was careful to find out exactly what happened. He probably talked to the different people who saw what happened to make sure that what he wrote down about these events was correct.

κράτιστε Θεόφιλε

Luke said this to show honor and respect for Theophilus. This may mean that Theophilus was an important government official. This section should use the style that your culture uses to address people of high status. Some people may prefer to also put this greeting at the beginning and say, “To…Theophilus” or “Dear…Theophilus.”

κράτιστε

“honorable” or “noble”

Θεόφιλε

This name means “friend of God.” It may describe this man’s character or it may have been his actual name. Most translations have it as a name. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 1:5

Zechariah and Elizabeth are introduced. These verses give background information about them. (See: Background Information)

The angel prophesies the birth of John.

ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις Ἡρῴδου βασιλέως τῆς Ἰουδαίας

The phrase “In the days of” is used to indicate a new event. Alternate translation: “During the time that King Herod ruled over Judea” (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐγένετο…ἱερεύς τις

“there was a particular” or “there was a.” This is a way of introducing a new character in a story. Consider how your language does this. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἐφημερίας

It is understood that this refers to the priests. Alternate translation: “division of priests” or “group of priests” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Ἀβιά

“who descended from Abijah.” Abijah was an ancestor of this group of priests and all of them were descended from Aaron, who was the first Israelite priest.

καὶ γυνὴ αὐτῷ ἐκ τῶν θυγατέρων Ἀαρών

“His wife was descended from Aaron.” This means she was from the same line of priests as Zechariah. Alternate translation: “His wife was also descended from Aaron” or “Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth were both descended from Aaron” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐκ τῶν θυγατέρων Ἀαρών

“descended from Aaron”

Luke 1:6

ἐναντίον τοῦ Θεοῦ

“in God’s sight” or “in God’s opinion”

πάσαις ταῖς ἐντολαῖς καὶ δικαιώμασιν τοῦ Κυρίου

“all that the Lord had commanded and required”

Luke 1:7

καὶ

This contrast word shows that what follows here is the opposite of what is expected. People expected that if they did what was right, God would allow them to have children. Although this couple did what was right, they did not have any children.

Luke 1:8

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used to mark a shift in the story from the background information to the participants.

ἐν τῷ ἱερατεύειν αὐτὸν…ἔναντι τοῦ Θεοῦ

It is implied that Zechariah was in God’s temple and that these priestly duties were part of worshiping God. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐν τῷ ἱερατεύειν αὐτὸν

This refers to Zechariah.

ἐν τῇ τάξει τῆς ἐφημερίας αὐτοῦ

“when it was his group’s turn” or “when the time came for his group to serve”

Luke 1:9

κατὰ τὸ ἔθος τῆς ἱερατείας, ἔλαχε τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι

This sentence gives us information about priestly duties. (See: Background Information)

τὸ ἔθος

“the traditional method” or “their usual way”

ἔλαχε

A lot was a marked stone that was thrown or rolled on the ground in order to help them decide something. The priests believed that God guided the lot to show them which priest he wanted them to choose.

τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι

The priests were to burn sweet-smelling incense as an offering to God each morning and evening on a special altar inside the temple.

Luke 1:10

πᾶν τὸ πλῆθος…τοῦ λαοῦ

“A large number of people” or “Many people”

ἔξω

The courtyard was the enclosed area surrounding the temple. Alternate translation: “outside the temple building” or “in the courtyard outside the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τῇ ὥρᾳ

“at the set time.” It is unclear if this was the morning or evening time for the incense offering.

Luke 1:11

While Zechariah does his duty in the temple, an angel comes from God to give him a message.

δὲ

This word marks the beginning of the action in the story.

ὤφθη…αὐτῷ

“suddenly came to him” or “was suddenly there with Zechariah.” This expresses that the angel was present with Zechariah, and not simply a vision.

Luke 1:12

ἐταράχθη Ζαχαρίας…φόβος ἐπέπεσεν ἐπ’ αὐτόν

These two phrases mean the same thing, and emphasize how afraid Zechariah was.

Ζαχαρίας ἰδών

“When Zechariah saw the angel.” Zechariah was afraid because the appearance of the angel was frightening. He had not done anything wrong, so he was not afraid that the angel would punish him.

φόβος ἐπέπεσεν ἐπ’ αὐτόν

Fear is described as if it was something that attacked or overpowered Zechariah. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 1:13

μὴ φοβοῦ

“Stop being afraid of me” or “You do not need to be afraid of me”

εἰσηκούσθη ἡ δέησίς σου

This can be stated in active form. It is implied that God will give Zechariah what he has asked for. Alternate translation: “God has heard your prayer and will give you what you have asked for” (See: Active or Passive and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

γεννήσει υἱόν σοι

“have a son for you” or “give birth to your son”

Luke 1:14

ἔσται χαρά σοι καὶ ἀγαλλίασις

The words “joy” and “gladness” mean the same thing and are used to emphasize how great the joy will be. Alternate translation: “you will have great joy” or “you will be very glad” (See: Doublet)

ἐπὶ τῇ γενέσει αὐτοῦ

“because of his birth”

Luke 1:15

ἔσται γὰρ μέγας

“This is because. he will be great” Zechariah and the “many” will rejoice because John will be “great in the sight of the Lord.” The rest of verse 15 tells how God wants John to live.

ἔσται…μέγας ἐνώπιον τοῦ Κυρίου

“he will be a very important person for the Lord” or “God will consider him to be very important”

οὐ μὴ πίῃ

The phrase must never translates two Greek words the emphasize how important it is that the child not drink wine or strong drink.

Πνεύματος Ἁγίου πλησθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit will empower him” or “the Holy Spirit will guide him” Make sure it does not sound similar to what an evil spirit might do to a person. (See: Active or Passive)

ἐκ κοιλίας μητρὸς αὐτοῦ

“even while he is in his mother’s womb” or “even before he is born”

Luke 1:16

καὶ πολλοὺς τῶν υἱῶν Ἰσραὴλ ἐπιστρέψει ἐπὶ Κύριον, τὸν Θεὸν αὐτῶν

Here “be turned” is a metaphor for a person repenting and worshiping the Lord. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He will cause many of the people of Israel to repent and worship the Lord their God” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

Luke 1:17

αὐτὸς προελεύσεται ἐνώπιον αὐτοῦ

Before the Lord comes, he will go and announce to the people that the Lord will come to them.

ἐνώπιον αὐτοῦ

Here “the face of” someone can be an idiom that refers to the that person’s presence. It is sometimes omitted in translation. Alternate translation: “the Lord” (See: Idiom)

ἐν πνεύματι καὶ δυνάμει Ἠλεία

“with the same spirit and power that Elijah had.” The word “spirit” either refers to God’s Holy Spirit or to Elijah’s attitude or way of thinking. Make sure that the word “spirit” does not mean ghost or evil spirit.

ἐπιστρέψαι καρδίας πατέρων ἐπὶ τέκνα

“persuade fathers to care about their children again” or “cause fathers to restore their relationships with their children”

ἐπιστρέψαι καρδίας

The heart is spoken of as if it is something that can be turned to go in a different direction. This refers to changing someone’s attitude toward something. (See: Metaphor)

ἀπειθεῖς

Here this refers to people who do not obey the Lord.

ἑτοιμάσαι Κυρίῳ λαὸν κατεσκευασμένον

What the people will be prepared to do can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “make ready for the Lord a people who are prepared to believe his message” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 1:18

κατὰ τί γνώσομαι τοῦτο?

“How can I know for sure that what you said will happen?” Here, “know” means to learn by experience, suggesting Zechariah was asking for a sign as proof. Alternate translation: “What can you do to prove to me that this will happen?”

Luke 1:19

ἐγώ εἰμι Γαβριὴλ, ὁ παρεστηκὼς ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ

This is stated as a rebuke to Zechariah. The presence of Gabriel, coming directly from God, should be enough proof for Zechariah.

ὁ παρεστηκὼς

“who serves”

ἀπεστάλην λαλῆσαι πρὸς σὲ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God sent me to speak to you” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 1:20

ἰδοὺ

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important”

σιωπῶν καὶ μὴ δυνάμενος λαλῆσαι

These mean the same thing, and are repeated to emphasize the completeness of his silence. Alternate translation: “completely unable to speak” or “not able to speak at all” (See: Doublet)

οὐκ ἐπίστευσας τοῖς λόγοις μου

“not believe what I said”

εἰς τὸν καιρὸν αὐτῶν

“at the appointed time”

Luke 1:21

καὶ

This marks a shift in the story from what happened inside the temple to what happened outside. Alternate translation: “While that was happening” or “While the angel and Zechariah were talking”

Luke 1:22

ἐπέγνωσαν ὅτι ὀπτασίαν ἑώρακεν ἐν τῷ ναῷ. καὶ αὐτὸς ἦν διανεύων αὐτοῖς, καὶ διέμενεν κωφός

These things probably happened at the same time, and Zechariah’s signs helped the people understand that he had had a vision. It might be helpful to your audience to change the order to show that. Alternate translation: “He kept on making signs to them and remained silent. So they realized that he had seen a vision while he was in the temple”

ὀπτασίαν

The earlier description indicated that Gabriel actually came to Zechariah in the temple. The people, not knowing that, assumed Zechariah saw a vision.

Luke 1:23

ἐγένετο

This phrase moves the story ahead to when Zechariah’s service was ended.

ἀπῆλθεν εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ

Zechariah did not live in Jerusalem, where the temple was located. He traveled to his home town.

Luke 1:24

μετὰ δὲ ταύτας τὰς ἡμέρας

The phrase “these days” refers to the time Zechariah was serving in the temple. It is possible to state more clearly what this refers to. Alternate translation: “After Zechariah’s time of serving at the temple” (See: Introduction of a New Event and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἡ γυνὴ αὐτοῦ

“Zechariah’s wife”

περιέκρυβεν ἑαυτὴν

“did not leave her house” or “stayed inside by herself”

Luke 1:25

οὕτως μοι πεποίηκεν Κύριος

This phrase refers to the fact that the Lord allowed her to become pregnant.

οὕτως

This is a positive exclamation. She is very happy with what the Lord has done for her.

ἐπεῖδεν

“to look at” here is an idiom that means “to treat” or “to deal with.” Alternate translation: “regarded me kindly” or “had pity on me” (See: Idiom)

ὄνειδός μου

This refers to the shame she felt when she was not able to have children.

Luke 1:26

The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she is going to be the mother of the one who is the Son of God.

ἐν…τῷ μηνὶ τῷ ἕκτῳ

“in the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy.” It may be necessary to state this clearly if it would be confused with the sixth month of the year. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπεστάλη ὁ ἄγγελος Γαβριὴλ ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God told the angel Gabriel to go” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 1:27

παρθένον ἐμνηστευμένην ἀνδρὶ, ᾧ ὄνομα Ἰωσὴφ

Mary’s parents had agreed that Mary would marry Joseph. Though they had not had sexual relations, Joseph would have thought and spoken of her as his wife.

ἐξ οἴκου Δαυεὶδ

“He belonged to the same tribe as David” or “He was a descendant of King David”

τὸ ὄνομα τῆς παρθένου Μαριάμ

This introduces Mary as a new character in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Luke 1:28

χαῖρε

This was a common greeting. It means: “Rejoice” or “Be glad.”

κεχαριτωμένη!

“you who have received great grace!” or “you who have received special kindness!”

ὁ Κύριος μετὰ σοῦ

“with you” here is an idiom that implies support and acceptance. Alternate translation: “The Lord is pleased with you” (See: Idiom)

Luke 1:29

ἡ δὲ ἐπὶ τῷ λόγῳ διεταράχθη, καὶ διελογίζετο ποταπὸς εἴη ὁ ἀσπασμὸς οὗτος

Mary understood the meaning of the individual words, but she did not understand why the angel said this amazing greeting to her.

Luke 1:30

μὴ φοβοῦ, Μαριάμ

The angel does not want Mary to be afraid of his appearance, because God sent him with a positive message.

εὗρες…χάριν παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ

The idiom “to find favor” means to be positively received by someone. The sentence can be altered to show God as the actor. Alternate translation: “God has decided to give you his grace” or “God is showing you his kindness” (See: Idiom)

Luke 1:31

συνλήμψῃ ἐν γαστρὶ, καὶ τέξῃ υἱόν…Ἰησοῦν

Mary will bear “a son” who will be called “the Son of the Most High.” Jesus is therefore a human son born of a human mother, and he is also the Son of God. These terms should be translated very carefully.

Luke 1:32

Υἱὸς Ὑψίστου

Mary will bear “a son” who will be called “the Son of the Most High.” Jesus is therefore a human son born of a human mother, and he is also the Son of God. These terms should be translated very carefully.

κληθήσεται

Possible meanings are (1) “people will call him” or (2) “God will call him” (See: Active or Passive)

Υἱὸς Ὑψίστου

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

δώσει αὐτῷ…τὸν θρόνον Δαυεὶδ, τοῦ πατρὸς αὐτοῦ

The throne represents the king’s authority to rule. Alternate translation: “give him authority to rule as king as his ancestor David did” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 1:33

τῆς βασιλείας αὐτοῦ, οὐκ ἔσται τέλος

The negative phrase “no end” emphasizes that it continues forever. It could also be stated with a positive phrase. Alternate translation: “his kingdom will never end” (See: Litotes)

Luke 1:34

πῶς ἔσται τοῦτο

Though Mary did not understand how it could happen, she did not doubt that it would happen.

ἄνδρα οὐ γινώσκω

Mary used this polite expression to say that she had not engaged in sexual activity. Alternate translation: “I am a virgin” (See: Euphemism)

Luke 1:35

Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον ἐπελεύσεται ἐπὶ σέ

The process of Mary’s conception would begin with the Holy Spirit coming to her.

ἐπελεύσεται ἐπὶ

“will overtake”

δύναμις Ὑψίστου

It was God’s “power” that would supernaturally cause Mary to become pregnant even while she still remained a virgin. Make sure this does not imply any physical or sexual union—this was a miracle.

ἐπισκιάσει σοι

“will cover you like a shadow”

διὸ καὶ τὸ γεννώμενον Ἅγιον κληθήσεται, Υἱὸς Θεοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “So they will call the holy one who will be born the Son of God” or “So the baby that will be born will be holy, and people will call him the Son of God” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸ…Ἅγιον

“the holy child” or “the holy baby”

Υἱὸς Θεοῦ

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 1:36

ἰδοὺ…ἡ συγγενίς σου

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: your relative”

Ἐλεισάβετ, ἡ συγγενίς σου

If you need to state a specific relationship, Elizabeth was probably Mary’s aunt or great-aunt.

καὶ αὐτὴ συνείληφεν υἱὸν ἐν γήρει αὐτῆς

“Elizabeth has also become pregnant with a son, even though she is already very old” or “Elizabeth, even though she is old, has also become pregnant and will bear a son.” Make sure it does not sound as though both Mary and Elizabeth were old when they conceived.

μὴν ἕκτος…αὐτῇ

“the sixth month of her pregnancy”

Luke 1:37

ὅτι οὐκ…πᾶν ῥῆμα

“Because nothing” or “This shows that nothing”

οὐκ ἀδυνατήσει παρὰ τοῦ Θεοῦ πᾶν ῥῆμα

Elizabeth’s pregnancy was proof that God was able to do anything—even enable Mary to become pregnant without her sleeping with a man. The double negatives in this statement can be stated with positive terms. Alternate translation: “God can do anything” (See: Double Negatives)

Luke 1:38

ἰδοὺ, ἡ δούλη

“Here I am, the female servant” or “I am glad to be the female servant.” She is responding humbly and willingly.

ἰδοὺ, ἡ δούλη Κυρίου

Choose an expression that shows her humility and obedience to the Lord. She was not boasting about being the Lord’s servant.

γένοιτό μοι

“Let this happen to me.” Mary was expressing her willingness for the things to happen that the angel had told her were about to happen.

Luke 1:39

Mary goes to visit her relative Elizabeth, who is going to give birth to John. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἀναστᾶσα

This idiom means she not only stood up, but also “got ready.” Alternate translation: “started out” or “got ready” (See: Idiom)

τὴν ὀρινὴν

“the hilly area” or “the mountainous part of Israel”

Luke 1:40

εἰσῆλθεν

It is implied that Mary finished her journey before she went in to Zechariah’s house. This could be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “When she arrived, she went” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 1:41

καὶ ἐγένετο

The phrase is used to mark a new event in this part of the story.

ἐν τῇ κοιλίᾳ αὐτῆς

“in Elizabeth’s womb”

ἐσκίρτησεν

moved suddenly

Luke 1:42

καὶ ἀνεφώνησεν φωνῇ μεγάλῃ καὶ εἶπεν

These two phrases mean the same thing, and are used to emphasize how excited Elizabeth was. They could be combined into one phrase. Alternate translation: “exclaimed loudly” (See: Doublet)

ἀνεφώνησεν φωνῇ μεγάλῃ

This idiom means “increased the volume of her voice” (See: Idiom)

εὐλογημένη σὺ ἐν γυναιξίν

The idiom “among women” means “more than any other woman” (See: Idiom)

ὁ καρπὸς τῆς κοιλίας σου

Mary’s baby is spoken of as if it is the fruit that a plant produces. Alternate translation: “the baby in your womb” or “the baby you will bear” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 1:43

καὶ πόθεν μοι τοῦτο, ἵνα ἔλθῃ ἡ μήτηρ τοῦ Κυρίου μου πρὸς ἐμέ?

Elizabeth is not asking for information. She was showing how surprised and happy she was that the mother of the Lord had come to her. Alternate translation: “How wonderful it is that the mother of my Lord has come to me!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἡ μήτηρ τοῦ Κυρίου μου

It can be made clear that Elizabeth was calling Mary “the mother of my Lord” by adding the word “you.” Alternate translation: “you, the mother of my Lord” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 1:44

ἰδοὺ γὰρ

This phrase alerts Mary to pay attention to Elizabeth’s surprising statement that follows.

ὡς ἐγένετο ἡ φωνὴ τοῦ ἀσπασμοῦ σου εἰς τὰ ὦτά μου

Hearing a sound is spoken of as if the sound came to the ears. Alternate translation: “when I heard the sound of your greeting” (See: Metonymy)

ἐσκίρτησεν ἐν ἀγαλλιάσει

“moved suddenly with joy” or “turned forcefully because he was so happy”

Luke 1:45

καὶ μακαρία ἡ πιστεύσασα…τοῖς λελαλημένοις αὐτῇ παρὰ Κυρίου

Elizabeth is talking about Mary to Mary. Alternate translation: “Blessed are you who believed…that were told you from the Lord”(See: First, Second or Third Person and Active or Passive)

καὶ μακαρία ἡ πιστεύσασα

The passive verb can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless her because she believed” (See: Active or Passive)

ἔσται τελείωσις τοῖς λελαλημένοις

“the things would actually happen” or “the things would come true”

τοῖς λελαλημένοις αὐτῇ παρὰ Κυρίου

The word “from” is used here instead of “by” because it was the angel Gabriel whom Mary actually heard speak (see [Luke 1:26] (../01/26.md)), but the message (“the things”) came ultimately from the Lord. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the message that she heard from the Lord” or “the Lord’s message that the angel told her” (See: Active or Passive and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 1:46

Mary begins a song of praise to the Lord her Savior.

μεγαλύνει ἡ ψυχή μου

The word “soul” refers to the spiritual part of a person. Mary is saying that her worship comes from deep inside her. Alternate translation: “My inner being praises” or “I praise” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 1:47

ἠγαλλίασεν τὸ πνεῦμά μου

Both “soul” and “spirit” refer to the spiritual part of a person. Mary is saying that her worship comes from deep inside her. Alternate translation: “my heart has rejoiced” or “I rejoice” (See: Synecdoche)

ἠγαλλίασεν…ἐπὶ

“has felt very joyful about” or “was very happy about”

τῷ Θεῷ, τῷ Σωτῆρί μου

“God, the One who saves me” or “God, who saves me”

Luke 1:48

ὅτι ἐπέβλεψεν

“This is because he”

ἐπέβλεψεν ἐπὶ

“looked at with concern” or “cared about”

ταπείνωσιν

“poverty.” Mary’s family was not rich.

ἰδοὺ γὰρ

This phrase calls attention to the statement that follows.

ἀπὸ τοῦ νῦν

“now and in the future”

πᾶσαι αἱ γενεαί

“the people in all generations”

Luke 1:49

ὁ δυνατός

“God, the Powerful One”

τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ

Here “name” refers to the entire person of God. Alternate translation: “he” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 1:50

καὶ τὸ ἔλεος αὐτοῦ

“God’s mercy”

εἰς γενεὰς καὶ γενεὰς

“from one generation to the next generation” or “throughout every generation” or “to people in every time period”

Luke 1:51

ἐποίησεν κράτος ἐν βραχίονι αὐτοῦ

Here “his arm” is a metonym that stands for God’s power. Alternate translation: “shown that he is very powerful” (See: Metonymy)

διεσκόρπισεν…καρδίας αὐτῶν

“has caused those…hearts to run away in different directions”

ὑπερηφάνους διανοίᾳ καρδίας αὐτῶν

Here “hearts” is a metonym for people’s inner beings. Alternate translation: “who were proud in their thoughts” or “who were proud” (See: Idiom)

Luke 1:52

καθεῖλεν δυνάστας ἀπὸ θρόνων

A throne is a chair that a ruler sits on, and it is a symbol of his authority. If a prince is brought down from his throne, it means he no longer has the authority to reign. Alternate translation: “He has taken away the authority of princes” or “He has made rulers stop ruling” (See: Synecdoche)

ὕψωσεν ταπεινούς

In this word picture, people who are important are higher than people who are less important. Alternate translation: “has made humble people important” or “has given honor to people whom others have not honored” (See: Metaphor)

ταπεινούς

“in poverty.” See how you translated this in Luke 1:48.

Luke 1:53

πεινῶντας ἐνέπλησεν ἀγαθῶν

The contrast between these two opposite actions should be made clear in the translation if possible.

πεινῶντας ἐνέπλησεν ἀγαθῶν…πλουτοῦντας ἐξαπέστειλεν κενούς

Possible meanings are (1) “given the hungry good food to eat” or (2) “given the needy good things.”

Luke 1:54

The UST rearranges these verses into a verse bridge in order to keep the information about Israel together. (See: Verse Bridges)

ἀντελάβετο

“The Lord has helped”

Ἰσραὴλ παιδὸς αὐτοῦ

If readers confuse this with the man named Israel, it could be translated as “his servant, the nation of Israel” or “Israel, his servants.”

μνησθῆναι

God cannot forget. When God “remembers,” it is an idiom that means God acts upon his earlier promise. (See: Idiom)

Luke 1:55

καθὼς ἐλάλησεν πρὸς τοὺς πατέρας ἡμῶν

“just as he promised our ancestors he would do.” This phrase supplies background information about God’s promise to Abraham. Alternate translation: “because he promised our ancestors he would be merciful” (See: Background Information)

τῷ σπέρματι αὐτοῦ

“Abraham’s descendants”

Luke 1:56

Elizabeth delivers her baby and then Zechariah names their baby.

ὑπέστρεψεν εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτῆς

“Mary returned to her (Mary’s) house” or “Mary returned to her own house”

Luke 1:57

δὲ

This word marks the beginning of the next event in the story.

τοῦ τεκεῖν αὐτήν

“give birth to her baby”

Luke 1:58

οἱ περίοικοι καὶ οἱ συγγενεῖς αὐτῆς

“Elizabeth’s neighbors and relatives”

ἐμεγάλυνεν…τὸ ἔλεος αὐτοῦ μετ’ αὐτῆς

“been very kind to her”

Luke 1:59

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke starts to tell a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ ὀγδόῃ

Here “eighth day” refers to the time after the birth of the baby, counted from the first day, which was the day he was born. Alternate translation: “on the eighth day of the baby’s life” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ἦλθον περιτεμεῖν τὸ παιδίον

This was often a ceremony where one person circumcised the baby and friends were there to celebrate with the family. Alternate translation: “they came for the baby’s circumcision ceremony” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐκάλουν αὐτὸ

“They were going to name him” or “They wanted to give him the name”

ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ πατρὸς αὐτοῦ

“his father’s name”

Luke 1:61

τῷ ὀνόματι τούτῳ

“by that name” or “by the same name”

Luke 1:62

ἐνένευον

This refers to the people who were there for the circumcision ceremony.

ἐνένευον

“motioned.” Either Zechariah was unable to hear, as well as speak, or the people assumed that he could not hear.

τῷ πατρὶ αὐτοῦ

“to the baby’s father”

τὸ τί ἂν θέλοι καλεῖσθαι αὐτό

“what name Zechariah wanted to give the baby”

Luke 1:63

καὶ αἰτήσας πινακίδιον

It may be helpful to state how Zechariah “asked,” since he could not speak. Alternate translation: “His father used his hands to show the people that he wanted them to give him a writing tablet” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πινακίδιον

“something on which to write”

ἐθαύμασαν

greatly surprised or amazed

Luke 1:64

ἀνεῴχθη…τὸ στόμα αὐτοῦ…καὶ ἡ γλῶσσα αὐτοῦ

These two phrases are word pictures that together emphasize that Zechariah was suddenly able to speak. (See: Idiom and Parallelism)

ἀνεῴχθη…τὸ στόμα αὐτοῦ…καὶ ἡ γλῶσσα αὐτοῦ

These phrases can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God opened his mouth and freed his tongue” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 1:65

καὶ ἐγένετο ἐπὶ πάντας φόβος, τοὺς περιοικοῦντας αὐτούς

“All who lived around Zechariah and Elizabeth were afraid.” It may be helpful to state clearly why they were afraid. Alternate translation: “All who lived around them were in awe of God because he had done this to Zechariah” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πάντας…τοὺς περιοικοῦντας αὐτούς

The word “all” here is a generalization. Alternate translation: “those who lived around them” or “many who lived in that area” (See: Hyperbole)

ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ ὀρεινῇ τῆς Ἰουδαίας διελαλεῖτο πάντα τὰ ῥήματα ταῦτα

The phrase “these matters were spread” is a metaphor for people talking about them. The passive verb here can also be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “All these matters were talked about by people throughout all the hill country of Judea” or “People throughout the hill country of Judea talked about all these matters” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

Luke 1:66

πάντες οἱ ἀκούσαντες

“All who heard about these matters”

ἔθεντο…ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτῶν

Thinking often about things that have happened is spoken of as putting those things safely in their hearts. Alternate translation: “thought carefully about these matters” or “thought a lot about these events” (See: Metaphor)

τῇ καρδίᾳ…λέγοντες

“hearts. They asked”

τί ἄρα τὸ παιδίον τοῦτο ἔσται?

“What kind of great person will this baby grow up to be?” It is also possible that this question was meant to be a statement of their surprise at what they had heard about the baby. Alternate translation: “What a great man this child will be!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

χεὶρ Κυρίου ἦν μετ’ αὐτοῦ

The phrase “the hand of the Lord” refers to the Lord’s power. Alternate translation: “the Lord’s power was with him” or “the Lord was working in him powerfully” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 1:67

Zechariah tells what will happen with his son John.

Ζαχαρίας ὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ, ἐπλήσθη Πνεύματος Ἁγίου καὶ ἐπροφήτευσεν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit filled his father Zechariah, and Zachariah prophesied” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ

John’s father

ἐπροφήτευσεν λέγων

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotes in your language. Alternate translation: “prophesied and said” or “prophesied, and this is what he said” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

Luke 1:68

ὁ Θεὸς τοῦ Ἰσραήλ

“Israel” here refers to the nation of Israel. The relationship between God and Israel could be stated more directly. Alternate translation: “the God who reigns over Israel” or “the God whom Israel worships” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τῷ λαῷ αὐτοῦ

“God’s people”

Luke 1:69

ἤγειρεν κέρας σωτηρίας ἡμῖν

The horn of an animal is a symbol of its power to defend itself. To raise up here is to bring into existence or to enable to act. The Messiah is spoken of as if he were a horn with the power to save Israel. Alternate translation: “He has brought to us someone with the power to save us” (See: Metaphor)

ἐν οἴκῳ Δαυεὶδ, παιδὸς αὐτοῦ

David’s “house” here represents his family, specifically, his descendants. Alternate translation: “in the family of his servant David” or “who is a descendant of his servant David” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 1:70

καθὼς ἐλάλησεν

“just as God said”

ἐλάλησεν διὰ στόματος τῶν ἁγίων ἀπ’ αἰῶνος προφητῶν αὐτοῦ

God speaking by the prophets’ mouths represents God causing his prophets to say what he wanted them to say. Alternate translation: “he caused his holy prophets who lived long ago to say” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 1:71

σωτηρίαν ἐξ ἐχθρῶν ἡμῶν

The abstract noun “salvation” can be expressed with the verbs “save” or “rescue.” Alternate translation: He will save us from our enemies” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἐχθρῶν ἡμῶν…πάντων τῶν μισούντων ἡμᾶς

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are repeated to emphasize how strongly their enemies are against them. (See: Parallelism)

χειρὸς

The hand is a metonym for the power that the person uses the hand to exercise. Alternate translation: “power” or “control” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 1:72

ἔλεος μετὰ

“to be merciful to” or “to act according to his mercy toward”

μνησθῆναι

Here the word “remember” means to keep a commitment or fulfill something.

Luke 1:73

ὅρκον ὃν ὤμοσεν

These words refer to “his holy covenant” (verse 72).

τοῦ δοῦναι ἡμῖν

“to make it possible for us”

Luke 1:74

ἀφόβως, ἐκ χειρὸς ἐχθρῶν ῥυσθέντας, λατρεύειν αὐτῷ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that we would serve him without fear after he rescued us from the hand of our enemies” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐκ χειρὸς ἐχθρῶν

Here “hand” refers to the control or power a person. This could be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “from the control of our enemies” (See: Metonymy)

ἀφόβως

This refers back to the fear of their enemies. Alternate translation: “without being afraid of our enemies” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 1:75

ἐν ὁσιότητι καὶ δικαιοσύνῃ

This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “holiness” and “righteousness.” Possible meanings are (1) we would serve God in holy and righteous ways. Alternate translation: “doing what is holy and righteous” or (2) we would be holy and righteous. Alternate translation: “being holy and righteous” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἐνώπιον αὐτοῦ

This is an idiom which means “in his presence” (See: Idiom)

Luke 1:76

καὶ σὺ δέ

Zechariah uses this phrase to begin his direct address to his son. You may have a similar way to direct speech in your language.

σὺ…παιδίον, προφήτης…κληθήσῃ

People will realize that he is a prophet. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will know that you are a prophet” (See: Active or Passive)

Ὑψίστου

These words are a euphemism for God. Alternate translation: “who serves the Most High” or “who speaks for God Most High” (See: Euphemism)

προπορεύσῃ…ἐνώπιον Κυρίου

Before the Lord comes, he will go and announce to the people that the Lord will come to them. See how you translated this in Luke 1:17.

ἐνώπιον Κυρίου

“the face of” someone can be an idiom that refers to the that person’s presence. It is sometimes omitted in translation. Alternate translation: “the Lord” See how you translated this in Luke 1:17. (See: Idiom)

ἑτοιμάσαι ὁδοὺς αὐτοῦ

This is a metaphor that means that John will prepare the people to listen to and believe the Lord’s message. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 1:77

τοῦ δοῦναι γνῶσιν σωτηρίας…ἐν ἀφέσει ἁμαρτιῶν αὐτῶν

The phrase “give knowledge” is a metaphor for teaching. The abstract nouns “salvation” and “forgiveness” can be expressed with the verbs “save” and “forgive.” Alternate translation: “to teach his people salvation through the forgiveness of their sins” or “to teach his people how God saves people by forgiving their sins” (See: Metonymy and Abstract Nouns)

Luke 1:78

διὰ σπλάγχνα ἐλέους Θεοῦ ἡμῶν

It might be helpful to state that God’s mercy helps people. Alternate translation: “because God is compassionate and merciful to us” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀνατολὴ ἐξ ὕψους

Light is often a metaphor for truth. Here, the spiritual truth the Savior will provide is spoken of as if it is a sunrise that lights up the earth. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 1:79

ἐπιφᾶναι

Light is often a metaphor for truth. Here, the spiritual truth that the Savior will provide is spoken of as if it is a sunrise that lights up the earth (verse 78). (See: Metaphor)

ἐπιφᾶναι

“give knowledge to” or “give spiritual light to”

τοῖς ἐν σκότει…καθημένοις

Darkness is here a metaphor for the absence of spiritual truth. Here, people who lack spiritual truth are spoken of as if they are sitting in darkness. Alternate translation: “people who do not know the truth” (See: Metaphor)

ἐν σκότει καὶ σκιᾷ θανάτου

These two phrases work together to emphasize the deep spiritual darkness of people before God shows them mercy. (See: Doublet)

σκιᾷ θανάτου

The shadow often represents something that is about to happen. Here, it refers to approaching death. Alternate translation: “who are about to die” (See: Idiom)

κατευθῦναι τοὺς πόδας ἡμῶν εἰς ὁδὸν εἰρήνης

Here “guide” is a metaphor for teaching, and “path of peace” is a metaphor for living at peace with God. The phrase “our feet” is a synecdoche that represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “teach us how to live at peace with God” (See: Metaphor and Synecdoche)

Luke 1:80

This tells briefly about John’s growing years.

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Luke quickly moves from the birth of John to the beginning of his ministry as an adult.

ἐκραταιοῦτο πνεύματι

“became spiritually mature” or “strengthened his relationship with God”

ἦν ἐν ταῖς ἐρήμοις

“lived in the wilderness.” Luke does not say at what age John began to live in the wilderness.

ἕως

This does not necessarily mark a stopping point. John continued to live out in the desert even after he started preaching publicly.

ἡμέρας ἀναδείξεως αὐτοῦ

“when he began to preach in public”

ἡμέρας

This is used here in the general sense of “the time” or “the occasion.”

Luke 2

Luke 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 2:14, 29-32.

Luke 2:1

This gives background to show why Mary and Joseph have to move at the time of Jesus’ birth.

δὲ

This word marks the beginning of a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐγένετο

This phrase is used to show that this is the beginning of an account. If your language has a way of showing the start of an account, you may use that. Some versions do not include this phrase.

Καίσαρος Αὐγούστου

“King Augustus” or “Emperor Augustus.” Augustus was the first emperor of the Roman Empire. (See: How to Translate Names and Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἐξῆλθεν δόγμα

This command was probably carried by messengers throughout the empire. Alternate translation: “sent messengers with a decree ordering” (See: Idiom)

ἀπογράφεσθαι πᾶσαν τὴν οἰκουμένην

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that they register all the people living in the world” or “that they count all the people in the world and write down their names” (See: Active or Passive)

τὴν οἰκουμένην

Here the word “world” represents only the part of the world that Caesar August ruled. Alternate translation: “the Empire” or “the Roman world” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 2:2

Κυρηνίου

Quirinius was appointed to be the governor of Syria. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 2:3

ἐπορεύοντο πάντες

“everyone started off” or “everyone was going”

τὴν ἑαυτοῦ πόλιν

This refers to the cities where people’s ancestors lived. People may have lived in a different city. Alternate translation: “the city in which his ancestors lived” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπογράφεσθαι

“to have their names written in the register” or “to be included in the official count”

Luke 2:4

The UST rearranges these two verses into a verse bridge in order to make it easier to shorten the sentences. (See: Verse Bridges)

καὶ Ἰωσὴφ

This introduces Joseph as a new participant in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

εἰς πόλιν Δαυεὶδ, ἥτις καλεῖται Βηθλέεμ

The phrase “the city of David” was a name for Bethlehem that tells why Bethlehem was important. Although it was a small town, King David was born there, and there was a prophecy that the Messiah would be born there. Alternate translation: “to Bethlehem, the city of King David” or “to Bethlehem, the town where King David was born” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

διὰ τὸ εἶναι αὐτὸν ἐξ οἴκου καὶ πατριᾶς Δαυείδ

“because Joseph was a descendant of David”

Luke 2:5

ἀπογράψασθαι

This means to report to the officials there so they could include him in the count. Use a term for an official government count if possible.

σὺν Μαριὰμ

Mary traveled with Joseph from Nazareth. It is likely that women were also taxed, so Mary would have needed to travel and be registered as well. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

τῇ ἐμνηστευμένῃ αὐτῷ

“his fiancee” or “who was promised to him.” An engaged couple was considered legally married, but there would not have been physical intimacy between them.

Luke 2:6

The UST rearranges these verses into a verse bridge in order to keep together the details about the place they stayed. (See: Verse Bridges)

This tells of the birth of Jesus and the announcement by the angels to the shepherds.

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase marks the beginning of the next event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῷ εἶναι αὐτοὺς ἐκεῖ

“while Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem”

ἐπλήσθησαν αἱ ἡμέραι τοῦ τεκεῖν αὐτήν

“it was time to give birth to her baby”

Luke 2:7

ἐσπαργάνωσεν αὐτὸν

In some cultures mothers comfort their babies by wrapping them tightly in cloth or a blanket. Alternate translation: “wrapped cloths firmly around him” or “wrapped him tightly in a blanket” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀνέκλινεν αὐτὸν ἐν φάτνῃ

This was some kind of box or frame that people put hay or other food in for animals to eat. It was most likely clean and may have had something soft and dry like hay in it as a cushion for the baby. Animals were often kept near the home to keep them secure and to feed them easily. Mary and Joseph stayed in a room that was used for animals.

οὐκ ἦν αὐτοῖς τόπος ἐν τῷ καταλύματι

“there was no space for them to stay in the guest room.” This was probably because so many people went to Bethlehem to register. Luke adds this as background information. (See: Background Information)

Luke 2:9

ἄγγελος Κυρίου

“An angel from the Lord” or “An angel who served the Lord”

ἐπέστη αὐτοῖς

“came to the shepherds”

δόξα Κυρίου

The source of the bright light was the glory of the Lord, which appeared at the same time as the angel.

Luke 2:10

μὴ φοβεῖσθε

“Stop being afraid”

χαρὰν μεγάλην, ἥτις ἔσται παντὶ τῷ λαῷ

“that will make all the people very happy”

παντὶ τῷ λαῷ

Some understand this to refer to the Jewish people. Others understand it to refer to all people.

Luke 2:11

πόλει Δαυείδ

This refers to Bethlehem.

Luke 2:12

καὶ τοῦτο ὑμῖν τὸ σημεῖον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will give you this sign” or “You will see this sign from God” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸ σημεῖον

“the proof.” This could either be a sign to prove that what the angel was saying was true, or it could be a sign that would help the shepherds recognize the baby.

ἐσπαργανωμένον

This was the normal way that mothers protected and cared for their babies in that culture. See how you translated this in Luke 2:7. Alternate translation: “wrapped firmly in a warm blanket” or “wrapped comfortably in a blanket” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

κείμενον ἐν φάτνῃ

This was some kind of box or frame that people put hay or other food in for animals to eat. See how you translated this in Luke 2:7.

Luke 2:13

πλῆθος στρατιᾶς οὐρανίου

These words could refer to a literal army of angels, or it could be a metaphor for an organized group of angels. Alternate translation: “a large group of angels from heaven” (See: Metaphor)

αἰνούντων τὸν Θεὸν

“giving praise to God”

Luke 2:14

δόξα ἐν ὑψίστοις Θεῷ

Possible meanings are (1) “Give honor to God in the highest place” or (2) “Give the highest honor to God.”

ἐπὶ γῆς εἰρήνη ἐν ἀνθρώποις εὐδοκίας

“may those people on earth with whom God is pleased have peace”

Luke 2:15

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used to mark a shift in the story to what the shepherds did after the angels left.

ἀπ’ αὐτῶν

“from the shepherds”

πρὸς ἀλλήλους

“to one another”

διέλθωμεν…ἡμῖν

Since the shepherds were speaking to one another, languages that have inclusive forms for “we” and “us” should use the inclusive form here. (See: Inclusive and Exclusive “We”)

διέλθωμεν

“We should”

τὸ ῥῆμα τοῦτο τὸ γεγονὸς

This refers to the birth of the baby, and not to the appearance of the angels.

Luke 2:16

κείμενον ἐν τῇ φάτνῃ

A manger is a box or frame that people put hay or other food in for animals to eat. See how you translated this in Luke 2:7.

Luke 2:17

τοῦ ῥήματος τοῦ λαληθέντος αὐτοῖς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what the angels had told the shepherds” (See: Active or Passive)

τοῦ παιδίου τούτου

“the baby”

Luke 2:18

τῶν λαληθέντων ὑπὸ τῶν ποιμένων πρὸς αὐτούς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what the shepherds told them” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 2:19

συμβάλλουσα ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτῆς

A person who thinks is something is very valuable or precious is “treasuring” it. Mary considered the things she was told about her son to be very precious. Alternate translation: “carefully remembering them” or “joyfully remembering them” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 2:20

ὑπέστρεψαν οἱ ποιμένες

“shepherds went back to the sheep”

δοξάζοντες καὶ αἰνοῦντες τὸν Θεὸν

These are very similar and emphasize how excited they were about what God had done. Alternate translation: “talking about and praising God’s greatness” (See: Doublet)

Luke 2:21

The laws God gave the Jewish believers told them when to circumcise a boy baby and what sacrifice the parents had to bring.

ὅτε ἐπλήσθησαν ἡμέραι ὀκτὼ

This phrase shows the passing of time before this new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐπλήσθησαν ἡμέραι ὀκτὼ

“the end of the eighth day of his life.” The day he was born was counted as the first day.

ἐκλήθη τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ

Joseph and Mary gave him his name.

τὸ κληθὲν ὑπὸ τοῦ ἀγγέλου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the name the angel had called him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 2:22

ὅτε ἐπλήσθησαν αἱ ἡμέραι τοῦ καθαρισμοῦ αὐτῶν

This shows the passing of time before this new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

αἱ ἡμέραι τοῦ καθαρισμοῦ αὐτῶν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the number of days that God required” (See: Active or Passive)

τοῦ καθαρισμοῦ αὐτῶν

“for them to become ceremonially clean.” You can also state God’s role. Alternate translation: “for God to consider them to be clean again” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

παραστῆσαι τῷ Κυρίῳ

“to bring him to the Lord” or “to bring him into the Lord’s presence.” This was a ceremony acknowledging God’s claim on the firstborn children who were male.

Luke 2:23

καθὼς γέγραπται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As Moses wrote” or “They did this because Moses wrote” (See: Active or Passive)

πᾶν ἄρσεν διανοῖγον μήτραν

“open the womb” here is an idiom that refers to the first baby coming out of the womb. This referred to both animals and people. Alternate translation: “Every firstborn offspring who is a male” or “Every firstborn son” (See: Idiom)

Luke 2:24

τὸ εἰρημένον ἐν τῷ νόμῳ Κυρίου

“that which the law of the Lord also says.” This is a different place in the law. It refers to all males, whether firstborn or not.

Luke 2:25

When Mary and Joseph are at the temple, they meet two people: Simeon, who praises God and gives a prophecy about the child, and the prophetess Anna.

ἰδοὺ

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

δίκαιος καὶ εὐλαβής

These abstract terms can be expressed as actions. Alternate translation: “did what was right and feared God” or “obeyed God’s laws and feared God”

παράκλησιν τοῦ Ἰσραήλ

The word “Israel” is a metonym for the people of Israel. To “console” someone is to give them comfort, or “consolation.” The words “consolation of Israel” are a metonym for the Christ or Messiah who would comfort or bring consolation to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “the one who would comfort the people of Israel” (See: Metonymy)

Πνεῦμα ἦν Ἅγιον ἐπ’ αὐτόν

“the Holy Spirit was with him.” God was with him in a special way and gave him wisdom and direction in his life.

Luke 2:26

καὶ ἦν αὐτῷ κεχρηματισμένον ὑπὸ τοῦ Πνεύματος τοῦ Ἁγίου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit had shown him” or “The Holy Spirit had told him” (See: Active or Passive)

μὴ ἰδεῖν θάνατον πρὶν ἂν ἴδῃ τὸν Χριστὸν Κυρίου

“he would see the Lord’s Messiah before he died”

Luke 2:27

καὶ ἦλθεν ἐν τῷ Πνεύματι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As the Holy Spirit directed him” (See: Active or Passive)

ἦλθεν

Some languages may say “went.”

εἰς τὸ ἱερόν

“into the temple courtyard.” Only priests could enter the temple building. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τοὺς γονεῖς

“Jesus’ parents”

τὸ εἰθισμένον τοῦ νόμου

“the custom of the law of God”

Luke 2:28

αὐτὸς ἐδέξατο αὐτὸ εἰς τὰς ἀγκάλας

“Simeon took the infant Jesus into his arms” or “Simeon held Jesus in his arms”

Luke 2:29

νῦν ἀπολύεις τὸν δοῦλόν σου…ἐν εἰρήνῃ

“I am your servant; let me depart in peace.” Simeon was referring to himself.

ἀπολύεις

This is a euphemism meaning “die” (See: Euphemism)

κατὰ τὸ ῥῆμά σου

“Word” here is a metonym for “promise.” Alternate translation: “as you have promised” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 2:30

εἶδον οἱ ὀφθαλμοί μου

This expression means, “I have personally seen” or “I, myself, have seen” (See: Synecdoche)

τὸ σωτήριόν σου

This expression refers to the person who would bring salvation—the infant Jesus—whom Simeon was holding. Alternate translation: “the savior whom you sent” or “the one whom you sent to save” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 2:31

ὃ ἡτοίμασας

Depending on how you translate the previous phrase, this may need to be changed to “whom you.”

ἡτοίμασας

“have planned” or “caused to happen”

Luke 2:32

φῶς εἰς ἀποκάλυψιν ἐθνῶν

This metaphor means that the child will help people to understand God’s will. The Gentiles understanding God’s will is spoken of as if it were people using physical light to see a solid object. You may need to make explicit what it is that the Gentiles will see. Alternate translation: “This child will enable the Gentiles to understand God’s will as light allows people to see clearly” (See: Metaphor and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εἰς ἀποκάλυψιν

It may be necessary to state what is to be revealed. Alternate translation: “that will reveal God’s truth” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

δόξαν λαοῦ σου, Ἰσραήλ

“he will be the reason that glory will come to your people Israel”

Luke 2:33

τοῖς λαλουμένοις περὶ αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that Simeon said about him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 2:34

εἶπεν πρὸς Μαριὰμ τὴν μητέρα αὐτοῦ

“said to the child’s mother, Mary.” Make sure it does not sound like Mary is the mother of Simeon.

ἰδοὺ

Simeon used this expression to tell Mary that what he is about to say is extremely important to her.

οὗτος κεῖται εἰς πτῶσιν καὶ ἀνάστασιν πολλῶν ἐν τῷ Ἰσραὴλ

The words “downfall” and “rising up” express turning away from God and drawing closer to God. Alternate translation: “this child will cause many people in Israel to fall away from God or to rise closer to God” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

οὗτος

This refers to the baby Jesus. Alternate translation: "this child"

πολλῶν

"of many people"

Luke 2:35

ἂν ἀποκαλυφθῶσιν ἐκ πολλῶν καρδιῶν διαλογισμοί

Here “hearts” is a metonym for people’s inner beings. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he may reveal the thoughts of many people” or “he may reveal what many people secretly think” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

Luke 2:36

καὶ ἦν Ἅννα προφῆτις

This introduces a new participant into the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Φανουήλ

This is a man’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

ἔτη ἑπτὰ

“7 years” (See: Numbers)

ἀπὸ τῆς παρθενίας αὐτῆς

“after she married him”

Luke 2:37

χήρα ἕως ἐτῶν ὀγδοήκοντα τεσσάρων

Possible meanings are (1) she had been a widow for 84 years or (2) she was a widow and was now 84 years old. (See: Numbers)

οὐκ ἀφίστατο τοῦ ἱεροῦ

This is probably an exaggeration meaning that she spent so much time in the temple that it seemed as though she never left it. Alternate translation: “was always at the temple” or “was often at the temple” (See: Hyperbole)

νηστείαις καὶ δεήσεσιν

“by abstaining from food on many occasions and by offering many prayers”

Luke 2:38

ἐπιστᾶσα

“approached them” or “went to Mary and Joseph”

λύτρωσιν Ἰερουσαλήμ

Here the word “redemption” is used to refer to the person who would do it. Alternate translation: “the one who would redeem Jerusalem” or “the person who would bring God’s blessings and favor back to Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 2:39

Mary, Joseph, and Jesus leave the town of Bethlehem and return to the city of Nazareth for his childhood.

τὰ κατὰ τὸν νόμον Κυρίου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that the law of the Lord required them to do” (See: Active or Passive)

πόλιν ἑαυτῶν Ναζαρέτ

This phrase means they lived in Nazareth. Make sure it does not sound like they owned the town. Alternate translation: “the town of Nazareth, where they lived” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 2:40

πληρούμενον σοφίᾳ

“becoming more wise” or “learning what was wise”

χάρις Θεοῦ ἦν ἐπ’ αὐτό

“God blessed him” or “God was with him in a special way”

Luke 2:41

When Jesus is 12 years old, he goes to Jerusalem with his family. While he is there, he asks and answers questions of the temple teachers.

ἐπορεύοντο οἱ γονεῖς αὐτοῦ…τῇ ἑορτῇ τοῦ Πάσχα

This is background information. (See: Background Information)

οἱ γονεῖς αὐτοῦ

“Jesus’ parents”

Luke 2:42

ἀναβαινόντων αὐτῶν

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem.

κατὰ τὸ ἔθος

“at the normal time” or “as they did every year”

τῆς ἑορτῆς

This was another name for the Festival of the Passover, since it involved eating a ceremonial meal.

Luke 2:43

καὶ τελειωσάντων τὰς ἡμέρας

“When the entire time for celebrating the feast was over” or “After celebrating the feast for the required number of days”

Luke 2:44

νομίσαντες

“They thought”

ἦλθον ἡμέρας ὁδὸν

“they traveled one day” or “they went as far as people walk in one day”

Luke 2:46

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

This refers to the courtyard around the temple. Only the priests were allowed in the temple. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard” or “at the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐν μέσῳ

This does not mean the exact center. Rather, it means “among” or “together with” or “surrounded by.”

τῶν διδασκάλων

“the religious teachers” or “those who taught people about God”

Luke 2:47

ἐξίσταντο δὲ πάντες οἱ ἀκούοντες αὐτοῦ

They could not understand how a twelve-year-old boy with no religious education could answer so well.

ἐπὶ τῇ συνέσει

“at how much he understood” or “that he understood so much about God”

ταῖς ἀποκρίσεσιν αὐτοῦ

“at how well he answered them” or “that he answered their questions so well”

Luke 2:48

καὶ ἰδόντες αὐτὸν

“When Mary and Joseph found Jesus”

τί ἐποίησας ἡμῖν οὕτως?

This was an indirect rebuke because he had not gone with them on the way back home. This caused them to worry about him. Alternate translation: “you should not have done this to us!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἰδοὺ

This word is often used to show the beginning of a new or important event. It also can be used to show where the action begins. If your language has a phrase that is used in this way, consider whether it would be natural to use it here.

Luke 2:49

τί ὅτι ἐζητεῖτέ με?

Jesus uses two questions to mildly rebuke his parents, and to begin to tell them that he had a purpose from his heavenly Father that they did not understand. Alternate translation: “You did not need to be concerned about me” (See: Rhetorical Question)

οὐκ ᾔδειτε…δεῖ εἶναί με?

Jesus uses this second question to try to say that his parents should have known about the purpose for which his Father sent him. Alternate translation: “You should have known…business” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐν τοῖς τοῦ πατρός μου

Possible meanings are (1) Jesus meant these words literally, to indicate that he was doing the work that his Father had given him, or (2) these words are an idiom that indicate where Jesus was, “in my Father’s house.” Since the next verse says that his parents did not understand what he was telling them, it would be best not to explain it more.

τοῖς τοῦ πατρός μου

At age 12, Jesus, the Son of God, understood that God was his real Father (not Joseph, Mary’s husband). (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 2:51

καὶ κατέβη μετ’ αὐτῶν

“Jesus went back home with Mary and Joseph”

ἦν ὑποτασσόμενος αὐτοῖς

“obeyed them” or “was always obeying them”

διετήρει πάντα τὰ ῥήματα ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτῆς

Here “heart” is a metonym for a person’s mind or inner being. Alternate translation: “carefully remembered all these things” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 2:52

προέκοπτεν τῇ σοφίᾳ, καὶ ἡλικίᾳ

“become wiser and stronger.” These refer to mental and physical growth.

προέκοπτεν τῇ σοφίᾳ, καὶ ἡλικίᾳ

This refers to spiritual and social growth. These could be stated separately. Alternate translation: “God blessed him more and more, and people liked him more and more”

Luke 3

Luke 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 3:4-6, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

Justice

John’s instructions to the soldiers and tax collectors in this chapter are not complicated. They are things that should have been obvious to them. He instructed them to live justly. (See: just, justice, unjust, injustice, justify, justification and Luke 3:12-15)

Genealogy

A genealogy is a list which records a person’s ancestors or descendants. Such lists were very important in determining who had the right be king, because the king’s authority was usually passed down or inherited from his father. It was also common for other important people to have a recorded genealogy.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

Prophecy often involves the use of metaphors to express its meaning. Spiritual discernment is needed for proper interpretation of the prophecy. The prophecy of Isaiah is an extended metaphor describing the ministry of John the Baptist (Luke 3:4-6). Translation is difficult. It is suggested that the translator treat each line of the ULT as a separate metaphor. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and Metaphor)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“(Herod) had John locked up in prison”

This event can cause confusion because the author says John was imprisoned and then says he was baptizing Jesus. The author probably uses this phrase in anticipation of Herod’s imprisonment of John. This would mean that this statement is still in the future at the time of the narrative.

Luke 3:1

These verses give background information to tell what is happening when Jesus’ cousin John begins his ministry.

As the prophet Isaiah had foretold, John begins to preach good news to the people.

Φιλίππου…Λυσανίου

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

τῆς Ἰτουραίας καὶ Τραχωνίτιδος…τῆς Ἀβειληνῆς

These are names of territories. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:2

ἐπὶ ἀρχιερέως Ἅννα καὶ Καϊάφα

“while Annas and Caiaphas were serving together as the high priest.” Annas was the high priest, and the Jews continued to recognize him as such even after the Romans appointed his son-in-law, Caiaphas, to replace him as high priest.

ἐγένετο ῥῆμα Θεοῦ

The writer speaks of God’s message as though it were a person who moved toward those who heard it. Alternate translation: “God spoke his message” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 3:3

κηρύσσων βάπτισμα μετανοίας

The terms “baptism” and “repentance” could be stated as actions. Alternate translation: “and he preached that people should be baptized to show that they were repenting” (See: Abstract Nouns)

εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν

They would repent so that God would forgive their sins. The term “forgiveness” can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: “so that their sins would be forgiven” or “so that God would forgive their sins” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 3:4

The author, Luke, quotes a passage from Isaiah the prophet concerning John the Baptist.

ὡς γέγραπται ἐν βίβλῳ λόγων Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου

These words introduce a quotation from the prophet Isaiah. They can be stated in active form, and the missing words can be supplied. Alternate translation: “This happened as Isaiah the prophet had written in the book that contains his words” or “John fulfilled the message that the prophet Isaiah had written in his book” (See: Active or Passive and Ellipsis)

φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ

This can be expressed as a sentence. Alternate translation: “The voice of one calling out in the wilderness is heard” or “They hear the sound of someone calling out in the wilderness”

ἑτοιμάσατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου; εὐθείας ποιεῖτε τὰς τρίβους αὐτοῦ

The second command explains or adds more detail to the first.

ἑτοιμάσατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου

“Get the road ready for the Lord.” Doing this represents preparing to hear the Lord’s message when he comes. People do this by repenting of their sins. Alternate translation: “Prepare to hear the Lord’s message when he comes” or “Repent and be ready for the Lord to come” (See: Metaphor and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὴν ὁδὸν

“the path” or “the road”

Luke 3:5

πᾶσα φάραγξ πληρωθήσεται, καὶ πᾶν ὄρος καὶ βουνὸς ταπεινωθήσεται

When people prepare the road for an important person who is coming, they cut down the high places and fill in the low places so that the road will be level. This is part of the metaphor started in the previous verse. (See: Metaphor)

πᾶσα φάραγξ πληρωθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They will fill in every low place in the road” (See: Active or Passive)

πᾶν ὄρος καὶ βουνὸς ταπεινωθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they will level every mountain and hill” or “they will remove every high place in the road” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 3:6

ὄψεται…τὸ σωτήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ

This can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: “learn how God saves people from sin” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 3:7

βαπτισθῆναι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for John to baptize them” (See: Active or Passive)

γεννήματα ἐχιδνῶν

This is a metaphor. Here “offspring” means “having the characteristic of.” Vipers are poisonous snakes that are dangerous and represent evil. Alternate translation: “You evil poisonous snakes” or “You are evil, like poisonous snakes (See: Metaphor)

τίς ὑπέδειξεν ὑμῖν φυγεῖν ἀπὸ τῆς μελλούσης ὀργῆς?

He was not really expecting them to answer. John was rebuking the people because they were asking him to baptize them so that God would not punish them, but they did not want to stop sinning. Alternate translation: “You cannot flee from God’s wrath like this!” or “You cannot escape from God’s wrath just by being baptized!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἀπὸ τῆς μελλούσης ὀργῆς

The word “wrath” is used here to refer to God’s punishment because his wrath precedes it. Alternate translation: “from the punishment that God is sending” or “from God’s wrath on which he is about to act” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

Luke 3:8

ποιήσατε…καρποὺς ἀξίους τῆς μετανοίας

In this metaphor, a person’s behavior is compared to fruit. Just as a plant is expected to produce fruit that is appropriate for that kind of plant, a person who says that he has repented is expected to live righteously. Alternate translation: “produce the kind of fruit that shows that you have repented” or “do the good things that show that you have turned away from your sin” (See: Metaphor)

λέγειν ἐν ἑαυτοῖς

“saying to yourselves” or “thinking”

πατέρα ἔχομεν τὸν Ἀβραάμ

“Abraham is our ancestor” or “We are Abraham’s descendants.” If it is unclear why they would say this, you may also add the implied information: “so God will not punish us.” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐγεῖραι τέκνα τῷ Ἀβραάμ

“create children for Abraham”

ἐκ τῶν λίθων τούτων

John was probably referring to the actual stones along the Jordan River.

Luke 3:9

ἡ ἀξίνη πρὸς τὴν ῥίζαν τῶν δένδρων κεῖται

The ax that is in position so it can cut the roots of a tree is a metaphor for the punishment that is about to begin. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God is like the man who has placed his ax against the root of the trees” (See: Active or Passive and Metaphor)

πᾶν…δένδρον…ἐκκόπτεται καὶ εἰς πῦρ βάλλεται

“fire” here is a metaphor for punishment. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he chops down every tree…and throws it into the fire” (See: Active or Passive and Metaphor)

Luke 3:10

John begins to respond to questions that people in the crowd ask him.

ἐπηρώτων αὐτὸν…λέγοντες

“asking him and said” or “asking John”

Luke 3:11

ἀποκριθεὶς…ἔλεγεν αὐτοῖς

“answered them, saying” or “answered them” or “said”

ὁμοίως ποιείτω

“share extra food just as you shared the extra tunic.” This refers back to giving food to those in need. Alternate translation: “give food to someone who does not have any” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 3:12

βαπτισθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for John to baptize them” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 3:13

μηδὲν πλέον…πράσσετε

“Do not ask for more money” or “Do not demand more money.” Tax collectors had been collecting more money than they should have been collecting. John tells them to stop doing that.

τὸ διατεταγμένον ὑμῖν

This is passive to show that the tax collector’s authority comes from Rome. Alternate translation: “than what the Romans have authorized you to take” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 3:14

τί ποιήσωμεν καὶ ἡμεῖς?

“How about us soldiers, what must we do?” John is not included in the words “us” and “we.” The soldiers have implied that John had told the crowd and the tax collector what they must do and want to know what they as soldiers are to do. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

μηδὲ συκοφαντήσητε

It seems that the soldiers were making false charges against people in order to get money. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “in the same way, do not accuse anyone falsely in order to get money from them” or “do not say that an innocent person has done something illegal”

ἀρκεῖσθε τοῖς ὀψωνίοις ὑμῶν

“Be satisfied with your pay”

Luke 3:15

δὲ τοῦ λαοῦ

“because the people.” This refers to the same people who came to John.

διαλογιζομένων πάντων ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις αὐτῶν περὶ τοῦ Ἰωάννου, μήποτε αὐτὸς εἴη ὁ Χριστός

“everyone was unsure what to think about John; they asked themselves, ‘Could he be the Christ?’” or “no one was sure what to think about John because they were wondering whether he might be the Christ.”

Luke 3:16

ἀπεκρίνατο λέγων πᾶσιν ὁ Ἰωάννης

John’s answer about a greater person coming clearly implies that John is not the Christ. It may be helpful to state this clearly for your audience. Alternate translation: “John clarified that he was not the Christ by saying to them all” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὕδατι βαπτίζω ὑμᾶς

“I baptize using water” or “I baptize by means of water”

οὐκ εἰμὶ ἱκανὸς λῦσαι τὸν ἱμάντα τῶν ὑποδημάτων αὐτοῦ

“not important enough even to loosen the straps of his sandals.” Untying the straps of sandals was a duty of a slave. John was saying that the one who would come is so great that John was not even worthy enough to be his slave.

αὐτὸς ὑμᾶς βαπτίσει ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ, καὶ πυρί

This metaphor compares literal baptism that brings a person into contact with water to a spiritual baptism that brings them into contact with the Holy Spirit and with fire. (See: Metaphor)

πυρί

Here the word “fire” may refer to (1) judgment or (2) purification. It is preferred to leave it as “fire” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 3:17

οὗ τὸ πτύον ἐν τῇ χειρὶ αὐτοῦ

“He is holding a winnowing fork because he is ready.” John speaks of the Christ coming to judge people as if he were a farmer who is ready to separate wheat grain from chaff. Alternate translation: “He is ready to judge people like a farmer who is ready” (See: Metaphor)

τὸ πτύον

This is a tool for tossing wheat into the air to separate the wheat grain from the chaff. The heavier grain falls back down and the unwanted chaff is blown away by the wind. It is similar to a pitchfork.

διακαθᾶραι τὴν ἅλωνα αὐτοῦ

The threshing floor was the place where wheat was stacked in preparation for threshing. To “clear off” the floor is to finish threshing the grain. Alternate translation: “to finish threshing his grain”

συναγαγεῖν τὸν σῖτον

The wheat is the acceptable harvest that is kept and stored.

τὸ…ἄχυρον κατακαύσει

The chaff is not useful for anything, so people burn it up.

Luke 3:18

The story tells what is going to happen to John but has not happened at this time. (See: Background Information)

πολλὰ μὲν οὖν καὶ ἕτερα παρακαλῶν

“With many other strong urgings”

Luke 3:19

ὁ…Ἡρῴδης ὁ τετράρχης

Herod was a tetrarch, not a king. He had only limited rule over the region of Galilee.

περὶ Ἡρῳδιάδος, τῆς γυναικὸς τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ αὐτοῦ

“because Herod married Herodias, his own brother’s wife.” This was evil because Herod’s brother was still alive. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “because he married his brother’s wife, Herodias, while his brother was still alive” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 3:20

κατέκλεισεν τὸν Ἰωάννην ἐν φυλακῇ

Because Herod was tetrarch, he probably locked John up by ordering his soldiers to lock John up. Alternate translation: “he had his soldiers lock John up in prison” or “he told his soldiers to put John in prison” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 3:21

The previous verse says that Herod put John in prison. It might be helpful to make it clear that the account starting in verse 21 happened before John was arrested. The UST does this by starting verse 21 with “But before John was put in prison.” (See: Order of Events)

Jesus begins his ministry with his baptism.

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase marks the beginning of a new event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

βαπτισθῆναι ἅπαντα τὸν λαὸν

“while John baptized all the people.” The phrase “all the people” refers to the people present with John. (See: Active or Passive)

καὶ Ἰησοῦ βαπτισθέντος

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “John baptized Jesus also” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀνεῳχθῆναι τὸν οὐρανὸν

“the sky opened” or “the sky became open.” This is more than a simple clearing of clouds, but it’s not clear what it means. It possibly means that a hole appeared in the sky.

Luke 3:22

καταβῆναι τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον σωματικῷ εἴδει, ὡς περιστερὰν ἐπ’ αὐτόν

“in physical form the Holy Spirit came down like a dove onto Jesus”

φωνὴν ἐξ οὐρανοῦ γενέσθαι

Here “a voice came from heaven” represents people on earth hearing God in heaven speaking. It can be made clear that God spoke to Jesus. Alternate translation: “a voice from heaven said” or “God spoke to Jesus from heaven, saying” (See: Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὁ Υἱός μου

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 3:23

Luke lists the ancestors of Jesus through the line of his supposed father, Joseph.

καὶ

This word is used here to mark a change from the story to background information about Jesus’ age and ancestors. (See: Background Information)

ἐτῶν τριάκοντα

“30 years old” (See: Numbers)

ὢν υἱός, ὡς ἐνομίζετο, Ἰωσὴφ

“It was thought that he was the son of Joseph” or “People assumed that he was the son of Joseph”

Luke 3:24

τοῦ Μαθθὰτ, τοῦ Λευεὶ, τοῦ Μελχεὶ, τοῦ Ἰανναὶ, τοῦ Ἰωσὴφ

This continues the list that begins with the words “He was the son…of Joseph, the son of Heli” in verse 24. Consider how people normally list ancestors in your language. You should use the same wording throughout the whole list. Possible formats are (1) “He was the son…of Joseph, the son of Heli, who was the son of Matthat, who was the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Jannai, the son of Joseph” or (2) “He was the son…of Joseph. Joseph was the son of Heli. Heli was the son of Matthat. Matthat was the son of Levi. Levi was the son of Melchi. Melchi was the son of Jannai. Jannai was the son of Joseph” or (3) “His father…was Joseph. Joseph’s father was Heli. Heli’s father was Matthat. Matthat’s father was Levi. Levi’s father was Melchi. Melchi’s father was Jannai. Jannai’s father was Joseph” (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:25

τοῦ Ματταθίου, τοῦ Ἀμὼς…Ναγγαὶ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:26

τοῦ Μάαθ…Ἰωδὰ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:27

τοῦ Ἰωανὰν…Νηρεὶ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that begins in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

τοῦ Ἰωανὰν…Σαλαθιὴλ

The name Salathiel may be a different spelling of the name Shealtiel (as some versions have it), but identification is difficult.

Luke 3:28

τοῦ Μελχεὶ…Ἢρ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:29

τοῦ Ἰησοῦ…Λευεὶ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:30

τοῦ Συμεὼν…Ἐλιακεὶμ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:31

τοῦ Μελεὰ…Δαυεὶδ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:32

τοῦ Ἰεσσαὶ…Ναασσὼν

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:33

τοῦ Ἀμιναδὰβ…Ἰούδα

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:34

τοῦ Ἰακὼβ…Ναχὼρ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:35

τοῦ Σεροὺχ…Σαλὰ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:36

τοῦ Καϊνὰμ…Λάμεχ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:37

τοῦ Μαθουσαλὰ…Καϊνὰμ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 3:38

τοῦ Ἐνὼς…Ἀδὰμ

This is a continuation of the list of Jesus’ ancestors that began in Luke 3:23. Use the same format as you used in the previous verses. (See: How to Translate Names)

Ἀδὰμ, τοῦ Θεοῦ

“Adam, created by God” or “Adam, who was from God” or “Adam, the son, we could say, of God”

Luke 4

Luke 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 4:10-11, 18-19, which are words from the Old Testament.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Jesus was tempted by the devil

While it is true that the devil sincerely believed that he could persuade Jesus to obey him, it is important not to imply that Jesus actually ever really wanted to obey him.

Luke 4:1

Jesus fasts for 40 days, and the devil meets him to try to persuade him to sin.

Ἰησοῦς δὲ

After John had baptized Jesus. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἤγετο ἐν τῷ Πνεύματι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Spirit led him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 4:2

ἡμέρας τεσσεράκοντα πειραζόμενος

Most versions say that the temptation was throughout the forty days. The UST states “While he was there, the devil kept tempting him” to make this clear.

ἡμέρας τεσσεράκοντα

“40 days” (See: Numbers)

πειραζόμενος ὑπὸ τοῦ διαβόλου

This can be stated in active form, and you can make explicit what it was the devil tempted him to do. Alternate translation: “the devil tried to persuade him disobey God” (See: Active or Passive and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καὶ οὐκ ἔφαγεν οὐδὲν

The word “he” refers to Jesus.

Luke 4:3

εἰ Υἱὸς εἶ τοῦ Θεοῦ

The devil challenges Jesus to do this miracle in order to prove that he is “the Son of God” (See: Translating Son and Father)

τῷ λίθῳ τούτῳ

The devil either holds a stone in his hand or points to a nearby stone.

Luke 4:4

καὶ ἀπεκρίθη πρὸς αὐτὸν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, γέγραπται, ὅτι οὐκ ἐπ’ ἄρτῳ μόνῳ ζήσεται ὁ ἄνθρωπος.

Jesus’ rejection of the devil’s challenge is clearly implied in his answer. It may be helpful to state this clearly for your audience, as the UST does. Alternate translation: “Jesus replied, ‘No, I will not do that because it is written…alone.’” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

γέγραπται

The quotation is from Moses’ writings in the Old Testament. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Moses has written in the scriptures” (See: Active or Passive)

οὐκ ἐπ’ ἄρτῳ μόνῳ ζήσεται ὁ ἄνθρωπος

The word “bread” refers to food in general. Food as compared to God, by itself, is not enough to sustain a person. Jesus quotes the scripture to say why he would not turn the stone into bread. Alternate translation: “People cannot live on just bread” or “It is not just food that makes a person live” or “God says there are more important things than food” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 4:5

ἀναγαγὼν αὐτὸν

He led Jesus up a mountain. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐν στιγμῇ χρόνου

“in an instant” or “instantly”

Luke 4:6

ἐμοὶ παραδέδοται

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are that “them” refers to (1) the authority and splendor of the kingdoms or (2) the kingdoms. Alternate translation: “God has given them to me” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

Luke 4:7

ἐὰν προσκυνήσῃς ἐνώπιον ἐμοῦ

These two phrases are very similar. They can be combined. Alternate translation: “if you will bow down in worship to me” (See: Doublet)

ἔσται σοῦ

“I will give you all these kingdoms, with their splendor”

Luke 4:8

γέγραπται

Jesus refused to do what the devil asked. It may be helpful to state this clearly. Alternate translation: “No, I will not worship you, because it is written” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀποκριθεὶς…εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“responded to him” or “replied to him”

γέγραπται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Moses has written in the scriptures” (See: Active or Passive)

Κύριον τὸν Θεόν σου προσκυνήσεις

Jesus was quoting a command from the scriptures to say why he would not worship the devil.

προσκυνήσεις

This refers to the people in the Old Testament who received God’s Law. You could use the singular form of ‘you’ because each person was to obey it, or you could use the plural form of ‘you’ because all of the people were to obey it. (See: Forms of You)

αὐτῷ

The word “him” refers to the Lord God.

Luke 4:9

τὸ πτερύγιον

This was the corner of the temple roof. If someone fell from there, they would be seriously injured or die.

εἰ Υἱὸς εἶ τοῦ Θεοῦ

The devil is challenging Jesus to prove that he is the Son of God.

Υἱὸς…τοῦ Θεοῦ

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: Translating Son and Father)

βάλε σεαυτὸν…κάτω

“jump down to the ground”

Luke 4:10

γέγραπται γὰρ

The devil implies that his quote from the Psalms means Jesus will not be hurt if he is the Son of God. This can be stated clearly, as the UST does. Alternate translation: “You will not be hurt, because it is written” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

γέγραπται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the writer has written” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐντελεῖται

“He” refers to God. The devil partially quoted from the Psalms in an effort to persuade Jesus to jump off the building.

Luke 4:12

εἴρηται

Jesus tells the devil why he will not do what the devil told him to do. His refusal to do it can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “No, I will not do that, because it is said” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εἴρηται

Jesus quotes from the writings of Moses in Deuteronomy. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Moses has said” or “Moses has said in the scriptures” (See: Active or Passive)

οὐκ ἐκπειράσεις Κύριον τὸν Θεόν σου

Possible meanings are (1) Jesus should not test God by jumping off the temple, or (2) the devil should not test Jesus to see if he is the Son of God. It is best to translate the verse as stated rather than to try to explain the meaning.

Luke 4:13

ἄχρι καιροῦ

“until another occasion”

συντελέσας πάντα πειρασμὸν

This does not imply that the devil was successful in his temptation—Jesus resisted every attempt. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “had finished trying to persuade Jesus to sin” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 4:14

Jesus returns to Galilee, teaches in the synagogue, and tells the people there that he is fulfilling scripture of Isaiah the prophet.

καὶ ὑπέστρεψεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς

This begins a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῇ δυνάμει τοῦ Πνεύματος

“and the Spirit was giving him power.” God was with Jesus in a special way, enabling him to do things that humans usually could not.

φήμη ἐξῆλθεν…περὶ αὐτοῦ

“people spread the news about Jesus” or “people told other people about Jesus” or “knowledge about him was passed on from person to person.” Those who heard Jesus told other people about him, and then those other people told even more people about him.

καθ’ ὅλης τῆς περιχώρου

This refers to the areas or places around Galilee.

Luke 4:15

δοξαζόμενος ὑπὸ πάντων

“everyone said great things about him” or “all the people spoke about him in a good way”

Luke 4:16

οὗ ἦν τεθραμμένος

“where his parents had raised him” or “where he lived when he was a child” or “where he grew up”

κατὰ τὸ εἰωθὸς αὐτῷ

“as he did each Sabbath.” It was his usual practice to go to the synagogue on the Sabbath day.

Luke 4:17

καὶ ἐπεδόθη αὐτῷ βιβλίον τοῦ προφήτου Ἠσαΐου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone gave him the scroll of the prophet Isaiah” (See: Active or Passive)

βιβλίον τοῦ προφήτου Ἠσαΐου

This refers to the book of Isaiah written on a scroll. Isaiah had written the words many years before, and someone else had copied them onto a scroll.

τὸν τόπον οὗ ἦν γεγραμμένον

“the place in the scroll with these words.” This sentence continues on into the next verse.

Luke 4:18

Πνεῦμα Κυρίου ἐπ’ ἐμέ

“The Holy Spirit is with me in a special way.” When someone says this, he is claiming to speak the words of God.

ἔχρισέν με

In the Old Testament, ceremonial oil was poured on a person when they were given power and authority to do a special task. Jesus uses this metaphor to refer to the Holy Spirit being on him to prepare him for this work. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit is upon me to empower me” or “the Holy Spirit gave me power and authority” (See: Metaphor)

πτωχοῖς

“the poor people””

κηρύξαι αἰχμαλώτοις ἄφεσιν

“tell people who are being held captive that they can go free” or “set free the prisoners of war”

τυφλοῖς ἀνάβλεψιν

“give sight to the blind” or “make the blind be able to see again”

ἀποστεῖλαι τεθραυσμένους ἐν ἀφέσει

“set free those who are treated harshly”

Luke 4:19

κηρύξαι ἐνιαυτὸν Κυρίου δεκτόν

“tell everyone that the Lord is ready to bless his people” or “announce that this is the year that the Lord will show his kindness”

Luke 4:20

πτύξας τὸ βιβλίον

A scroll was closed by rolling it like a tube to protect the writing inside it.

τῷ ὑπηρέτῃ

This refers to a synagogue worker who brought out and put away with proper care and reverence the scrolls containing the scriptures.

ἦσαν ἀτενίζοντες αὐτῷ

This idiom means “were focused on him” or “were looking intently at him” (See: Idiom)

Luke 4:21

πεπλήρωται ἡ Γραφὴ αὕτη ἐν τοῖς ὠσὶν ὑμῶν

Jesus was saying that he was fulfilling that prophecy by his actions and speech at that very time. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am fulfilling what this scripture said right now as you are listening to me” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐν τοῖς ὠσὶν ὑμῶν

This idiom means “while you are listening to me” (See: Idiom)

Luke 4:22

ἐθαύμαζον ἐπὶ τοῖς λόγοις τῆς χάριτος τοῖς ἐκπορευομένοις ἐκ τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ

“surprised about the gracious things that he was saying.” Here “gracious” may refer to (1) how well or how persuasively Jesus spoke, or (2) that Jesus spoke words about God’s grace.

οὐχὶ υἱός ἐστιν Ἰωσὴφ οὗτος?

People thought that Joseph was Jesus’ father. Joseph was not a religious leader, so they were surprised that his son would preach what he did. Alternate translation: “This is just Joseph’s son!” or “His father is only Joseph!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 4:23

Nazareth is the town in which Jesus grew up.

πάντως

“Certainly” or “There is no doubt that”

ἰατρέ, θεράπευσον σεαυτόν

If someone claims to be able to heal diseases that he himself has, there is no reason to believe he is really a doctor. People will speak this proverb to Jesus to say that they will only believe he is a prophet if they see him do what they have heard that he did in other places. (See: Proverbs)

ὅσα ἠκούσαμεν…ποίησον καὶ ὧδε ἐν τῇ πατρίδι σου

The people of Nazareth do not believe Jesus is a prophet because of his low status as Joseph’s son. They will not believe unless they personally see him do miracles.

Luke 4:24

ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν

“It is certainly true.” This is an emphatic statement about what follows.

οὐδεὶς προφήτης δεκτός ἐστιν ἐν τῇ πατρίδι αὐτοῦ

Jesus makes this general statement in order to rebuke the people. He means that they are refusing to believe the reports of his miracles in Capernaum. They think they already know all about him. (See: Proverbs)

τῇ πατρίδι αὐτοῦ

“homeland” or “native city” or “country where he grew up”

Luke 4:25

Jesus reminds the people who are listening to him in the synagogue about Elijah and Elisha, who were prophets about whom they knew. (See: Background Information)

ἐπ’ ἀληθείας δὲ λέγω ὑμῖν

“I tell you truthfully.” Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the importance, truth, and accuracy of the statement that follows.

χῆραι

Widows are women whose husbands have died.

ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις Ἠλείου

The people to whom Jesus was speaking would have known that Elijah was one of God’s prophets. If your readers would not know that, you can make this implicit information explicit as in the UST. Alternate translation: “when Elijah was prophesying in Israel” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὅτε ἐκλείσθη ὁ οὐρανὸς

This is a metaphor. The sky is pictured as a ceiling that was closed, and so no rain would fall from it. Alternate translation: “when no rain fell down from the sky” or “when there was no rain at all” (See: Metaphor)

λιμὸς μέγας

“a serious lack of food.” A famine is a long period of time when the crops do not produce enough food for the people.

Luke 4:26

εἰς Σάρεπτα…πρὸς γυναῖκα χήραν

The people living in the town of Zarephath were Gentiles, not Jews. The people listening to Jesus would have understood that the people of Zarephath were Gentiles. Alternate translation: “to a Gentile widow living in Zarephath” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and How to Translate Names)

Luke 4:27

Ναιμὰν ὁ Σύρος

A Syrian is a person from the country of Syria. The people of Syria were Gentiles, not Jews. Alternate translation: “the Gentile Naaman from Syria” (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 4:28

καὶ ἐπλήσθησαν πάντες θυμοῦ ἐν τῇ συναγωγῇ ἀκούοντες ταῦτα

The people of Nazareth were deeply offended that Jesus had cited scriptures where God had helped Gentiles instead of Jews.

Luke 4:29

ἐξέβαλον αὐτὸν ἔξω τῆς πόλεως

“forced him to leave the town” or “shoved him out of the city”

ὀφρύος τοῦ ὄρους

“edge of the cliff”

Luke 4:30

αὐτὸς δὲ, διελθὼν διὰ μέσου αὐτῶν

“through the middle of the crowd” or “between the people who were trying to kill him.”

ἐπορεύετο

“he went away” or “he went on his way” Jesus went where he had planned to go instead of where the people were trying to force him to go.

Luke 4:31

Jesus then goes to Capernaum, teaches the people in the synagogue there, and commands a demon to leave a man.

καὶ κατῆλθεν

“Then Jesus.” This indicates a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

κατῆλθεν εἰς Καφαρναοὺμ

The phrase “went down” is used here because Capernaum is lower in elevation than Nazareth.

Καφαρναοὺμ, πόλιν τῆς Γαλιλαίας

“Capernaum, another city in Galilee”

Luke 4:32

καὶ ἐξεπλήσσοντο

greatly surprised, greatly amazed

ἐν ἐξουσίᾳ ἦν ὁ λόγος αὐτοῦ

“he spoke as one with authority” or “his words had great power”

Luke 4:33

καὶ…ἦν ἄνθρωπος

This phrase is used to mark the introduction of a new character into the story; in this case, a demon-possessed man. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἔχων πνεῦμα δαιμονίου ἀκαθάρτου

“who was possessed by an unclean demon” or “who was controlled by an evil spirit”

ἀνέκραξεν φωνῇ μεγάλῃ

“he shouted loudly”

Luke 4:34

τί ἡμῖν καὶ σοί

This belligerent response is an idiom that means: “What do we have in common?” or “What right do you have to bother us?” (See: Idiom)

τί ἡμῖν καὶ σοί, Ἰησοῦ Ναζαρηνέ?

This question could be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “What do you, Jesus of Nazareth, have to do with us!” or We have nothing to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth!” or “You have no right to bother us, Jesus of Nazareth!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 4:35

ἐπετίμησεν αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς λέγων

“Jesus scolded the demon, saying” or “Jesus sternly said to the demon”

ἔξελθε ἀπ’ αὐτοῦ

He commanded the demon to stop controlling the man. Alternate translation: “leave him alone” or “do not live in this man any longer”

Luke 4:36

τίς ὁ λόγος οὗτος

The people were expressing how amazed they were that Jesus had the authority to command demons to leave a person. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “These are amazing words!” or “His words are amazing!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐν ἐξουσίᾳ καὶ δυνάμει ἐπιτάσσει τοῖς ἀκαθάρτοις πνεύμασιν

“He has authority and power to command the unclean spirits”

Luke 4:37

καὶ ἐξεπορεύετο ἦχος περὶ αὐτοῦ…τῆς περιχώρου

This is a comment about what happened after the story that was caused by the events within the story itself. (See: End of Story)

ἐξεπορεύετο ἦχος περὶ αὐτοῦ

“reports about Jesus began to spread” or “people began to spread the news about Jesus”

Luke 4:38

Jesus is still in Capernaum, but he is now at the house of Simon, where he heals Simon’s mother-in-law and many people.

ἀναστὰς δὲ

This introduces a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

πενθερὰ…τοῦ Σίμωνος

“the mother of Simon’s wife”

ἦν συνεχομένη

This is an idiom that means “was very sick with” (See: Idiom)

πυρετῷ μεγάλῳ

“very hot skin”

ἠρώτησαν αὐτὸν περὶ αὐτῆς

This means they asked Jesus to heal her from the fever. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “asked Jesus to heal her from the fever” or “asked Jesus to cure her fever” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 4:39

καὶ ἐπιστὰς

The word “So” makes it clear that he did this because the people pleaded with him on behalf of Simon’s mother-in-law.

ἐπιστὰς ἐπάνω αὐτῆς

“went to her and leaned over her”

ἐπετίμησεν τῷ πυρετῷ, καὶ ἀφῆκεν αὐτήν

“spoke sternly to the fever, and it left her” or “commanded the fever to leave her, and it did.” It may be helpful to state clearly what he told the fever to do. Alternate translation: “commanded that her skin should become cool, and it did” or “commanded the sickness to leave her, and it did” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐπετίμησεν τῷ πυρετῷ

“rebuked the hotness”

διηκόνει αὐτοῖς

Here this means she began to prepare food for Jesus and the other people in the house.

Luke 4:40

ἑνὶ…τὰς χεῖρας ἐπιτιθεὶς

“placed his hands on” or “touched”

Luke 4:41

ἐξήρχετο…καὶ δαιμόνια

It is implied that Jesus made the demons leave the demon-possessed people. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Jesus also forced demons to come out” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

κραυγάζοντα καὶ λέγοντα

These mean about the same thing, and probably refer to cries of fear or anger. Some translations use only one term. Alternate translation: “screaming” or “shouting” (See: Doublet)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ἐπιτιμῶν

“spoke sternly to the demons”

οὐκ εἴα αὐτὰ

“did not allow them to”

Luke 4:42

Though the people want Jesus to stay in Capernaum, he goes to preach in other Judean synagogues.

γενομένης…ἡμέρας, ἐξελθὼν

“At sunrise” or “At dawn”

ἔρημον τόπον

“a deserted place” or “a place where there were no people”

Luke 4:43

ταῖς ἑτέραις πόλεσιν

“to the people in many other cities”

τοῦτο ἀπεστάλην

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “this is the reason God sent me here” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 4:44

τῆς Ἰουδαίας

Since Jesus had been in Galilee, the term “Judea” here probably refers to the entire region where the Jews lived at that time. Alternate translation: “where the Jews lived”

Luke 5

Luke 05 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“You will catch men”

Peter, James, and John were fishermen. When Jesus told them that they would catch men, he was using a metaphor to tell them he wanted them to help people believe the good news about him. (See: disciple and Metaphor)

Sinners

When the people of Jesus’ time spoke of “sinners,” they were talking about people who did not obey the law of Moses and instead committed sins like stealing or sexual sins. When Jesus said that he came to call “sinners,” he meant that only people who believe that they are sinners can be his followers. This is true even if they are not what most people think of as “sinners.” (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

Fasting and Feasting

People would fast, or not eat food for a long time, when they were sad or were showing God that they were sorry for their sins. When they were happy, like during weddings, they would have feasts, or meals where they would eat much food. (See: fast, fasting)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Hypothetical Situation

Jesus uses a hypothetical situation to condemn the Pharisees. This passage includes “people in good health” and “righteous people.” This does not mean that there are people who do not need Jesus. There are no “righteous people,” everybody needs Jesus. (See: Hypothetical Situations and Luke 5:31-32)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Implicit information

In several parts of this chapter the author left some information implicit that his original readers would have understood and thought about. Modern readers might not know some of those things, so they might have trouble understanding all that the author was communicating. The UST often shows how that information can be presented so that modern readers will be able to understand those passages. (See: Translate Unknowns and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Past Events

Parts of this chapter are sequences of events that have already happened. In a given passage, Luke sometimes writes as if the events have already happened while other events are still in progress (even though they are complete at the time he writes). This can cause difficulty in translation by creating an illogical order of events. It may be necessary to make these consistent by writing as if all the events have already happened.

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 5:24). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 5:1

Jesus preaches from Simon Peter’s boat at the lake of Gennesaret.

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἀκούειν τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ

Possible meanings are (1) “listening to the message God wanted them to hear” or (2) “listening to Jesus’ message about God”

τὴν λίμνην Γεννησαρέτ

These words refer to the Sea of Galilee. Galilee was on the west side of the lake, and the land of Gennesaret was on the east side, so it was called by both names. Some English versions translate this as the proper name of the body of water, “the Lake of Gennesaret.”

Luke 5:2

ἔπλυνον τὰ δίκτυα

They were cleaning their fishing nets in order to use them again to catch fish.

Luke 5:3

εἰς ἓν τῶν πλοίων, ὃ ἦν Σίμωνος

“the boat belonging to Simon”

ἠρώτησεν αὐτὸν ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς ἐπαναγαγεῖν ὀλίγον

“asked Simon to move the boat farther from the shore”

καθίσας…ἐδίδασκεν…τοὺς ὄχλους

Sitting was the normal position for a teacher.

ἐδίδασκεν ἐκ τοῦ πλοίου τοὺς ὄχλους

“taught the people while he sat in the boat.” Jesus was in the boat a short distance from the shore and he was speaking to the people who were on the shore.

Luke 5:4

ὡς δὲ ἐπαύσατο λαλῶν

“When Jesus had finished teaching the people”

Luke 5:5

ἐπὶ δὲ τῷ ῥήματί σου

“because you have told me to do this”

Luke 5:7

κατένευσαν

They were too far from shore to call, so they made gestures, probably by waving their arms.

βυθίζεσθαι αὐτά

“the boats began to sink.” The reason could be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the boats began to sink because the fish were so heavy” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 5:8

προσέπεσεν τοῖς γόνασιν Ἰησοῦ

Possible meanings are (1) “knelt down before Jesus” or (2) “bowed down at Jesus’ feet” or (3) “lay down on the ground at Jesus’ feet.” Peter did not fall accidentally. He did this as a sign of humility and respect for Jesus. (See: Symbolic Action)

ἀνὴρ ἁμαρτωλός

The word here for “man” means “adult male” and not the more general “human being.”

Luke 5:9

τῇ ἄγρᾳ τῶν ἰχθύων

“the large number of fish”

Luke 5:10

κοινωνοὶ τῷ Σίμωνι

“Simon’s partners in his fishing business”

ἀνθρώπους ἔσῃ ζωγρῶν

The image of catching fish is being used as a metaphor for gathering people to follow Christ. Alternate translation: “you will fish for people” or “you will gather people for me” or “you will bring people to be my disciples” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 5:11

τὴν γῆν

"the shore"

Luke 5:12

Jesus heals a leper in a different city that is not named.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase marks a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἀνὴρ πλήρης λέπρας

“a man who was covered with leprosy.” This introduces a new character in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

πεσὼν ἐπὶ πρόσωπον

Here “fell on his face” is an idiom that means to bow down. Alternate translation: “he knelt and touched the ground with his face” or “he bowed down to the ground” (See: Idiom)

ἐὰν θέλῃς

“if you want to”

δύνασαί με καθαρίσαι

It is understood that he was asking Jesus to heal him. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “please make me clean, because you are able” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

με καθαρίσαι

This refers to ceremonial cleanness, but it is understood that he is unclean because of the leprosy. He is really asking Jesus to heal him of his disease. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “heal me from leprosy so I will be clean” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 5:13

καὶ ἐκτείνας τὴν χεῖρα, ἥψατο αὐτοῦ

"Then Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man"

καθαρίσθητι

This was not a command that the man was supposed to obey. Instead, this was a command that directly caused the man to be healed. (See: Imperatives - Other Uses)

ἡ λέπρα ἀπῆλθεν ἀπ’ αὐτοῦ

“he no longer had leprosy”

Luke 5:14

μηδενὶ εἰπεῖν

This can be translated as a direct quote: “Do not tell anyone” There is implied information that can also be stated explicitly (AT): “do not tell anyone that you have been healed” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations and Ellipsis)

προσένεγκε περὶ τοῦ καθαρισμοῦ σου

The law required a person to make a specific sacrifice after they were healed. This allowed the person to be ceremonially clean, and able to again participate in religious rituals.

εἰς μαρτύριον

“as proof of your healing”

αὐτοῖς

Possible meanings are (1) “to the priests” or (2) “to all the people.”

Luke 5:15

ὁ λόγος περὶ αὐτοῦ

“the news about Jesus.” This could mean either “the report about Jesus’ healing the man with leprosy” or “the report about Jesus’ healing people.”

διήρχετο…μᾶλλον ὁ λόγος περὶ αὐτοῦ

“the report about him went out even farther.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people kept telling the news about him in other places” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 5:16

ταῖς ἐρήμοις

“lonely places” or “places where there were no other people”

Luke 5:17

One day when Jesus was teaching in a building, some men brought a paralyzed man for Jesus to heal.

ἐγένετο

This phrase marks the beginning of a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

Luke 5:18

καὶ ἰδοὺ, ἄνδρες

These are new people in the story. Your language may have a way of showing that these are new people. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

κλίνης

sleeping pad or bed or stretcher

ἦν παραλελυμένος

“could not move himself”

ἐνώπιον αὐτοῦ

"before Jesus"

Luke 5:19

καὶ μὴ εὑρόντες ποίας εἰσενέγκωσιν αὐτὸν διὰ τὸν ὄχλον

In some languages it might be more natural to reorder this. Alternate translation: “But because of the crowd of people, they could not find a way to bring the man inside. So”

διὰ τὸν ὄχλον

It is clear that the reason they could not enter was that the crowd was so large that there was no room for them. (See: Ellipsis)

ἀναβάντες ἐπὶ τὸ δῶμα

Houses had flat roofs, and some houses had a ladder or staircase outside to make it easy to go up there. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “they went up to the flat roof of the house” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καθῆκαν αὐτὸν

"and lowered the man down"

ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Ἰησοῦ

“directly in front of Jesus” or “immediately in front of Jesus”

Luke 5:20

καὶ ἰδὼν τὴν πίστιν αὐτῶν εἶπεν

It is understood that they believe Jesus can heal the paralyzed man. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “When Jesus perceived that they believed that he could heal the man, he said to him” (See: Ellipsis)

ἄνθρωπε

This is a general word that people used when speaking to a man whose name they did not know. It was not rude, but it also did not show special respect. Some languages might use a word like “friend” or “sir.”

ἀφέωνταί σοι αἱ ἁμαρτίαι σου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you are forgiven” or “I forgive your sins” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 5:21

διαλογίζεσθαι

“discuss this” or “reason about this.” What they questioned can be stated. Alternate translation: “discuss whether or not Jesus had authority to forgive sins” (See: Ellipsis)

τίς ἐστιν οὗτος ὃς λαλεῖ βλασφημίας?

This question shows how shocked and angry they were at what Jesus said. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “This man is blaspheming God!” or “He blasphemes God by saying that!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τίς δύναται ἀφιέναι ἁμαρτίας εἰ μὴ μόνος ὁ Θεός?

The implied information is that if a person claims to forgive sins he says he is God. This can be written as a clear statement. Alternate translation: “No one can forgive sins but God alone!” or “God is the only one who can forgive sins!” (See: Rhetorical Question and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 5:22

ἐπιγνοὺς…τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς

This phrase indicates that they were reasoning silently, so that Jesus sensed rather then heard what they were thinking.

τί διαλογίζεσθε ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν?

This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not argue about this in your hearts.” or “You should not doubt that I have the authority to forgive sins.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν

Here “hearts” is a metonym for people’s minds or inner beings. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 5:23

τί ἐστιν εὐκοπώτερον, εἰπεῖν, ἀφέωνταί σοι αἱ ἁμαρτίαι σου, ἢ εἰπεῖν, ἔγειρε καὶ περιπάτει?

Jesus uses this question to make the scribes think about what might prove whether or not he could really forgive sins. Alternate translation: “I just said ‘Your sins are forgiven you.’ You may think that it is harder to say ‘Get up and walk,’ because the proof of whether or not I can heal the man will be shown by whether or not he gets up and walks.” or “You may think that it is easier to say ‘Your sins are forgiven’ than it is to say ‘Get up and walk.’” (See: Rhetorical Question)

εὐκοπώτερον, εἰπεῖν

The unspoken implication is that one thing is “easier to say because no one will know what has happened,” but the other thing is “harder to say because everyone will know what has happened.” People could not see if the man’s sins were forgiven, but they would all know he was healed if he got up and walked. (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 5:24

εἰδῆτε

Jesus was speaking to the scribes and Pharisees. The word “you” is plural. (See: Forms of You)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus was referring to himself.

σοὶ λέγω

Jesus was saying this to the paralyzed man. The word “you” is singular.

Luke 5:25

καὶ παραχρῆμα ἀναστὰς

“At once he got up” or “Right away he got up”

ἀναστὰς

It may be helpful to clearly say that he was healed. Alternate translation: “the man was healed! He got up”

Luke 5:26

ἐπλήσθησαν φόβου

“very afraid” or “filled with awe”

παράδοξα

“amazing things” or “strange things”

Luke 5:27

When Jesus leaves the house, he calls Levi, the Jewish tax collector, to follow him. Jesus annoys the Pharisees and scribes because he attends a big meal that Levi prepares for him.

καὶ μετὰ ταῦτα

The phrase “these things” refers to what happened in the previous verses. This signals a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐξῆλθεν

"Jesus left there"

ἐθεάσατο τελώνην

“looked at a tax collector with attention” or “looked carefully at a tax collector”

ἀκολούθει μοι

To “follow” someone is to become that person’s disciple. Alternate translation: “Be my disciple” or “Come, follow me as your teacher” (See: Idiom)

Luke 5:28

καταλιπὼν πάντα

“left his work as a tax collector”

καταλιπὼν πάντα, ἀναστὰς

It may be more natural rearrange the order as, "he got up and left everything."

ἀναστὰς ἠκολούθει αὐτῷ

"Levi tot up and began to follow Jesus"

Luke 5:29

At the meal, Jesus speaks with the Pharisees and scribes.

ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ αὐτοῦ

“in Levi’s house”

κατακείμενοι

The Greek style of eating at a feast was to lie on a couch and prop oneself up with the left arm on some pillows. Alternate translation: “eating together” or “eating at the table” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 5:30

πρὸς τοὺς μαθητὰς αὐτοῦ

“to Jesus’ disciples”

διὰ τί…ἁμαρτωλῶν ἐσθίετε…πίνετε?

The Pharisees and scribes ask this question to express their disapproval that Jesus’ disciples are eating with sinners. Alternate translation: “You should not eat with sinners!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἁμαρτωλῶν

people who did not obey the law of Moses but committed what others thought were very bad sins

μετὰ…ἁμαρτωλῶν ἐσθίετε καὶ πίνετε

The Pharisees and scribes believed that religious people should separate themselves from people they consider to be sinners. The word “you” is plural. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 5:31

οἱ ὑγιαίνοντες…οἱ κακῶς ἔχοντες

Jesus uses this proverb to begin to tell them that he calls sinners to repentance the way a physician calls sick people to be healed. (See: Proverbs)

ἰατροῦ

doctor

ἀλλὰ οἱ κακῶς ἔχοντες

You may need to supply the words that have been omitted. Alternate translation: “only those who are sick need a physician” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 5:32

οὐκ ἐλήλυθα καλέσαι δικαίους, ἀλλὰ ἁμαρτωλοὺς εἰς μετάνοιαν

Anyone who wants to follow Jesus has to think of himself as a sinner, not as righteous.

δικαίους

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “righteous people” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

Luke 5:33

οἱ…εἶπαν πρὸς αὐτόν

“The religious leaders said to Jesus”

Luke 5:34

μὴ δύνασθε…μετ’ αὐτῶν ἐστιν ποιῆσαι νηστεύειν?

Jesus uses this question to cause the people to think about a situation that they already know. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one tells the wedding attendants of the bridegroom to fast while he is still with them” (See: Rhetorical Question)

υἱοὺς τοῦ νυμφῶνος

“guests” or “friends.” These are friends who celebrate with a man who is getting married.

τοὺς υἱοὺς τοῦ νυμφῶνος…νηστεύειν

Fasting is a sign of sadness. The religious leaders understood that the wedding attendants would not fast while the bridegroom was with them. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 5:35

ἐλεύσονται δὲ ἡμέραι καὶ ὅταν

“soon” or “some day”

ἀπαρθῇ ἀπ’ αὐτῶν ὁ νυμφίος

Jesus is comparing himself to the bridegroom, and the disciples to the wedding attendants. He does not explain the metaphor, so the translation should explain it only if necessary. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 5:36

Jesus tells a story to the scribes and pharisees who were at Levi’s house. (See: Parables)

οὐδεὶς…σχίσας…ἐπιβάλλει ἐπὶ…μή γε καὶ…σχίσει

“No one rips…uses it…he…he” or “People never tear…use it…they…they”

ἐπιβάλλει

repair

εἰ…μή γε καὶ

This hypothetical statement explains the reason why a person would not actually mend a garment in that way. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

οὐ συμφωνήσει

“would not match” or “would not be the same as”

Luke 5:37

οἶνον νέον

“grape juice.” This refers to wine that has not yet fermented.

ἀσκοὺς

These were bags made out of animal skins. They could also be called “wine bags” or “bags made of skin.”

ῥήξει ὁ οἶνος ὁ νέος τοὺς ἀσκούς

When the new wine ferments and expands, it breaks the old skins because they can no longer stretch out. Jesus’ audience would have understood the information about the wine’s fermenting and expanding. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

αὐτὸς ἐκχυθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the wine would spill out of the bags” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 5:38

ἀσκοὺς καινοὺς

“new wineskins” or “new wine bags.” This refers to new wineskins, unused.

Luke 5:39

πιὼν παλαιὸν θέλει νέον

This metaphor contrasts the old teaching of the religious leaders against the new teaching of Jesus. The point is that people who are used to the old teaching are not willing to listen to the new things that Jesus is teaching. (See: Metaphor)

λέγει γάρ, ὁ παλαιὸς χρηστός ἐστιν

It may be helpful to add: “and he is therefore not willing to try the new wine” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 6

Luke 06 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Luke 6:20-49 contains many blessings and woes that appear to correspond to Matthew 5-7. This part of Matthew has traditionally been called the “Sermon on the Mount.” In Luke, they are not as connected to a teaching on the kingdom of God as they are in Matthew’s gospel. (See: kingdom of God, kingdom of heaven)

Special concepts in this chapter

“Eating the grain”

When the disciples plucked and ate the grain in a field they were walking through on the Sabbath (Luke 6:1), the Pharisees said that they were breaking the law of Moses. The Pharisees said that the disciples were doing work by picking the grain and so disobeying God’s command to rest and not work on the Sabbath.

The Pharisees did not think the disciples were stealing. That is because the law of Moses required farmers to allow travelers to pluck and eat small amounts of grain from plants in fields they traveled through or near. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and work, works, deeds and Sabbath)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

Metaphors are pictures of visible objects that speakers use to explain invisible truths. Jesus used a metaphor of a generous grain merchant to teach his people to be generous (Luke 6:38). (See: Metaphor)

Rhetorical Questions

Rhetorical questions are questions to which the speaker already knows the answer. The Pharisees scolded Jesus by asking him a rhetorical question when they thought he was breaking the Sabbath (Luke 6:2). (See: Rhetorical Question)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Implicit information

Speakers usually do not say things that they think their hearers already understand. When Luke wrote that the disciples were rubbing the heads of grain between their hands, he expected his reader to know that they were separating the part they would eat from what they would throw away (Luke 6:1). (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The twelve disciples

The following are the lists of the twelve disciples:

In Matthew:

Simon (Peter), Andrew, James son of Zebedee, John son of Zebedee, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot.

In Mark:

Simon (Peter), Andrew, James the son of Zebedee and John the son of Zebedee (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder), Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.

In Luke:

Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon (who was called the Zealot), Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot.

Thaddaeus is probably the same person as Jude, the son of James.

Luke 6:1

The word “you” here is plural, and refers to the disciples. (See: Forms of You)

While Jesus and his disciples are walking through grainfields, some Pharisees begin to question the disciples about what they are doing on the Sabbath, which, in God’s law, has been set aside for God.

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you can consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

σπορίμων

In this case, these are large sections of land where the people had scattered wheat seed to grow more wheat.

στάχυας

This is the topmost part of the grain plant, which is a kind of large grass. It holds the mature, edible seeds of the plant.

ψώχοντες ταῖς χερσίν

They did this to separate the grain seeds. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “They rubbed them in their hands to separate the grains from the husks” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 6:2

τί ποιεῖτε ὃ οὐκ ἔξεστιν τοῖς Σάββασιν?

They asked this question to accuse the disciples of breaking the law. It can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Picking grain on the Sabbath is against God’s law!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ποιεῖτε ὃ

The Pharisees considered even the small action of rubbing a handful of grain to be unlawful work. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “doing work” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 6:3

οὐδὲ τοῦτο ἀνέγνωτε…μετ’ αὐτοῦ ὄντες?

Jesus is rebuking the Pharisees for not learning from the scriptures. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should learn from what you have read…him!” or “Certainly you have read…him!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 6:4

τοὺς ἄρτους τῆς Προθέσεως

“the holy bread” or “the bread that was offered to God”

Luke 6:5

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus was referring to himself. This can be stated: Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man”

Κύριός ἐστιν τοῦ Σαββάτου

The title “Lord” here emphasizes his authority over the Sabbath. Alternate translation: “has the authority to determine what is right for people to do on the Sabbath!”

Luke 6:6

It is now another Sabbath day and Jesus is in the synagogue.

The scribes and Pharisees watch as Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath.

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

καὶ ἦν ἄνθρωπος ἐκεῖ

This introduces a new character in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἡ χεὶρ αὐτοῦ ἡ δεξιὰ ἦν ξηρά

The man’s hand was damaged in such a way that he could not stretch it. It was probably bent into almost a fist, making it look smaller and wrinkled.

Luke 6:7

παρετηροῦντο…αὐτὸν

“were watching Jesus carefully”

ἵνα εὕρωσιν

“because they wanted to find”

Luke 6:8

εἰς τὸ μέσον

“in front of everyone.” Jesus wanted the man to stand where everyone there could see him.

Luke 6:9

πρὸς αὐτούς

“to the Pharisees”

ἐπερωτῶ ὑμᾶς, εἰ ἔξεστιν τῷ Σαββάτῳ ἀγαθοποιῆσαι ἢ κακοποιῆσαι, ψυχὴν σῶσαι ἢ ἀπολέσαι?

Jesus asks this question to force the Pharisees to admit that he was right to heal on the Sabbath. The intent of the question is thus rhetorical: to get them to admit what they all know is true rather than to obtain information. However, Jesus says, “I ask you,” so this question is not like other rhetorical questions that might need to be translated as statements. This should be translated as a question. (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἀγαθοποιῆσαι ἢ κακοποιῆσαι

“to help someone or to harm someone”

Luke 6:10

περιβλεψάμενος πάντας αὐτοὺς, εἶπεν αὐτῷ

"Jesus looked around and at them all and said to the man"

ἔκτεινον τὴν χεῖρά σου

“Hold out your hand” or “Extend your hand”

ἀποκατεστάθη

healed

Luke 6:12

Jesus chooses twelve apostles after he prays all night.

ἐγένετο δὲ ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις ταύταις

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις ταύταις

“around that time” or “not long after” or “one day around then”

ἐξελθεῖν αὐτὸν

“Jesus went out”

Luke 6:13

καὶ ὅτε ἐγένετο ἡμέρα

“When it was morning” or “The next day”

ἐκλεξάμενος ἀπ’ αὐτῶν δώδεκα

“he chose twelve of the disciples”

οὓς καὶ ἀποστόλους ὠνόμασεν

“whom he also made apostles” or “and he appointed them to be apostles”

Luke 6:14

Ἀνδρέαν τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ

“Simon’s brother, Andrew”

Luke 6:15

Ζηλωτὴν

Possible meanings are (1) “the Zealot” is a title that indicates he was part of the group of people who wanted to free the Jewish people from Roman rule. Alternate translation: “the patriot” or “the nationalist” or (2) “the Zealot” is a description that indicates he was zealous for God to be honored. Alternate translation: “the passionate one”

Luke 6:16

ἐγένετο προδότης

It may be necessary to explain what “traitor” means in this context. Alternate translation: “betrayed his friend” or “turned his friend over to enemies” (usually in return for money paid) or “exposed a friend to danger by telling enemies about him” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 6:17

Though Jesus especially addresses his disciples, there are many people around who listen.

μετ’ αὐτῶν

“with the twelve he had chosen” or “with his twelve apostles”

ἀπὸ πάσης

This is a generalization. A large number of people came from each of the cities and regions that Luke lists here. Alternate translation: "from all over" (See: Hyperbole)

Luke 6:18

ἰαθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for Jesus to heal them” (See: Active or Passive)

καὶ οἱ ἐνοχλούμενοι ἀπὸ πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων ἐθεραπεύοντο

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Jesus also healed people who were troubled with unclean spirits” (See: Active or Passive)

οἱ ἐνοχλούμενοι ἀπὸ πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων

“bothered by unclean spirits” or “controlled by evil spirits”

Luke 6:19

δύναμις παρ’ αὐτοῦ ἐξήρχετο καὶ ἰᾶτο

“he had power to heal people” or “he was using his power to heal people”

Luke 6:20

μακάριοι

This phrase is repeated three times. Each time, it indicates that God gives favor to certain people or that their situation is positive or good.

μακάριοι οἱ πτωχοί

“You who are poor receive God’s favor” or “You who are poor benefit”

ὅτι ὑμετέρα ἐστὶν ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

Languages that do not have a word for kingdom might say, “for God is your king” or “because God is your ruler.”

ὑμετέρα ἐστὶν ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

“the kingdom of God belongs to you.” This could mean (1) “you belong to God’s kingdom” or (2) “you will have authority in God’s kingdom.”

Luke 6:21

γελάσετε

“you will laugh with joy” or “you will be joyful”

Luke 6:22

μακάριοί ἐστε

“You receive God’s favor” or “You benefit” or “How good it is for you”

ἀφορίσωσιν ὑμᾶς

“reject you”

ἕνεκα τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

“because you associate with the Son of Man” or “because they reject the Son of Man”

Luke 6:23

ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ

“when they do those things” or “when that happens”

σκιρτήσατε

This idiom means “be extremely joyful” (See: Idiom)

ὁ μισθὸς ὑμῶν πολὺς

“a large payment” or “good gifts”

Luke 6:24

οὐαὶ ὑμῖν

“how terrible it is for you.” This phrase is repeated three times. It is the opposite of “blessed are you.” Each time, it indicates that God’s anger is directed at the people, or that something negative or bad awaits them.

οὐαὶ ὑμῖν τοῖς πλουσίοις

“how terrible it is for you who are rich” or “trouble will come to you who are rich”

τὴν παράκλησιν ὑμῶν

“what comforts you” or “what satisfies you” or “what makes you happy”

Luke 6:25

οἱ ἐμπεπλησμένοι νῦν

“whose stomachs are full now” or “who eat much now”

οἱ γελῶντες νῦν

“who are happy now”

Luke 6:26

οὐαὶ

“How terrible it is for you” or “How sad you should be”

ὅταν…εἴπωσιν πάντες οἱ ἄνθρωποι

Here “men” is used in the generic sense the includes all people. Alternate translation: “when all people speak” or “when everyone speaks” (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

κατὰ τὰ αὐτὰ…ἐποίουν τοῖς ψευδοπροφήταις οἱ πατέρες αὐτῶν

“their ancestors also spoke well of the false prophets”

Luke 6:27

Jesus continues to speak to his disciples and the crowd who is listening to him as well.

ὑμῖν…τοῖς ἀκούουσιν

Jesus now begins to speak to the entire crowd, rather than just to his disciples. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἀγαπᾶτε…καλῶς ποιεῖτε

Each of these commands is to be followed continually, not just a single time.

ἀγαπᾶτε τοὺς ἐχθροὺς ὑμῶν

This does not mean they were to only love their enemies and not their friends. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “Love your enemies, not only your friends” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 6:28

εὐλογεῖτε…προσεύχεσθε

Each of these commands is to be followed continually, not just a single time.

εὐλογεῖτε τοὺς καταρωμένους

God is the one who blesses. This can made explicit. Alternate translation: “Ask God to bless those” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τοὺς καταρωμένους ὑμᾶς

“those who habitually curse you”

τῶν ἐπηρεαζόντων ὑμᾶς

“those who habitually mistreat you”

Luke 6:29

τῷ τύπτοντί σε

“If anyone hits you”

ἐπὶ τὴν σιαγόνα

“on one side of your face”

πάρεχε καὶ τὴν ἄλλην

It may be helpful to state what the attacker will do to the person. Alternate translation: “turn your face so that he can strike the other cheek also” (See: Ellipsis)

μὴ κωλύσῃς

“do not prevent him from taking”

Luke 6:30

παντὶ αἰτοῦντί σε, δίδου

“If anyone asks you for something, give it to him”

μὴ ἀπαίτει

“do not require him to give” or “do not demand that he give”

Luke 6:31

καὶ καθὼς θέλετε ἵνα ποιῶσιν ὑμῖν οἱ ἄνθρωποι, ποιεῖτε αὐτοῖς ὁμοίως

In some languages it may be more natural to reverse the order. Alternate translation: “You should do to people the same as what you want them to do to you” or “Treat people they way you want them to treat you”

Luke 6:32

ποία ὑμῖν χάρις ἐστίν?

“what reward will you receive?” or “what praise will you receive for doing that?” This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “you will not receive any reward for that.” or “God will not reward you for that.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 6:34

ἵνα ἀπολάβωσιν τὰ ἴσα

The law of Moses commanded the Jews not to receive interest on money they loaned to each other. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 6:35

μηδὲν ἀπελπίζοντες

“not expecting the person to return what you have given him” or “not expecting the person to give you anything”

ἔσται ὁ μισθὸς ὑμῶν πολύς

“you will receive a great reward” or “you will receive good payment” or “you will get good gifts because of it”

ἔσεσθε υἱοὶ Ὑψίστου

It is best to translate “sons” with the same word your language would naturally use to refer to a human son or child.

υἱοὶ Ὑψίστου

Make sure that the word “sons” is plural so it is not confused with Jesus’ title “The Son of the Most High.”

τοὺς ἀχαρίστους καὶ πονηρούς

The words "unthankful" and "evil" are pural abstract nouns. They can be stated as actions. Alternate translation: “people who do not thank him and who are evil” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 6:36

ὁ Πατὴρ ὑμῶν

This refers to God. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word your language would naturally use to refer to a human father.

Luke 6:37

καὶ μὴ κρίνετε

“Do not judge people” or “Do not harshly criticize people”

οὐ μὴ κριθῆτε

Jesus does not say who would not judge. Possible meanings are (1) “God will not judge you” or (2) “no one will judge you” (See: Active or Passive)

καὶ μὴ καταδικάζετε

“Do not condemn people”

οὐ μὴ καταδικασθῆτε

Jesus does not say who would not condemn. Possible meanings are (1) “God will not condemn you” or (2) “no one will condemn you” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀπολυθήσεσθε

Jesus does not say who would forgive. Possible meanings are (1) “God will forgive you” or (2) “people will forgive you” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 6:38

δοθήσεται ὑμῖν

Jesus does not say exactly who will give. Possible meanings are (1) “someone will give it to you” or (2) “God will give it to you” (See: Active or Passive)

μέτρον καλὸν, πεπιεσμένον σεσαλευμένον ὑπερεκχυννόμενον, δώσουσιν εἰς τὸν κόλπον ὑμῶν

Jesus speaks either of God or of people giving generously as if he were speaking of a generous grain merchant. Alternate translation: “God will pour into your lap a generous amount—pressed down, shaken together and spilling over” or “Like a generous grain merchant who presses down the grain and shakes it together and pours in so much grain that it spills over, they will give generously to you” (See: Metaphor)

μέτρον καλὸν

“A large amount”

ἀντιμετρηθήσεται ὑμῖν

Jesus does not say exactly who will measure. Possible meanings are (1) “they will measure things back to you” or (2) “God will measure things back to you” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 6:39

Jesus includes some examples to make his point. (See: Parables)

μήτι δύναται τυφλὸς τυφλὸν ὁδηγεῖν?

Jesus used this question to get the people to think about something that they already know. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “We all know that a blind person cannot guide another blind person.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τυφλὸς

The person who is “blind” is a metaphor for a person who has not been taught as a disciple. (See: Metaphor)

οὐχὶ ἀμφότεροι εἰς βόθυνον ἐμπεσοῦνται?

This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “both of them would fall into a hole.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 6:40

οὐκ ἔστιν μαθητὴς ὑπὲρ τὸν διδάσκαλον

“A disciple does not surpass his teacher.” Possible meanings are (1) “A disciple does not have more knowledge than his teacher” or (2) “A disciple does not have more authority than his teacher.”

κατηρτισμένος…πᾶς ἔσται

“every disciple who has been trained well” or “every disciple whose teacher has fully taught him”

Luke 6:41

τί δὲ βλέπεις τὸ κάρφος τὸ ἐν τῷ ὀφθαλμῷ τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ σου, τὴν δὲ δοκὸν τὴν ἐν τῷ ἰδίῳ ὀφθαλμῷ οὐ κατανοεῖς?

Jesus uses this question to challenge the people to pay attention to their own sins before they pay attention to another person’s sins. Alternate translation: “Do not look…brothers eye while you ignore the log that is in your own eye.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τὸ κάρφος τὸ ἐν τῷ ὀφθαλμῷ τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ σου

This is a metaphor that refers to the less important faults of a fellow believer. (See: Metaphor)

κάρφος

“speck” or “splinter” or “bit of dust.” Use a word for the smallest thing that commonly falls into a person’s eyes.

τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ

Here “brother” refers to a fellow Jew or a fellow believer in Jesus.

τὴν…δοκὸν τὴν ἐν τῷ ἰδίῳ ὀφθαλμῷ

This is a metaphor for a person’s most important faults. A log could not literally go into a person’s eye. Jesus exaggerates to emphasize that a person should pay attention to his own more important faults before he deals with another person’s less important faults. (See: Metaphor and Hyperbole)

δοκὸν

“beam” or “plank”

Luke 6:42

πῶς δύνασαι λέγειν…ἐν τῷ ὀφθαλμῷ σοῦ δοκὸν οὐ βλέπων?

Jesus asks this question to challenge the people to pay attention to their own sins before they pay attention to another person’s sins. Alternate translation: “You should not say…eye.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 6:43

People can tell if a tree is good or bad, and what type of tree it is, by the fruit it produces. Jesus uses this as an unexplained metaphor—we know what kind of person someone is when we see his actions. (See: Metaphor)

γάρ ἐστιν

“This is because there is.” This indicates that what follows is the reason why we should not judge our brother.

δένδρον καλὸν

“healthy tree”

καρπὸν σαπρόν

fruit that is decaying or bad or worthless

Luke 6:44

ἕκαστον…δένδρον…γινώσκεται

People recognize the kind of tree by the fruit it bears. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people know the type of a tree” or “people recognize a tree” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀκανθῶν

a plant or shrub that has thorns

βάτου

a vine or shrub that has thorns

Luke 6:45

Jesus compares the thoughts of a person to his good or evil treasure. When a good person has good thoughts, he engages in good actions. When an evil person thinks evil thoughts, he engages in evil actions. (See: Metaphor)

ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος

The word “good” here means righteous or moral.

ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος

The word “man” here refers to a person, male or female. Alternate translation: “good person” (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

τοῦ ἀγαθοῦ θησαυροῦ τῆς καρδίας

Here the good thoughts of a person are spoken of as if they are treasures stored in the heart of that person, and “his heart” is a metonym for the person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “the good things he keeps deep inside himself” or “the good things he values very intensely” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

προφέρει τὸ ἀγαθόν

Producing what is good is a metaphor for doing what is good. Alternate translation: “does what is good” (See: Metaphor)

τοῦ…πονηροῦ

Here the evil thoughts of a person are spoken of as if they are evil things stored in the heart of that person, and “his heart” is a metonym the person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “the evil things he keeps deep inside himself” or “the evil things he values very intensely” (See: Metaphor) (See: Metonymy)

ἐκ…περισσεύματος καρδίας λαλεῖ τὸ στόμα αὐτοῦ

Here “heart” represents the person’s mind or inner being. The phrase “his mouth” represents the person as a whole. Alternate translation: “what he thinks in his heart affects what he says with his mouth” or “a person will speak aloud what truly values inside of himself” (See: Metonymy and Synecdoche)

Luke 6:46

Jesus compares the person who obeys his teaching to a man who builds a house on rock where it will be safe from floods. (See: Simile)

Κύριε, Κύριε

The repetition of these words indicates that they regularly called Jesus “Lord.”

Luke 6:47

πᾶς ὁ ἐρχόμενος πρός με…ὑποδείξω ὑμῖν τίνι ἐστὶν ὅμοιος

It may be clearer to change the order of this sentence. Alternate translation: “I will tell you what every person is like who comes to me and hears my words and obeys them”

Luke 6:48

ἔθηκεν θεμέλιον ἐπὶ τὴν πέτραν

“dug the foundation of the house deep enough to reach a foundation of solid rock.” Some cultures may not be familiar with building on bedrock, and may need to use another image for a stable foundation. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

θεμέλιον

the part of a house that connects it to the ground. People in Jesus’ time dug down into the ground to the solid rock and then began to build on the rock. That solid rock was the foundation.

τὴν πέτραν

“bedrock.” This is the very large, hard rock that is deep under the soil.

ποταμὸς

“fast-moving water” or “river”

προσέρηξεν

“crashed against”

σαλεῦσαι αὐτὴν

Possible meanings are (1) “cause it to shake” or (2) “destroy it.”

διὰ τὸ καλῶς οἰκοδομῆσθαι αὐτήν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because the man had built it well” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 6:49

Jesus compares the person who hears but does not obey his teaching to a man who builds a house that has no foundation and so will collapse when the flood comes. (See: Simile)

ὁ δὲ

“But” shows a strong contrast to the previous person who built with a foundation.

ἐπὶ τὴν γῆν χωρὶς θεμελίου

Some cultures may not know that a house with a foundation is stronger. Additional information may be helpful. Alternate translation: “but he did not dig down and build first a foundation” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

θεμελίου

the part of a house that connects it to the ground. People in Jesus’ time dug down into the ground to the solid rock and then began to build on the rock. That solid rock was the foundation.

ποταμός

“fast-moving water” or “river”

προσέρρηξεν

“crashed against”

συνέπεσεν

fell down or came apart

ἐγένετο τὸ ῥῆγμα τῆς οἰκίας ἐκείνης μέγα

“that house was completely destroyed”

Luke 7

Luke 07 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted material in 7:27.

Several times in this chapter Luke changes his topic without marking the change. You should not try to make these rough changes smooth.

Special concepts in this chapter

Centurion

The centurion who asked Jesus to heal his slave (Luke 7:2) was doing many unusual things. A Roman soldier would almost never go to a Jew for anything, and most wealthy people did not love or care for their slaves. (See: centurion and faith)

John’s Baptism

John baptized people to show that those he was baptizing knew they were sinners and were sorry for their sin. (See: repent, repentance and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

“Sinners”

Luke refers to a group of people as “sinners.” The Jewish leaders considered these people to be hopelessly ignorant of the law of Moses, and so called them “sinners.” In reality, the leaders were sinful. This situation can be taken as irony. (See: Irony)

“Feet”

The feet of the people in the ancient Near East were very dirty because they wore sandals and the roads and trails were dusty and muddy. Only slaves washed other people’s feet. The woman who washed Jesus’ feet was showing him great honor.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 7:34). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 7:1

Jesus enters Capernaum where Jesus heals a centurian’s servant.

εἰς τὰς ἀκοὰς τοῦ λαοῦ

The idiom “in the hearing” emphasizes that he wanted them to hear what he said. Alternate translation: “to the people who were listening to him” or “to the people who were present” or “for the people to hear” (See: Idiom)

εἰσῆλθεν εἰς Καφαρναούμ

This begins a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

Luke 7:2

ὃς ἦν αὐτῷ ἔντιμος

“whom the centurion valued” or “whom he respected”

Luke 7:4

παρεκάλουν αὐτὸν σπουδαίως

“pleaded with him” or “begged him”

ἄξιός ἐστιν

“The centurion is worthy”

Luke 7:5

τὸ ἔθνος ἡμῶν

“our people.” This refers to the Jewish people.

Luke 7:6

ἐπορεύετο

“went along”

αὐτοῦ οὐ μακρὰν ἀπέχοντος ἀπὸ τῆς οἰκίας

The double negative can be replaced. Alternate translation: “near the house” (See: Double Negatives)

μὴ σκύλλου

The centurion was speaking politely to Jesus. Alternate translation: “do not trouble yourself by coming to my house” or “I do not wish to bother you”

ὑπὸ τὴν στέγην μου εἰσέλθῃς

This phrase is an idiom that means “come into my house.” If your language has an idiom that means “come into my house,” think about whether it would be good to use here. (See: Idiom)

Luke 7:7

εἰπὲ λόγῳ

The servant understood that Jesus could heal the servant just by speaking. Here “word” refers to a command. Alternate translation: “just give the order” (See: Synecdoche)

ἰαθήτω ὁ παῖς μου

The word that is translated here as “servant” is normally translated as “boy.” It may indicate that the servant was very young or show the centurion’s affection for him.

Luke 7:8

καὶ…ἐγὼ ἄνθρωπός εἰμι ὑπὸ ἐξουσίαν τασσόμενος

“I also have someone over me that I must obey”

ὑπ’ ἐμαυτὸν

“under my authority”

τῷ δούλῳ μου

The word that is translated here as “servant” is the typical word for a servant.

Luke 7:9

ἐθαύμασεν αὐτόν

“he was amazed at the centurion”

λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus said this to emphasize the surprising thing that he was about to tell them.

οὐδὲ ἐν τῷ Ἰσραὴλ τοσαύτην πίστιν εὗρον

The implication is that Jesus expected Jewish people to have this kind of faith, but they did not. He did not expect Gentiles to have this kind of faith, yet this man did. You may need to add this implied information. Alternate translation: “I have not found any Israelite who trusts me as much as this Gentile does!” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 7:10

οἱ πεμφθέντες

It is understood that these were the people the centurion sent. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “the people whom the Roman officer had sent to Jesus” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 7:11

Jesus goes to the city of Nain, where he heals a man who had died.

Ναΐν

This is the name of a city. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 7:12

ἰδοὺ…τεθνηκὼς

The word “behold” alerts us to the introduction of the dead man into the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. Alternate translation: “there was a dead man who” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἐξεκομίζετο τεθνηκὼς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people were carrying out of the city a man who had died” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐξεκομίζετο…μονογενὴς υἱὸς τῇ μητρὶ αὐτοῦ…αὐτὴ ἦν χήρα, καὶ ὄχλος…ἱκανὸς

“carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow. A rather large crowd.” This is background information about the dead man and his mother. (See: Background Information)

χήρα

a woman whose husband has died and who has not remarried

Luke 7:13

ἐσπλαγχνίσθη ἐπ’ αὐτῇ

“felt very sorry for her”

Luke 7:14

προσελθὼν

“he went forward” or “he approached the dead man”

τῆς σοροῦ

This was a stretcher or bed used to move the body to the burial place. It did not have to be something in which the body was buried. Other translations may have the less common “bier” or “funeral couch.”

σοὶ λέγω, ἐγέρθητι

Jesus says this to emphasize that the young man needs to obey him. “Listen to me! Arise”

Luke 7:15

ὁ νεκρὸς

The man was not still dead; he was now alive. It may be necessary to state this clearly. Alternate translation: “The man who had been dead”

Luke 7:16

This tells what happens as a result of Jesus’ healing the man who had died.

ἔλαβεν…φόβος πάντας

“fear filled all of them.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they all became very afraid” (See: Active or Passive)

προφήτης μέγας ἠγέρθη ἐν ἡμῖν

They were referring to Jesus, not to some unidentified prophet. “Raised” here is an idiom for “caused to become.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has caused one of us to become a great prophet” (See: Active or Passive) (See: Idiom)

ἐπεσκέψατο

This idiom means “cared for” (See: Idiom)

Luke 7:17

καὶ ἐξῆλθεν ὁ λόγος οὗτος…περὶ αὐτοῦ

“This news” refers to the things people were saying in verse 16. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People spread this report about Jesus” or “People told others this report about Jesus”

ὁ λόγος οὗτος

“This report” or “This message”

Luke 7:18

John sends two of his disciples to question Jesus.

ἀπήγγειλαν Ἰωάννῃ οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ περὶ πάντων τούτων

"John’s disciples told John about all these things…" This introduces a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἀπήγγειλαν Ἰωάννῃ

“told John”

πάντων τούτων

“all the things Jesus was doing”

Luke 7:20

οἱ ἄνδρες εἶπαν, Ἰωάννης ὁ Βαπτιστὴς ἀπέστειλεν ἡμᾶς πρὸς σὲ λέγων, σὺ εἶ…ἢ ἄλλον προσδοκῶμεν?

This sentence can be rewritten so that it only has one direct quote. Alternate translation: “the men said that John the Baptist had sent them to him to ask, ‘Are you the one who is coming, or should we look for another?’” or “the men said, ‘John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask if you are the one who is coming, or if we should look for another.’” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

Luke 7:21

ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ὥρᾳ

“At that time”

πνευμάτων πονηρῶν

It may be helpful to restate the healing. Alternate translation: “he healed them from evil spirits” or “he set people free from evil spirits” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 7:22

εἶπεν αὐτοῖς

“said to John’s messengers” or “said to the messengers that John sent”

ἀπαγγείλατε Ἰωάννῃ

“tell John”

νεκροὶ ἐγείρονται

“dead people are being caused to live again”

πτωχοὶ

“poor people”

Luke 7:23

καὶ μακάριός ἐστιν ὃς ἐὰν μὴ σκανδαλισθῇ ἐν ἐμοί

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless the person who does not stop believing in me because of my actions” (See: Active or Passive)

καὶ μακάριός ἐστιν ὃς ἐὰν μὴ

“People who do not…are blessed” or “Anyone who does not…is blessed” or “Whoever does not…is blessed.” This is not a specific person.

μὴ σκανδαλισθῇ ἐν ἐμοί

This double negative means “continues to believe in me despite” (See: Double Negatives)

Luke 7:24

Jesus begins to speak to the crowd about John the Baptist. He asks rhetorical questions to lead them to think about what John the Baptist is really like.

ἤρξατο

"Jesus began"

τί…κάλαμον ὑπὸ ἀνέμου σαλευόμενον?

This expects a negative answer. “Did you go out to see a reed shaken by the wind? Of course not!” It can also be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Surely you did not go out to see a reed being shaken by the wind!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

κάλαμον ὑπὸ ἀνέμου σαλευόμενον

Possible meanings of this metaphor are (1) a person who easily changes his mind, as reeds are easily moved by the wind, or (2) a person who talks a lot but does not say anything important, as reeds rattle when the wind blows. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 7:25

ἀλλὰ τί…ἄνθρωπον ἐν μαλακοῖς ἱματίοις ἠμφιεσμένον?

This also expects a negative answer, since John wore rough garments. “Did you go out to see a man dressed in soft clothes? Of course not!” This can also be written as a statement. Alternate translation: You certainly did not go out to see a man dressed in soft clothes!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐν μαλακοῖς ἱματίοις ἠμφιεσμένον

This refers to expensive clothing. Normal clothing was rough. Alternate translation: “wearing expensive clothing” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τοῖς βασιλείοις

A palace is a large, expensive house that a king lives in.

Luke 7:26

ἀλλὰ τί…προφήτην?

This leads to a positive answer. “Did you go out to see a prophet? Of course you did!” This can also be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “But you actually went out to see a prophet!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ναί, λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus says this to emphasize the importance of what he will say next.

περισσότερον προφήτου

This phrase means that John was indeed a prophet, but that he was even greater than a typical prophet. Alternate translation: “not just an ordinary prophet” or “much more important than a normal prophet”

Luke 7:27

οὗτός ἐστιν περὶ οὗ γέγραπται

“That prophet is the one the prophets wrote about” or “John is the one the prophets wrote about long ago”

ἰδοὺ, ἀποστέλλω

In this verse, Jesus is quoting the prophet Malachi and saying that John is the messenger of which Malachi spoke.

πρὸ προσώπου σου

This idiom means “in front of you” or “to go ahead of you” (See: Idiom)

σου

The word “your” is singular because God was speaking to the Messiah in the quotation. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 7:28

λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus is speaking to the crowd, so “you” is plural. Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the surprising thing he is about to say next. (See: Forms of You)

ἐν γεννητοῖς γυναικῶν

“among those to whom a woman has given birth.” This is a metaphor that refers to all people. Alternate translation: “of all the people who have ever lived” (See: Metaphor)

μείζων…Ἰωάννου οὐδείς ἐστιν

“John is the greatest”

ὁ…μικρότερος ἐν τῇ Βασιλείᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ

This refers to anyone who is part of the kingdom that God will establish.

μείζων αὐτοῦ ἐστιν

The spiritual state of people in the kingdom of God will be higher than that of the people before the kingdom was established. Alternate translation: “has higher spiritual status than John” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 7:29

Luke, the author of this book, comments on how people responded to John and Jesus.

καὶ πᾶς ὁ λαὸς ἀκούσας…τὸ βάπτισμα Ἰωάννου

This verse could be reordered to be more clear. Alternate translation: “When all the people who had been baptized by John, including the tax collectors, heard this, they declared that God is righteous”

ἐδικαίωσαν τὸν Θεόν

“they said that God had shown himself to be righteous” or “they declared that God had acted righteously”

βαπτισθέντες τὸ βάπτισμα Ἰωάννου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because they had let John baptize them” or “because John had baptized them” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 7:30

τὴν βουλὴν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἠθέτησαν εἰς ἑαυτούς

“rejected what God wanted them to do” or “chose to disobey what God told them”

μὴ βαπτισθέντες ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they did not let John baptize them” or “they rejected John’s baptism” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 7:31

Jesus continues speaking to the people about John the Baptist.

τίνι οὖν ὁμοιώσω…τίνι εἰσὶν ὅμοιοι?

Jesus uses these questions to introduce a comparison. They can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is what I compare this generation to, and what they are like.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁμοιώσω…τίνι εἰσὶν ὅμοιοι

These are two ways of saying that this is a comparison. (See: Parallelism)

τοὺς ἀνθρώπους τῆς γενεᾶς ταύτης

The people living when Jesus spoke.

Luke 7:32

ὅμοιοί εἰσιν

These words are the beginning of Jesus’ comparison. Jesus is saying that the people are like children who are never satisfied with the way other children act. (See: Simile)

ἀγορᾷ

a large, open-air area where people come to sell their goods

καὶ οὐκ ὠρχήσασθε

“but you did not dance to the music”

καὶ οὐκ ἐκλαύσατε

“but you did not cry with us”

Luke 7:33

μὴ ἐσθίων ἄρτον

Possible meanings are (1) “frequently fasting” or (2) “not eating normal food.”

λέγετε, δαιμόνιον ἔχει

Jesus was quoting what people were saying about John. This can be stated without the direct quote. Alternate translation: “you say that he has a demon.” or “you accuse him of having a demon.” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

Luke 7:34

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus expected the people to understand that he was referring to himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

λέγετε, ἰδοὺ, ἄνθρωπος φάγος καὶ οἰνοπότης…ἁμαρτωλῶν.

This can be translated as an indirect quote. If you translated “The Son of Man” as “I, the Son of man,” you can state this as an indirect statement and use the first person. Alternate translation: “you say that he is a gluttonous man and a drunkard…sinners.” or “you accuse him of eating and drinking too much and of being…sinners.” or “you say that I am a gluttonous man and a drunkard…sinners.” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations and Direct and Indirect Quotations and First, Second or Third Person)

ἄνθρωπος φάγος

“he is a greedy eater” or “he continually eats too much food”

οἰνοπότης

“a drunk” or “he continually drinks too much alcohol”

Luke 7:35

ἐδικαιώθη ἡ σοφία ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς

This appears to be a proverb that Jesus applied to this situation, probably to teach that wise people would understand that the people should not have rejected Jesus and John.

Luke 7:36

It was a custom in that time for onlookers to attend dinners without eating.

A Pharisee invites Jesus to eat at his house.

δέ τις…τῶν Φαρισαίων

The marks the beginning of a new part of the story and introduces the Pharisee into the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event and Introduction of New and Old Participants)

κατεκλίθη

“sat down at the table for the meal.” It was the custom at a relaxed meal such as this dinner for men to eat while lying down comfortably around the table.

Luke 7:37

καὶ ἰδοὺ γυνὴ…ἦν

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἥτις ἦν…ἁμαρτωλός

“who lived a sinful lifestyle” or “who had a reputation for living a sinful life.” She may have been a prostitute.

ἀλάβαστρον

“a jar made of soft stone.” Alabaster is a soft, white rock. People stored precious things in alabaster jars.

μύρου

“with perfume in it.” The oil had something in it that made it smell nice. People rubbed it on themselves or sprinkled their clothing with it in order to smell nice.

Luke 7:38

ταῖς θριξὶν τῆς κεφαλῆς αὐτῆς

“with her hair”

ἤλειφεν τῷ μύρῳ

“poured perfume on them”

Luke 7:39

εἶπεν ἐν ἑαυτῷ λέγων

“he said to himself”

οὗτος εἰ ἦν προφήτης, ἐγίνωσκεν…ἁμαρτωλός ἐστιν

The Pharisee thought that Jesus was not a prophet because he allowed the sinful woman to touch him. Alternate translation: “Apparently Jesus is not a prophet, because a prophet would know that this woman who is touching him is a sinner”

ὅτι ἁμαρτωλός ἐστιν

Simon assumed that a prophet would never allow a sinner to touch him. This part of his assumption can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “that she is a sinner, and he would not allow her to touch him” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 7:40

Σίμων

This was the name of the Pharisee who invited Jesus into his home. This was not Simon Peter.

Luke 7:41

To emphasize what he is going to tell Simon the Pharisee, Jesus tells him a story. (See: Parables)

δύο χρεοφιλέται ἦσαν: δανιστῇ τινι

“Two men owed money to a certain moneylender”

δηνάρια πεντακόσια

“500 days’ wages.” “Denarii” is the plural of “denarius.” A “denarius” was a silver coin. (See: Biblical Money and Numbers)

ὁ…ἕτερος πεντήκοντα

“the other debtor owed fifty denarii” or “50 days’ wages”

Luke 7:42

ἀμφοτέροις ἐχαρίσατο

“he forgave their debts” or “he canceled their debts”

Luke 7:43

ὑπολαμβάνω

Simon was cautious about his answer. Alternate translation: “Probably”

ὀρθῶς ἔκρινας

“You are right”

Luke 7:44

στραφεὶς πρὸς τὴν γυναῖκα

Jesus directed Simon’s attention to the woman by turning to her.

ὕδωρ μοι ἐπὶ πόδας οὐκ ἔδωκας

It was a basic responsibility of a host to provide water and a towel for guests to wash and dry their feet after walking on dusty roads. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

οὐκ ἔδωκας; αὕτη δὲ

Jesus twice uses these phrases to contrast Simon’s lack of courtesy with the woman’s extreme actions of gratitude.

αὕτη…τοῖς δάκρυσιν ἔβρεξέν μου τοὺς πόδας

The woman used her tears in place of the missing water.

ταῖς θριξὶν αὐτῆς ἐξέμαξεν

The woman used her hair in place of the missing towel.

Luke 7:45

φίλημά μοι οὐκ ἔδωκας

A good host in that culture would greet his guest with a kiss on the cheek. Simon did not do this. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

οὐ διέλιπεν καταφιλοῦσά μου τοὺς πόδας

“has continued to kiss my feet”

καταφιλοῦσά μου τοὺς πόδας

The woman kissed the feet of Jesus rather than his cheek as a sign of extreme repentance and humility.

Luke 7:46

οὐκ ἤλειψας; αὕτη δὲ

Jesus continues to contrast Simon’s poor hospitality with the actions of the woman.

ἐλαίῳ τὴν κεφαλήν μου…ἤλειψας

“put oil on my head.” This was the custom to welcome an honored guest. Alternate translation: “welcome me by anointing my head with oil” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἤλειψεν τοὺς πόδας μου

The woman greatly honored Jesus by doing this. She demonstrated humility by anointing his feet instead of his head.

Luke 7:47

λέγω σοι

This emphasizes the importance of the statement that follows.

ἀφέωνται αἱ ἁμαρτίαι αὐτῆς αἱ πολλαί

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has forgiven her many sins” (See: Active or Passive)

ὅτι ἠγάπησεν πολύ

Her love was the evidence that her sins were forgiven. Some languages require that the object of “love” be stated. Alternate translation: “for she greatly loves the one who forgave her” or “for she loves God very much”

ᾧ…ὀλίγον ἀφίεται

“anyone who is forgiven only a few things.” In this sentence Jesus states a general principle. However, he expected Simon to understand that he showed very little love for Jesus. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 7:48

εἶπεν δὲ αὐτῇ

“Then he said to the woman”

ἀφέωνταί σου αἱ ἁμαρτίαι

“You are forgiven.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I forgive your sins” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 7:49

συνανακείμενοι

“reclining together around the table” or “eating together”

τίς οὗτός ἐστιν ὃς καὶ ἁμαρτίας ἀφίησιν?

The religious leaders knew that only God could forgive sins and did not believe that Jesus was God. This question was probably intended to be an accusation. Alternate translation: “Who does this man think he is? Only God can forgive sins!” or “Why is this man pretending to be God, who alone can forgive sins?” (See: Rhetorical Question and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 7:50

ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέν σε

“Because of your faith, you are saved.” The abstract noun “faith” could be stated as an action. Alternate translation: “Because you believe, you are saved” (See: Abstract Nouns)

πορεύου εἰς εἰρήνην

This is a way of saying good-bye while giving a blessing at the same time. Alternate translation: “As you go, do not worry anymore” or “May God give you peace as you go”

Luke 8

Luke 08 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Several times in this chapter Luke changes his topic without marking the change. You should not try to make these rough changes smooth.

Special concepts in this chapter

Miracles

Jesus made a storm stop by speaking to it, he made a dead girl alive by speaking to her, and he made evil spirits leave a man by speaking to them. (See: miracle, wonder, sign)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Parables

The parables were short stories that Jesus told so that people would easily understand the lesson he was trying to teach them. He also told the stories so that those who did not want to believe in him would not understand the truth (Luke 8:4-15).

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Brothers and sisters

Most people call those who have the same parents “brother” and “sister” and think of them as the most important people in their lives. Many people also call those with the same grandparents “brother” and “sister.” In this chapter Jesus says that the most important people to him are those who obey his Father in heaven. (See: brother)

Luke 8:1

These verses give background information about Jesus’ preaching while traveling.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

Luke 8:2

αἳ ἦσαν τεθεραπευμέναι ἀπὸ πνευμάτων πονηρῶν καὶ ἀσθενειῶν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom Jesus had set free from evil spirits and healed of diseases” (See: Active or Passive)

Μαρία

One of the “certain women.” (See: How to Translate Names)

Μαρία ἡ καλουμένη Μαγδαληνή…δαιμόνια ἑπτὰ ἐξεληλύθει

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Mary, whom people called Magdalene…Jesus had driven out seven demons” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 8:3

Ἰωάννα…Σουσάννα

Two of the “certain women” (verse 2). (See: How to Translate Names)

Ἰωάννα γυνὴ Χουζᾶ ἐπιτρόπου Ἡρῴδου

Joanna was Chuza’s wife, and Chuza was Herod’s manager. “Joanna, the wife of Herod’s manager, Chuza” (See: How to Translate Names)

διηκόνουν αὐτοῖς

“financially supported Jesus and his twelve disciples”

Luke 8:4

Jesus tells the parable of the soils to the crowd. He explains its meaning to his disciples. (See: Parables)

ἐπιπορευομένων πρὸς αὐτὸν

“coming to Jesus”

Luke 8:5

ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρων τοῦ σπεῖραι τὸν σπόρον αὐτοῦ

“A farmer went out to scatter some seed in a field” or “A farmer went out to scatter some seeds in a field”

ὃ μὲν ἔπεσεν

“some of the seed fell” or “some of the seeds fell”

κατεπατήθη

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people walked on it” or “people walked on them” (See: Active or Passive)

τὰ πετεινὰ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ

This idiom can be translated simply as “birds” or as “birds flew down and” to keep the sense of “sky.”

κατέφαγεν αὐτό

“ate it all” or “ate them all”

Luke 8:6

ἐξηράνθη

“each plant became dry and shriveled up” or “the plants became dry and shriveled up”

μὴ ἔχειν ἰκμάδα

“it was too dry” or “they were too dry.” The cause can also be stated. Alternate translation: “the ground was too dry”

Luke 8:7

Jesus finishes telling the parable to the crowd.

ἀπέπνιξαν αὐτό

The thorn plants took all the nutrients, water, and sunlight, so the farmer’s plants could not grow well.

Luke 8:8

ἐποίησεν καρπὸν

“grew a harvest” or “grew more seeds”

ἑκατονταπλασίονα

This means a hundred times more than the seeds that were sown. (See: Ellipsis)

ὁ ἔχων ὦτα ἀκούειν, ἀκουέτω

Jesus is emphasizing that what he has just said is important and may take some effort to understand and put into practice. The phrase “ears to hear” here is a metonym for the willingness to understand and obey. Since Jesus is speaking directly to his audience, you may prefer to use the second person here. Alternate translation: “Let the one who is willing to listen, listen” or “The one who is willing to understand, let him understand and obey” or “If you are willing to listen, listen” or “If you are willing to understand, then understand and obey”(See: MetonymyFirst, Second or Third Person)

Luke 8:9

Jesus begins to speak to his disciples.

Luke 8:10

ὑμῖν δέδοται γνῶναι τὰ μυστήρια τῆς Βασιλείας τοῦ Θεοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has given to you the knowledge of…God” or “God has made you able to understand…God” (See: Active or Passive)

τὰ μυστήρια τῆς Βασιλείας τοῦ Θεοῦ

These are truths that have been hidden, but Jesus is now revealing them.

τοῖς…λοιποῖς

“for other people.” This refers to the people who rejected the teaching of Jesus and did not follow him.

βλέποντες μὴ βλέπωσιν

“though they see, they will not perceive.” This is a quote from the prophet Isaiah. Some languages may need to state the object of the verbs. Alternate translation: “though they see things, they will not understand them” or “though they see things happen, they will not understand what they mean”

ἀκούοντες μὴ συνιῶσιν

“though they hear, they will not understand.” This is a quote from the prophet Isaiah. Some languages may need to state the object of the verbs. Alternate translation: “though they hear instruction, they will not understand the truth”

Luke 8:11

Jesus begins to explain the meaning of the parable of the soils to his disciples.

ὁ σπόρος ἐστὶν ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ

“The seed is the message from God”

Luke 8:12

οἱ…παρὰ τὴν ὁδόν εἰσιν οἱ ἀκούσαντες

“The seeds that fell along the path are those.” Jesus tells what happens to the seeds as it relates to people. Alternate translation: “The seeds that fell along the path represent people” or “In the parable, the seeds that fell along the path represent people” (See: Metonymy)

εἰσιν οἱ

Jesus speaks of the seeds showing something about people as if the seeds were the people. Alternate translation: “show what happens to people who” (See: Metonymy)

ἔρχεται ὁ διάβολος καὶ αἴρει τὸν λόγον ἀπὸ τῆς καρδίας αὐτῶν

Here “hearts is a metonym for people’s minds or inner beings. Alternate translation: “the devil comes and takes away the message of God from their inner thoughts” (See: Metonymy)

αἴρει

In the parable this was a metaphor of a bird snatching away the seeds. Try to use words in your language that keep that image. (See: Metaphor)

ἵνα μὴ πιστεύσαντες σωθῶσιν

This is the devil’s purpose. Alternate translation: “because the devil thinks, ‘They must not believe and they must not be saved’” or “so it will not be that they believe and God saves them” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 8:13

οἱ…ἐπὶ τῆς πέτρας

“The seeds that fell on the rocky soil are those.” Jesus tells what happens to the seeds as it relates to people. Alternate translation: “The seeds that fell on the rocky soil represent people” or “In the parable the seeds that fell on the rocky soil represent people” (See: Metonymy)

τῆς πέτρας

“the rocky soil”

ἐν καιρῷ πειρασμοῦ

“when they experience hardship”

ἀφίστανται

This idiom means “they stop believing” or “they stop following Jesus” (See: Idiom)

Luke 8:14

τὸ…εἰς τὰς ἀκάνθας πεσόν, οὗτοί εἰσιν

“The seeds that fell among the thorns represent people” or “In the parable the seeds that fell among the thorns represent people” (See: Metonymy)

ἡδονῶν τοῦ βίου, πορευόμενοι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the cares and riches and pleasures of this life choke them” (See: Active or Passive)

μεριμνῶν

things that people worry about

ἡδονῶν τοῦ βίου

“the things in this life that people enjoy”

ὑπὸ μεριμνῶν, καὶ πλούτου, καὶ ἡδονῶν τοῦ βίου, πορευόμενοι συνπνίγονται καὶ οὐ τελεσφοροῦσιν

This metaphor refers to the way weeds cut off light and nutrients from plants and keep them from growing. Alternate translation: “as weeds prevent good plants from growing, the cares, riches, and pleasures of this life keep these people from becoming mature” (See: Metaphor)

οὐ τελεσφοροῦσιν

“they do not bear ripe fruit.” Mature fruit is a metaphor for good works. Alternate translation: “so like a plant that does not produce mature fruit, they do not produce good works” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 8:15

τὸ…ἐν τῇ καλῇ γῇ, οὗτοί εἰσιν οἵτινες

“the seed that fell on the good soil represents the people” or “in the parable the seed that fell on the good soil represents the people” (See: Metonymy)

ἀκούσαντες τὸν λόγον

“hearing the message”

ἐν καρδίᾳ καλῇ καὶ ἀγαθῇ

Here “heart” is a metonym for a person’s thoughts or intentions. Alternate translation: “with an honest and good desire” (See: Metonymy)

καρποφοροῦσιν ἐν ὑπομονῇ

“produce fruit by enduring patiently” or “produce fruit by continued effort.” Fruit is a metaphor for good works. Alternate translation: “like healthy plants that produce good fruit, they produce good works by persevering” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 8:16

Jesus continues with another parable then he finishes speaking to his disciples as he emphasizes the role of his family in his work.

οὐδεὶς

This marks the beginning of another parable. (See: Parables)

Luke 8:17

οὐ…ἐστιν κρυπτὸν ὃ οὐ φανερὸν γενήσεται

This double negative can be written as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “everything that is hidden will be made known” (See: Double Negatives)

οὐδὲ ἀπόκρυφον ὃ οὐ μὴ γνωσθῇ καὶ εἰς φανερὸν ἔλθῃ

This double negative can be written as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “and everything that is secret will be made known and will come into the light” (See: Double Negatives)

Luke 8:18

ὃς ἂν…ἔχῃ, δοθήσεται αὐτῷ

It is clear from the context that Jesus is talking about understanding and believing. This can be stated clearly and changed to active form. Alternate translation: “whoever has understanding will be given more understanding” or “God will enable those who believe the truth to understand even more” (See: Ellipsis and Active or Passive)

καὶ ὃς ἂν μὴ ἔχῃ…ἀρθήσεται ἀπ’ αὐτοῦ

It is clear from the context that Jesus is talking about understanding and believing. This can be stated clearly and changed to active form. Alternate translation: “But whoever does not have understanding will lose even what understanding he thinks he has” or “But God will cause those who do not believe the truth not to understand even the little that they think they have understood” (See: Ellipsis and Active or Passive)

Luke 8:19

οἱ ἀδελφοὶ

These were Jesus’ younger brothers—the other sons of Mary and Joseph who were born after Jesus. Since the Father of Jesus was God, and their father was Joseph, they were technically his half-brothers. This detail is not normally translated.

Luke 8:20

ἀπηγγέλη…αὐτῷ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People told him” or “Someone told him” (See: Active or Passive)

ἰδεῖν θέλοντές σε

“and they want to see you”

Luke 8:21

μήτηρ μου καὶ ἀδελφοί μου, οὗτοί εἰσιν οἱ τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ ἀκούοντες καὶ ποιοῦντες

This metaphor expresses that the people who were coming to listen to Jesus were as important to him as his own family was. Alternate translation: “Those who hear the word of God and obey it are like a mother and brothers to me” (See: Metaphor)

τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ

“the message God has spoken”

Luke 8:22

Jesus and his disciples use a boat to cross Lake Genneseret. The disciples learn more about Jesus’ power through the storm that arises.

τῆς λίμνης

This is the lake of Genneseret, which is also called the Sea of Galilee.

ἀνήχθησαν

This expression means they began to travel across the lake in their sailboat.

Luke 8:23

πλεόντων…αὐτῶν

“as they went”

ἀφύπνωσεν

“began to sleep”

κατέβη λαῖλαψ ἀνέμου

“a storm of very strong winds began” or “very strong winds suddenly began to blow”

συνεπληροῦντο

The strong winds caused high waves which pushed water over the sides of the boat. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the winds caused high waves that started to fill up their boat with water” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 8:24

ἐπετίμησεν

spoke sharply to

τῷ κλύδωνι, τοῦ ὕδατος

“the violent waves”

ἐπαύσαντο

“the wind and the waves stopped” or “they became still”

Luke 8:25

ποῦ ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν?

Jesus rebukes them mildly because they do not trust him to take care of them. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have faith!” or “You should trust me!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τίς ἄρα οὗτός ἐστιν…ὑπακούουσιν αὐτῷ?

“What kind of man is this…obey him?” This question expresses shock and confusion over how Jesus is able to control the storm. (See: Rhetorical Question)

τίς ἄρα οὗτός ἐστιν, ὅτι καὶ τοῖς ἀνέμοις ἐπιτάσσει…ὑπακούουσιν αὐτῷ?

This can be turned into two sentences: “Who then is this? He commands…obey him!”

Luke 8:26

Jesus and his disciples come ashore at Gerasa where Jesus removes many demons from a man.

τὴν χώραν τῶν Γερασηνῶν

Gerasenes were people from the city called Gerasa. (See: How to Translate Names)

ἀντιπέρα τῆς Γαλιλαίας

“on the other side of the lake from Galilee”

Luke 8:27

ἀνήρ τις ἐκ τῆς πόλεως

“a man from the city of Gerasa”

ἀνήρ τις ἐκ τῆς πόλεως ἔχων δαιμόνια

The man had demons; it was not the city that had demons. Alternate translation: “a certain man from the city, and this man had demons”

ἔχων δαιμόνια

“who was controlled by demons” or “whom demons controlled”

καὶ χρόνῳ ἱκανῷ οὐκ ἐνεδύσατο ἱμάτιον…ἀλλ’ ἐν τοῖς μνήμασιν

This is background information about the man who had demons. (See: Background Information)

οὐκ ἐνεδύσατο ἱμάτιον

“he had not worn clothes”

τοῖς μνήμασιν

These are places where people put dead bodies, possibly caves or small buildings that the man could use for shelter.

Luke 8:28

ἰδὼν…τὸν Ἰησοῦν

“When the man who had the demon saw Jesus”

ἀνακράξας

“he screamed” or “he shrieked”

προσέπεσεν αὐτῷ

“lay down on the ground before Jesus.” He did not fall accidentally. (See: Symbolic Action)

φωνῇ μεγάλῃ εἶπεν

“he said loudly” or “he shouted out”

τί ἐμοὶ καὶ σοί

This idiom means “Why are you bothering me?” (See: Idiom)

Υἱὲ τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ Ὑψίστου

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 8:29

πολλοῖς…χρόνοις συνηρπάκει αὐτόν

“many times it had taken control of the man” or “many times it had gone into him.” This tells about what the demon had done many times before Jesus met the man.

καὶ ἐδεσμεύετο…φυλασσόμενος

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “though the people had bound him with chains and shackles and guarded him” (See: Active or Passive)

ἠλαύνετο ὑπὸ τοῦ δαιμονίου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the demon would make him go” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 8:30

λεγεών

Translate this with a word that refers to a large number of soldiers or people. Some other translations say “Army.” Alternate translation: “Battalion” or “Brigade”

Luke 8:31

παρεκάλουν αὐτὸν

“kept begging Jesus”

Luke 8:32

ἦν δὲ ἐκεῖ ἀγέλη χοίρων ἱκανῶν βοσκομένη ἐν τῷ ὄρει

This is supplied as background information to introduce the pigs. (See: Background Information)

ἦν…ἐκεῖ…βοσκομένη ἐν τῷ ὄρει

“was nearby eating grass on a hill”

Luke 8:33

ἐξελθόντα δὲ τὰ δαιμόνια

The word “so” is used here to explain that the reason the demons came of out the man was because Jesus had told them that they could go into the pigs.

ὥρμησεν

ran very fast

ἡ ἀγέλη…ἀπεπνίγη

“the herd…drowned.” No one caused the pigs to drown once they were in the water.

Luke 8:35

εὗραν…τὸν ἄνθρωπον, ἀφ’ οὗ τὰ δαιμόνια ἐξῆλθεν

“saw the man whom the demons had left”

σωφρονοῦντα

“sane” or “behaving normally”

καθήμενον…παρὰ τοὺς πόδας τοῦ Ἰησοῦ

“sitting at the feet” here is an idiom that means “sitting humbly nearby” or “sitting in front of.” Alternate translation: “sitting on the ground in front of Jesus” (See: Idiom)

ἐφοβήθησαν

It may be helpful to state explicitly that they were afraid of Jesus. Alternate translation: “they were afraid of Jesus” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 8:36

οἱ ἰδόντες

“those who had seen what had happened”

ἐσώθη ὁ δαιμονισθείς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Jesus had healed the man whom demons had possessed” or “Jesus had healed the man whom demons had controlled” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 8:37

τῆς περιχώρου τῶν Γερασηνῶν

“that area of the Gerasenes” or “the area where the Gerasene people lived”

φόβῳ μεγάλῳ συνείχοντο

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they became very afraid” (See: Active or Passive)

ὑπέστρεψεν

The destination can be stated. Alternate translation: “go back across the lake” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 8:38

ὁ ἀνὴρ

The events in these verses happened before Jesus left in the boat. It may be helpful to state this clearly at the beginning. Alternate translation: “Before Jesus and his disciples left, the man” or “Before Jesus and his disciples set sail, the man”

ἀπέλυσεν δὲ αὐτὸν

"but Jesus sent the man away"

Luke 8:39

τὸν οἶκόν σου

“your household” or “your family”

διηγοῦ ὅσα σοι ἐποίησεν ὁ Θεός

“tell them everything about what God has done for you”

Luke 8:40

These verses give background information about Jairus. (See: Background Information)

When Jesus and his disciples return to Galilee on the other side of the lake, he heals the 12-year-old daughter of the ruler of the synagogue as well as a woman who has been bleeding for 12 years.

ἀπεδέξατο αὐτὸν ὁ ὄχλος

“the crowd joyfully greeted him”

Luke 8:41

ἄρχων τῆς συναγωγῆς

“one of the leaders at the local synagogue” or “a leader of the people who met at the synagogue in that city”

πεσὼν παρὰ τοὺς πόδας Ἰησοῦ

Possible meanings are (1) “bowed down at Jesus feet” or (2) “lay down on the ground at Jesus feet.” Jairus did not fall accidentally. He did this as a sign of humility and respect for Jesus. (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 8:42

ἀπέθνῃσκεν

“was about to die”

ἐν…τῷ ὑπάγειν αὐτὸν

Some translators may need to first say that Jesus had agreed to go with Jairus. Alternate translation: “So Jesus agreed to go with him. As he was on his way” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

οἱ ὄχλοι συνέπνιγον αὐτόν

“the people were crowding tightly around Jesus”

Luke 8:43

γυνὴ οὖσα

This introduces a new character in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἐν ῥύσει αἵματος

“had a flow of blood.” She was probably bleeding from her womb even when it was not the normal time for it. Some cultures may have a polite way of referring to this condition. (See: Euphemism)

οὐκ ἴσχυσεν ἀπ’ οὐδενὸς θεραπευθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “but no one could heal her” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 8:44

ἥψατο τοῦ κρασπέδου τοῦ ἱματίου αὐτοῦ

“touched the fringe of his robe.” Jewish men wore tassels on the edges of their robes as a part of their ceremonial dress as commanded in God’s Law. This is likely what she touched.

Luke 8:45

οἱ ὄχλοι…ἀποθλίβουσιν

By saying this, Peter was implying that anyone could have touched Jesus. This implicit information can be made explicit if necessary. Alternate translation: “there are many people crowding around you and pressing in against you, so any one of them might have touched you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 8:46

ἥψατό μού τις

It may be helpful to distinguish this intentional “touch” from the accidental touches of the crowd. Alternate translation: “Someone deliberately touched me” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐγὼ…ἔγνων δύναμιν ἐξεληλυθυῖαν ἀπ’ ἐμοῦ

Jesus did not lose power or become weak, but his power healed the woman. Alternate translation: “I know that healing power went out from me” or “I felt my power heal someone” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 8:47

ὅτι οὐκ ἔλαθεν

“that she could not keep secret what she had done.” It may be helpful to state what she did. Alternate translation: “that she could not keep it a secret that she was the one who had touched Jesus” (See: Ellipsis)

τρέμουσα ἦλθεν

“she came trembling with fear”

προσπεσοῦσα αὐτῷ

Possible meanings are (1) “bowed down in front of Jesus” or (2) “lay down on the ground at Jesus’ feet.” She did not fall accidentally. This was a sign of humility and respect for Jesus.

ἐνώπιον παντὸς τοῦ λαοῦ

“In the sight of all the people”

Luke 8:48

θύγατερ

This was a kind way of speaking to a woman. Your language may have another way of showing this kindness.

ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέν σε

“because of your faith, you have become well.” The abstract noun “faith” could be stated as an action. Alternate translation: “because you believe, you are healed” (See: Abstract Nouns)

πορεύου εἰς εἰρήνην

This idiom is a way of saying, “Goodbye” and giving a blessing at the same time. Alternate translation: “As you go, do not worry anymore” or “May God give you peace as you go” (See: Idiom)

Luke 8:49

ἔτι αὐτοῦ λαλοῦντος

“While Jesus was still speaking to the woman”

τοῦ ἀρχισυναγώγου

This refers to Jairus (Luke 8:41).

μηκέτι σκύλλε τὸν διδάσκαλον

This statement implies that Jesus will not be able to do anything to help now that the girl is dead. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸν διδάσκαλον

This refers to Jesus.

Luke 8:50

σωθήσεται

“she will be well” or “she will live again”

Luke 8:51

ἐλθὼν δὲ εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν

“When they came to the house.” Jesus went there with Jairus. Also some of Jesus’ disciples went with them.

οὐκ ἀφῆκεν…τινα…εἰ μὴ Πέτρον, καὶ Ἰωάννην, καὶ Ἰάκωβον, καὶ τὸν πατέρα τῆς παιδὸς, καὶ τὴν μητέρα

This could be stated positively. Alternate translation: “Jesus allowed only Peter, John, James, and the girl’s father and mother to go inside with him”

τὸν πατέρα τῆς παιδὸς

This refers to Jairus.

Luke 8:52

ἔκλαιον…πάντες καὶ ἐκόπτοντο αὐτήν

This was the normal way of showing grief in that culture. Alternate translation: “all the people there were showing how sad they were and crying loudly because the girl had died” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 8:53

κατεγέλων αὐτοῦ, εἰδότες ὅτι ἀπέθανεν

“laughed at him because they knew the girl”

Luke 8:54

αὐτὸς…κρατήσας τῆς χειρὸς αὐτῆς

“Jesus took hold of the girl’s hand”

Luke 8:55

ἐπέστρεψεν τὸ πνεῦμα αὐτῆς

“Her spirit returned to her body.” The Jews understood that life was the result of the spirit coming into a person. Alternate translation: “She started breathing again” or “She came back to life” or “She became alive again” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 8:56

μηδενὶ εἰπεῖν

This could be stated differently. Alternate translation: “not to tell anyone”

Luke 9

Luke 09 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“To preach the kingdom of God”

No one knows for sure what the words “kingdom of God” here refer to. Some say it refers to the reign of God on earth, and others say it refers to the gospel message that Jesus died to pay for the his people’s sins. It is best to translate this as “to preach about the kingdom of God” or “to teach them about how God was going to show himself as king.” (See: Metaphor)

Elijah

God had promised the Jews that the prophet Elijah would return before the Messiah came, so some people who saw Jesus do miracles thought Jesus was Elijah (Luke 9:9, Luke 9:19). However, Elijah did come to earth to speak with Jesus (Luke 9:30). (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and Christ, Messiah and Elijah)

“Kingdom of God”

The term “kingdom of God” is used in this chapter to refer to a kingdom that was still in the future when the words were spoken. (See: kingdom of God, kingdom of heaven)

Glory

Scripture often speaks of God’s glory as a great, brilliant light. When people see this light, they are afraid. Luke says in this chapter that Jesus’ clothing shone with this glorious light so that his followers could see that Jesus truly was God’s Son. At the same time, God told them that Jesus was his Son. (See: glory, glorious, glorify and fear, afraid, dread, frighten)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. An example in this chapter is: “Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” (Luke 9:24).

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 9:22). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

“Receiving”

This word appears several times in this chapter and means different things. When Jesus says, “If someone receives a little child like this in my name, he also is receiving me, and if someone receives me, he is also receiving the one who sent me” (Luke 9:48), he is speaking of people serving the child. When Luke says, “the people there did not receive him” (Luke 9:53), he means that the people did not believe in or accept Jesus. (See: believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)

Luke 9:1

Jesus reminds his disciples not to depend on money and their things, gives them power, and then sends them out to various places.

δύναμιν καὶ ἐξουσίαν

These two terms are used together to show that the twelve had both the ability and the right to heal people. Translate this phrase with a combination of words that include both of these ideas.

πάντα τὰ δαιμόνια

Possible meanings are (1) “every demon” or (2) “every kind of demon.”

νόσους

sicknesses

Luke 9:2

ἀπέστειλεν αὐτοὺς

“sent them to various places” or “told them to go”

Luke 9:3

καὶ εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς

“Jesus said to the twelve.” It may be helpful to state that this happened before they went out. Alternate translation: “Before they left, Jesus said to them”

μηδὲν αἴρετε

“Do not take anything with you” or “Do not bring anything with you”

ῥάβδον

large stick that people use for balance when climbing or walking on uneven ground, as well as for defense against attackers

πήραν

a bag a traveler uses for carrying what he needs on a journey

ἄρτον

This is here used as a general reference to “food.”

Luke 9:4

καὶ εἰς ἣν ἂν οἰκίαν εἰσέλθητε

“Any house you enter”

ἐκεῖ μένετε

“remain there” or “temporarily live in that house as a guest”

καὶ…ἐξέρχεσθε

“until you leave that town” or “until you leave that place”

Luke 9:5

καὶ ὅσοι ἂν μὴ δέχωνται ὑμᾶς, ἐξερχόμενοι

“Here is what you should do in any town where people do not receive you: When you leave”

τὸν κονιορτὸν ἀπὸ τῶν ποδῶν ὑμῶν ἀποτινάσσετε, εἰς μαρτύριον ἐπ’ αὐτούς

To “shake off the dust from your feet” was an expression of strong rejection in that culture. It showed they did not want even the dust of that town to remain on them. (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 9:6

ἐξερχόμενοι

“they left the place were Jesus was”

θεραπεύοντες πανταχοῦ

“healing wherever they went”

Luke 9:7

These verses interrupt to give information about Herod.

δὲ Ἡρῴδης

This phrase marks a break in the main story line. Here Luke tells background information about Herod. (See: Background Information)

Ἡρῴδης ὁ τετράρχης

This refers to Herod Antipas, who was the ruler of one-fourth of Israel.

διηπόρει

unable to understand, confused

τὸ λέγεσθαι ὑπό τινων

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “some people said” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 9:8

ἄλλων δὲ, ὅτι προφήτης τις τῶν ἀρχαίων ἀνέστη

The word “said” is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “still others said that one of the prophets of long ago had risen” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 9:9

Ἰωάννην ἐγὼ ἀπεκεφάλισα, τίς δέ ἐστιν οὗτος

Herod assumes that it is impossible for John to rise from the dead. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “It cannot be John because I had his head cut off. So who is this man” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Ἰωάννην ἐγὼ ἀπεκεφάλισα

Herod’s soldiers would have carried out executions. Alternate translation: “I commanded my soldiers to cut off John’s head” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 9:10

Though the disciples return to Jesus and they go to Bethsaida to spend time together, the crowds follow Jesus for healing and to listen to his teaching. He performs a miracle to provide bread and fish to the crowds as they return home.

καὶ ὑποστρέψαντες, οἱ ἀπόστολοι

“apostles came back to where Jesus was”

ὅσα ἐποίησαν

This refers to the teaching and healing that they did when they went to the other cities.

Βηθσαϊδά

This is the name of a city. (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 9:12

ἡ δὲ ἡμέρα ἤρξατο κλίνειν

“the day was about to end” or it was near the end of the day”

Luke 9:13

ἄρτοι πέντε

A loaf of bread is a lump of dough that is shaped and baked.

ἰχθύες δύο, εἰ μήτι πορευθέντες, ἡμεῖς ἀγοράσωμεν εἰς πάντα τὸν λαὸν τοῦτον βρώματα

If “unless” is difficult to understand in your language, you could make a new sentence. “two fish. In order to feed all these people, we would have to go and buy food”

Luke 9:14

ὡσεὶ ἄνδρες πεντακισχίλιοι

“about 5,000 men.” This number does not include the women and children who might have been present. (See: Numbers)

κατακλίνατε αὐτοὺς

“Tell them to sit down”

ἀνὰ πεντήκοντα

“50 each” (See: Numbers)

Luke 9:15

καὶ ἐποίησαν οὕτως

“This” refers to what Jesus told them to do Luke 9:14. They told the people to sit down in groups of about fifty people.

Luke 9:16

λαβὼν δὲ τοὺς πέντε ἄρτους

“Jesus took the five loaves of bread”

ἀναβλέψας εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν

This refers to looking up, toward the sky. The Jews believed that heaven was located above the sky. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εὐλόγησεν αὐτοὺς

This refers to the loaves of bread and the fish.

παραθεῖναι

“to pass out to” or “to give to”

Luke 9:17

ἐχορτάσθησαν

This idiom means they ate enough food so they were not hungry. Alternate translation: “they had as much as they wanted to eat” (See: Idiom)

Luke 9:18

Jesus is praying, with only his disciples near him, and they begin to talk about who Jesus is. Jesus tells them that he will soon die and resurrect and urges them to follow him even if it becomes very hard to do that.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

προσευχόμενον κατὰ μόνας

“praying alone.” The disciples were with Jesus, but he was praying personally and privately by himself.

Luke 9:19

Ἰωάννην τὸν Βαπτιστήν

It may be helpful to restate part of the question here. Alternate translation: “Some say you are John the Baptist” (See: Ellipsis)

ὅτι προφήτης τις τῶν ἀρχαίων ἀνέστη

It may be helpful to clarify how this answer relates to Jesus’ question. Alternate translation: “that you are one of the prophets from long ago and have risen” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀνέστη

“has come back to life”

Luke 9:20

εἶπεν δὲ αὐτοῖς

“Then Jesus said to his disciples”

Luke 9:21

αὐτοῖς…μηδενὶ λέγειν τοῦτο

“not to tell anyone” or “that they should not tell anyone.” This could be stated as a direct quote. Alternate translation: them, “‘Do not tell anyone.’” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

Luke 9:22

δεῖ τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου πολλὰ παθεῖν

“People will cause the Son of Man to suffer greatly”

τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…καὶ ἀποκτανθῆναι

Jesus is referring to himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man…and I will” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἀποδοκιμασθῆναι ἀπὸ τῶν πρεσβυτέρων, καὶ ἀρχιερέων, καὶ γραμματέων

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the elders, chief priests, and scribes will reject him” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀποκτανθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they will kill him” (See: Active or Passive)

τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ

“three days after he dies” or “on the third day after his death” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ἐγερθῆναι

“he will…be made alive again.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will…make him alive again” or “he will…live again” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 9:23

ἔλεγεν

“Jesus said”

πρὸς πάντας

This refers to the disciples who were with Jesus.

ὀπίσω μου ἔρχεσθαι

“follow me.” Coming after Jesus represents being one of his disciples. Alternate translation: “be my disciple” or “be one of my disciples” (See: Metaphor)

ἀρνησάσθω ἑαυτὸν

“must not give in to his own desires” or “must forsake his own desires”

ἀράτω τὸν σταυρὸν αὐτοῦ καθ’ ἡμέραν, καὶ ἀκολουθείτω μοι

“carry his cross and follow me every day.” The cross represents suffering and death. Taking up the cross represents being willing to suffer and die. Alternate translation: “must obey me every day even to the point of suffering and dying” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

ἀκολουθείτω μοι

Following Jesus here represents obeying him. Alternate translation: “obey me” (See: Metaphor)

ἀκολουθείτω μοι

“go along with me” or “begin to follow me and keep on following me”

Luke 9:25

τί γὰρ ὠφελεῖται ἄνθρωπος…ἑαυτὸν δὲ ἀπολέσας ἢ ζημιωθείς?

The implied answer to this question is that it is not good. Alternate translation: “It will not benefit someone at all to gain the whole world, and yet lose himself.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

κερδήσας τὸν κόσμον ὅλον

“to get everything in the world”

ἑαυτὸν…ἀπολέσας ἢ ζημιωθείς

“ruin himself or give up his life”

Luke 9:26

τοὺς ἐμοὺς λόγους

“what I say” or “what I teach”

τοῦτον ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἐπαισχυνθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…ὅταν ἔλθῃ

Jesus was speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man…when I come” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

τοῦ Πατρὸς

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 9:27

λέγω δὲ ὑμῖν ἀληθῶς

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the importance of what he will say next.

εἰσίν τινες…ἑστηκότων, οἳ οὐ μὴ γεύσωνται θανάτου

“some of you who are standing here will not taste death”

ἕως ἂν ἴδωσιν

Jesus was speaking to the people he was talking about. Alternate translation: “before you see” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

οὐ μὴ γεύσωνται θανάτου, ἕως ἂν ἴδωσιν τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ

This idea with “not…until” can be expressed positively with “before.” Alternate translation: “will see the kingdom of God before they die” or “will see the kingdom of God before you die”

γεύσωνται θανάτου

This idiom means “die” (See: Idiom)

Luke 9:28

Eight days after Jesus tells his disciples that some would not die before they saw the kingdom of God, Jesus goes up the mountain to pray with Peter, James, and John, who all fall asleep while Jesus is changed to a dazzling appearance.

τοὺς λόγους τούτους

This refers to what Jesus said to his disciples in the preceding verses.

Luke 9:30

ἰδοὺ

The word “Behold” here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows. Alternate translation: “Suddenly”

Luke 9:31

οἳ ὀφθέντες ἐν δόξῃ

This phrase gives information about how Moses and Elijah looked. Some languages would translate it as a separate clause. Alternate translation: “and they appeared in glorious splendor” or “and they were shining brightly” (See: Distinguishing versus Informing or Reminding)

τὴν ἔξοδον αὐτοῦ

“his leaving” or “how Jesus would leave this world.” This was a polite way of talking about his death. Alternate translation: “his death” (See: Euphemism)

Luke 9:32

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke tells information about Peter, James, and John. (See: Background Information)

βεβαρημένοι ὕπνῳ

This idiom means “very sleepy.”

εἶδον τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ

This refers to the brilliant light that surrounded them. Alternate translation: “they saw brilliant light coming from Jesus” or “they saw very bright light coming out of Jesus”

τοὺς δύο ἄνδρας τοὺς συνεστῶτας αὐτῷ

This refers to Moses and Elijah.

Luke 9:33

ἐν τῷ διαχωρίζεσθαι αὐτοὺς

“As Moses and Elijah were going away”

σκηνὰς

simple, temporary places in which to sit or sleep

Luke 9:34

ταῦτα δὲ αὐτοῦ λέγοντος

“While Peter was saying these things”

ἐφοβήθησαν

These adult disciples were not afraid of clouds. This phrase indicates that some kind of unusual fear came over them with the cloud. Alternate translation: “they were terrified” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εἰσελθεῖν αὐτοὺς εἰς τὴν νεφέλην

This can be expressed in terms of what the cloud did. Alternate translation: “the cloud surrounded them”

Luke 9:35

καὶ φωνὴ ἐγένετο ἐκ τῆς νεφέλης

It is understood that the voice could only have belonged to God. Alternate translation: “God spoke to them from the cloud” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὁ Υἱός

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ὁ ἐκλελεγμένος

This can be stated with an active form. Alternate translation: “the one I have chosen” or “I have chosen him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 9:36

καὶ αὐτοὶ ἐσίγησαν…ὧν ἑώρακαν

This is information that tells what happened after the story as a result of the events in the story itself. (See: End of Story)

ἐσίγησαν…οὐδενὶ ἀπήγγειλαν

The first phrase refers to their immediate response, and the second refers to what they did in the following days.

Luke 9:37

The next day after Jesus’ dazzling appearance, Jesus heals a demon-possessed boy that the disciples were unable to make better.

Luke 9:38

καὶ ἰδοὺ, ἀνὴρ ἀπὸ τοῦ ὄχλου

The word “behold” alerts us to the new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. English uses “There was a man in the crowd who” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Luke 9:39

καὶ ἰδοὺ, πνεῦμα

The phrase “You see” introduces us to the evil spirit in the man’s story. Your language may have a way of doing this. Alternate translation: “There is an evil spirit that” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

μετὰ ἀφροῦ

“foam comes out of his mouth.” When a person has a seizure, they can have trouble breathing or swallowing. This causes white foam to form around their mouths.

Luke 9:41

ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν

“Jesus answered by saying”

ὦ γενεὰ ἄπιστος καὶ διεστραμμένη

Jesus said this to the crowd that had gathered, and not to his disciples.

γενεὰ…διεστραμμένη

“corrupt generation”

ἕως πότε ἔσομαι πρὸς ὑμᾶς καὶ ἀνέξομαι ὑμῶν?

Here “you” is plural. Jesus uses these questions to express his sadness that the people did not believe. They can be written as statements. Alternate translation: “I have been with you so long, yet you do not believe. I wonder how long I must put up with you.” (See: Forms of You and Rhetorical Question)

προσάγαγε ὧδε τὸν υἱόν σου

Here “your” is singular. Jesus is speaking directly to the father who addressed him. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 9:43

ἐξεπλήσσοντο δὲ πάντες ἐπὶ τῇ μεγαλειότητι τοῦ Θεοῦ

Jesus performed the miracle, but the crowd recognized that God was the power behind the healing.

πᾶσιν οἷς ἐποίει

“everything Jesus was doing”

Luke 9:44

θέσθε ὑμεῖς εἰς τὰ ὦτα ὑμῶν τοὺς λόγους τούτους

This is an idiom that means they should pay attention. Alternate translation: “Listen carefully and remember” or “Do not forget this” (See: Idiom)

ὁ γὰρ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου μέλλει παραδίδοσθαι εἰς χεῖρας ἀνθρώπων

This can be stated with an active clause. Here “hands” refers to power or control. Alternate translation: “they will betray the Son of Man and put him in the control of men” (See: Active or Passive and Metonymy)

ὁ γὰρ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου μέλλει παραδίδοσθαι εἰς χεῖρας ἀνθρώπων

Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. The word “hands” is a synecdoche for the people whose hands they are or a metonym for the power that uses those hands. You may need to make explicit who these men are. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man will be betrayed into the hands of men” or “The Son of Man will be betrayed into the power of his enemies” or “I, the Son of Man will be betrayed to my enemies” (See: First, Second or Third Person and Synecdoche and Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 9:45

καὶ ἦν παρακεκαλυμμένον ἀπ’ αὐτῶν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God hid the meaning from them” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 9:46

The disciples begin to argue about who will be the most powerful among them.

ἐν αὐτοῖς

“among the disciples”

Luke 9:47

εἰδὼς τὸν διαλογισμὸν τῆς καρδίας αὐτῶν

Here “hearts” is a metonym for their minds. Alternate translation: “knowing the reasoning in their minds” or “knowing what they were thinking” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 9:48

ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου

This refers to a person doing something as a representative of Jesus. Alternate translation: “because of me” (See: Metonymy)

ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου, ἐμὲ δέχεται

This metaphor could also be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “in my name, it is like he is welcoming me” (See: Metaphor)

τὸν ἀποστείλαντά με

“God, who sent me”

οὗτός ἐστιν μέγας

“the ones whom God considers to be most important”

Luke 9:49

ἀποκριθεὶς…Ἰωάννης

“In reply, John said” or “John replied to Jesus.” John was responding to what Jesus had said about being the greatest. He was not answering a question.

εἴδομέν

John speaks of himself but not Jesus, so “we” here is exclusive. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου

This means the person was speaking with the power and authority of Jesus. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 9:50

μὴ κωλύετε

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “Allow him to continue”

ὃς…οὐκ ἔστιν καθ’ ὑμῶν, ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐστιν

Some modern languages have sayings that mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “if a person does not keep you from working, it is as if he were helping you” or “if someone is not working against you, he is working with you”

Luke 9:51

It is now obvious that Jesus has decided to go to Jerusalem.

ἐν τῷ συνπληροῦσθαι τὰς ἡμέρας τῆς ἀναλήμψεως αὐτοῦ

“When the time was coming for him to go up” or “When it was almost time for him to go up”

τὸ πρόσωπον ἐστήρισεν

This idiom means he “firmly decided.” Alternate translation: “made up his mind” or “decided” (See: Idiom)

Luke 9:52

ὡς ἑτοιμάσαι αὐτῷ

This means to make arrangements for his arrival there, possibly including a place to speak, a place to stay, and food.

Luke 9:53

οὐκ ἐδέξαντο αὐτόν

“did not want him to stay”

ὅτι τὸ πρόσωπον αὐτοῦ ἦν πορευόμενον εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ

The Samaritans and the Jews hated each other. Therefore the Samaritans would not help Jesus on his journey to Jerusalem, the Jewish capital. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 9:54

ἰδόντες

“saw that the Samaritans did not receive Jesus”

εἴπωμεν πῦρ καταβῆναι ἀπὸ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καὶ ἀναλῶσαι αὐτούς

James and John suggested this method of judgment because they knew that this was how the prophets such as Elijah had judged people who rejected God. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 9:55

στραφεὶς…ἐπετίμησεν αὐτοῖς

“Jesus turned and rebuked James and John.” Jesus did not condemn the Samaritans as the disciples expected.

Luke 9:57

τις

This was not one of the disciples.

Luke 9:58

αἱ ἀλώπεκες φωλεοὺς ἔχουσιν…οὐκ ἔχει ποῦ τὴν κεφαλὴν κλίνῃ

Jesus responds with a proverb to teach the man about being Jesus’ disciple. Jesus implies that if the man were to follow him, that man too might not have a home. Alternate translation: “Foxes have holes…nowhere to lay his head. So do not expect that you will have a home” (See: Proverbs and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

αἱ ἀλώπεκες

These are land animals similar to small dogs. They sleep in a den or a burrow in the ground.

τὰ πετεινὰ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ

“birds that fly in the air”

ὁ…Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…τὴν κεφαλὴν

Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, have…my head” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

οὐκ ἔχει ποῦ τὴν κεφαλὴν κλίνῃ

“nowhere to rest my head” or “nowhere to sleep.” Jesus exaggerates to emphasize that he has no permanent home and that people did not often invite him to stay with them. (See: Hyperbole)

Luke 9:59

Jesus continues to talk with the people along the road.

ἀκολούθει μοι

By saying this Jesus is asking the person to become his disciple and to go with him.

ἐπίτρεψόν μοι ἀπελθόντι, πρῶτον θάψαι τὸν πατέρα μου

It is unclear whether the man’s father has died and he will bury him immediately, or if the man wants to stay for a longer amount of time until his father dies so he can bury him then. The main point is the man wants to do something else first before he follows Jesus.

ἐπίτρεψόν μοι ἀπελθόντι, πρῶτον

“before I do that, let me go”

Luke 9:60

ἄφες τοὺς νεκροὺς θάψαι τοὺς ἑαυτῶν νεκρούς

Jesus does not mean literally that dead people will bury other dead people. Possible meanings of “the dead” are (1) it is a metaphor for those who will soon die, or (2) it is a metaphor for those who do not follow Jesus and are spiritually dead. The main point is that a disciple must not let anything delay him from following Jesus. (See: Metaphor)

τοὺς νεκροὺς

This refers to dead people in general. Alternate translation: “the dead people” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

Luke 9:61

ἀκολουθήσω σοι

“I will join you as a disciple” or “I am ready to follow you”

πρῶτον…ἐπίτρεψόν μοι ἀποτάξασθαι τοῖς εἰς τὸν οἶκόν μου

“before I do that, let me tell my people at my home that I am leaving”

Luke 9:62

οὐδεὶς…εὔθετός ἐστιν τῇ Βασιλείᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ

Jesus responds with a proverb to teach the man about being his disciple. Jesus means that a person is not suitable for the kingdom to God if he focuses on people in his past instead of following Jesus. (See: Proverbs and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

οὐδεὶς ἐπιβαλὼν τὴν χεῖρα αὐτοῦ ἐπ’ ἄροτρον

Here “puts his hand to” something is an idiom that means the person starts to do something. Alternate translation: “No one who starts to plow his field” (See: Idiom and Translate Unknowns)

βλέπων εἰς τὰ ὀπίσω

Anyone who is looking back while plowing cannot guide the plow where it needs to go. That person must focus on looking forward in order to plow well.

εὔθετός ἐστιν τῇ Βασιλείᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ

“useful for the kingdom of God” or “suitable for the kingdom of God”

Luke 10

Luke 10 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Harvest

Harvest is when people go out to get the food they have planted so they can bring it to their houses and eat it. Jesus used this as a metaphor to teach his followers that they need to go and tell other people about Jesus so those people can be part of God’s kingdom. (See: faith)

Neighbor

A neighbor is anyone who lives nearby. The Jews helped their Jewish neighbors who needed help, and they expected their Jewish neighbors to help them. Jesus wanted them to understand that people who were not Jews were also their neighbors, so he told them a parable (Luke 10:29-36). (See: Parables)

Luke 10:1

Jesus sends out 70 more people ahead of him. Those 70 return with joy, and Jesus responds with praise to his heavenly Father.

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἑβδομήκοντα

“70.” Some versions say “seventy-two” or “72.” You may want to include a footnote that says that. (See: Numbers)

ἀπέστειλεν αὐτοὺς ἀνὰ δύο

“sent them out in groups of two” or “sent them out with two people in each group”

Luke 10:2

ἔλεγεν δὲ πρὸς αὐτούς

This was before the men actually went out. Alternate translation: “He had said to them” or “Before they went out he told them” (See: Order of Events)

ὁ μὲν θερισμὸς πολύς, οἱ δὲ ἐργάται ὀλίγοι

“There is a big crop, but not enough workers to bring it in.” Jesus means there are many people ready to enter God’s kingdom, but there are not enough disciples to go teach and help the people. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 10:3

ὑπάγετε

“Go to the cities” or “Go to the people”

ἀποστέλλω ὑμᾶς ὡς ἄρνας ἐν μέσῳ λύκων

Wolves attack and kill sheep. This metaphor therefore means that there are people who would attempt to harm the disciples that Jesus is sending out. The names of other animals could be substituted. Alternate translation: “when I send you out, people will want to harm you, as wolves attack sheep” (See: Simile)

Luke 10:4

μὴ βαστάζετε βαλλάντιον, μὴ πήραν, μὴ ὑποδήματα

“Do not take with you a bag, a traveler’s bag, or sandals”

μηδένα κατὰ τὴν ὁδὸν ἀσπάσησθε

“do not greet anyone on the road.” Jesus was emphasizing that they should go quickly to the towns and do this work. He was not telling them to be rude.

Luke 10:5

εἰρήνη τῷ οἴκῳ τούτῳ

This was both a greeting and a blessing. Here “house” refers to those who live in the house. Alternate translation: “May the people in this household receive peace” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 10:6

υἱὸς εἰρήνης

“a peaceful person.” This is a person who wants peace with God and with people.

ἐπαναπαήσεται ἐπ’ αὐτὸν ἡ εἰρήνη ὑμῶν

Here “peace” is described as a living thing that can choose where to stay. Alternate translation: “he will have the peace you blessed him with” (See: Personification)

εἰ…μή γε

It may be helpful to restate the entire phrase. Alternate translation: “if there is no person of peace there” or “if the owner of the house is not a peaceful person” (See: Ellipsis)

ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς ἀνακάμψει

Here “peace” is described as a living thing that can choose to leave. Alternate translation: “you will have that peace” or “he will not receive the peace you blessed him with” (See: Personification)

Luke 10:7

ἐν αὐτῇ δὲ τῇ οἰκίᾳ μένετε

Jesus was not saying that they should stay in the house all day, but that they should sleep at the same house every night they were there. Alternate translation: “Continue to sleep at that house”

ἄξιος γὰρ ὁ ἐργάτης τοῦ μισθοῦ αὐτοῦ

This is a general principle that Jesus was applying to the men he was sending out. Since they would be teaching and healing the people, the people should provide them with a place to stay and with food.

μὴ μεταβαίνετε ἐξ οἰκίας εἰς οἰκίαν

Moving around from house to house means going to different houses. It can be made clear that he was talking about staying overnight at different houses. “Do not go sleep at a different house each night” (See: Idiom and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:8

καὶ δέχωνται ὑμᾶς

“if they welcome you”

ἐσθίετε τὰ παρατιθέμενα ὑμῖν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “eat whatever food they give you” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 10:9

τοὺς…ἀσθενεῖς

This refers to sick people in general. Alternate translation: “the sick people” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

ἤγγικεν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

The abstract noun “kingdom” can be expressed with the verbs “reign” or “rule.” Possible meanings are (1) the kingdom of God will begin soon. Alternate translation: “God will soon rule everywhere as king” or (2) the activities of kingdom of God are happening all around you. Alternate translation: “The proof that God is reigning is all around you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 10:10

καὶ μὴ δέχωνται ὑμᾶς

“if the people of the city reject you”

Luke 10:11

καὶ τὸν κονιορτὸν τὸν κολληθέντα ἡμῖν, ἐκ τῆς πόλεως ὑμῶν εἰς τοὺς πόδας ἀπομασσόμεθα ὑμῖν

This is a symbolic action to show that they reject the people of the city. Alternate translation: “Just as you rejected us, we thoroughly reject you. We even reject the dust from your town that clings to our feet” (See: Symbolic Action)

ἀπομασσόμεθα

Since Jesus was sending these people out in groups of two, it would be two people saying this. So languages that have a dual form of “we” would use it. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

πλὴν τοῦτο γινώσκετε, ὅτι ἤγγικεν ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

The phrase “But know this” introduces a warning. It means “Even though you reject us, it does not change the fact that the kingdom of God is near!”

ἤγγικεν ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

The abstract noun “kingdom” can be expressed with the verbs “reign” or “rule.” See how you translated a similar sentence in Luke 10:8. Alternate translation: “God will soon rule everywhere as king” or “The proof that God is reigning is all around you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 10:12

λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus was saying this to the 70 people he was sending out. He said this to show that he was about to say something very important.

τῇ ἡμέρᾳ ἐκείνῃ

The disciples would have understood that this refers to the time of final judgment of sinners. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Σοδόμοις…ἀνεκτότερον ἔσται, ἢ τῇ πόλει ἐκείνῃ

“God will not judge Sodom as severely as he will judge that town.” Alternate translation: “God will judge the people of that town more severely than he will judge the people of Sodom” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 10:13

οὐαί σοι, Χοραζείν! οὐαί σοι, Βηθσαϊδά!

Jesus speaks as if the people of the cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida are there listening to him, but they are not. (See: Apostrophe and How to Translate Names and Metonymy)

ὅτι εἰ ἐν Τύρῳ καὶ Σιδῶνι ἐγενήθησαν αἱ δυνάμεις, αἱ γενόμεναι ἐν ὑμῖν

Jesus is describing a situation that could have happened in the past but did not. Alternate translation: “If someone had performed the miracles for the people of Tyre and Sidon that I performed for you” (See: Hypothetical Situations and Active or Passive)

πάλαι ἂν…καθήμενοι μετενόησαν

“the wicked people who lived there would have shown that they were sorry for their sins by sitting”

ἐν…σάκκῳ καὶ σποδῷ καθήμενοι

“wearing sackcloth and sitting in ashes”

Luke 10:14

πλὴν Τύρῳ καὶ Σιδῶνι, ἀνεκτότερον ἔσται ἐν τῇ κρίσει ἢ ὑμῖν

It may be helpful to clearly state the reason for their judgment. Alternate translation: “But because you did not repent and believe in me even though you saw me do miracles, God will judge you more severely than he will judge the people of Tyre and Sidon” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Metonymy)

ἐν τῇ κρίσει

“on that final day when God judges everyone”

Luke 10:15

σύ, Καφαρναούμ

Jesus now speaks to the people in the city of Capernaum as if they are listening to him, but they are not. (See: Apostrophe and Metonymy)

μὴ ἕως οὐρανοῦ ὑψωθήσῃ?

Jesus uses a question to rebuke the people of Capernaum for their pride. Alternate translation: “you will certainly not go up to heaven!” or “God will not honor you!” (See: Rhetorical Question and Active or Passive)

ἕως οὐρανοῦ ὑψωθήσῃ

This expression means “greatly exalted.”

τοῦ ᾍδου καταβήσῃ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you will go down to Hades” or “God will send you to Hades” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 10:16

ὁ ἀκούων ὑμῶν, ἐμοῦ ἀκούει

The comparison can be clearly stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “When someone listens to you, it is as if they were listening to me” (See: Simile)

ὁ…ἀθετῶν ὑμᾶς, ἐμὲ ἀθετεῖ

The comparison can be clearly stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “when someone rejects you, it is as if they were rejecting me” (See: Simile)

ὁ…ἐμὲ ἀθετῶν, ἀθετεῖ τὸν ἀποστείλαντά με

The comparison can be clearly stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “when someone rejects me, it is as if they were rejecting the one who sent me” (See: Simile)

τὸν ἀποστείλαντά με

This refers to God the Father, who appointed Jesus for this special task. Alternate translation: “God, who sent me” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:17

ὑπέστρεψαν δὲ οἱ ἑβδομήκοντα

Some languages will need to say that the seventy actually went out first as the UST does. This is implicit information that can be made explicit. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἑβδομήκοντα

You may want to add a footnote: “Some versions have ‘72’ instead of ‘70.’” (See: Numbers)

ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου

Here “name” refers to Jesus’ power and authority. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 10:18

ἐθεώρουν τὸν Σατανᾶν ὡς ἀστραπὴν ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ πεσόντα

Jesus used a simile to compare how God was defeating Satan when his 70 disciples were preaching in the towns to the way lightning strikes. (See: Simile)

ὡς ἀστραπὴν ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ πεσόντα

Possible meanings are (1) fell as quickly as lighting strikes, or (2) fell down from heaven as lightning strikes downward. Since both meaning are possible, it may be best to keep the image.

Luke 10:19

τὴν ἐξουσίαν τοῦ πατεῖν ἐπάνω ὄφεων καὶ σκορπίων

“authority to trample on snakes and crush scorpions.” Possible meanings are (1) snakes and scorpions are a metaphor for evil spirits. Alternate translation: “the right to defeat evil spirits” or (2) this refers to actual snakes and scorpions. (See: Metaphor)

τοῦ πατεῖν ἐπάνω ὄφεων καὶ σκορπίων

This implies that they would do this and not be injured. Alternate translation: “walk on snakes and scorpions and they will not hurt you” (See: Ellipsis)

σκορπίων

Scorpions are small animals with two claws and a poisonous stinger on their tail.

ἐπὶ πᾶσαν τὴν δύναμιν τοῦ ἐχθροῦ

“I have given you authority to crush the power of the enemy” or “I have given you authority to defeat the enemy.” The enemy is Satan. (See: Ellipsis and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:20

ἐν τούτῳ μὴ χαίρετε, ὅτι τὰ πνεύματα ὑμῖν ὑποτάσσεται, χαίρετε δὲ ὅτι τὰ ὀνόματα ὑμῶν ἐνγέγραπται ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς

This is an exaggeration to show that the thing they should rejoice about most is that their names are written in heaven. “do not rejoice only because the spirits submit to you” can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “rejoice that your names are written in heaven even more than you rejoice that the spirits submit to you” (See: Hyperbole)

τὰ ὀνόματα ὑμῶν ἐνγέγραπται ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has written your names in heaven” or “your names are on the list of people who are citizens of heaven” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 10:21

Πάτερ

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Κύριε τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καὶ τῆς γῆς

“heaven” and “earth” represent everything that exists. Alternate translation: “Master over everyone and everything in heaven and earth” (See: Merism)

ταῦτα

This refers to Jesus’ previous teaching about the authority of the disciples. It may be best to simply say “these things” and let the reader determine the meaning.

σοφῶν καὶ συνετῶν

The words “wise” and “understanding” are nominal adjectives that refer to people with these qualities. Because God had concealed truth from them, these people were not actually wise and understanding, even though they thought they were. Alternate translation: “from people who think they are wise and have understanding” (See: Irony and Nominal Adjectives)

νηπίοις

This refers to those who may not have much education but who are willing to accept Jesus’ teachings in the same way that little children willingly listen to those they trust. Alternate translation: “people who may have little education, but who listen to God as little children do” (See: Ellipsis and Simile)

ὅτι οὕτως εὐδοκία ἐγένετο ἔμπροσθέν σου

“for it pleased you to do this”

Luke 10:22

πάντα μοι παρεδόθη ὑπὸ τοῦ Πατρός μου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “My Father has handed everything over to me” (See: Active or Passive)

τοῦ Πατρός…ὁ Υἱὸς

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: Translating Son and Father)

γινώσκει τίς ἐστιν ὁ Υἱὸς

The word that is translated as “knows” means to know from personal experience. God the Father knows Jesus in this way.

ὁ Υἱὸς

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. (See: First, Second or Third Person)

εἰ μὴ ὁ Πατήρ

This means only the Father knows who the Son is.

τίς ἐστιν ὁ Πατὴρ

The word that is translated as “knows” means to know from personal experience. Jesus knows God his Father in this way.

εἰ μὴ ὁ Υἱὸς

This means only the Son knows who the Father is.

ᾧ ἐὰν βούληται ὁ Υἱὸς ἀποκαλύψαι

“whoever the Son desires to show the Father to”

Luke 10:23

καὶ στραφεὶς πρὸς τοὺς μαθητὰς κατ’ ἰδίαν

The word “privately” indicates that he was alone with his disciples. Alternate translation: “Later, when he was alone with his disciples, he turned to them and said” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

μακάριοι οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ οἱ βλέποντες ἃ βλέπετε!

This probably refers to the good works and miracles that Jesus was doing. Alternate translation: “How good it is for those who see the things that you see me doing” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:24

καὶ οὐκ εἶδαν

This implies that Jesus was not yet doing those things. Alternate translation: “but could not see them because I was not doing them yet” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἃ ἀκούετε

This probably refers to the teaching of Jesus. Alternate translation: “the things that you have heard me say” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καὶ οὐκ ἤκουσαν

This implies that Jesus was not yet teaching. Alternate translation: “but could not hear them because I had not yet started to teach” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:25

Jesus replies with a story to an expert in the Jewish law who wants to test Jesus. (See: Parables)

καὶ ἰδοὺ, νομικός τις

This alerts us to a new event and a new person in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event and Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἐκπειράζων αὐτὸν

“challenge Jesus”

κληρονομήσω

“so that God will give me”

Luke 10:26

ἐν τῷ νόμῳ τί γέγραπται? πῶς ἀναγινώσκεις?

Jesus is not seeking information. He uses these questions to test the Jewish law expert’s knowledge. Alternate translation: “Tell me what Moses wrote in the law and what you think it means.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐν τῷ νόμῳ τί γέγραπται? πῶς ἀναγινώσκεις?

This can be asked in active form. Alternate translation: “What did Moses write in the law?” (See: Active or Passive)

πῶς ἀναγινώσκεις?

“What have you read in it?” or “What do you understand it to say?”

Luke 10:27

ἀγαπήσεις…τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν

The man is quoting what Moses wrote in the law.

ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ ψυχῇ σου, καὶ ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ ἰσχύϊ σου, καὶ ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ διανοίᾳ σου

Here “heart” and “soul” are metonyms for a person’s inner being. These four phrases are used together to mean “completely” or “earnestly.” (See: Metonymy and Doublet)

τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν

This simile can be stated more clearly. Alternate translation: “love your neighbor as much as you love yourself” (See: Simile)

Luke 10:28

ζήσῃ

“God will give you eternal life”

Luke 10:29

ὁ δὲ θέλων δικαιῶσαι ἑαυτὸν, εἶπεν

“But the expert wanted to find a way to justify himself, so he said” or “But wanting to appear righteous, the expert said”

τίς ἐστίν μου πλησίον?

The man wanted to know whom he was required to love. Alternate translation: “Whom should I consider to be my neighbor and love as I love myself?” or “Which people are my neighbors that I should love?” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:30

ὑπολαβὼν δὲ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν

Jesus answers the man’s question by telling a parable. Alternate translation: “As an answer to the man’s question, Jesus told him this story” (See: Parables)

ἄνθρωπός τις

This introduces a new character in the parable. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

λῃσταῖς περιέπεσεν, οἳ

“He was surrounded by robbers, who” or “Some robbers attacked him. They”

ἐκδύσαντες

“taken everything he had” or “stolen all his things”

ἡμιθανῆ

This idiom means “almost dead.” (See: Idiom)

Luke 10:31

κατὰ συνκυρίαν

This was not something that any person had planned.

ἱερεύς τις

This expression introduces a new person in the story, but does not identify him by name. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἰδὼν αὐτὸν

“when the priest saw the injured man.” A priest is a very religious person, so the audience would assume that he would help the injured man. Since he did not, this phrase could be stated as “but when he saw him” to call attention to this unexpected result. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀντιπαρῆλθεν

It is implied that he did not help the man. Alternate translation: “he did not help the injured man but instead walked past him on the other side of the road” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:32

Λευείτης…ἀντιπαρῆλθεν

The Levite served in the temple. He would be expected to help his fellow Jewish man. Since he did not, it may are helpful to state that. Alternate translation: “a Levite…the other side and did not help him” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 10:33

Σαμαρείτης δέ τις

This introduces a new person in the story without giving his name. We know only that he was from Samaria. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Σαμαρείτης…τις

The Jews despised the Samaritans and would have assumed that he would not help the injured Jewish man. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἰδὼν

“When the Samaritan saw the injured man”

ἐσπλαγχνίσθη

“he felt sorry for him”

Luke 10:34

κατέδησεν τὰ τραύματα αὐτοῦ, ἐπιχέων ἔλαιον καὶ οἶνον

He would have put the oil and wine on the wounds first, and then bound the wounds. Alternate translation: “he put wine and oil on the wounds and wrapped them with cloth” (See: Order of Events)

ἐπιχέων ἔλαιον καὶ οἶνον

Wine was used to clean the wound, and oil was probably used to prevent infection. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “pouring oil and wine on them to help heal them” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸ ἴδιον κτῆνος

“his own pack animal.” This was an animal that he used to carry heavy loads. It was probably a donkey.

Luke 10:35

δύο δηνάρια

“two day’s wages.” “Denarii” is the plural of “denarius.” (See: Biblical Money)

τῷ πανδοχεῖ

“the innkeeper” or “the person who took care of the inn”

ὅ τι ἂν προσδαπανήσῃς, ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ ἐπανέρχεσθαί με ἀποδώσω σοι

This could be reordered. Alternate translation: “when I return, I will repay you whatever amount you may need to spend that is more than this”

Luke 10:36

τίς τούτων τῶν τριῶν πλησίον δοκεῖ σοι…τοὺς λῃστάς?

This could be written as two questions. Alternate translation: “What do you think? Which of these three men was a neighbor…robbers?”

πλησίον…γεγονέναι

“showed himself to be a true neighbor”

τοῦ ἐμπεσόντος εἰς τοὺς λῃστάς

“to the man whom the robbers attacked”

Luke 10:37

πορεύου καὶ σὺ ποίει ὁμοίως

It might be helpful to give more information. Alternate translation: “In the same way, you should also go and help people as much as you can” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 10:38

Jesus comes to Martha’s house where her sister Mary listens to Jesus with great attention.

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν…τῷ πορεύεσθαι αὐτοὺς

“as Jesus and his disciples were traveling along”

κώμην τινά

This introduces the village as a new location, but does not name it.

γυνὴ…τις ὀνόματι Μάρθα

This introduces Martha as a new character. Your language may have a way of introducing new people. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Luke 10:39

καὶ παρακαθεσθεῖσα πρὸς τοὺς πόδας τοῦ Ἰησοῦ

This was the normal and respectful position for a learner at that time. Alternate translation: “sat on the floor near Jesus” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἤκουεν τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ

This refers to everything that Jesus taught while at Martha’s house. Alternate translation: “listened to the Lord teach” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 10:40

περιεσπᾶτο

“very busy” or “too busy”

οὐ μέλει σοι…μόνην με κατέλιπεν διακονεῖν?

Martha is complaining that the Lord is allowing Mary to sit listening to him when there is so much work to do. She respects the Lord, so she uses a rhetorical question to make her complaint more polite. Alternate translation: “it seems like you do not care…alone.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 10:41

Μάρθα, Μάρθα

Jesus repeats Martha’s name for emphasis. Alternate translation: “Dear Martha” or “You, Martha”

Luke 10:42

ἑνός…ἐστιν χρεία

Jesus is contrasting what Mary is doing with what Martha is doing. It may be helpful to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “the only thing that is really necessary is to listen to my teaching” or “listening to my teaching is more necessary than preparing a meal” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἥτις οὐκ ἀφαιρεθήσεται ἀπ’ αὐτῆς

Possible meanings are (1) “I will not take this opportunity away from her” or (2) “she will not lose what she has gained as she was listening to me” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 11

Luke 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The ULT sets the lines in 11:2-4 farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text because they are a special prayer.

Special concepts in this chapter

The Lord’s Prayer

When Jesus’ followers asked him to teach them how to pray, he taught them this prayer. He did not expect them to use the same words every time they prayed, but he did want them to know what God wanted them to pray about.

Jonah

Jonah was an Old Testament prophet who was sent to the Gentile city of Nineveh to tell them to repent. When he told them to repent, they repented. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and repent, repentance)

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

Washing

The Pharisees would wash themselves and the things they ate with. They would even wash things that were not dirty. The law of Moses did not tell them to wash these things, but they would wash them anyway. This was because they thought that if they obeyed both the rules that God had made and some rules that God had not made, God would think that they were better people. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and clean, wash)

Luke 11:1

The is the beginning of the next part of the story. Jesus teaches his disciples to pray.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῷ εἶναι αὐτὸν…τις

It may be more natural to state that Jesus finished praying before the disciple asked the question. Alternate translation: “that Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished praying, one of”

Luke 11:2

εἶπεν δὲ αὐτοῖς

“Jesus said to his disciples”

Πάτερ

Jesus is commanding the disciples to honor the name of God the Father by addressing him as “Father” when praying to him. This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ἁγιασθήτω τὸ ὄνομά σου

“cause everyone to honor your name.” “Name” often refers to the entire person. Alternate translation: “may all people honor you” (See: Metonymy)

ἐλθέτω ἡ βασιλεία σου

The action of God ruling over everyone is spoken of as if it were God himself. Alternate translation: “May you come and rule over everyone” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 11:3

Jesus continues to teach his disciples how to pray.

δίδου ἡμῖν

This is an imperative, but it should be translated as a request, rather than as a command. It may be helpful to add something such as “please” to them to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please give us”

τὸν ἄρτον ἡμῶν τὸν ἐπιούσιον

Bread was an inexpensive food that people ate every day. It is used here to refer to food in general. Alternate translation: “the food we need each day” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 11:4

καὶ ἄφες ἡμῖν…μὴ εἰσενέγκῃς ἡμᾶς

These are imperatives, but they should be translated as requests, rather than as commands. It may be helpful to add something such as “please” to them to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please forgive us…Please do not lead us”

ἄφες ἡμῖν τὰς ἁμαρτίας ἡμῶν

“Forgive us for sinning against you” or “Forgive our sins”

καὶ γὰρ αὐτοὶ ἀφίομεν

“since we also forgive”

ὀφείλοντι ἡμῖν

“who has sinned against us” or “who has done wrong things to us”

μὴ εἰσενέγκῃς ἡμᾶς εἰς πειρασμόν

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “Lead us away from temptation”

Luke 11:5

Jesus continues to teach his disciples about prayer.

χρῆσόν μοι τρεῖς ἄρτους

“let me borrow three loaves of bread” or “give me three loaves of bread and I will pay you later.” The host does not have any food ready to give to his guest.

τρεῖς ἄρτους

Bread is often used to represent food in general. Alternate translation: “enough cooked food for a meal” or “enough prepared food for a person to eat” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 11:6

Jesus finishes asking a question that begins in verse 5.

ἐπειδὴ φίλος…παραθήσω αὐτῷ

Jesus uses a question to teach the disciples. “Suppose one of you has…to set before him’.” or “Suppose you have…to set before him’.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

παρεγένετο ἐξ ὁδοῦ πρός με

It is implied that the visitor has come far from his home. Alternate translation: “was traveling and just came to my house” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὃ παραθήσω αὐτῷ

“any food ready to give him”

Luke 11:7

οὐ δύναμαι ἀναστὰς

“It is not convenient for me to get up”

Luke 11:8

λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus was speaking to the disciples. The word “you” is plural. (See: Forms of You)

δώσει αὐτῷ…διὰ τὸ εἶναι…αὐτοῦ…αὐτοῦ…αὐτῷ…χρῄζει

Jesus addresses the disciples as if they were the ones asking for bread. Alternate translation: “give bread to him because he is…his…he…he needs”

διά γε τὴν ἀναίδειαν αὐτοῦ

The phrase can be reworded to eliminate the abstract noun “persistence.” Alternate translation: “because you persist shamelessly” or “because you boldly continue to ask him” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 11:9

αἰτεῖτε…ζητεῖτε…κρούετε

Jesus gives these commands to encourage his disciples to pray continually. Some languages may also require more information with these verbs. Use the form of “you” that would be most appropriate in this context. Alternate translation: “keep asking for what you need…keep seeking what you need from God…find it…keep knocking on the door” (See: Forms of You and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

δοθήσεται ὑμῖν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will give it to you” or “you will receive it” (See: Active or Passive)

κρούετε

To knock at a door is to hit it a few times to let a person inside the house know you are standing outside. It can also be translated using the way people in your culture show that they have arrived, such as “call out” or “cough” or “clap.” Here, it means a person should keep praying to God until he answers. (See: Metaphor)

ἀνοιγήσεται ὑμῖν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will open the door for you” or “God will welcome you inside” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 11:11

Jesus finishes teaching his disciples about prayer.

τίνα δὲ ἐξ ὑμῶν τὸν πατέρα…ἰχθύος, ὄφιν αὐτῷ ἐπιδώσει?

Jesus uses a question to teach his disciples. It could also be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “None of you fathers…a fish” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 11:12

ἢ καὶ αἰτήσει…αὐτῷ σκορπίον?

Jesus uses a question to teach his disciples. It could also be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “And you would never give him a scorpion if he asks for an egg” (See: Rhetorical Question)

σκορπίον

A scorpion is similar to a spider, but it has a tail with a poisonous sting. If scorpions are not known where you are, you could translate this as “poisonous spider” or “spider that stings” (See: Translate Unknowns)

Luke 11:13

εἰ…ὑμεῖς πονηροὶ ὑπάρχοντες, οἴδατε

“since you who are evil know” or “even though you are sinful, you know”

πόσῳ μᾶλλον ὁ Πατὴρ ὁ ἐξ οὐρανοῦ, δώσει Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον…αὐτόν?

“how much more certain is it that your Father in heaven will give the Holy Spirit…him?” Jesus again uses a question to teach his disciples. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “you can be sure that your Father from heaven will give the Holy Spirit…him.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 11:14

Jesus is questioned after he drives a demon out of a mute man.

καὶ

The author uses this word to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἦν ἐκβάλλων δαιμόνιον

It may be helpful to add extra information. Alternate translation: “Jesus was driving a demon out of a person” or “Jesus was making a demon leave a person” (See: Ellipsis)

δαιμόνιον κωφόν

The demon has power to prevent people from speaking. Alternate translation: “demon that caused the man to be unable to speak” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καὶ

This word is used here to mark where the action starts. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. When the demon comes out of the man, some of the people criticize Jesus, and that leads to Jesus teaching about evil spirits.

τοῦ δαιμονίου ἐξελθόντος

It may be helpful to add extra information. Alternate translation: “when the demon had gone out of the man” or “when the demon left the man” (See: Ellipsis)

ἐλάλησεν ὁ κωφός

“the man who had been unable to speak now spoke”

Luke 11:15

ἐν Βεελζεβοὺλ τῷ ἄρχοντι τῶν δαιμονίων, ἐκβάλλει τὰ δαιμόνια

“He is driving out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the ruler of demons”

Luke 11:16

Jesus begins to respond to the crowd.

ἕτεροι δὲ πειράζοντες

“Other people tested Jesus.” They wanted him to prove that his authority was from God.

σημεῖον ἐξ οὐρανοῦ ἐζήτουν παρ’ αὐτοῦ

“and asked him to give a sign from heaven” or “by demanding that he give a sign from heaven.” This was how they wanted him to prove that his authority was from God.

Luke 11:17

πᾶσα βασιλεία ἐφ’ ἑαυτὴν διαμερισθεῖσα ἐρημοῦται

“kingdom” here refers to the people in it. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “If people of a kingdom fight among themselves, they will destroy their kingdom” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

οἶκος ἐπὶ οἶκον πίπτει

Here “house” refers to a family. Alternate translation: “if family members fight each other, they will ruin their family” (See: Metonymy)

πίπτει

“crashes down and is destroyed.” This image of the house collapsing refers to the destruction of a family when the members fight each other. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 11:18

εἰ…ὁ Σατανᾶς ἐφ’ ἑαυτὸν διεμερίσθη

“Satan” here is referring to the demons who follow Satan as well as to Satan himself. Alternate translation: “If Satan and members of his kingdom are fighting among themselves” (See: Metonymy)

εἰ…ὁ Σατανᾶς…πῶς σταθήσεται ἡ βασιλεία αὐτοῦ?

Jesus uses a question to teach the people. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “If Satan…his kingdom will not last.” or “If Satan…his kingdom will fall apart.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὅτι λέγετε, ἐν Βεελζεβοὺλ ἐκβάλλειν με τὰ δαιμόνια

“For you say that it is by the power of Beelzebul that I make demons leave people.” The next part of his argument can be stated explicitly: Alternate translation: “For you say that it is by the power of Beelzebul that I make demons leave people. That would mean that Satan is divided against himself” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:19

εἰ δὲ ἐγὼ…οἱ υἱοὶ ὑμῶν ἐν τίνι ἐκβάλλουσιν?

“If I…by whose power do your followers force demons to leave people?” Jesus uses a question to teach the people. The meaning of Jesus’ question can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “If I…then we must agree that your followers also drive out demons by Beelzebul’s power. But you do not believe that it is true.” (See: Rhetorical Question and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

αὐτοὶ ὑμῶν κριταὶ ἔσονται

“your followers who cast out demons by God’s power will judge you for saying that I cast out demons by Beelzebul’s power”

Luke 11:20

ἐν δακτύλῳ Θεοῦ

The “finger of God” refers to God’s power. (See: Metonymy)

ἄρα ἔφθασεν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

“this shows that God’s kingdom has come to you”

Luke 11:21

ὅταν ὁ ἰσχυρὸς…ἐν εἰρήνῃ ἐστὶν τὰ ὑπάρχοντα αὐτοῦ

This speaks about Jesus defeating Satan and his demons as if Jesus were a stronger man who takes what belongs to a strong man. (See: Metaphor)

ἐν εἰρήνῃ ἐστὶν τὰ ὑπάρχοντα αὐτοῦ

“no one can steal his things”

Luke 11:22

ἐπὰν…ἰσχυρότερος αὐτοῦ…τὰ σκῦλα αὐτοῦ διαδίδωσιν

This speaks about Jesus defeating Satan and his demons as if Jesus were a stronger man who takes what belongs to a strong man. (See: Metaphor)

τὴν πανοπλίαν αὐτοῦ αἴρει

“removes the man’s weapons and protection”

τὰ σκῦλα αὐτοῦ διαδίδωσιν

“steals his possessions” or “takes away anything that he wants”

Luke 11:23

ὁ μὴ ὢν μετ’ ἐμοῦ, κατ’ ἐμοῦ ἐστιν; καὶ ὁ μὴ συνάγων μετ’ ἐμοῦ, σκορπίζει

This refers to any person or any group of people. “Anyone who is not with me is against me, and anyone who does not gather with me scatters” or “Those who are not with me are against me, and those who do not gather with me scatter”

ὁ μὴ ὢν μετ’ ἐμοῦ

“one who does not support me” or “one who does not work with me”

κατ’ ἐμοῦ ἐστιν

“works against me”

ὁ μὴ συνάγων μετ’ ἐμοῦ, σκορπίζει

Jesus is referring to gathering disciples who follow him. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “anyone who does not cause people to come and follow me causes them to go away from me” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:24

ἀνύδρων τόπων

This refers to “desolate places” where the evil spirits wander.

μὴ εὑρίσκον

“If the spirit does not find any rest there”

τὸν οἶκόν μου, ὅθεν ἐξῆλθον

This refers to the person in which he used to live. Alternate translation: “the person in whom I used to live” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 11:25

εὑρίσκει σεσαρωμένον καὶ κεκοσμημένον

This metaphor speaks about the person as if he were a house that is swept clean and things put in their places. It is implied that the house is still empty. This can be stated in active form with that information made explicit. Alternate translation: “finds that the person is like a house that someone has swept clean and organized by putting everything where it belongs, but has left empty” or “finds that the person is like a house that is clean and organized, but empty” (See: Active or Passive and Metaphor)

Luke 11:26

χείρονα τῶν πρώτων

The word “first” refers to the condition of the man while he had the unclean spirit before it left him. Alternate translation: “worse than his condition was before the spirit left” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 11:27

This is a break in Jesus’ teachings. A woman speaks a blessing and Jesus responds.

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐπάρασά…φωνὴν…ἐκ τοῦ ὄχλου

This idiom means “spoke loudly above the noise of the crowd” (See: Idiom)

μακαρία ἡ κοιλία ἡ βαστάσασά σε, καὶ μαστοὶ οὓς ἐθήλασας

The parts of a woman’s body are used to refer to the whole woman. Alternate translation: “How good it is for the woman who bore you and nursed you at her breasts” or “How happy the woman who bore you and nursed you at her breasts must be” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 11:28

μενοῦν, μακάριοι οἱ ἀκούοντες

“It is even better for those”

οἱ ἀκούοντες τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ

“hear the message God has spoken”

Luke 11:29

Jesus continues teaching the crowd.

τῶν δὲ ὄχλων ἐπαθροιζομένων

“As more people were joining the crowd” or “As the crowd was growing larger”

ἡ γενεὰ αὕτη γενεὰ πονηρά ἐστιν;…ζητεῖ…αὐτῇ

Here “generation” refers to the people in it. Alternate translation: “The people living at this time are evil people. They seek…to them” or “You people living at this time are evil people. You seek…to you”

σημεῖον ζητεῖ

The information about what kind of sign it seeks can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “It wants me to perform a miracle as proof that I have come from God” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

σημεῖον οὐ δοθήσεται αὐτῇ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will not give it a sign” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸ σημεῖον Ἰωνᾶ

“what happened to Jonah” or “the miracle that God did for Jonah”

Luke 11:30

καθὼς γὰρ ἐγένετο Ἰωνᾶς…σημεῖον, οὕτως…τῇ γενεᾷ ταύτῃ

This means that Jesus will serve as a sign from God for the Jews of that day in exactly the same way as Jonah served as a sign from God to the people of Nineveh.

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus is referring to himself.

τῇ γενεᾷ ταύτῃ

“the people living today”

Luke 11:31

βασίλισσα νότου

This refers to the Queen of Sheba. Sheba was a kingdom south of Israel.

ἐγερθήσεται ἐν τῇ κρίσει μετὰ τῶν ἀνδρῶν τῆς γενεᾶς ταύτης

“will stand up and judge the people of this time”

ἦλθεν ἐκ τῶν περάτων τῆς γῆς

This idiom means that she came from very far away. Alternate translation: “she came a very great distance” or “she came from a place very far away” (See: Idiom)

πλεῖον Σολομῶνος ὧδε

Jesus is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I, who am greater than Solomon, am here” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πλεῖον Σολομῶνος

Jesus is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I am greater than Solomon” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:32

ἄνδρες Νινευεῖται

It may be helpful to state explicitly that this refers to the ancient city of Nineveh. Alternate translation: “The men who lived in the ancient city of Nineveh” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἄνδρες

This includes both men and woman. Alternate translation: “The people” (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

τῆς γενεᾶς ταύτης

“the people of this time”

ὅτι μετενόησαν

“for the people of Nineveh repented”

πλεῖον Ἰωνᾶ ὧδε

Jesus is speaking about himself. It may be helpful to explicitly state that they have not listened to him. Alternate translation: “even though I am greater than Jonah, you still have not repented” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:33

Verses 33-36 are a metaphor where Jesus speaks of his teaching as “light” that he wants his disciples to obey and share with others. He speaks of people who do not know or accept his teaching as being in “darkness.” (See: Metaphor)

Jesus finishes teaching the crowd.

εἰς κρύπτην τίθησιν, οὐδὲ ὑπὸ τὸν μόδιον

“hides it or puts in under a basket”

ἀλλ’ ἐπὶ τὴν λυχνίαν

The understood subject and verb in this clause may be supplied. Alternate translation: “but a person places it on a lampstand” or “but a person puts it on a table” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 11:34

ὁ λύχνος τοῦ σώματός ἐστιν ὁ ὀφθαλμός σου

In this part of the metaphor, the things they saw Jesus do provided understanding just as an eye provides light for the body. Alternate translation: “Your eye is like the lamp of the body” (See: Metaphor)

ὁ ὀφθαλμός σου

The eye is a metonym for vision. (See: Metonymy)

τοῦ σώματός

The body is a synecdoche for a person’s life. (See: Synecdoche)

ὅταν ὁ ὀφθαλμός σου ἁπλοῦς ᾖ

Here “eye” here is a metonym for vision. Alternate translation: “When your vision is good” or “when you see well” (See: Metonymy)

καὶ ὅλον τὸ σῶμά σου φωτεινόν ἐστιν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the light will fill your whole body” or “you will be able to see everything clearly” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐπὰν…πονηρὸς ᾖ

Here “eye” is a metonym for vision. Alternate translation: “When your vision is bad” or “when you see poorly” (See: Metonymy)

καὶ τὸ σῶμά σου σκοτεινόν

“you will not be able to see anything”

Luke 11:35

σκόπει…μὴ τὸ φῶς τὸ ἐν σοὶ σκότος ἐστίν

“make sure that what you think is light is not actually darkness” or “make sure you know what is light and make sure you know what is darkness”

Luke 11:36

ἔσται φωτεινὸν ὅλον, ὡς ὅταν ὁ λύχνος τῇ ἀστραπῇ φωτίζῃ σε

Jesus states the same truth as a simile. He speaks of people who are full of truth as if they are a lamp that shines brightly. (See: Simile)

Luke 11:37

Jesus is invited to eat at a Pharisee’s house.

ἐν δὲ τῷ λαλῆσαι

The author uses these words to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἀνέπεσεν

It was the custom for a relaxed meal such as this dinner for men to eat while lying down comfortably around the table. You might want to translate using the word your language uses for the way people’s bodies are when they eat. Alternate translation: “sat down at the table” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:38

οὐ πρῶτον ἐβαπτίσθη

The Pharisees had a rule that people must wash their hands in order to be ceremonially clean before God. Alternate translation: “wash his hands” or “wash his hands in order to be ritually clean” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:39

Jesus begins to speak to the Pharisee using a metaphor. He compares the way they clean cups and bowls to how they clean themselves. (See: Metaphor)

τὸ ἔξωθεν τοῦ ποτηρίου καὶ τοῦ πίνακος

Washing of the outside of containers was a part of the ritual practices of the Pharisees. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸ δὲ ἔσωθεν ὑμῶν γέμει ἁρπαγῆς καὶ πονηρίας

This part of the metaphor contrasts the careful way they clean the outside of the dishes with the way they ignore their own internal condition. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 11:40

ἄφρονες!

This expression can refer to men or women, even though all of the Pharisees to whom Jesus was speaking to here were men.

οὐχ ὁ ποιήσας τὸ ἔξωθεν, καὶ τὸ ἔσωθεν ἐποίησεν?

Jesus uses a question to rebuke the Pharisees for not understanding that what is in their hearts matters to God. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “The one who made the outside also made the inside!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 11:41

τὰ ἐνόντα δότε ἐλεημοσύνην

This refers to what they should be doing with their cups and bowls. Alternate translation: “Give to the poor what is inside your cups and bowls” or “Be generous to the poor” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πάντα καθαρὰ ὑμῖν ἐστιν

“you will be completely clean” or “you will be clean both inside and outside”

Luke 11:42

ἀποδεκατοῦτε τὸ ἡδύοσμον, καὶ τὸ πήγανον, καὶ πᾶν λάχανον

“you give God one tenth of your mint and rue and other herbs from your garden.” Jesus was giving an example of how extreme the Pharisees were in giving a tenth of their income.

τὸ ἡδύοσμον, καὶ τὸ πήγανον

These are herbs. People put just a little bit of these leaves into their food to give it flavor. If people do not know what mint and rue are, you can use the name of herbs they know or a general expression such as “herbs.” (See: Translate Unknowns)

πᾶν λάχανον

Possible meanings are (1) “every other vegetable” (2) “every other garden herb” or (3) “every other garden plant.”

τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ

“to love God” or “love for God.” God is the one who is loved.

κἀκεῖνα μὴ παρεῖναι

“without failing” emphasizes that this should always be done. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “and to always do the other good things as well” (See: Litotes)

Luke 11:43

Jesus finishes speaking to the Pharisee.

τὴν πρωτοκαθεδρίαν

“the best seats”

τοὺς ἀσπασμοὺς

“you like people to greet you with special honor”

Luke 11:44

ἐστὲ ὡς τὰ μνημεῖα τὰ ἄδηλα, καὶ οἱ ἄνθρωποι οἱ περιπατοῦντες ἐπάνω οὐκ οἴδασιν

The Pharisees are like unmarked graves because they look ceremonially clean, but they cause people around them to become unclean. (See: Simile)

τὰ μνημεῖα τὰ ἄδηλα

These graves were holes dug in the ground where a dead body was buried. They did not have the white stones that people normally place over graves so that others would see them.

οὐκ οἴδασιν

When the Jews walked over a grave, they would become ceremonially unclean. These unmarked graves caused them to accidentally do that. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “without realizing it and become ceremonially unclean” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:45

Jesus begins to respond to a Jewish teacher.

τις τῶν νομικῶν

This introduces a new character into the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ταῦτα λέγων, καὶ ἡμᾶς ὑβρίζεις

Jesus’ comments about the Pharisees also seemed to apply to the teachers of the Jewish laws.

Luke 11:46

ὑμῖν τοῖς νομικοῖς οὐαί!

Jesus makes it clear that he intended to condemn the actions of the teachers of the law along with the Pharisees.

φορτίζετε τοὺς ἀνθρώπους φορτία δυσβάστακτα

“you put burdens on people that are too heavy and they cannot carry them.” Jesus speaks about someone giving people many rules as if the person were giving them heavy things to carry. Alternate translation: “you burden people by giving them too many rules to follow” (See: Metaphor)

ἑνὶ τῶν δακτύλων ὑμῶν οὐ προσψαύετε τοῖς φορτίοις

Possible meanings are (1) “do anything at all to help people carry those burdens” or (2) “make any effort to carry those burdens yourselves.”

Luke 11:48

ἄρα μαρτυρεῖτε καὶ συνευδοκεῖτε

Jesus is rebuking the Pharisees and teachers of the law. They know about the murder of the prophets, but do not condemn their ancestors for killing them. Alternate translation: “So, rather than denouncing them, you confirm and agree” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 11:49

διὰ τοῦτο

This refers back to the previous statement that the teachers of the law burdened people with rules.

ἡ σοφία τοῦ Θεοῦ εἶπεν

“wisdom” is treated as if it was able to speak for God. Alternate translation: “God in his wisdom said” or “God wisely said” (See: Personification)

ἀποστελῶ εἰς αὐτοὺς προφήτας καὶ ἀποστόλους

“I will send prophets and apostles to my people.” God had declared beforehand that he would send prophets and apostles to the ancestors of the Jewish audience to whom Jesus was speaking.

ἐξ αὐτῶν ἀποκτενοῦσιν καὶ διώξουσιν

“my people will persecute and kill some of the prophets and apostles.” God had declared beforehand that the ancestors of the Jewish audience to whom Jesus was speaking would persecute and kill the prophets and apostles.

Luke 11:50

ἐκζητηθῇ τὸ αἷμα πάντων τῶν προφητῶν, τὸ ἐκχυννόμενον…ἀπὸ τῆς γενεᾶς ταύτης

The people to whom Jesus is speaking will be held responsible for the murder of the prophets by their ancestors. Alternate translation: “Therefore, God will hold this generation responsible for all the deaths of the prophets that people have killed” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

τὸ αἷμα πάντων τῶν προφητῶν, τὸ ἐκχυννόμενον

The “blood…shed” refers to the blood spilled when they were killed. Alternate translation: “the murder of the prophets” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 11:51

Ζαχαρίου

This was probably the priest in the Old Testament who rebuked the people of Israel for idolatry. This was not the Father of John the Baptist.

τοῦ ἀπολομένου

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that the people killed” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 11:52

Jesus finishes responding to the Jewish teacher.

ἤρατε τὴν κλεῖδα τῆς γνώσεως…τοὺς εἰσερχομένους ἐκωλύσατε

Jesus speaks about God’s truth as if it were in a house that the teachers refuse to enter and will not let others have the key to enter either. This means the teachers do not truly know God, and they prevent others from knowing him as well. (See: Metaphor)

τὴν κλεῖδα

This represents the means of access, as to a house or storage room.

αὐτοὶ οὐκ εἰσήλθατε

“you yourselves do not go in to get knowledge”

Luke 11:53

This is the end of the part of the story where Jesus eats at the Pharisee’s house. These verses tell the reader what happens after the main part of the story ends.

κἀκεῖθεν ἐξελθόντος αὐτοῦ

“After Jesus left the Pharisee’s house”

ἀποστοματίζειν αὐτὸν περὶ πλειόνων

The scribes and Pharisees did not argue in order to defend their views, but to try to trap Jesus so they could accuse him of breaking the law of God.

Luke 11:54

αὐτὸν θηρεῦσαί τι ἐκ τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ

This means they wanted Jesus to say something wrong so that they could accuse him. The scribes and Pharisees did not argue in order to defend their views, but to try to trap Jesus so they could accuse him of breaking the law of God. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 12

Luke 12 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“Blasphemy against the Spirit”

No one knows for sure what actions people perform or what words they say when they commit this sin. However, they probably insult the Holy Spirit and his work. Part of the Holy Spirit’s work is to make people understand that they are sinners and that they need to have God forgive them. Therefore, anyone who does not try to stop sinning is probably committing blasphemy against the Spirit. (See: blasphemy, blaspheme, blasphemous and Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit)

Servants

God expects his people to remember that everything in the world belongs to God. God gives his people things so they can serve him. He wants them to please him by doing what he wants them to do with everything he has given them. One day Jesus will ask his servants what they have done with everything he gave them to use. He will give a reward to those who have done what he wanted them to do, and he will punish those who have not.

Division

Jesus knew that those who did not choose to follow him would hate those who did choose to follow him. He also knew that most people love their families more than they love anyone else. So he wanted his followers to understand that following and pleasing him had to be more important to them than having their family love them (Luke 12:51-56).

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 12;8). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 12:1

Jesus begins to teach his disciples in front of thousands of people.

ἐν οἷς

This is probably while the scribes and Pharisees were looking for a way to trap him. The author uses these words to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐπισυναχθεισῶν τῶν μυριάδων τοῦ ὄχλου, ὥστε καταπατεῖν ἀλλήλους

This is background information that tells the setting of the story. (See: Background Information)

τῶν μυριάδων τοῦ ὄχλου

“a very great crowd”

καταπατεῖν ἀλλήλους

This is probably an exaggeration to emphasize that so many people were crowded close together that they would step on each other. Alternate translation: “they were stepping on each other” or “they were stepping on one another’s feet” (See: Hyperbole)

ἤρξατο λέγειν πρὸς τοὺς μαθητὰς αὐτοῦ πρῶτον

“Jesus first started speaking to his disciples, and said to them”

προσέχετε ἑαυτοῖς ἀπὸ τῆς ζύμης, τῶν Φαρισαίων, ἥτις ἐστὶν ὑπόκρισις

Just as yeast spreads through a whole lump of bread dough, their hypocrisy was spreading through the whole community. Alternate translation: “Guard yourself against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, which is like yeast” or “Be careful that you do not become hypocrites like the Pharisees. Their evil behavior influences everyone just as yeast affects a lump of dough” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 12:2

οὐδὲν δὲ…ἐστὶν

The word “But” connects this verse to the previous verse about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. (See: Connecting Words and Phrases)

οὐδὲν…συνκεκαλυμμένον ἐστὶν, ὃ οὐκ ἀποκαλυφθήσεται

“everything that is hidden will be shown.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will find out about everything that people do secretly” (See: Active or Passive)

καὶ κρυπτὸν ὃ οὐ γνωσθήσεται

This means the same thing as the first part of the sentence in order to emphasize its truth. It can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will learn about everything that others try to hide” (See: Parallelism and Active or Passive)

Luke 12:3

ὧν ὅσα ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ εἴπατε, ἐν τῷ φωτὶ ἀκουσθήσεται

Here “darkness” is a metonym for “night” which is a metonym for “private. And “light” is a metonym for “day” which is a metonym for “public. The phrase “will be heard” can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whatever you have said privately at night, people will hear it in the daylight” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

πρὸς τὸ οὖς ἐλαλήσατε

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whispered to another person” (See: Synecdoche)

ἐν τοῖς ταμείοις

“in a closed room.” This refers to private speech. Alternate translation: “in privacy” or “secretly”

κηρυχθήσεται

“will be shouted loudly.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will proclaim” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐπὶ τῶν δωμάτων

Houses in Israel had flat roofs, so people could go up and stand on top of them. If readers would be distracted trying to imagine how people would get up on the house tops, this could also be translated with a more general expression, such as “from a high place so that everyone will be able to hear.”

Luke 12:4

λέγω δὲ ὑμῖν, τοῖς φίλοις μου

Jesus readdresses his disciples to mark a shift in his speech to a new topic, in this case, to speak about not being afraid.

μὴ ἐχόντων περισσότερόν τι ποιῆσαι

“they cannot cause any more harm”

Luke 12:5

φοβήθητε τὸν μετὰ…ἔχοντα ἐξουσίαν

The phrase “the one” refers to God. This could be reworded. Alternate translation: “Fear God who, after…has authority” or “Fear God, because after…he has authority” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

μετὰ τὸ ἀποκτεῖναι

“after he kills you”

ἔχοντα ἐξουσίαν ἐμβαλεῖν εἰς τὴν Γέενναν

This is a general statement about God’s authority to judge people. It does not mean this will happen to the disciples. Alternate translation: “has authority to throw people into hell”

Luke 12:6

οὐχὶ πέντε στρουθία πωλοῦνται ἀσσαρίων δύο?

Jesus uses a question to teach the disciples. Alternate translation: “You know that five sparrows are sold for only two small coins.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

στρουθία

very small, seed-eating birds

ἓν ἐξ αὐτῶν οὐκ ἔστιν ἐπιλελησμένον ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ

This could be stated in active form and in positive form. Alternate translation: “God never forgets any of them” or “God indeed remembers every sparrow” (See: Active or Passive and Litotes)

Luke 12:7

καὶ αἱ τρίχες τῆς κεφαλῆς ὑμῶν πᾶσαι ἠρίθμηνται

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God knows even how many hairs are on your head” (See: Active or Passive)

μὴ φοβεῖσθε

The reason for the fear is not stated. Possible meanings are (1) “Do not be afraid of what will happen to you” or (2) “So do not be afraid of people who could hurt you.”

πολλῶν στρουθίων διαφέρετε

“You are worth more to God than many sparrows”

Luke 12:8

λέγω δὲ ὑμῖν

Jesus readdresses his audience to mark a shift in his speech to a new topic, in this case, to speak about confession.

πᾶς ὃς ἂν ὁμολογήσῃ ἐν ἐμοὶ ἔμπροσθεν τῶν ἀνθρώπων

What is confessed can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “whoever tells others that he is my disciple” or “anyone who acknowledges before others that he is loyal to me” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus is referring to himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man”

Luke 12:9

ὁ δὲ ἀρνησάμενός με ἐνώπιον τῶν ἀνθρώπων

“he who disowns me before people.” What is denied can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “whoever refuses to acknowledge to others that he is my disciple” or “if anyone refuses to say that he is loyal to me, he” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπαρνηθήσεται

“will be disowned.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Son of Man will deny him” or “I will deny that he is my disciple” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 12:10

καὶ πᾶς ὃς ἐρεῖ λόγον εἰς τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

“Everyone who says something bad about the Son of Man”

ἀφεθήσεται αὐτῷ

“he will be forgiven.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will forgive him for that” (See: Active or Passive)

εἰς τὸ Ἅγιον Πνεῦμα βλασφημήσαντι

“speaks evil against the Holy Spirit”

τῷ δὲ…οὐκ ἀφεθήσεται

This can be expressed with an active verb. Alternate translation: “but he…God will not forgive him” or “but he…God will consider him guilty forever” (See: Active or Passive and Litotes)

Luke 12:11

ὅταν δὲ εἰσφέρωσιν ὑμᾶς

It is not stated who brings them into judgment.

ἐπὶ τὰς συναγωγὰς

“into the synagogues to question you before the religious leaders”

τὰς ἀρχὰς, καὶ τὰς ἐξουσίας

It may be necessary to combine these into one statement. Alternate translation: “other people who have power in the country”

Luke 12:12

ἐν αὐτῇ τῇ ὥρᾳ

“at that time” or “then”

Luke 12:13

This is a break in Jesus’ teachings. A man asks Jesus to do something and Jesus responds to him.

μερίσασθαι μετ’ ἐμοῦ τὴν κληρονομίαν

In that culture, inheritances came from the father, usually after the father had died. You may need to make explicit that the speaker’s father had probably died. Alternate translation: “share my father’s property with me now that our father is dead” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 12:14

ἄνθρωπε

Possible meanings are (1) this is simply a way to address a stranger or (2) Jesus is rebuking the man. Your language might have a way of addressing people in either of these ways. Some people do not translate this word at all.

τίς με κατέστησεν κριτὴν ἢ μεριστὴν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς?

Jesus uses a question to rebuke the man. Some languages would use the plural form for “you” or “your.” Alternate translation: “I am not your judge or mediator.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 12:15

εἶπεν δὲ πρὸς αὐτούς

The word “them” here probably refers to the whole crowd of people. Alternate translation: “And Jesus said to the crowd”

φυλάσσεσθε ἀπὸ πάσης πλεονεξίας

“guard yourself from every form of greed.” Alternate translation: “do not allow yourself to love having things” or “do not let the urge to have more things control you”

ἡ ζωὴ αὐτοῦ

This is a general statement of fact. It does not refer to any specific person. Some languages have a way of expressing that.

τῷ περισσεύειν…ἐκ τῶν ὑπαρχόντων αὐτῷ

“how many things he owns” or “how much wealth he has”

Luke 12:16

Jesus continues his teaching by telling a parable. (See: Parables)

εἶπεν δὲ…αὐτοὺς

Jesus was probably still speaking to the entire crowd.

εὐφόρησεν

“grew a very good harvest”

Luke 12:17

τί ποιήσω, ὅτι οὐκ ἔχω ποῦ συνάξω τοὺς καρπούς μου?

This question reflects what the man was thinking to himself. Alternate translation: “I do not know what to do, because I do not have any place big enough to store all my crops!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 12:18

τὰς ἀποθήκας

buildings where farmers store the crops they have harvested

τὰ ἀγαθά

possessions

Luke 12:19

καὶ ἐρῶ τῇ ψυχῇ μου, ψυχή, ἔχεις πολλὰ ἀγαθὰ κείμενα εἰς ἔτη πολλά; ἀναπαύου, φάγε, πίε, εὐφραίνου.

“I will say to myself, ‘I have…years. Rest…merry.’” or “I will tell myself that I have…years, so I can rest…merry.” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 12:20

Jesus quotes how God responds to the rich man, as he finishes telling his parable.

ταύτῃ τῇ νυκτὶ, τὴν ψυχήν σου ἀπαιτοῦσιν ἀπὸ σοῦ

The “soul” refers to the life of a person. Alternate translation: “you will die tonight” or “I will take your life from you tonight” (See: Euphemism and Active or Passive)

ἃ δὲ ἡτοίμασας, τίνι ἔσται?

“who will own what you have stored up?” or “who will have what you prepared?” God uses a question to make the man realize that he would no longer possess those things. Alternate translation: “the things that you have prepared will belong to someone else!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 12:21

ὁ θησαυρίζων

“saves up valuable things”

μὴ εἰς Θεὸν πλουτῶν

has not used his time and possessions for the things that are important to God

Luke 12:22

Jesus continues teaching his disciples in front of the crowd.

διὰ τοῦτο

“For that reason” or “Because of what this story teaches”

λέγω ὑμῖν

“I want to tell you something important” or “you need to listen carefully to this”

τῷ σώματι τί ἐνδύσησθε

“about your body and what you will wear” or “about having enough clothes to put on your body”

Luke 12:23

ἡ γὰρ ψυχὴ πλεῖόν ἐστιν τῆς τροφῆς

This is a general statement of value. Alternate translation: “life is more important than the food you eat”

τὸ σῶμα τοῦ ἐνδύματος

“your body is more important than the clothes you wear”

Luke 12:24

τοὺς κόρακας

This refers either to (1) crows, a kind of bird that eats mostly grain, or (2) ravens, a kind of bird that eats the flesh of dead animals. Jesus’ audience would have considered the ravens worthless since the Jewish people could not eat these types of birds.

ταμεῖον…ἀποθήκη

These are places where food is stored.

πόσῳ μᾶλλον ὑμεῖς διαφέρετε τῶν πετεινῶν!

This is an exclamation, not a question. Jesus emphasizes the fact that people are much more valuable to God then birds. (See: Exclamations)

Luke 12:25

τίς δὲ ἐξ ὑμῶν…ὴν ἡλικίαν αὐτοῦ προσθεῖναι πῆχυν?

Jesus uses a question to teach his disciples. Alternate translation: “None of you can make your life any longer by being anxious!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐπὶ τὴν ἡλικίαν αὐτοῦ προσθεῖναι πῆχυν

This is a metaphor because a cubit is a measure of length, rather than of time. The image is of a person’s life stretched out as if it were a board, a rope, or some other physical object. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 12:26

εἰ οὖν οὐδὲ ἐλάχιστον δύνασθε, τί περὶ τῶν λοιπῶν μεριμνᾶτε?

Jesus uses another question to teach his disciples. Alternate translation: “Since you cannot do even this small thing, you should not worry about the other things.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 12:27

κατανοήσατε τὰ κρίνα πῶς αὐξάνει

“Think about how the lilies grow”

τὰ κρίνα

Lilies are beautiful flowers that grow wild in the fields. If your language does not have a word for lily, you can use the name of another flower like that or translate it as “flowers” (See: Translate Unknowns)

οὐδὲ νήθει

The process of making thread or yard for cloth is called “spinning.” It may be helpful to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “neither do they make thread in order to make cloth” or “and they do not make yarn” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Σολομὼν ἐν πάσῃ τῇ δόξῃ αὐτοῦ

“Solomon, who had great wealth” or “Solomon, who wore beautiful clothes”

Luke 12:28

εἰ δὲ ἐν ἀγρῷ τὸν χόρτον ὄντα

“If God clothes the grass in the field like that, and it” or “If God gives the grass in the field such beautiful clothing, and it.” God making the grass beautiful is spoken of as if God were putting beautiful clothes on the grass. Alternate translation: “If God makes the grass in the field beautiful like this, and it” (See: Metaphor)

εἰς κλίβανον βαλλόμενον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone throws it into a fire” (See: Active or Passive)

πόσῳ μᾶλλον ὑμᾶς

This is an exclamation, not a question. Jesus emphasizes that he will certainly take care of people even better than he does the grass. This could be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “he will certainly clothe you even better” (See: Exclamations)

Luke 12:29

ὑμεῖς μὴ ζητεῖτε τί φάγητε, καὶ τί πίητε

“Do not focus on what you will eat and drink” or “Do not greatly desire more to eat and drink”

Luke 12:30

πάντα τὰ ἔθνη τοῦ κόσμου

Here “nations” refers to “unbelievers.” Alternate translation: “all people of other nations” or “all the unbelievers in the world” (See: Metonymy)

ὑμῶν…ὁ Πατὴρ

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 12:31

ζητεῖτε τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ

“focus on God’s kingdom” or “greatly desire God’s kingdom”

ταῦτα προστεθήσεται ὑμῖν

“these things also will be given to you.” “These things” refers to food and clothing. This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will also give you these things” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 12:32

τὸ μικρὸν ποίμνιον

Jesus is calling his disciples a flock. A flock is a group of sheep or goats that a shepherd cares for. As a shepherd cares for his sheep, God cares for Jesus’ disciples. Alternate translation: “small group” or “dear group” (See: Metaphor)

ὁ Πατὴρ ὑμῶν

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

Luke 12:33

δότε ἐλεημοσύνην

It may be helpful to state what they receive. Alternate translation: “give to poor people the money you earn from the sales” (See: Ellipsis)

ποιήσατε ἑαυτοῖς βαλλάντια…θησαυρὸν…ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς

The purses and treasure in the heavens are the same thing. They both represent God’s blessing in heaven. (See: Metaphor)

ποιήσατε ἑαυτοῖς

This is the result of giving to the poor. Alternate translation: “In this way you will make for yourselves”

βαλλάντια μὴ παλαιούμενα

“money bags that will not get holes in them”

ἀνέκλειπτον

“does not diminish” or “does not become less”

κλέπτης οὐκ ἐγγίζει

“thieves do not come near”

οὐδὲ σὴς διαφθείρει

“moths do not destroy”

σὴς

A “moth” is a small insect that eats holes in fabric. You may need to use a different insect, such as an ant or termite.

Luke 12:34

ὅπου…ἐστιν ὁ θησαυρὸς ὑμῶν, ἐκεῖ καὶ ἡ καρδία ὑμῶν ἔσται

“your heart will be focused on where you store your treasure”

ἡ καρδία ὑμῶν

Here “heart” refers to a person’s thoughts. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 12:35

Jesus begins to tell a parable. (See: Parables)

ἔστωσαν ὑμῶν αἱ ὀσφύες περιεζωσμέναι

People wore long flowing robes. They would tuck them into their belt to keep the robes out of the way while they worked. Alternate translation: “Tuck your clothing into your belt so you are ready to serve” or “Be dressed and ready to serve” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

οἱ λύχνοι καιόμενοι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “keep your lamps burning” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 12:36

ὅμοιοι ἀνθρώποις προσδεχομένοις τὸν κύριον ἑαυτῶν

Jesus commands the disciples to be ready for him to return the same way servants should be ready for their master to return. (See: Simile)

ἀναλύσῃ ἐκ τῶν γάμων

“returns home from a marriage feast”

ἀνοίξωσιν αὐτῷ

This refers to the door of the master’s house. It was the responsibility of his servants to open it for him. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 12:37

μακάριοι

“How good it is for”

οὓς ἐλθὼν, ὁ Κύριος εὑρήσει γρηγοροῦντας

“whose master finds them waiting for him when he returns” or “who are ready when the master returns”

ὅτι περιζώσεται καὶ ἀνακλινεῖ αὐτοὺς

Because the servants have been faithful and ready to serve their master, the master will now reward them by serving them.

Luke 12:38

ἐν τῇ δευτέρᾳ…φυλακῇ

The second watch was between 9:00 p.m. and midnight. Alternate translation: “late at night” or “just before midnight”

κἂν ἐν τῇ τρίτῃ φυλακῇ

The third watch was from midnight to 3:00 a.m. Alternate translation: “or if he comes very late at night”

Luke 12:39

ᾔδει…ποίᾳ ὥρᾳ

“had known when”

οὐκ ἂν ἀφῆκεν διορυχθῆναι τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he would not have let the thief break into his house” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 12:40

ὅτι ᾗ ὥρᾳ οὐ δοκεῖτε, ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἔρχεται

The only similarity between a thief and the Son of Man is that people do not know when either one will come, so they need to be ready.

ᾗ ὥρᾳ οὐ δοκεῖτε

“do not know at what time”

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἔρχεται

Jesus is talking about himself. Alternate translation: “when I, the Son of Man, will come”

Luke 12:41

In verse 41, there is a break in the story line as Peter asks Jesus a question about the previous parable.

In verse 42, Jesus begins to tell another parable.

Luke 12:42

τίς ἄρα ἐστὶν…ἐν καιρῷ τὸ σιτομέτριον?

Jesus uses a question to answer Peter’s question indirectly. He expected those who wanted to be faithful managers to understand that the parable was about them. Alternate translation: “I said it for everyone who is…right time.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁ πιστὸς οἰκονόμος ὁ φρόνιμος

Jesus tells another parable about how servants should be faithful while they wait for their master to return. (See: Parables)

ὃν καταστήσει ὁ Κύριος ἐπὶ τῆς θεραπείας αὐτοῦ

“whom his lord puts in charge of his other servants”

Luke 12:43

μακάριος ὁ δοῦλος ἐκεῖνος

“How good it is for that servant”

ὃν ἐλθὼν, ὁ κύριος αὐτοῦ εὑρήσει ποιοῦντα οὕτως

“if his lord finds him doing that work when he comes back”

Luke 12:44

ἀληθῶς λέγω ὑμῖν

This expression means they should pay special attention to what he is about to say.

ἐπὶ πᾶσιν τοῖς ὑπάρχουσιν αὐτοῦ καταστήσει αὐτόν

“will put him in charge of all his property”

Luke 12:45

ὁ δοῦλος ἐκεῖνος

This refers to the servant whose lord has put him in charge of the other servants.

εἴπῃ…τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτοῦ

Here “heart” is a metonym for a person’s mind or inner being. Alternate translation: “thinks to himself” (See: Metonymy)

χρονίζει ὁ κύριός μου ἔρχεσθαι

“My master will not return soon”

τοὺς παῖδας καὶ τὰς παιδίσκας

The words that are translated here as “male and female servants” are normally translated as “boys” and “girls.” They may indicate that the servants were young or that they were dear to their master.

Luke 12:46

ἐν ἡμέρᾳ ᾗ οὐ προσδοκᾷ, καὶ ἐν ὥρᾳ ᾗ οὐ γινώσκει

The words “day” and “hour” form a merism of time that refers to any time, and the words “expect” and “know” have similar meanings, so the two phrases here are parallel to emphasize that the coming of the lord will be a total surprise to the servant. However, the phrases should not be combined unless your language has no different words for “know” and “expect” or “day” and “hour.” Alternate translation: “at a time when the servant is not expecting him” (See: Merism and Parallelism)

διχοτομήσει αὐτὸν, καὶ τὸ μέρος αὐτοῦ μετὰ τῶν ἀπίστων θήσει

Possible meanings are (1) this is an exaggeration for the master dealing out harsh punishment toward the slave, or (2) this describes the manner in which the servant will be executed and buried as punishment. (See: Hyperbole)

Luke 12:47

Jesus finishes telling the parable.

ἐκεῖνος δὲ ὁ δοῦλος, ὁ γνοὺς τὸ θέλημα τοῦ κυρίου αὐτοῦ, καὶ μὴ ἑτοιμάσας ἢ ποιήσας πρὸς τὸ θέλημα αὐτοῦ, δαρήσεται πολλάς

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “But as for the servant who knows his lord’s will does not prepare or do according to it, the master will beat him with many blows” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸ θέλημα τοῦ κυρίου αὐτοῦ…πρὸς τὸ θέλημα αὐτοῦ

“what his master wanted him to do…it”

Luke 12:48

ὁ δὲ…ὀλίγας

Both the servant who knows the master’s will and the servant who does not know it are punished, but the words that begin with “That servant” (verse 47) show the servant who intentionally disobeyed his master was punished more severely than the other servant.

παντὶ δὲ ᾧ ἐδόθη πολύ, πολὺ ζητηθήσεται παρ’ αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They will require more of anyone who has received much” or “The master will require more of everyone he has given much to” (See: Active or Passive)

ᾧ…πολύ, περισσότερον αἰτήσουσιν αὐτόν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the master will ask even more of the one…much” or “the master will require even more of the one…much” (See: Active or Passive)

ᾧ παρέθεντο πολύ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the one to whom the master has given much property to take care of” or “the one to whom the master has given much responsibility” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 12:49

Jesus continues to teach his disciples.

πῦρ ἦλθον βαλεῖν ἐπὶ τὴν γῆν

“I came to throw fire on the earth” or “I came to set the earth on fire.” Possible meanings are (1) Jesus has come to judge people or (2) Jesus has come to purify believers or (3) Jesus has come to cause division among people. (See: Metaphor)

τί θέλω εἰ ἤδη ἀνήφθη

This exclamation emphasizes how much he wants this to happen. Alternate translation: “I wish very much that it was already lit” or “how I wish that it had already begun” (See: Exclamations)

Luke 12:50

βάπτισμα…ἔχω βαπτισθῆναι

Here “baptism” refers to what Jesus must suffer. Just as water covers a person during baptism, suffering will overwhelm Jesus. Alternate translation: “I must go through a baptism of terrible suffering” or “I must be overwhelmed by suffering as a person being baptized is covered by water” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

δὲ

The word “but” is used to show that he cannot cast the fire on the earth until after he goes through his baptism.

πῶς συνέχομαι ἕως ὅτου τελεσθῇ!

This exclamation emphasizes how distressed he was. Alternate translation: “I am terribly distressed and will be so until I complete this baptism of suffering” (See: Exclamations)

Luke 12:51

δοκεῖτε ὅτι εἰρήνην παρεγενόμην δοῦναι ἐν τῇ γῇ? οὐχί, λέγω ὑμῖν, ἀλλ’ ἢ διαμερισμόν

Jesus asks a question to let them know that he is going to correct their wrong understanding. You may need to supply the words “I came” that are omitted in the second sentence. Alternate translation: “You think that I came to bring peace on the earth, but I tell you I did not. Instead, I came to bring division” (See: Rhetorical Question)

διαμερισμόν

“hostility” or “discord”

Luke 12:52

ἔσονται…πέντε ἐν ἑνὶ οἴκῳ

It may be helpful to state that this refers to people. Alternate translation: “there will be five people in one house” (See: Ellipsis)

ἐπὶ…ἐπὶ

“will oppose…will oppose”

Luke 12:53

ἐπὶ

“will oppose”

Luke 12:54

Jesus begins to speak to the crowd.

ὅταν ἴδητε νεφέλην ἀνατέλλουσαν…γίνεται οὕτως

This condition normally meant rain was coming in Israel. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὄμβρος ἔρχεται

“Rain is coming” or “It is going to rain”

Luke 12:55

ὅταν νότον πνέοντα

This condition normally meant hot weather was coming in Israel. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 12:56

τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καὶ τῆς γῆς

“the earth and the sky”

τὸν καιρὸν δὲ τοῦτον, πῶς οὐκ οἴδατε δοκιμάζειν?

Jesus uses a question to rebuke the crowd. Jesus uses this question to convict them. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “you should know how to interpret the present time.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 12:57

τί δὲ καὶ ἀφ’ ἑαυτῶν, οὐ κρίνετε τὸ δίκαιον?

Jesus uses a question to rebuke the crowd. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You yourselves should discern what is right.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἀφ’ ἑαυτῶν

“on your own initiative”

Luke 12:58

ὡς γὰρ ὑπάγεις…εἰς φυλακήν

Jesus uses a hypothetical situation to teach the crowd. His point is that they should resolve the things they are able to resolve without involving the public courts. This can be restated to make it clear it might not happen. Alternate translation: “For if you were to go…into prison” (See: Hypothetical Situations)

ὡς…ὑπάγεις

Though Jesus is talking to a crowd, the situation he is presenting is something that a person would go through alone. So in some languages the word “you” would be singular. (See: Forms of You)

ἀπηλλάχθαι ἀπ’ αὐτοῦ

“settle the matter with your adversary”

τὸν κριτήν

This refers to the magistrate, but the term here is more specific and threatening.

σε παραδώσει

“does not take you”

Luke 12:59

λέγω σοι…καὶ τὸ ἔσχατον λεπτὸν ἀποδῷς

This is the end of the hypothetical situation, which begins in verse 58, that Jesus uses to teach the crowd. His point is that they should resolve the things they are able to resolve without involving the public courts. This can be restated to make it clear it might not happen. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

καὶ τὸ ἔσχατον λεπτὸν

“the entire amount of money that your adversary demands”

Luke 13

Luke 13 General Notes

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Unknown events

The people and Jesus speak about two events that they knew about but about which no one today knows anything except what Luke has written (Luke 13:1-5). Your translation should tell only what Luke tells.

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. A paradox occurs in this chapter: “those who are least important will be first, and those who are most important will be last” (Luke 13:30).

Luke 13:1

Jesus is still speaking in front of the crowd. Some people in the crowd ask him a question and he begins to respond. This continues the story that begins in Luke 12:1.

ἐν αὐτῷ τῷ καιρῷ

This phrase connects this event to the end of chapter 12, when Jesus was teaching a crowd of people.

ὧν τὸ αἷμα Πειλᾶτος ἔμιξεν μετὰ τῶν θυσιῶν αὐτῶν

Here “blood” refers to the death of the Galileans. They were probably killed while they were offering their sacrifices. This could be stated explicitly as in the UST. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὧν τὸ αἷμα Πειλᾶτος ἔμιξεν μετὰ τῶν θυσιῶν αὐτῶν

Pilate probably ordered his soldiers to kill people rather than doing it himself. Alternate translation: “whom Pilate’s soldiers killed as they were sacrificing animals” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 13:2

δοκεῖτε ὅτι οἱ Γαλιλαῖοι οὗτοι, ἁμαρτωλοὶ…ταῦτα πεπόνθασιν?

“Were these Galileans more sinful…way?” or “Does this prove that these Galileans were more sinful…way?” Jesus uses this question to challenge the understanding of the people.

Luke 13:3

οὐχί, λέγω ὑμῖν; ἀλλ’ ἐὰν μὴ μετανοῆτε, πάντες ὁμοίως ἀπολεῖσθε

Jesus uses this question, which begins with the words “Do you think that these Galileans were more sinful…in this way?” (verse 2), to challenge the understanding of the people. “You think that these Galileans were more sinful…in this way, but they were not. But if you do not repent…same way” or “Do not think that these Galileans were more sinful…in this way. If you do not repent…same way” (See: Rhetorical Question)

οὐχί, λέγω ὑμῖν

Here “I tell you” emphasizes “no.” Alternate translation: “They certainly were not more sinful” or “You are wrong to think that their suffering proves that they were more sinful”

πάντες ὁμοίως ἀπολεῖσθε

“all of you also will die.” The phrase “in the same way” means they will experience the same result, not that they will die by the same method.

ἀπολεῖσθε

die

Luke 13:4

ἢ ἐκεῖνοι

This is Jesus’ second example of people who suffered. Alternate translation: “Or consider those” or “Think about those”

οἱ δεκαοκτὼ

“18 people” (See: Numbers)

τῷ Σιλωὰμ

This is the name of an area in Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

δοκεῖτε ὅτι αὐτοὶ ὀφειλέται ἐγένοντο παρὰ…Ἰερουσαλήμ?

“does this prove that they were more sinful…Jerusalem?” Jesus uses this question to challenge the understanding of the people.

αὐτοὶ ὀφειλέται ἐγένοντο παρὰ

The crowd assumed that they died in this terrible way because they were especially sinful. This could be explicitly stated. Alternate translation: “they died because they were worse sinners” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 13:5

οὐχί, λέγω

Jesus uses this question, which begins with the words “do you think they were worse sinners…Jerusalem?”, to challenge the understanding of the people. “you think that they were more sinful…Jerusalem, but I say that they were not” or “I say that you should not think that they were more sinful…Jerusalem” or “They certainly did not die because they were more sinful” or “You are wrong to think that their suffering proves that they were more sinful” (See: Rhetorical Question or Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπολεῖσθε

die

Luke 13:6

Jesus begins to tell the crowd a parable to explain his last statement, “But if you do not repent, all of you will also perish.” (See: Parables)

συκῆν εἶχέν τις πεφυτευμένην ἐν τῷ ἀμπελῶνι αὐτοῦ

The owner of a vineyard had another person plant a fig tree in the vineyard.

Luke 13:7

ἵνα τί καὶ τὴν γῆν καταργεῖ?

The man uses a question to emphasize that the tree is useless and the gardener should cut it down. Alternate translation: “Do not let it waste the ground.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 13:8

Jesus finishes telling his parable. This is the end of the story that began in Luke 12:1.

ἄφες αὐτὴν

“Do not do anything to the tree” or “Do not cut it down”

βάλω κόπρια

“put manure in the soil.” Manure is animal dung. People put it in the ground to make the soil good for plants and trees. Alternate translation: “put fertilizer on it” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 13:9

κἂν μὲν ποιήσῃ καρπὸν εἰς τὸ μέλλον

It may be helpful to state what will happen. Alternate translation: “If it has figs on it next year, we can allow it to keep growing” (See: Ellipsis)

ἐκκόψεις αὐτήν

The servant was making a suggestion; he was not giving a command to the owner. Alternate translation: “Tell me to cut it down” or “I will cut it down”

Luke 13:10

These verses give background information about the setting of this part of the story and about a crippled woman who is introduced into the story. (See: Background Information)

δὲ

The author uses this word to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τοῖς Σάββασιν

“on a Sabbath day.” Some languages would say “a Sabbath” because we do not know which particular Sabbath day it was.

Luke 13:11

ἰδοὺ, γυνὴ

The word “behold” here alerts us to a new person in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἔτη δεκαοκτώ

“18 years” (See: Numbers)

πνεῦμα…ἀσθενείας

“an evil spirit that made her weak”

Luke 13:12

γύναι, ἀπολέλυσαι τῆς ἀσθενείας σου

“Woman, you are healed from your disease.” This can be expressed with an active verb: Alternate translation: “Woman, I have set you free from your weakness” (See: Active or Passive)

γύναι, ἀπολέλυσαι τῆς ἀσθενείας σου

By saying this, Jesus healed her. This can be expressed with a sentence that shows that he was causing it to happen, or by a command. Alternate translation: “Woman, I now free you from your weakness” or “Woman, be freed from your weakness” (See: Statements - Other Uses)

Luke 13:13

ἐπέθηκεν αὐτῇ τὰς χεῖρας

“He touched her”

ἀνωρθώθη

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “she stood up straight” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 13:14

ἀγανακτῶν

“was very angry”

ἀποκριθεὶς…ἔλεγεν

“said” or “responded”

ἐν αὐταῖς…θεραπεύεσθε

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “let someone heal you during those six days” (See: Active or Passive)

τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ Σαββάτου

“on a Sabbath day.” Some languages would say “a Sabbath” because we do not know which particular Sabbath day it was.

Luke 13:15

ἀπεκρίθη δὲ αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος

“The Lord responded to the synagogue ruler”

ὑποκριταί

Jesus speaks directly to the synagogue ruler, but the plural form includes the other religious rulers also. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “You and your fellow religious leaders are hypocrites” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἕκαστος ὑμῶν τῷ Σαββάτῳ οὐ λύει τὸν βοῦν αὐτοῦ, ἢ τὸν ὄνον ἀπὸ τῆς φάτνης, καὶ ἀπαγαγὼν ποτίζει

Jesus uses a question to get them to think about something they already knew. Alternate translation: “Every one of you unties his ox or his donkey from the stall and leads it to drink on the Sabbath.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τὸν βοῦν αὐτοῦ…τὸν ὄνον

These are animals that people care for by giving them water.

τῷ Σαββάτῳ

“on a Sabbath.” Some languages would say “a Sabbath” because we do not know which particular Sabbath day it was.

Luke 13:16

θυγατέρα Ἀβραὰμ

This is an idiom that means, “descendant of Abraham” (See: Idiom)

ἣν ἔδησεν ὁ Σατανᾶς

Jesus compares people tying animals to the way Satan restricted the woman with this disease. Alternate translation: “whom Satan kept crippled by her illness” or “whom Satan bound with this disease” (See: Metaphor)

δέκα καὶ ὀκτὼ ἔτη

“18 long years.” The word “long” here emphasizes that eighteen years was a very long time for the woman to suffer. Other languages may have other ways of emphasizing this. (See: Numbers)

οὐκ ἔδει λυθῆναι ἀπὸ τοῦ δεσμοῦ τούτου τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ Σαββάτου?

Jesus uses a question to tell the synagogue rulers that they are wrong. Jesus speaks about the women’s disease as if it were ropes that bound her. This can be translated as an active statement. Alternate translation: “it is right to release her from the bonds of this illness…day.” (See: Rhetorical Question and Active or Passive)

Luke 13:17

καὶ ταῦτα λέγοντος

“When Jesus said these things”

τοῖς ἐνδόξοις τοῖς γινομένοις ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ

“the glorious things Jesus was doing”

Luke 13:18

Jesus begins to tell a parable to the people in the synagogue. (See: Parables)

τίνι ὁμοία ἐστὶν ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ τίνι ὁμοιώσω αὐτήν?

Jesus uses two questions to introduce what he is about to teach. Alternate translation: “I will tell you what the kingdom of God is like…what I can compare it to.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τίνι ὁμοιώσω αὐτήν?

This is basically the same as the previous question. Some languages can use both questions, and some would use only one. (See: Parallelism)

Luke 13:19

ὁμοία ἐστὶν κόκκῳ σινάπεως

Jesus compares the kingdom to a mustard seed. Alternate translation: “The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed” (See: Simile)

κόκκῳ σινάπεως

A mustard seed is a very small seed that grows into a large plant. If this seed is not known, the phrase can be translated with the name of another seed like it or simply as “a small seed.” (See: Translate Unknowns)

ἔβαλεν εἰς κῆπον ἑαυτοῦ

“planted in his garden.” People planted some kinds of seeds by throwing them so that they scattered in the garden. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

δένδρον

The word “big” is an exaggeration that contrasts the tree with the tiny seed. Alternate translation: “a very large shrub” (See: Hyperbole)

τὰ πετεινὰ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ

“birds of the sky.” Alternate translation: “birds that fly in the sky” or “birds”

Luke 13:20

Jesus finishes speaking to the people in the synagogue. This is the end of this part of the story.

τίνι ὁμοιώσω τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ?

Jesus uses another question to introduce what he is about to teach. Alternate translation: “I will tell you another thing to which I can compare to the kingdom of God.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 13:21

ὁμοία ἐστὶν ζύμῃ

Jesus compares the kingdom of God to yeast in bread dough. Alternate translation: “The kingdom of God is like yeast” (See: Simile)

ὁμοία…ζύμῃ

Only a little bit of yeast is needed to make a lot of dough rise. This can be made clear, as it is in the UST. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀλεύρου σάτα τρία

This is a large amount of flour, since each measure was about 13 liters. You may need to use a term that your culture uses to measure flour. Alternate translation: “a large amount of flour”

Luke 13:22

Jesus responds to a question by using a metaphor about entering God’s kingdom. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 13:23

εἰ ὀλίγοι οἱ σῳζόμενοι?

This could be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “will God save only a few people?” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 13:24

ἀγωνίζεσθε εἰσελθεῖν διὰ τῆς στενῆς θύρας

“Work hard to go through the narrow doorway.” Jesus is speaking about the entrance to God’s kingdom as if it were a small doorway to a house. Since Jesus is talking to a group, the “you” implied in this command is plural. (See: Metaphor and Forms of You)

τῆς στενῆς θύρας

The fact that the door is narrow implies that it is difficult to go through it. Translate it in a way to keep this restrictive meaning. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πολλοί…ζητήσουσιν εἰσελθεῖν καὶ οὐκ ἰσχύσουσιν

It is implied that they will not be able to enter because of the difficulty of entering. The next verse explains the difficulty. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 13:25

Jesus continues to talk about entering into God’s kingdom.

“After the owner”

ὁ οἰκοδεσπότης

This refers to the owner of the house with the narrow door in the previous verses. This is a metaphor for God as the ruler of the kingdom. (See: Metaphor)

ἄρξησθε ἔξω ἑστάναι

Jesus was talking to a crowd. The form of “you” is plural. He is addressing them as if they will not enter through the narrow door into the kingdom. (See: Forms of You)

κρούειν τὴν θύραν

“hit on the door.” This is an attempt to gain the owner’s attention.

Luke 13:27

ἀπόστητε ἀπ’ ἐμοῦ

“Go away from me”

Luke 13:28

Jesus continues to talk about entering into God’s kingdom. This is the end of this conversation.

ὁ κλαυθμὸς καὶ ὁ βρυγμὸς τῶν ὀδόντων

These actions are symbolic acts, indicating great regret and sadness. Alternate translation: “crying and grinding of teeth because of their great regret” (See: Symbolic Action)

ὅταν ὄψησθε

Jesus continues to speak to the crowd as if they will not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

ὑμᾶς δὲ ἐκβαλλομένους ἔξω

“but you yourselves will have been thrown outside.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “but God will have forced you outside” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 13:29

ἀπὸ ἀνατολῶν…δυσμῶν…βορρᾶ καὶ νότου

This means “from every direction.” (See: Merism)

ἀπὸ ἀνατολῶν καὶ δυσμῶν καὶ ἀπὸ βορρᾶ καὶ νότου

It was common to speak of the joy in God’s kingdom as a feast. Alternate translation: “they will feast in the kingdom of God” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 13:30

ἔσονται πρῶτοι…ἔσονται ἔσχατοι

Being first represents being important or honored. Alternate translation: “will be the most important…will be the least important” or “God will honor…God will shame” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 13:31

This is the next event in this part of the story. Jesus is still on his way towards Jerusalem when some Pharisees speak to him about Herod.

ἐν αὐτῇ τῇ ὥρᾳ

“Soon after Jesus finished speaking”

ἔξελθε καὶ πορεύου ἐντεῦθεν, ὅτι Ἡρῴδης θέλει σε ἀποκτεῖναι

Translate this as a warning to Jesus. They were advising him to go somewhere else and be safe.

Ἡρῴδης θέλει σε ἀποκτεῖναι

Herod would order people to kill Jesus. Alternate translation: “Herod wants to send his men to kill you”

Luke 13:32

τῇ ἀλώπεκι ταύτῃ

Jesus was calling Herod a fox. A fox is a small wild dog. Possible meanings are (1) Herod was not much of a threat at all (2) Herod was deceptive. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 13:33

πλὴν

“Nevertheless” or “However” or “Whatever happens”

οὐκ ἐνδέχεται προφήτην ἀπολέσθαι ἔξω Ἰερουσαλήμ

The Jewish leaders claimed to serve God. And yet their ancestors killed many of God’s prophets in Jerusalem, and Jesus knew that they would kill him there too. Alternate translation: “it is in Jerusalem that the Jewish leaders kill God’s messengers” (See: Irony)

Luke 13:34

Jesus finishes responding to the Pharisees. This is the end of this part of the story.

Ἰερουσαλὴμ, Ἰερουσαλήμ

Jesus speaks as if the people of Jerusalem are there listening to him. Jesus says this twice to show how sad he is for them. (See: Apostrophe)

ἡ ἀποκτείνουσα τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ λιθοβολοῦσα τοὺς ἀπεσταλμένους πρὸς αὐτήν

If it would be strange to address the city, you can make it clear that Jesus was really addressing the people in the city: “you people who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you” (See: Metonymy)

τοὺς ἀπεσταλμένους πρὸς αὐτήν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those God has sent to you” (See: Active or Passive)

ποσάκις ἠθέλησα

“I so often desired.” This is an exclamation and not a question.

ἐπισυνάξαι τὰ τέκνα σου

The people of Jerusalem are described as her “children.” Alternate translation: “to gather your people” or “to gather the people of Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

ὃν τρόπον ὄρνις τὴν ἑαυτῆς νοσσιὰν ὑπὸ τὰς πτέρυγας

This describes how a hen protects her young from harm by covering them with her wings. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 13:35

ἀφίεται ὑμῖν ὁ οἶκος ὑμῶν

This is a prophecy about something that would happen soon. It means that God has stopped protecting the people of Jerusalem, so enemies can attack them and drive them away. Possible meanings are (1) God will abandon them. Alternate translation: “God will abandon you” or (2) their city will be empty. Alternate translation: “your house will be abandoned” (See: Metaphor)

οὐ μὴ με ἴδητέ ἕως ἥξει ὅτε εἴπητε

“you will not see me until the time comes when you will say” or “the next time you see me, you will say”

ὀνόματι Κυρίου

Here “name” refers to the Lord’s power and authority. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 14

Luke 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Verse 3 says, “Jesus asked the experts in the Jewish law and the Pharisees, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?’” Many times, the Pharisees got angry with Jesus for healing on the Sabbath. In this passage, Jesus dumbfounds the Pharisees. It was normally the Pharisees who tried to trap Jesus.

Changes of subject

Many times in this chapter Luke changes from one subject to another without marking the changes.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Parable

Jesus told the parable in Luke 14:15-24 to teach that the kingdom of God will be something that everyone can enjoy. But people will refuse to be part of it. (See: Metaphor and kingdom of God, kingdom of heaven)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. A paradox occurs in this chapter: “for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11).

Luke 14:1

It is the Sabbath, and Jesus is at Pharisee’s house. Verse 1 gives background information for the event that follows. (See: Background Information)

καὶ ἐγένετο…Σαββάτῳ

This indicates a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

φαγεῖν ἄρτον

“to eat” or “for a meal.” Bread was an important part of a meal and is used in this sentence to refer to a meal. (See: Synecdoche)

αὐτοὶ ἦσαν παρατηρούμενοι αὐτόν

They wanted to see if they could accuse him of doing anything wrong.

Luke 14:2

καὶ ἰδοὺ, ἄνθρωπός…ἔμπροσθεν αὐτοῦ

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. English uses “There in front of him was a man” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἦν ὑδρωπικὸς

Edema is swelling caused by water building up in parts of the body. Some languages may have a name for this condition. Alternate translation: “was suffering because parts of his body were swollen with water”

Luke 14:3

ἔξεστιν τῷ Σαββάτῳ θεραπεῦσαι ἢ οὔ?

“Does the law permit us to heal on the Sabbath, or does it forbid it”

Luke 14:4

οἱ δὲ ἡσύχασαν

The religious leaders refused to answer Jesus’ question.

καὶ ἐπιλαβόμενος

“So Jesus took hold of the man who suffered from edema”

Luke 14:5

τίνος ὑμῶν υἱὸς ἢ βοῦς εἰς φρέαρ πεσεῖται…ἀνασπάσει αὐτὸν ἐν ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ Σαββάτου?

Jesus uses a question because he wanted them to admit that they would help their son or ox, even on the Sabbath. Therefore, it was right for him to heal people even on the Sabbath. Alternate translation: “If one of you has a son or an ox…you would surely pull him out immediately.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 14:6

καὶ οὐκ ἴσχυσαν ἀνταποκριθῆναι

They knew the answer and that Jesus was right, but they did not want to admit that he was correct. Alternate translation: “They had nothing to say”

Luke 14:7

Jesus continues to speak to the guests at the house of the Pharisee who had invited him to a meal.

τοὺς κεκλημένους

It may be helpful to identify these people, and to state this in active form. Alternate translation: “those whom the leader of the Pharisees had invited to the meal” (See: Active or Passive)

τὰς πρωτοκλισίας

“the seats for honored people” or “the seats for important people”

Luke 14:8

ὅταν κληθῇς ὑπό τινος

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When someone invites you” (See: Active or Passive)

ὅταν κληθῇς…σου

These occurrences of “you” are singular. Jesus is speaking to the group as if to each individual person. (See: Forms of You)

μήποτε ἐντιμότερός σου ᾖ κεκλημένος ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because the host may have invited a person who is more important than you are” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 14:9

ἐρεῖ σοι…ἄρξῃ

These occurrences of “you” and “your” are singular. Jesus is speaking to the group as if to each individual person. (See: Forms of You)

μετὰ αἰσχύνης

“you will feel ashamed and”

τὸν ἔσχατον τόπον

“the least important place” or “the place for the least important person”

Luke 14:10

Jesus continues speaking to the people at the Pharisee’s house.

ὅταν κληθῇς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when someone invites you” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸν ἔσχατον τόπον

“the seat meant for the least important person”

προσανάβηθι ἀνώτερον

“move to a seat for a more important person”

τότε ἔσται σοι δόξα

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Then the one who invited you will honor you” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 14:11

ὁ ὑψῶν ἑαυτὸν

“who tries to look important” or “who takes an important position”

ταπεινωθήσεται

“will be shown to be unimportant” or “will be given an unimportant position.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will humble” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ ταπεινῶν ἑαυτὸν

“who chooses to look unimportant” or “who takes an unimportant position”

ὑψωθήσεται

“will be shown to be important” or “will be given an important position.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will exalt” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 14:12

Jesus continues speaking at the Pharisee’s house, but addresses his host directly.

τῷ κεκληκότι αὐτόν

“the Pharisee who had invited him to his house for a meal”

ὅταν ποιῇς

“you” is singular because Jesus is speaking directly to the Pharisee that invited him. (See: Forms of You)

μὴ φώνει

This probably does not mean they can never invite these people. More likely it means they should invite others as well. Alternate translation: “do not only invite” or “do not always invite”

μήποτε καὶ αὐτοὶ ἀντικαλέσωσίν σε

“because they might”

ἀντικαλέσωσίν σε

“invite you to their dinner or banquet”

γένηται ἀνταπόδομά σοι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in this way they will repay you” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 14:13

Jesus continues speaking to the Pharisee who had invited him to his home.

κάλει πτωχούς

It may be helpful to add “also” since this statement is probably not exclusive. Alternate translation: “also invite the poor”

πτωχούς, ἀναπείρους, χωλούς, τυφλούς

These nominal adjectives can be translated as noun phrases. Alternate translation: “poor people, crippled people, lame people, and blind people” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

Luke 14:14

μακάριος ἔσῃ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless you” (See: Active or Passive)

οὐκ ἔχουσιν ἀνταποδοῦναί σοι

“they cannot invite you to a banquet in return”

ἀνταποδοθήσεται…σοι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will repay you” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐν τῇ ἀναστάσει τῶν δικαίων

This refers to the final judgment. Alternate translation: “when God brings the righteous people back to life” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 14:15

One of the men at the table speaks to Jesus and Jesus responds to him by telling a parable. (See: Parables)

τις τῶν συνανακειμένων

This introduces a new person. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

μακάριος

The man was not talking about a specific person. Alternate translation: “Blessed is anyone” or “How good it is for everyone”

ὅστις φάγεται ἄρτον

The word “bread” is used to refer to the whole meal. Alternate translation: “he who will eat at the meal” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 14:16

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτῷ

Jesus begins telling a parable. (See: Parables)

ἄνθρωπός τις ἐποίει δεῖπνον μέγα, καὶ ἐκάλεσεν πολλούς

The reader should be able to infer that the man probably had his servants prepare the meal and invite the guests. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἄνθρωπός τις

This phrase is a way of referring to the man without giving any specific information about his identity.

ἐκάλεσεν πολλούς

“invited many people” or “invited many guests”

Luke 14:17

τῇ ὥρᾳ τοῦ δείπνου

“At the time for the dinner” or “When the dinner was about to begin”

τοῖς κεκλημένοις

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those he had invited” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 14:18

All of the people who were invited gave the servant excuses about why they could not come to the banquet.

Jesus continues telling his parable.

παραιτεῖσθαι

“to say why they could not come to the dinner”

ὁ πρῶτος εἶπεν αὐτῷ

The reader should be able to infer that these people spoke directly to the servant whom the master had sent out (Luke 14:17). Alternate translation: “The first sent him a message, saying” or “The first told the servant to say” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐρωτῶ σε ἔχε με παρῃτημένον

“Please forgive me” or “Please accept my apology”

Luke 14:19

ἕτερος εἶπεν

The reader should be able to infer that these people spoke directly to the servant whom the master had sent out (Luke 14:17). Alternate translation: “Another sent a message, saying” or “Another told the servant to say” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ζεύγη βοῶν…πέντε

Oxen were used in pairs to pull farming tools. Alternate translation: “10 oxen to work in my fields” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 14:20

καὶ ἕτερος εἶπεν

The reader should be able to infer that these people spoke directly to the servant whom the master had sent out (Luke 14:17). Alternate translation: “another man sent a message, saying” or “another man told the servant to say” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

γυναῖκα ἔγημα

Use an expression that is natural in your language. Some languages may say “gotten married” or “taken a wife.”

Luke 14:21

ὀργισθεὶς

“became angry with the people he had invited”

εἰσάγαγε ὧδε

“invite in here to eat the dinner”

Luke 14:22

καὶ εἶπεν ὁ δοῦλος

It may be necessary to state clearly the implied information that the servant did what the master commanded him. Alternate translation: “After the servant went out and did that, he came back and said” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

γέγονεν ὃ ἐπέταξας

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I have done what you commanded” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 14:23

Jesus finishes his parable.

τὰς ὁδοὺς καὶ φραγμοὺς

This refers to roads and paths outside of the city. Alternate translation: “the main roads and paths outside of the city”

ἀνάγκασον εἰσελθεῖν

“demand that they come in”

ἀνάγκασον

The word “them” refers to anyone the servants find. “compel anyone you find to come in”

ἵνα γεμισθῇ μου ὁ οἶκος

“so that people may fill my house”

Luke 14:24

λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν

The word “you” is plural, so it is unclear to whom it is addressed. (See: Forms of You)

τῶν ἀνδρῶν ἐκείνων

The word here for “men” means “male adults” and not just people in general.

τῶν…κεκλημένων

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom I invited” (See: Active or Passive)

γεύσεταί μου τοῦ δείπνου

“will enjoy the dinner I have prepared”

Luke 14:25

Jesus begins to teach the crowd that was traveling with him.

Luke 14:26

εἴ τις ἔρχεται πρός με, καὶ οὐ μισεῖ τὸν πατέρα ἑαυτοῦ…οὐ δύναται εἶναί μου μαθητής

Here, “hate” is an exaggeration for the lesser love people are to show to people other than Jesus. Alternate translation: “If anyone comes to me and does not love me more than he loves his father…he cannot be my disciple” or “Only if a person loves me more than he loves his own father…can he be my disciple” (See: Hyperbole and Double Negatives)

Luke 14:27

ὅστις οὐ βαστάζει τὸν σταυρὸν αὐτοῦ καὶ ἔρχεται ὀπίσω μου, οὐ δύναται εἶναί μου μαθητής

This could be stated with positive verbs. Alternate translation: “If anyone wants to be my disciple, he must carry his own cross and follow me” (See: Double Negatives)

βαστάζει τὸν σταυρὸν αὐτοῦ

Jesus does not mean every Christian must be crucified. The Romans often made people carry their own crosses before they crucified them as a sign of their submission to Rome. This metaphor means they must submit to God and be willing to suffer in any way to be Jesus’ disciples. (See: Metaphor and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 14:28

Jesus continues to explain to the crowd that it is important to count the cost of being a disciple.

τίς γὰρ ἐξ ὑμῶν θέλων πύργον οἰκοδομῆσαι, οὐχὶ πρῶτον καθίσας, ψηφίζει τὴν δαπάνην, εἰ ἔχει εἰς ἀπαρτισμόν?

Jesus uses this question to prove that people count the cost of a project before they begin it. Alternate translation: “If a person wanted to build a tower, he would certainly first sit down and determine if he had enough money to complete it.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

πύργον

This may have been a watchtower. “a tall building” or “a high lookout platform”

Luke 14:29

ἵνα μήποτε

It may be helpful to give more information. Alternate translation: “If he does not first count the cost” (See: Ellipsis)

θέντος αὐτοῦ θεμέλιον

“when he has built a base” or “when he has completed the first part of the building”

μὴ ἰσχύοντος ἐκτελέσαι

It is understood that he was not able to finish because he did not have enough money. This could be stated. Alternate translation: “does not have enough money to be able to finish” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 14:31

Jesus continues to explain to the crowd that it is important to count the cost of being a disciple.

Jesus used this word to introduce another situation where people count the cost before making a decision.

τίς βασιλεὺς…οὐχὶ καθίσας πρῶτον βουλεύσεται…εἴκοσι χιλιάδων ἐρχομένῳ ἐπ’ αὐτόν?

Jesus uses another question to teach the crowd about counting the cost. Alternate translation: “you know that a king…would sit down first and take counsel…men.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

βουλεύσεται

Possible meanings are (1) “think carefully “ or (2) “listen to his advisors.”

δέκα χιλιάσιν…εἴκοσι χιλιάδων

“10,000…20,000” (See: Numbers)

Luke 14:32

εἰ δὲ μή γε

It may be helpful to state more information. Alternate translation: “If he realizes that he will not be able to defeat the other king” (See: Ellipsis)

τὰ πρὸς εἰρήνην

“terms to end the war” or “what the other king wants him to do in order to end the war”

Luke 14:33

πᾶς ἐξ ὑμῶν ὃς οὐκ ἀποτάσσεται πᾶσιν τοῖς ἑαυτοῦ ὑπάρχουσιν, οὐ δύναται εἶναί μου μαθητής

This can be stated with positive verbs. Alternate translation: “only those of you who give up all that you have can be my disciples” (See: Double Negatives)

ἀποτάσσεται πᾶσιν τοῖς ἑαυτοῦ ὑπάρχουσιν

“leave behind all that he has”

Luke 14:34

Jesus finishes teaching the crowd.

καλὸν οὖν τὸ ἅλας

“Salt is useful.” Jesus is teaching a lesson about those who want to be his disciple. (See: Metaphor)

ἐν τίνι ἀρτυθήσεται

Jesus uses a question to teach the crowd. Alternate translation: “it cannot be made salty again.” or “no one can make it salty again.” (See: Rhetorical Question and Active or Passive)

Luke 14:35

κοπρίαν

People use manure to fertilize gardens and fields. Salt without taste is so useless it is not even worth mixing with manure. Alternate translation: “compost heap” or “fertilizer”

ἔξω βάλλουσιν αὐτό

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone just throws it away” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ ἔχων ὦτα ἀκούειν, ἀκουέτω

Jesus is emphasizing that what he has just said is important and may take some effort to understand and put into practice. The phrase “ears to hear” here is a metonym for the willingness to understand and obey. See how you translated this phrase in Luke 8:8. Alternate translation: “Let the one who is willing to listen, listen” or “The one who is willing to understand, let him understand and obey” (See: Metonymy)

Since Jesus is speaking directly to his audience, you may prefer to use the second person here. See how you translated this phrase in Luke 8:8. Alternate translation: “If you are willing to listen, listen” or “If you are willing to understand, then understand and obey” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 15

Luke 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The parable of the prodigal son

Luke 15:11-32 is the parable of the prodigal son. Most people think that the father in the story represented God (the Father), the sinful younger son represented those who repent and come to faith in Jesus, and the self-righteous older son represented the Pharisees. In the story the older son became angry at the father because the father forgave the younger son’s sins, and he would not go into the party the father had because the younger son repented. This was because Jesus knew that the Pharisees wanted God to think only they were good and to not forgive other people’s sins. He was teaching them that they would never be part of God’s kingdom because they thought that way. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and forgive, forgiven, forgiveness, pardon, pardoned and Parables)

Special concepts in this chapter

Sinners

When the people of Jesus’ time spoke of “sinners,” they were talking about people who did not obey the law of Moses and instead committed sins like stealing or sexual sins. But Jesus told three parables (Luke 15:4-7, Luke 15:8-10, and Luke 15:11-32) to teach that the people who believe they are sinners and who repent are the people who truly please God. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and repent, repentance and Parables)

Luke 15:1

We do not know where this takes place; it simply occurs one day when Jesus is teaching.

δὲ

This marks the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

πάντες οἱ τελῶναι

This is an exaggeration to stress that there were very many of them. Alternate translation: “many tax collectors” (See: Hyperbole)

Luke 15:2

οὗτος ἁμαρτωλοὺς προσδέχεται

“This man lets sinners into his presence” or “This man associates with sinners”

οὗτος

They were talking about Jesus.

συνεσθίει αὐτοῖς

The word “even” shows that they thought it was bad enough that Jesus allowed sinners to come to him, but it was worse that he would eat with them.

Luke 15:3

Jesus begins to tell several parables. These parables are hypothetical situations about things that anyone could experience. They are not about particular people. The first parable is about what a person would do if one of his sheep was lost. (See: Parables and Hypothetical Situations)

πρὸς αὐτοὺς

Here “them” refers to the religious leaders.

Luke 15:4

τίς ἄνθρωπος ἐξ ὑμῶν…οὐ καταλείπει…ἕως εὕρῃ αὐτό?

Jesus uses a question to remind the people that if any of them lost one of their sheep, they would certainly go looking for it. Alternate translation: “Each of you…would certainly leave…until he finds it” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τίς ἄνθρωπος ἐξ ὑμῶν, ἔχων ἑκατὸν πρόβατα

Since the parable starts with “Which one of you,” some languages would continue the parable in the second person. Alternate translation: “Which one of you, if you have a hundred sheep” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἑκατὸν…ἐνενήκοντα ἐννέα

“100…99” (See: Numbers)

Luke 15:5

ἐπιτίθησιν ἐπὶ τοὺς ὤμους αὐτοῦ

This is the way a shepherd carries a sheep. This could be stated. Alternate translation: “lays it across his shoulders to carry it home” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 15:6

καὶ ἐλθὼν εἰς τὸν οἶκον

“When the owner of the sheep comes home” or “When you come home.” Refer to the owner of the sheep as you did in the previous verse.

Luke 15:7

οὕτως

“in the same way” or “as the shepherd and his friends and neighbors would rejoice”

χαρὰ ἐν τῷ οὐρανῷ ἔσται

“everyone in heaven will rejoice”

ἐνενήκοντα ἐννέα δικαίοις, οἵτινες οὐ χρείαν ἔχουσιν μετανοίας

Jesus uses sarcasm to say that the Pharisees were wrong to think that they did not need to repent. Your language may have a different way to express this idea. Alternate translation: “ninety-nine persons like you, who think they are righteous and do not need to repent” (See: Hyperbole)

ἐνενήκοντα ἐννέα

“99” (See: Numbers)

δικαίοις

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “righteous people” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

Luke 15:8

Jesus begins telling another parable. It is about a woman with 10 sliver coins.

ἢ τίς γυνὴ…οὐχὶ ἅπτει λύχνον…καὶ ζητεῖ ἐπιμελῶς, ἕως οὗ εὕρῃ?

Jesus uses a question to remind the people that if they lost a silver coin, they would certainly look for it diligently. Alternate translation: “Any woman…would certainly light a lamp…and seek diligently until she has found it.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐὰν ἀπολέσῃ

This is a hypothetical situation and not a story about a real woman. Some languages have ways of showing this. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

Luke 15:10

οὕτως

“In the same way” or “Just as people would rejoice with the woman”

ἐπὶ ἑνὶ ἁμαρτωλῷ μετανοοῦντι

“when one sinner repents”

Luke 15:11

Jesus begins telling another parable. It is about a young man who asks his father for his part of the inheritance. (See: Parables)

ἄνθρωπός τις

This introduces a new character in the parable. Some languages might say “There was a man who” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Luke 15:12

δός μοι

The son wanted his father to give it to him immediately. Languages that have a command form that means that they want it done immediately should use that form.

τὸ ἐπιβάλλον μέρος τῆς οὐσίας

“the part of your wealth that you planned for me to receive when you die”

αὐτοῖς

“between his two sons”

Luke 15:13

συναγαγὼν πάντα

“packed his things” or “put his things in his bag”

ζῶν ἀσώτως

“living without thinking about the consequences of his actions” or “living wildly”

Luke 15:14

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Jesus explains how the younger son went from having plenty to being in need.

ἐγένετο λιμὸς ἰσχυρὰ κατὰ τὴν χώραν ἐκείνην

“a drought occurred there and the entire country did not have enough food”

ὑστερεῖσθαι

“to lack what he needed” or “to not have enough”

Luke 15:15

καὶ πορευθεὶς

The word “he” refers to the younger son.

ἐκολλήθη

“took a job with” or “began to work for”

ἑνὶ τῶν πολιτῶν τῆς χώρας ἐκείνης

“a man of that country”

βόσκειν χοίρους

“to give food to the man’s pigs”

Luke 15:16

καὶ ἐπεθύμει χορτασθῆναι

“wished very much that he could eat.” It is understood that this is because he was very hungry. This could be stated. Alternate translation: “he was so hungry that he would have happily eaten” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

κερατίων

These are the husks of beans that grow on the carob tree. Alternate translation: “carob bean pods” or “bean husks” (See: Translate Unknowns)

Luke 15:17

εἰς ἑαυτὸν…ἐλθὼν

This idiom means he realized what the truth was, that he had made a terrible mistake. Alternate translation: “clearly understood his situation” (See: Idiom)

πόσοι μίσθιοι τοῦ πατρός μου περισσεύονται ἄρτων

This is part of an exclamation, and not a question. Alternate translation: “All my father’s hired servants have more than enough food to eat”

λιμῷ…ἀπόλλυμαι

This is probably not an exaggeration. The young man may really have been starving.

Luke 15:18

ἥμαρτον εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν

Jewish people sometimes avoided saying the word “God” and used the word “heaven” instead. Alternate translation: “I have sinned against God” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 15:19

οὐκέτι εἰμὶ ἄξιος κληθῆναι υἱός σου

“I am not worthy to be called your son.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am not worthy for you to call me son” (See: Active or Passive)

ποίησόν με ὡς ἕνα τῶν μισθίων σου

“hire me as an employee” or “hire me and I will become one of your servants.” This is a request, not a command. It may be helpful to add “please” as the UST does.

Luke 15:20

καὶ ἀναστὰς, ἦλθεν πρὸς τὸν πατέρα ἑαυτοῦ

“So he left that country and started going back to his father.” The word “so” marks an event that happened because of something else that happened first. In this case, the young man was in need and had decided to go home.

ἔτι δὲ αὐτοῦ μακρὰν ἀπέχοντος

“While he was still far away from his home” or “While he was still far away from his father’s house”

ἐσπλαγχνίσθη

“had pity on him” or “loved him deeply from his heart”

ἐπέπεσεν ἐπὶ τὸν τράχηλον αὐτοῦ καὶ κατεφίλησεν αὐτόν

The father did this to show his son that he loved him and was glad that the son was coming home. If people think that it is strange or wrong for a man to embrace or hug and kiss his son, you can substitute a way that men in your culture show affection to their sons. Alternate translation: “welcomed him affectionately”

Luke 15:21

ἥμαρτον εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν

Jewish people sometimes avoided saying the word “God” and used the word “heaven” instead. See how you translated this in Luke 15:18. Alternate translation: “I have sinned against God” (See: Metonymy)

οὐκέτι εἰμὶ ἄξιος κληθῆναι υἱός σου

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated a similar phrase in Luke 15:18. Alternate translation: “I am not worthy for you to call me your son” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 15:22

στολὴν τὴν πρώτην

“the best robe in the house.” Alternate translation: “the best coat” or “the best garment”

δότε δακτύλιον εἰς τὴν χεῖρα αὐτοῦ

A ring was a sign of authority that men wore on one of their fingers.

ὑποδήματα

Wealthy people of that time wore sandals. However, in many cultures the modern equivalent would be “shoes.”

Luke 15:23

μόσχον τὸν σιτευτόν

A calf is a young cow. People would give one of their calves special food so that it would grow well, and then when they wanted to have a special feast, they would eat that calf. Alternate translation: “the best calf” or “the young animal we have been making fat” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

θύσατε

The implied information that they were to cook the meat can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “kill it and cook it” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 15:24

ὁ υἱός μου νεκρὸς ἦν καὶ ἀνέζησεν

This metaphor speaks of the son being gone as if he were dead. Alternate translation: “it is as if my son were dead and became alive again” or “I felt like my son had died, but he is now alive” (See: Metaphor)

ἦν ἀπολωλὼς καὶ εὑρέθη

This metaphor speaks of the son being gone as if he were lost. Alternate translation: “It is as if my son were lost and now I found him” or “My son was lost and has returned home” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 15:25

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Jesus starts to tell a new part of the story about the older son.

ἐν ἀγρῷ

It is implied that he was out in the field because he was working there. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 15:26

ἕνα τῶν παίδων

The word that is translated here as “servant” is normally translated as “boy.” It may indicate that the servant was very young.

τί ἂν εἴη ταῦτα

“what was happening”

Luke 15:27

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“and the servant said to the older brother”

τὸν μόσχον τὸν σιτευτόν

A calf is a young cow. People would give one of their calves special food so that it would grow well, and then when they wanted to have a special feast, they would eat that calf. See how you translated this phrase in Luke 15:23. Alternate translation: “the best calf” or “the young animal we have been making fat” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 15:29

τοσαῦτα ἔτη

“for many years”

δουλεύω σοι

“I worked extremely hard for you” or “I worked as hard as a slave for you”

οὐδέποτε ἐντολήν σου παρῆλθον

“never disobeyed any of your commands” or “always obeyed everything you told me to do”

ἔριφον

A young goat was smaller and less expensive than a fatted calf. Alternate translation: “even a young goat” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 15:30

ὁ υἱός σου οὗτος

“that son of yours.” The older son refers to his brother this way in order to show how angry he is.

ὁ καταφαγών σου τὸν βίον

Food is a metaphor for money. After one eats food, the food is no longer there and there is nothing to eat. The money that the brother had received was no longer there and there was no more to spend. Alternate translation: “wasted all your wealth” or “thrown away all your money” (See: Metaphor)

μετὰ πορνῶν

Possible meanings are (1) he assumed this is how his brother spent the money or (2) he speaks of prostitutes to exaggerate the sinfulness of his brother’s actions in the “country far away” (Luke 15:13). (See: Hyperbole)

τὸν σιτευτὸν μόσχον

A calf is a young cow. People would give one of their calves special food so that it would grow well, and then when they wanted to have a special feast, they would eat that calf. See how you translated this phrase in Luke 15:23. Alternate translation: “the best calf” or “the young animal we have been making fat” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 15:31

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“Then the father said to his older son”

Luke 15:32

ὁ ἀδελφός σου οὗτος

The father was reminding the older son that the one who just came home was his brother.

ὁ ἀδελφός σου οὗτος, νεκρὸς ἦν καὶ ἔζησεν

This metaphor speaks of the brother being gone as if he were dead. See how you translated this phrase in Luke 15:24. Alternate translation: “it was as if this brother of yours were dead and became alive again” or “this brother of yours had died, but he is now alive” (See: Metaphor)

ἀπολωλὼς καὶ εὑρέθη

This metaphor speaks of the son being gone as if he were lost. See how you translated this phrase in Luke 15:24. Alternate translation: “it is as if he were lost and now I found him” or “he was lost and has returned home” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 16

Luke 16 General Notes

Luke 16:1

Jesus begins telling another parable. It is about a master and the manager of his debtors. This is still the same part of the story and the same day that began in Luke 15:3. (See: Parables)

ἔλεγεν δὲ καὶ πρὸς τοὺς μαθητάς

The last section was directed at Pharisees and scribes, though Jesus’ disciples may have been part of the crowd listening.

ἄνθρωπός τις ἦν πλούσιος

This introduces a new character in the parable. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

οὗτος διεβλήθη αὐτῷ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people reported to the rich man” (See: Active or Passive)

διασκορπίζων τὰ ὑπάρχοντα αὐτοῦ

“foolishly managing the rich man’s wealth”

Luke 16:2

φωνήσας αὐτὸν

“the right man called his manager”

τί τοῦτο ἀκούω περὶ σοῦ?

The rich man uses a question to scold the manager. Alternate translation: “I have heard what you are doing.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἀπόδος τὸν λόγον τῆς οἰκονομίας σου

“Set your records in order to pass on to someone else” or “Prepare the records you have written about my money”

Luke 16:3

τί ποιήσω…τὴν οἰκονομίαν ἀπ’ ἐμοῦ?

The manager asks this question of himself, as a means of reviewing his options. Alternate translation: “I need to think about what I should do…job” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁ κύριός μου

This refers to the wealthy man. The manager was not a slave. Alternate translation: “my employer”

σκάπτειν οὐκ ἰσχύω

“I am not strong enough to dig the ground” or “I am not able to dig”

Luke 16:4

ὅταν μετασταθῶ ἐκ τῆς οἰκονομίας

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when I lose my management job” or “when my master takes away my management job” (See: Active or Passive)

δέξωνταί με εἰς τοὺς οἴκους αὐτῶν

This implies that those people will provide a job, or other things that he needs to live. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 16:5

τῶν χρεοφιλετῶν τοῦ κυρίου ἑαυτοῦ

“the people who were in debt to his master” or “the people who owed things to his master.” In this story the debtors owed olive oil and wheat.

Luke 16:6

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν…ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“The debtor said…the manager said to the debtor”

ἑκατὸν βάτους ἐλαίου

This was about 3,000 liters of olive oil. (See: Biblical Volume)

ἑκατὸν…πεντήκοντα

“100…50” (See: Numbers)

δέξαι σου τὰ γράμματα

A “bill” is a piece of paper that tells how much someone owes.

Luke 16:7

ἔπειτα ἑτέρῳ εἶπεν…ὁ δὲ εἶπεν…λέγει αὐτῷ

“the manager said to another debtor…The debtor said…The manager said to the debtor”

ἑκατὸν κόρους σίτου

You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “twenty thousand liters of wheat” or “a thousand baskets of wheat” (See: Biblical Volume)

γράψον ὀγδοήκοντα

“write eighty cors of wheat.” You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “write sixteen thousand liters” or “write eight hundred baskets”

ὀγδοήκοντα

“80” (See: Numbers)

Luke 16:8

Jesus finishes telling the parable about the master and the manager of his debtors. In verse 9, Jesus continues to teach his disciples.

καὶ ἐπῄνεσεν ὁ κύριος

The text does not say how the master learned of the manager’s action.

ἐπῄνεσεν

“praised” or “spoke well of” or “approved of”

φρονίμως ἐποίησεν

“he had acted cleverly” or “he had done a sensible thing”

οἱ υἱοὶ τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου

This refers to those like the unrighteous manager who do not know or care about God. Alternate translation: “the people of this world” or “worldly people”

τοὺς υἱοὺς τοῦ φωτὸς

Here “light” is a metaphor for everything godly. Alternate translation: “the people of God” or “godly people” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 16:9

ἐγὼ ὑμῖν λέγω

“I” refers to Jesus. The phrase “I say to you” marks the end of the story and now Jesus tells the people how to apply the story to their lives.

ἑαυτοῖς ποιήσατε φίλους ἐκ τοῦ μαμωνᾶ τῆς ἀδικίας

The focus here is on using the money to help other people. Alternate translation: “make people your friends by helping them with worldly wealth”

ἐκ τοῦ μαμωνᾶ τῆς ἀδικίας

Possible meanings are (1) Jesus uses hyperbole when he calls money “unrighteous” because it has no eternal value. Alternate translation: “by using money, which has no eternal value” or “by using worldly money” or (2) Jesus uses metonymy when he calls money “unrighteous” because people sometimes earn it or use it in unrighteous ways. Alternate translation: “by using even money that you earned dishonestly” (See: Metonymy and Hyperbole)

δέξωνται

This may refer to (1) God in heaven, who is pleased that you used money to help people, or (2) the friends you helped with your money .

αἰωνίους σκηνάς

This refers to heaven, where God lives.

Luke 16:10

ὁ πιστὸς…καὶ…πιστός ἐστιν…ὁ…ἄδικος…καὶ…ἄδικός ἐστιν

“People who are faithful…are also faithful…people who are unrighteous…are also unrighteous.” This would include women. (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

πιστὸς ἐν ἐλαχίστῳ

“faithful even with small things.” Make sure this does not sound like they are not very faithful.

ἐν ἐλαχίστῳ ἄδικος

“unrighteous even in small things.” Make sure this does not sound like they are not often unrighteous.

Luke 16:11

τῷ ἀδίκῳ μαμωνᾷ

See how you translated this in Luke 16:9. Possible meanings are (1) Jesus uses metonymy when he calls money “unrighteous” because people sometimes earn it or use it in unrighteous ways. Alternate translation: “even money that you earned dishonestly” or (2) Jesus uses hyperbole when he calls money “unrighteous” because it has no eternal value. Alternate translation: “money, which has no eternal value” or “by using worldly money” (See: Metonymy and Hyperbole)

τὸ ἀληθινὸν τίς ὑμῖν πιστεύσει?

Jesus uses a question to teach the people. Alternate translation: “no one will trust you with true wealth.” or “no one will give you true wealth to manage.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τὸ ἀληθινὸν

This refers to wealth that is more genuine, real, or lasting than money.

Luke 16:12

τὸ ὑμέτερον τίς ὑμῖν δώσει

Jesus uses this question to teach the people. Alternate translation: “no one will give you wealth for yourself.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 16:13

οὐδεὶς οἰκέτης δύναται

“A servant cannot”

δυσὶ κυρίοις δουλεύειν

It is implied that he cannot “serve two different masters at the same time”

ἢ γὰρ…μισήσει…ἢ…ἀνθέξεται

These two clauses are essentially the same. The only significant difference is that the first master is hated in the first clause, but the second master is hated in the second clause.

μισήσει

“the servant will hate”

ἑνὸς ἀνθέξεται

“love one very strongly”

τοῦ ἑτέρου καταφρονήσει

“hold the other in contempt” or “hate the other”

καταφρονήσει

This means essentially the same as “hate” in the previous clause.

οὐ δύνασθε…δουλεύειν

Jesus was talking to a group of people, so languages that have a plural form of “you” would use that. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 16:14

This is a break in Jesus teachings, as verse 14 tells us background information about how the Pharisees ridiculed Jesus. In verse 15, Jesus continues teaching and responds to the Pharisees. (See: Background Information)

δὲ

This word marks a shift to the background information.

φιλάργυροι ὑπάρχοντες

“who loved having money” or “who where very greedy for money”

ἐξεμυκτήριζον αὐτόν

“the Pharisees ridiculed Jesus”

Luke 16:15

καὶ εἶπεν αὐτοῖς

“And Jesus said to the Pharisees”

ὑμεῖς ἐστε οἱ δικαιοῦντες ἑαυτοὺς ἐνώπιον τῶν ἀνθρώπων

“You try to make yourselves look good to people”

ὁ δὲ Θεὸς γινώσκει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν

Here “hearts” refers to the desires of people. Alternate translation: “God understands your true desires” or “God knows your motives” (See: Metonymy)

τὸ ἐν ἀνθρώποις ὑψηλὸν, βδέλυγμα ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Those things that men think are very important are things that God hates” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 16:16

ὁ νόμος καὶ οἱ προφῆται

This refers to all of God’s word that had been written up to that time.

μέχρι

“had authority” or “were what people needed to obey”

Ἰωάννου

This refers to John the Baptist. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist came” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ εὐαγγελίζεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am teaching people about the good news of the kingdom of God” (See: Active or Passive)

πᾶς εἰς αὐτὴν βιάζεται

This refers to the people who were listening to and accepting the teaching of Jesus. Alternate translation: “many people are doing everything they can to enter it”

Luke 16:17

εὐκοπώτερον δέ ἐστιν τὸν οὐρανὸν καὶ τὴν γῆν παρελθεῖν, ἢ τοῦ νόμου μίαν κερέαν πεσεῖν

This contrast could be stated in the reverse order. Alternate translation: “even the smallest stroke of the letter of the law will last longer than heaven and earth will exist”

ἢ…μίαν κερέαν

A “stroke” is the smallest part of a letter. It refers to something in the law that may seem to be insignificant. Alternate translation: “than for even the smallest detail of the law” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πεσεῖν

“disappear” or “cease to exist”

Luke 16:18

πᾶς ὁ ἀπολύων τὴν γυναῖκα αὐτοῦ

“Anyone who divorces his wife” or “Any man who divorces his wife”

μοιχεύει

“is guilty of adultery”

ὁ ἀπολελυμένην…γαμῶν

“any man who marries a woman”

Luke 16:19

These verses give background information about the story Jesus begins to tell about the rich man and Lazarus. (See: Background Information)

As Jesus continues teaching the people he begins to tell a story. It is about a rich man and Lazarus.

δέ

This marks a shift in Jesus’ speech as he begins to tell a story that will help people understand what he was teaching them.

ἄνθρωπος…τις…πλούσιος

This phrase introduces a person in Jesus’ story. It is not clear if this is a real person or if it is simply a person in a story that Jesus tells in order to make a point. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

ἐνεδιδύσκετο πορφύραν καὶ βύσσον

“who wore clothing made with fine linen and purple dye” or “who wore very expensive clothes.” Purple dye and fine linen cloth were very expensive.

εὐφραινόμενος καθ’ ἡμέραν λαμπρῶς

“enjoyed eating expensive food every day” or “spent much money and bought whatever he desired”

Luke 16:20

πτωχὸς…τις ὀνόματι Λάζαρος, ἐβέβλητο πρὸς τὸν πυλῶνα αὐτοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People had laid a certain beggar named Lazarus at his gate” (See: Active or Passive and How to Translate Names)

πτωχὸς…τις ὀνόματι Λάζαρος

This phrase introduces another person in Jesus’ story. It is not clear if this is a real person or simply a person in a story that Jesus tells in order to make a point. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

πρὸς τὸν πυλῶνα αὐτοῦ

“at the gate to the rich man’s house” or “at the entrance to the rich man’s property”

εἱλκωμένος

“with sores all over his body”

Luke 16:21

ἐπιθυμῶν χορτασθῆναι ἀπὸ τῶν πιπτόντων

“wishing he could eat the scraps of food that fell”

καὶ οἱ κύνες ἐρχόμενοι

The word “Even” here shows that what follows is worse than what has already been told about Lazarus. Alternate translation: “In addition to that, the dogs came” or “Worse yet, the dogs came”

οἱ κύνες

The Jews considered dogs to be unclean animals. Lazarus was too sick and weak to stop the dogs from licking his wounds.

Luke 16:22

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used here to mark an event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἀπενεχθῆναι…ὑπὸ τῶν ἀγγέλων

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the angels carried him away” (See: Active or Passive)

εἰς τὸν κόλπον Ἀβραάμ

This implies that Abraham and Lazarus were reclining next to each other at a feast, in the Greek style of feasting. The joy in heaven is often represented in the scriptures by the idea of a feast. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐτάφη

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people buried him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 16:23

ἐν τοῖς κόλποις αὐτοῦ

This implies that Abraham and Lazarus were reclining next to each other at a feast, in the Greek style of feasting. The joy in heaven is often represented in the scriptures by the idea of a feast. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐν τῷ ᾍδῃ…ὑπάρχων ἐν βασάνοις

“he went to Hades, where, suffering in terrible pain”

ἐπάρας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς αὐτοῦ

This idiom means “he looked up” (See: Idiom)

Luke 16:24

αὐτὸς φωνήσας εἶπεν

“the rich man called out to say” or “he shouted out to Abraham”

Πάτερ Ἀβραάμ

Abraham was the ancestor of all the Jews, including the rich man.

ἐλέησόν με

“please have pity on me” or “please be merciful to me”

καὶ πέμψον Λάζαρον

“by sending Lazarus” or “and tell Lazarus to come to me”

βάψῃ τὸ ἄκρον τοῦ δακτύλου αὐτοῦ

This indicates the smallness of the amount requested. Alternate translation: “he may wet the tip of his finger”

ὀδυνῶμαι ἐν τῇ φλογὶ ταύτῃ

“I am in terrible pain in this flame” or “I am suffering terribly in this fire”

Luke 16:25

τέκνον

The rich man was one of Abraham’s descendants.

τὰ ἀγαθά

“fine things” or “pleasant things”

ὁμοίως τὰ κακά

“in like manner received evil things” or “in like manner received things that caused him to suffer”

ὁμοίως

This refers the fact that they both received something while they lived on earth. It is not saying that what they received was the same. Alternate translation: “while he was living received”

ὧδε παρακαλεῖται

“he is comfortable here” or “he is happy here”

ὀδυνᾶσαι

“suffering”

Luke 16:26

καὶ ἐν πᾶσι τούτοις

“In addition to this reason”

χάσμα μέγα ἐστήρικται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has placed a huge ravine between you and us” (See: Active or Passive)

χάσμα μέγα

“a steep, deep and wide valley” or “a big separation” or “a huge ravine”

οἱ θέλοντες διαβῆναι…μὴ δύνωνται

“those people who want to cross over the chasm…cannot” or “if anyone wants to cross over…he cannot”

Luke 16:27

εἶπεν

“the rich man said”

Luke 16:28

ὅπως διαμαρτύρηται αὐτοῖς

“so that Lazarus may warn them”

τὸν τόπον τοῦτον τῆς βασάνου

“this place where we suffer torment” or “this place where we suffer terrible pain”

Luke 16:29

Jesus finishes telling the story about the rich man and Lazarus.

ἔχουσι Μωϋσέα καὶ τοὺς προφήτας

It is implied that Abraham refused to send Lazarus to the rich man’s brothers. This could be stated. Alternate translation: “No, I will not do that, because your brothers have what Moses and the prophets wrote long ago” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Μωϋσέα καὶ τοὺς προφήτας

This refers to their writings. Alternate translation: “what Moses and the prophets wrote” (See: Metonymy)

ἀκουσάτωσαν αὐτῶν

“your brothers should pay attention to Moses and the prophets”

Luke 16:30

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν

“But the rich man said”

ἐάν τις ἀπὸ νεκρῶν πορευθῇ πρὸς αὐτοὺς

This describes a situation that has not happened, but that the rich man would like to happen. Alternate translation: “if a person who has died would go to them” or “if someone who has died would go and warn them” (See: Hypothetical Situations)

ἀπὸ νεκρῶν

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld.

Luke 16:31

εἶπεν δὲ αὐτῷ

“But Lazarus said to the rich man”

εἰ Μωϋσέως καὶ τῶν προφητῶν οὐκ ἀκούουσιν

Here “Moses and the prophets” represent the things that they wrote. Alternate translation: “If they do not pay attention to what Moses and the prophets wrote” (See: Metonymy)

οὐδ’ ἐάν τις ἐκ νεκρῶν ἀναστῇ, πεισθήσονται

Abraham states what would happen if the hypothetical situation occurred. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “neither will a person who comes back from the dead be able to convince them” or “they will not believe even if a person comes back from the dead” (See: Hypothetical Situations and Active or Passive)

ἐκ νεκρῶν ἀναστῇ

The words “from the dead” speak of all dead people together in the underworld. To rise from among them is to become alive again.

Luke 17

Luke 17 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Old Testament Examples

Jesus used the lives of Noah and of Lot to teach his followers. Noah was ready for the flood when it came, and they needed to be ready for him to return, because he would not warn them when he came. Lot’s wife loved the evil city she had been living in so much that God also punished her when he destroyed it, and they needed to love Jesus more than anything else,

Those who read your translation may need help so they can understand what Jesus was teaching here.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Hypothetical situations

Hypothetical situations are situations that have not actually happened. Jesus used a special type of hypothetical situation to teach that what will happen to those who cause others to sin will be worse than being drowned (Luke 19:1-2) and another to scold the disciples because they had little faith (Luke 19:6). (See: Hypothetical Situations)

Rhetorical Questions

Jesus asked his disciples three questions (Luke 17:7-9) to teach them that even those who serve him well are righteous only because of his grace. (See: Rhetorical Question and grace, gracious and righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 17:22). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. A paradox occurs in this chapter: “Whoever seeks to gain his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will save it” (Luke 17:33).

Luke 17:1

Jesus continues teaching, but he directs his attention back to his disciples. This is still the same part of the story and the same day that began in Luke 15:3.

ἀνένδεκτόν ἐστιν τοῦ τὰ σκάνδαλα μὴ ἐλθεῖν

“Things that tempt people to sin will certainly happen”

οὐαὶ δι’ οὗ ἔρχεται!

“to anyone who causes the temptations to come” or “to any person who causes people to be tempted”

Luke 17:2

λυσιτελεῖ αὐτῷ εἰ λίθος μυλικὸς περίκειται περὶ τὸν τράχηλον αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἔρριπται εἰς τὴν θάλασσαν, ἢ ἵνα σκανδαλίσῃ τῶν μικρῶν τούτων ἕνα

You may need to make explicit that it is the punishment for causing people to sin that Jesus is comparing to being thrown into the sea. Alternate translation: “I will not punish him a little by putting a millstone around his neck and throwing him into the sea. Instead, I will punish him much. This is because he has caused one of these little ones to stumble.” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

λυσιτελεῖ αὐτῷ εἰ

This introduces a hypothetical situation. It means that this person’s punishment for causing people to sin will be worse than if they had drowned in the sea. No one has put a stone around his neck, and Jesus is not saying that anyone will do so. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

λίθος μυλικὸς περίκειται περὶ τὸν τράχηλον αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἔρριπται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if they were to put a millstone around his neck and throw him” or “if someone were to put a heavy stone around his neck and push him” (See: Active or Passive)

αὐτῷ…τὸν τράχηλον αὐτοῦ…ἔρριπται…σκανδαλίσῃ

These words can refer to anyone, to women as well as to men. (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

λίθος μυλικὸς

This is a very large, heavy circular stone used for grinding wheat grain into flour. Alternate translation: “a heavy stone”

τῶν μικρῶν τούτων

This here refers to people whose faith is still weak. Alternate translation: “these people whose faith is small”

σκανδαλίσῃ

This was a way of referring to unintentional sin. Alternate translation: “to sin”

Luke 17:3

ἐὰν ἁμάρτῃ ὁ ἀδελφός σου

This is a conditional statement that talks about an event that will probably happen in the future.

ὁ ἀδελφός σου

“brother” is here used in the sense of someone with the same belief. Alternate translation: “a fellow believer”

ἐπιτίμησον αὐτῷ

“tell him strongly that what he did was wrong” or “correct him”

Luke 17:4

καὶ ἐὰν ἑπτάκις…ἁμαρτήσῃ εἰς σὲ

This is a hypothetical future situation. It may never happen, but even if it does, Jesus tells people to forgive. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

ἑπτάκις τῆς ἡμέρας…καὶ ἑπτάκις

The number seven in the Bible is a symbol for completeness. Alternate translation: “many times in a day, and each time” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:5

There is a brief break in Jesus’ teachings as the disciples speak to him. Then Jesus continues teaching.

πρόσθες ἡμῖν πίστιν

“Please give us more faith” or “Please add more faith to our faith”

Luke 17:6

εἰ ἔχετε πίστιν ὡς κόκκον σινάπεως, ἐλέγετε ἂν

A mustard seed is a very small seed. Jesus implies that they do not have even a small amount of faith. Alternate translation: “If you had faith that was even as small as a mustard seed, you” or “Your faith is not as big as a mustard seed—but if it were, you” (See: Simile and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

συκαμίνῳ

If this type of tree is not familiar, it may be helpful to substitute another type of tree. Alternate translation: “fig tree” or “tree” (See: Translate Unknowns)

ἐκριζώθητι καὶ φυτεύθητι ἐν τῇ θαλάσσῃ

These can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Uproot yourself and plant yourself in the sea” or “Take your roots out of the ground, and put your roots down into the ocean” (See: Active or Passive)

ὑπήκουσεν ἂν ὑμῖν

“the tree would obey you.” This result is conditional. It would happen only if they had faith.

Luke 17:7

τίς δὲ ἐξ ὑμῶν…ἐρεῖ…ἀνάπεσε?

Jesus asks his disciples a question to help them think about the role of a servant. This could be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “But none of you who…sheep would say…sit down to eat.’” (See: Rhetorical Question)

δοῦλον…ἀροτριῶντα ἢ ποιμαίνοντα

“a servant that plows your field or takes care of your sheep”

Luke 17:8

ἀλλ’ οὐχὶ ἐρεῖ αὐτῷ…φάγεσαι καὶ πίεσαι σύ?

Jesus uses a second question explain how the disciples would actually treat a servant. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “He will certainly say to him…eat and drink’” (See: Rhetorical Question)

περιζωσάμενος διακόνει μοι

“tie your clothes at your waist and serve me” or “dress up properly and take care of me.” People would tie their clothes closely around their waist so that their clothes would not get in their way while they worked. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καὶ μετὰ ταῦτα

“Then after you serve me”

Luke 17:9

Jesus finishes teaching. This is the end of this part of the story.

μὴ ἔχει χάριν τῷ δούλῳ…ἐποίησεν

Jesus uses this question to show how people treat servants. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “He would not thank the servant…commanded.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τὰ διαταχθέντα

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things you commanded him to do” (See: Active or Passive)

μὴ ἔχει χάριν

“right?” or “is this not true?”

Luke 17:10

καὶ ὑμεῖς

Jesus was speaking to his disciples, so languages that have a plural form of “you” would use it. (See: Forms of You)

τὰ διαταχθέντα ὑμῖν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that God has commanded you” (See: Active or Passive)

δοῦλοι ἀχρεῖοί ἐσμεν

This is an exaggeration to express that they did not do anything worthy of praise. Alternate translation: “We are ordinary slaves” or “We servants do not deserve your praise” (See: Hyperbole)

Luke 17:11

Jesus heals 10 men of leprosy. Verses 11 and 12 give background information and the setting of the event. (See: Background Information)

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new event. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῷ πορεύεσθαι εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ

“as Jesus and the disciples were traveling to Jerusalem”

Luke 17:12

τινα κώμην

This phrase does not identify the village.

ἀπήντησαν δέκα λεπροὶ ἄνδρες

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “ten men who were lepers met him” or “ten men who had leprosy met him” (See: Active or Passive)

οἳ ἔστησαν πόρρωθεν

This was a respectful gesture, because lepers were not allowed to approach other people. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:13

αὐτοὶ ἦραν φωνὴν

The idiom “to lift up one’s voice” means to speak loudly. Alternate translation: “they called with loud voices” or “they called aloud” (See: Idiom)

ἐλέησον ἡμᾶς

They were specifically asking to be healed. Alternate translation: “please show us mercy by healing us” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:14

ἐπιδείξατε ἑαυτοὺς τοῖς ἱερεῦσιν

Lepers were required to have the priests verify that their leprosy was healed. Alternate translation: “show yourselves to the priests so they can examine you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐκαθαρίσθησαν

When people were healed, they were no longer ceremonially unclean. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “they were healed of their leprosy and so became clean” or “they were cured of their leprosy” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:15

ἰδὼν ὅτι ἰάθη

“realized that he was healed” or “realized that Jesus had healed him”

ὑπέστρεψεν

“he went back to Jesus”

μετὰ φωνῆς μεγάλης δοξάζων τὸν Θεόν

“and glorified God loudly”

Luke 17:16

καὶ ἔπεσεν ἐπὶ πρόσωπον παρὰ τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ

“he knelt down and put his face close to Jesus’ feet.” He did this to honor Jesus. (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 17:17

This is the end of the part of the story about Jesus healing the 10 lepers.

ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν

Jesus responded to what the man did, but he was speaking to the group of people around him. Alternate translation: “So Jesus said to the crowd” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

οὐχὶ οἱ δέκα ἐκαθαρίσθησαν?

This is the first of three rhetorical questions. Jesus used them to show the people around him how surprised and disappointed he was that only one of the ten men came back to glorify God. Alternate translation: “Ten men were healed.” or “God healed ten men.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

οἱ δὲ ἐννέα ποῦ?

“Why did not the other nine come back?” This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “The other nine men should have come back, too.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 17:18

οὐχ εὑρέθησαν ὑποστρέψαντες δοῦναι δόξαν τῷ Θεῷ, εἰ μὴ ὁ ἀλλογενὴς οὗτος?

This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “No one but this foreigner came back to give glory to God!” or “God healed ten men, yet only this foreigner came back to give glory to God!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁ ἀλλογενὴς οὗτος

Samaritans had non-Jewish ancestors and they did not worship God in the same way that the Jews did.

Luke 17:19

ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέν σε

“Because of your faith you have become well.” The idea of “faith” can be expressed with the verb “believe.” Alternate translation: “Because you believe, you are well again” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Luke 17:20

We do not know where this event takes place; it simply happens one day when Jesus is talking with the Pharisees.

ἐπερωτηθεὶς δὲ ὑπὸ τῶν Φαρισαίων πότε ἔρχεται ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

This is the beginning of a new event. Some translations start it with “One day” or “Once.” It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, ‘When will the kingdom of God come?’” (See: Introduction of a New Event and Active or Passive and Direct and Indirect Quotations)

οὐκ ἔρχεται ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ μετὰ παρατηρήσεως

People thought that they would be able to see signs of the kingdom coming. The idea of signs can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “The kingdom of God does not come with signs that people can observe” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:21

ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐντὸς ὑμῶν ἐστιν

The idea of the noun “kingdom” can be expressed with the verb “rules.” Alternate translation: “God rules within you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐντὸς ὑμῶν ἐστιν

Jesus was speaking to the religious leaders who were hostile to him. Possible meanings are (1) the word “you” refers to people in general. Alternate translation: “the kingdom of God is within people” or (2) the word translated “within” means “among.” Alternate translation: “the kingdom of God is among you”

Luke 17:22

Jesus begins to teach his disciples.

ἐλεύσονται ἡμέραι ὅτε

The idea of days coming represents something being soon. Alternate translation: “A time is coming when” or “Soon” (See: Metaphor)

ἐπιθυμήσετε…ἰδεῖν

“you will want very much to see” or “you will wish to experience”

μίαν τῶν ἡμερῶν τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

This refers to the kingdom of God. Alternate translation: “one of the days when the Son of Man will rule as king” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus is speaking about himself. (See: First, Second or Third Person)

καὶ οὐκ ὄψεσθε

“you will not experience it”

Luke 17:23

ἰδοὺ, ἐκεῖ, ἤ, ἰδοὺ, ὧδε

This refers to seeking the Messiah. Alternate translation: “Look, the Messiah is over there! He is over here!” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

μὴ ἀπέλθητε μηδὲ διώξητε

The purpose of going out can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “do not go with them to look” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:24

ὥσπερ γὰρ ἡ ἀστραπὴ ἀστράπτουσα…λάμπει

The coming of the Son of Man will be clear and sudden, like the appearance of lightning. Alternate translation: “for as the lightning is visible to everyone when it appears and” or “for as the lightning appears suddenly” (See: Simile)

οὕτως ἔσται ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

This refers to the future kingdom of God. Alternate translation: “it will be like that on the day when the Son of Man comes to reign” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:25

πρῶτον δὲ δεῖ αὐτὸν…παθεῖν

“But first the Son of Man must suffer.” Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἀποδοκιμασθῆναι ἀπὸ τῆς γενεᾶς ταύτης

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the people of this generation must reject him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 17:26

καὶ καθὼς ἐγένετο…οὕτως ἔσται καὶ

“As people were doing things…even so people will be doing the same things”

ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις Νῶε

The “days of Noah” refers to the time during Noah’s life just before God punished the people of the world. Alternate translation: “when Noah was living”

ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

The “days of the Son of Man” refers to the period just before the Son of Man will come. Alternate translation: “when the Son of Man is about to come”

Luke 17:27

ἤσθιον, ἔπινον, ἐγάμουν, ἐγαμίζοντο

People were doing ordinary things. They did not know or care that God was about to judge them.

ἐγαμίζοντο

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “parents were allowing their daughters to marry men” (See: Active or Passive)

τὴν κιβωτόν

“the ship” or “the barge”

ἀπώλεσεν πάντας

This does not include Noah and his family who were in the ark. Alternate translation: “destroyed all those who were not in the boat”

Luke 17:28

ἤσθιον, ἔπινον

“the people of Sodom were eating and drinking”

Luke 17:29

ἔβρεξεν πῦρ καὶ θεῖον ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ

“fire and burning sulfur fell from the sky like rain”

ἀπώλεσεν πάντας

This does not include Lot and his family. Alternate translation: “destroyed all those who stayed in the city”

Luke 17:30

κατὰ ταὐτὰ ἔσται

“It will be like that.” Alternate translation: “In the same way people will not be ready” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ᾗ ἡμέρᾳ, ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἀποκαλύπτεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when the Son of Man appears” or “when the Son of man comes” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἀποκαλύπτεται

Jesus is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, am revealed” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 17:31

ὃς ἔσται ἐπὶ τοῦ δώματος…μὴ καταβάτω

“whoever is on the housetop must not go down” or “if anyone is on his housetop, he must not go down”

ἐπὶ τοῦ δώματος

Their housetops were flat and people could walk or sit on them.

τὰ σκεύη αὐτοῦ

“his possessions” or “his things”

ἐπιστρεψάτω εἰς τὰ ὀπίσω

They were not to go back to the house to get anything. They were to flee quickly. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:32

μνημονεύετε τῆς γυναικὸς Λώτ

“Remember what happened to Lot’s wife” This is a warning. She looked back toward Sodom and God punished her along with the people of Sodom. Alternate translation: “Do not do what Lot’s wife did”(See: Ellipsis and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 17:33

ὃς ἐὰν ζητήσῃ τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ περιποιήσασθαι, ἀπολέσει αὐτήν

“People who try save their lives will lose them” or “Whoever tries to save his old way of life will lose his life”

ὃς δ’ ἂν ἀπολέσει, ζῳογονήσει αὐτήν

“but people who lose their lives will save them” or “but whoever abandons his old way of life will save his life”

Luke 17:34

λέγω ὑμῖν

As Jesus continues to address his disciples, he emphasizes the importance of what he is telling them.

ταύτῃ τῇ νυκτὶ

This refers to what will happen if he, the Son of Man, comes during the night.

ἔσονται δύο ἐπὶ κλίνης μιᾶς

The emphasis is not on these two people, but on the fact that some people will be taken away and the others will be left.

κλίνης

“couch” or “cot”

ὁ εἷς παραλημφθήσεται, καὶ ὁ ἕτερος ἀφεθήσεται

“One person will be taken and the other person will be left behind.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will take one person and leave the other” or “Angels will take one and leave behind the other” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 17:35

ἔσονται δύο ἀλήθουσαι ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτό

The emphasis is not on these two women or their activity, but on the fact that some people will be taken away and the others will be left.

ἀλήθουσαι ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτό

“grinding grain together”

Luke 17:37

The disciples ask Jesus a question about his teaching and he answers them.

ποῦ, Κύριε?

“Lord, where will this happen?”

ὅπου τὸ σῶμα, ἐκεῖ καὶ οἱ ἀετοὶ ἐπισυναχθήσονται

Apparently this is a proverb that means “It will be obvious” or “You will know it when it happens.” Alternate translation: “As vultures gathering shows that there is a dead body, so these things show that the Son of Man is coming” (See: Proverbs)

οἱ ἀετοὶ

Vultures are large birds that fly together and eat the flesh of dead animals that they find. You could describe these birds this way or use the word for local birds that do this. (See: Translate Unknowns)

Luke 18

Luke 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Jesus told two parables (Luke 18:1-8 and Luke 18:9-14) and then taught that his followers were to be humble (Luke 18:15-17), to use everything they owned to help the poor (Luke 18:18-30), and to expect him to die soon (Luke 18:31-34), Then they all began to walk to Jerusalem, and Jesus healed a blind man (Luke 18:35-43).

Special concepts in this chapter

Judges

People expected judges always to do what God said was right and to make sure that other people did what was right. But some judges did not care about doing right or making sure others did right. Jesus called this kind of judge unjust. (See: just, justice, unjust, injustice, justify, justification)

Pharisees and tax collectors

The Pharisees thought that they themselves were the best examples of righteous good people, and they thought that tax collectors were the most unrighteous sinners. (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness and righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 18:8). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 18:1

Jesus begins to tell a parable as he continues to teach his disciples. This is the same part of the story that began in Luke 17:20. Verse 1 gives us a description of the parable Jesus is about to tell. (See: Parables)

ἔλεγεν δὲ

“Then Jesus”

Luke 18:2

λέγων

A new sentence could begin here: “He said”

τινι πόλει

Here “certain city” is a way to let the listener know that the narrative that follows takes place in a city, but the name of the city itself is not important. (See: Writing Styles)

ἄνθρωπον μὴ ἐντρεπόμενος

“did not care about other people”

Luke 18:3

χήρα δὲ ἦν

Jesus uses this phrase to introduce a new character to the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

χήρα

A widow is a woman whose husband has died and who has not remarried. Jesus’ hearers would have thought of her as a person who had no one to protect her from those who wanted to harm her.

ἤρχετο πρὸς αὐτὸν

The word “him” refers to the judge.

ἐκδίκησόν με ἀπὸ

“Give me a just ruling against”

τοῦ ἀντιδίκου μου

“my enemy” or “the person who is trying to harm me.” This is an opponent in a lawsuit. It is not clear whether the widow is suing the man or the man is suing the widow.

Luke 18:4

ἄνθρωπον

This refers here to “people” in general. (See: When Masculine Words Include Women)

Luke 18:5

παρέχειν μοι κόπον

“bothers me”

ὑπωπιάζῃ με

“exhaust me”

εἰς τέλος ἐρχομένη

“by continually coming to me”

Luke 18:6

Jesus has finished telling his parable and is now commenting about it to his disciples.

These verses should be seen as an explanation of the parable in Luke 18:1-5.

ἀκούσατε τί ὁ κριτὴς τῆς ἀδικίας λέγει

“Think about what the unjust judge just said.” Translate this in a way that people will understand that Jesus has already told what the judge said.

Luke 18:7

δὲ

This word indicates that Jesus has ended the parable and has started explaining its meaning.

ὁ…Θεὸς οὐ μὴ ποιήσῃ…νυκτός

Jesus uses a question to teach the disciples. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “God will also certainly…night!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τῶν ἐκλεκτῶν αὐτοῦ

“the people he has chosen”

μακροθυμεῖ ἐπ’ αὐτοῖς?

Jesus uses a question to teach the disciples. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “He will certainly not delay long over them!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 18:8

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἐλθὼν, ἆρα εὑρήσει τὴν πίστιν ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς?

Jesus asks this question so that his hearers will stop thinking that God is slow to help those who call to him for justice and will understand that the real problem is that they do not truly have faith in God. Alternate translation: “when the Son of Man comes, you need to be sure that he will find that you truly have faith in him.” or “when the Son of Man comes, he will find few on earth who believe.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ἐλθὼν, ἆρα εὑρήσει

Jesus is referring to himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man come, will I indeed find” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 18:9

Jesus begins to tell another parable to some other people who were persuaded that they themselves were righteous. (See: Parables)

εἶπεν δὲ

“Then Jesus”

πρός τινας

“to some people”

τοὺς πεποιθότας ἐφ’ ἑαυτοῖς, ὅτι εἰσὶν δίκαιοι

“who had convinced themselves that they were righteous” or “who thought they were righteous”

ἐξουθενοῦντας

strongly disliked or hated

Luke 18:10

εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν

“into the temple courtyard”

Luke 18:11

ὁ Φαρισαῖος σταθεὶς ταῦτα πρὸς ἑαυτὸν προσηύχετο

The meaning of the Greek text of this phrase is not clear. Possible meanings are (1) “The Pharisee stood and prayed about himself in this way” or (2) “The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed.”

ἅρπαγες

Robbers are people who steal from other people by forcing the other people to give things to them, or by threatening to harm them if they refuse to give what the robbers ask for.

ἢ καὶ ὡς οὗτος ὁ τελώνης

The Pharisees believed that tax collectors were as sinful as robbers, unrighteous people, and adulterers. This could be made explicit. Alternate translation: “and I am certainly not like this sinful tax collector who cheats people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 18:12

πάντα, ὅσα κτῶμαι

“everything I earn”

Luke 18:13

Jesus has finished telling his parable. In verse 14, he comments about what the parable teaches.

μακρόθεν ἑστὼς

“stood away from the Pharisee.” This was a sign of humility. He did not feel worthy to be near the Pharisee.

τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ἐπᾶραι εἰς τὸν οὐρανόν

To “lift up his eyes” means to look at something. Alternate translation: “look toward heaven” or “look upward” (See: Idiom)

ἔτυπτε τὸ στῆθος αὐτοῦ

This is a physical expression of great sorrow, and shows this man’s repentance and humility. Alternate translation: “hit his breast to show his sorrow” (See: Symbolic Action)

ὁ Θεός, ἱλάσθητί μοι, τῷ ἁμαρτωλῷ

“God, please be merciful to me. I am a sinner” or “God, please have mercy on me even though I have committed many sins”

Luke 18:14

κατέβη οὗτος δεδικαιωμένος εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ

He was justified because God forgave his sin. Alternate translation: “God forgave the tax collector” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

παρ’ ἐκεῖνον

“rather than the other man” or “and not the other man.” Alternate translation: “but God did not forgive the Pharisee” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὅτι πᾶς ὁ ὑψῶν ἑαυτὸν

With this phrase, Jesus switches from the story to state the general principle that the story illustrates.

ταπεινωθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will humble” (See: Active or Passive)

ὑψωθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will greatly honor” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 18:15

This is the next event in the part of the story which began in Luke 17:20. Jesus welcomes the children and talks about them.

προσέφερον δὲ αὐτῷ καὶ

“Now the people were also bringing to Jesus”

αὐτῶν ἅπτηται…δὲ

This could also be translated as separate sentences: “touch them. But”

ἐπετίμων αὐτοῖς

“the disciples tried to stop the parents from bringing their children to Jesus”

Luke 18:16

ὁ δὲ Ἰησοῦς προσεκαλέσατο αὐτὰ

“Jesus told the people to bring their infants to him”

ἄφετε τὰ παιδία ἔρχεσθαι πρός με, καὶ μὴ κωλύετε αὐτά

These two sentences have similar meaning and they are combined for emphasis. Some languages emphasize in a different way. Alternate translation: “You must certainly allow the children to come to me” (See: Parallelism)

τῶν γὰρ τοιούτων ἐστὶν

This could be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “belongs to people who are like these little children” (See: Simile)

Luke 18:17

ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν

“Surely I say to you.” Jesus used this expression to emphasize the importance of what he was about to say.

ὃς ἂν μὴ δέξηται τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ ὡς παιδίον, οὐ μὴ εἰσέλθῃ εἰς αὐτήν

God requires people to accept his rule over them with trust and humility. Alternate translation: “whoever wants to enter God’s kingdom must receive it with trust and humility like a child” (See: Simile)

Luke 18:18

This is the next event in the part of the story which began in Luke 17:20. Jesus begins to talk with a ruler about entering the kingdom of heaven.

τις…ἄρχων

This introduces a new character in the story. It only identifies him by his position. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

τί ποιήσας

“what do I need to do” or “what is required of me”

ζωὴν αἰώνιον κληρονομήσω

“receive life that does not end.” The term “inherit” usually refers to the property that a man left to his children when he dies. Therefore, this metaphor may mean he understood himself to be a child of God and desired for God to give him eternal life. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 18:19

τί με λέγεις ἀγαθόν? οὐδεὶς ἀγαθὸς, εἰ μὴ εἷς ὁ Θεός

Jesus asks the question because he knows that the ruler will not like Jesus’ answer to the ruler’s question in verse 18. Jesus does not expect the ruler to answer Jesus’ question. Jesus wants the ruler to understand that Jesus’ answer to the ruler’s question comes from God, who alone is good. Alternate translation: “You know that no one is good, except God alone, so to call me good is to compare me with God” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 18:20

μὴ φονεύσῃς

“do not murder”

Luke 18:21

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν

“But the ruler said”

ταῦτα πάντα

“All of these commandments”

Luke 18:22

ἀκούσας δὲ, ὁ Ἰησοῦς

“When Jesus heard the man say that”

εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“he answered him”

ἔτι ἕν σοι λείπει

“You still need to do one more thing” or “There is one thing that you have not yet done”

πάντα ὅσα ἔχεις, πώλησον

“sell all your possessions” or “sell everything that you own”

διάδος πτωχοῖς

“give away the money to the poor people”

δεῦρο, ἀκολούθει μοι

“come with me as my disciple”

Luke 18:24

πῶς δυσκόλως…τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ

This is an exclamation, and not a question. Alternate translation: “It is so very hard…kingdom of God!” (See: Exclamations)

Luke 18:25

κάμηλον διὰ τρήματος βελόνης εἰσελθεῖν

It is impossible for a camel to fit through the eye of a needle. Jesus was probably using hyperbole to mean it is extremely difficult for a rich man to enter God’s kingdom. (See: Hyperbole)

τρήματος βελόνης

The needle’s eye is the hole in a sewing needle through which the thread is passed.

Luke 18:26

οἱ ἀκούσαντες

“The people who listening to Jesus said”

καὶ τίς δύναται σωθῆναι?

It is possible that they were asking for an answer. But it is more likely that they used the question to emphasize their surprise at what Jesus said. Alternate translation: “Then no one can be saved from sin!” or in active form: “Then God will not save anyone!” (See: Rhetorical Question and Active or Passive)

Luke 18:27

τὰ ἀδύνατα παρὰ ἀνθρώποις, δυνατὰ παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ ἐστιν

“people cannot do are possible for God to do” or “people cannot do, God can do”

Luke 18:28

This is the end of the conversation about entering the kingdom of heaven.

ἰδοὺ, ἡμεῖς

This phrase refers only to the disciples, and contrasts them with the rich ruler.

ἡμεῖς ἀφήκαμεν

“we have given up” or “we have left behind”

πάντα

“all our wealth” or “all our possessions”

Luke 18:29

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν

“So Jesus said”

ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus uses this expression to stress the importance of what he is about to say.

οὐδείς ἐστιν ὃς

This expression is intended to include not only the disciples, but also everyone else who has made the same sacrifices.

Luke 18:30

ὃς οὐχὶ μὴ ἀπολάβῃ

This is the end of the sentence that begins with the words “there is no one who has left…kingdom of God” (verse 28). This could be stated in positive form. “everyone who has left…kingdom of God will receive” (See: Double Negatives)

ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τῷ ἐρχομένῳ, ζωὴν αἰώνιον

“also eternal life in the world to come”

Luke 18:31

This is the next event in this part of the story that began in Luke 17:20. Jesus is talking to his disciples alone.

παραλαβὼν δὲ τοὺς δώδεκα

Jesus took the twelve disciples to a place away from other people where they could be alone.

ἰδοὺ

This indicates a significant change in the ministry of Jesus as he goes to Jerusalem for the final time.

τὰ γεγραμμένα διὰ τῶν προφητῶν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that the prophets have written” (See: Active or Passive)

τῶν προφητῶν

This refers to the Old Testament prophets.

τῷ Υἱῷ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus speaks of himself as “the Son of Man.” Alternate translation: “me, the Son of Man,” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

τελεσθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “will happen” or “will occur” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 18:32

παραδοθήσεται γὰρ τοῖς ἔθνεσιν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “For the Jewish leaders will give him over to the Gentiles” (See: Active or Passive)

παραδοθήσεται

Jesus speaks of himself as “the Son of Man.” Alternate translation: “I” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἐμπαιχθήσεται, καὶ ὑβρισθήσεται, καὶ ἐμπτυσθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they will mock him, treat him shamefully, and spit on him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 18:33

αὐτόν…ἀναστήσεται

Jesus speaks of himself as “the Son of Man.” Alternate translation: “me…me…I” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ τρίτῃ

This refers to the third day after his death. However, the disciples did not yet understand this, so it is best not to add this explanation when translating this verse. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Luke 18:34

This verse is not part of the main story line, but rather a comment about this part of the story. (See: End of Story)

καὶ αὐτοὶ οὐδὲν τούτων συνῆκαν

“They did not understand any of these things”

τούτων

This refers to Jesus’ description of how he would suffer and die in Jerusalem, and that he would rise from the dead.

ἦν τὸ ῥῆμα τοῦτο κεκρυμμένον ἀπ’ αὐτῶν

This can be stated in active form, but it is not clear whether it is God or Jesus who hid the word from them. Alternate translation: “Jesus hid his message from them” or “God prevented them from understanding the meaning of what Jesus was telling them” (See: Active or Passive)

τὰ λεγόμενα

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that Jesus said” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 18:35

Jesus heals a blind man as he approaches Jericho. These verses give background information and information about the setting of the story. (See: Background Information)

ἐγένετο δὲ

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

τυφλός τις ἐκάθητο

“there was a blind man sitting.” Here “certain” means only that the man is an important new participant to the story but Luke does not mention his name. He is a new participant in the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Luke 18:36

ἀκούσας δὲ

It may be helpful to start a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “When he heard”

Luke 18:37

ἀπήγγειλαν δὲ αὐτῷ

“People in the crowd told the blind man”

Ἰησοῦς ὁ Ναζωραῖος

Jesus came from the town of Nazareth, which was located in Galilee.

παρέρχεται

“was walking past him”

Luke 18:38

καὶ

This word marks an event that happened because of something else that happened first. In this case, the crowd had told the blind man that Jesus was walking by.

ἐβόησεν

“called out” or “shouted”

Υἱὲ Δαυείδ

Jesus was a descendant of David, Israel’s most important king.

ἐλέησόν με

“show me pity” or “show me compassion”

Luke 18:39

οἱ προάγοντες

“The people who were walking at the front of the crowd”

σιγήσῃ

“to be silent” or “not to shout”

πολλῷ μᾶλλον ἔκραζεν

This could mean that he cried out louder or that he cried out more persistently.

Luke 18:40

αὐτὸν ἀχθῆναι πρὸς αὐτόν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the people to bring the blind man to him” (See: Active or Passive)

αὐτοῦ, ἐπηρώτησεν αὐτόν

“Jesus asked the blind man”

Luke 18:41

ἵνα ἀναβλέψω

“to be able to see”

Luke 18:42

ἀνάβλεψον

This is a command, but Jesus is not commanding the man to do anything. Jesus is healing the man by commanding him to be healed. Alternate translation: “You will now receive your sight” (See: Imperatives - Other Uses)

ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέν σε

These words are a metonym. It was because of the man’s faith that Jesus healed the man. Alternate translation: “I have healed you because you believed in me” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 18:43

δοξάζων τὸν Θεόν

“giving glory to God” or “praising God”

Luke 19

Luke 19 General Notes

Structure and formatting

After Jesus helped a man named Zacchaeus repent of his sins (Luke 19:1-10), he taught his followers that when he began to rule as king they would need to tell them what they had done with the things he had given them to take care of (Luke 19:11-27). He did this by telling them a parable. After that, he rode into Jerusalem on a colt (Luke 19:28-48). (See: kingdom of God, kingdom of heaven and Parables)

Special concepts in this chapter

“Sinner”

The Pharisees refer to a group of people as “sinners.” The Jewish leaders thought these people were sinful, but in reality the leaders were also sinful. This can be taken as irony. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and Irony)

Servants

God expects his people to remember that everything in the world belongs to God. God gives his people things so they can serve him. He wants them to please him by doing what he wants them to do with everything he has given them. One day Jesus will ask his servants what they have done with everything he gave them to use. He will give a reward to those who have done what he wanted them to do, and he will punish those who have not.

The donkey and the colt

Jesus rode into Jerusalem on an animal. In this way he was like a king who came into a city after he had won an important battle. Also, the kings of Israel in the Old Testament rode on a donkeys. Other kings rode on horses. So Jesus was showing that he was the king of Israel and that he was not like other kings.

Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all wrote about this event. Matthew and Mark wrote that the disciples brought Jesus a donkey. John wrote that Jesus found a donkey. Luke wrote that they brought him a colt. Only Matthew wrote that there were both a donkey had a colt. No one knows for sure whether Jesus rode the donkey or the colt. It is best to translate each of these accounts as it appears in the ULT without trying to make them all say exactly the same thing. (See: Matthew 21:1-7 and Mark 11:1-7 and Luke 19:29-36 and John 12:14-15)

Spreading garments and branches

When king would enter the cities they ruled, people would cut branches from trees and take off the clothes that they wore to stay warm in cold weather and spread them all on the road so the king would ride over them. They did this to honor the king and show that they loved him. (See: honor and Symbolic Action)

The merchants in the temple

Jesus forced the people who were selling animals in the temple to leave. He did this to show everyone that he had authority over the temple and that only those who were righteous, who did what God said was good, could be in it. (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

Luke 19:1

Verses 1-2 begin to give background information for the events that follow. (See: Background Information)

Luke 19:2

καὶ ἰδοὺ, ἀνὴρ

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. Alternate translation: “There was a man who was” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

αὐτὸς ἦν ἀρχιτελώνης, καὶ αὐτὸς πλούσιος

This is background information about Zacchaeus. (See: Background Information)

Luke 19:3

Verse 3 completes the background information begun in Luke 19:1-2 for the events that follow. (See: Background Information)

ἐζήτει

“Zacchaeus was trying”

ὅτι τῇ ἡλικίᾳ μικρὸς ἦν

“because he was short”

Luke 19:4

καὶ προδραμὼν

The author has finished giving the background to the event and now begins to describe the event itself.

συκομορέαν

“a sycamore fig tree.” It produces small round fruit about 2.5 centimeters across. Alternate translation: “a fig tree” or “a tree”

Luke 19:5

τὸν τόπον

“the tree” or “where Zacchaeus was”

Luke 19:6

καὶ σπεύσας

“So Zacchaeus hurried”

Luke 19:7

πάντες διεγόγγυζον

The Jews hated the tax collectors and did not think any good person should associate with them. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

παρὰ ἁμαρτωλῷ ἀνδρὶ εἰσῆλθεν καταλῦσαι

“Jesus has gone into the house of a sinner to visit him”

ἁμαρτωλῷ ἀνδρὶ

“an obvious sinner” or “a real sinner”

Luke 19:8

τὸν Κύριον

This refers to Jesus.

ἀποδίδωμι τετραπλοῦν

“return to them four times as much as I took from them”

Luke 19:9

σωτηρία τῷ οἴκῳ τούτῳ ἐγένετο

It was understood that salvation comes from God. Alternate translation: “God has saved this household” (See: Abstract Nouns and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τῷ οἴκῳ τούτῳ

The word “house” here refers to the people living in the house or the family. (See: Metonymy)

καὶ αὐτὸς

“this man too” or “Zacchaeus also”

υἱὸς Ἀβραάμ

Possible meanings are (1) “descendant of Abraham” and (2) “person who has faith as Abraham did.”

Luke 19:10

ἦλθεν…ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, came”

τὸ ἀπολωλός

“the people who have wandered away from God” or “those who by sinning have wandered away from God”

Luke 19:11

Jesus begins to tell a parable to the crowd. Verse 11 gives background information about why Jesus tells the parable. (See: Parables and Background Information)

ὅτι παραχρῆμα μέλλει ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ ἀναφαίνεσθαι

The Jews believed that the Messiah would establish the kingdom as soon as he came to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “that Jesus would immediately begin to rule over God’s kingdom” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 19:12

ἄνθρωπός τις εὐγενὴς

“A certain man who was a member of the ruling class” or “A certain man from an important family”

λαβεῖν ἑαυτῷ βασιλείαν

This is the image of a lesser king going to a greater king. The greater king would give the lesser king the right and authority to rule over his own country. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 19:13

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

καλέσας

“The nobleman called.” It may be helpful to state that the man did this before he left to receive his kingdom. Alternate translation: “Before he left, he called”

ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς δέκα μνᾶς

“gave each of them one mina”

δέκα μνᾶς

A mina was 600 grams, probably of silver. Each mina was equal to 100 days’ wages, what people would be paid for about four months’ work, so ten minas would have been about three years’ wages. Alternate translation: “ten valuable coins” or “a large amount of money” (See: Biblical Weight and Numbers)

πραγματεύσασθαι

“Trade with this money” or “Use this money in order to earn more”

Luke 19:14

οἱ…πολῖται αὐτοῦ

“the people of his country”

πρεσβείαν

“a group of people to represent them” or “several messengers”

Luke 19:15

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

λαβόντα τὴν βασιλείαν

“after he had become king”

φωνηθῆναι αὐτῷ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to come to him” (See: Active or Passive)

τί διεπραγματεύσαντο

“how much money they had earned”

Luke 19:16

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

ὁ πρῶτος

“The first servant” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

παρεγένετο

“came before the nobleman”

ἡ μνᾶ σου, δέκα προσηργάσατο μνᾶς

It is implied that the servant was the one who caused the profit. Alternate translation: “I used your mina to make a profit of ten more minas” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἡ μνᾶ

A mina was 600 grams, probably of silver. Each mina was equal to 100 days’ wages, what people would be paid for about four months’ work. See how you translated this in Luke 19:13. (See: Biblical Weight)

Luke 19:17

εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“the nobleman said to the first servant”

εὖ

“You have done well.” Your language may have a phrase that an employer would use to show approval, such as “Good job.”

ἐλαχίστῳ

This refers to the one mina, which the nobleman apparently did not consider to be a lot of money.

Luke 19:18

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

ὁ δεύτερος

“The second servant” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ἡ μνᾶ σου, Κύριε, ἐποίησεν πέντε μνᾶς

It is implied that the servant was the one who caused the profit. Alternate translation: “Lord, I used your mina to make a profit of five more minas” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἡ μνᾶ

A mina was 600 grams, probably of silver. Each mina was equal to 100 days’ wages, what people would be paid for about four months’ work. See how you translated this in Luke 19:13. (See: Biblical Weight)

Luke 19:19

εἶπεν δὲ καὶ τούτῳ

“So the nobleman also said to that servant”

σὺ ἐπάνω γίνου πέντε πόλεων

“You will have authority over five cities”

Luke 19:20

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

ὁ ἕτερος ἦλθεν

“Another servant came”

ἡ μνᾶ

A mina was 600 grams, probably of silver. Each mina was equal to 100 days’ wages, what people would be paid for about four months’ work. See how you translated this in Luke 19:13. (See: Biblical Weight)

εἶχον ἀποκειμένην ἐν σουδαρίῳ

“wrapped in a cloth and stored away”

Luke 19:21

ἄνθρωπος αὐστηρὸς

“a stern man” or “a man who expects a lot from his servants”

αἴρεις ὃ οὐκ ἔθηκας

This was probably a proverb. A person who takes out of storage or out of a bank things that he did not put in is a metaphor for someone who benefits from other people’s hard work. Alternate translation: “You take out what you did not put in” or “You are like a person how takes out what other people put in” (See: Metaphor)

θερίζεις ὃ οὐκ ἔσπειρας

This was probably a proverb. A person who harvests food that someone else has planted is a metaphor for someone who benefits from other people’s hard work. Alternate translation: “you are like a person who reaps the fruit of what other people sowed” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 19:22

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

ἐκ τοῦ στόματός σου

His “words” refer to all that he had said. Alternate translation: “Based on what you have said” (See: Metonymy)

ᾔδεις ὅτι ἐγὼ ἄνθρωπος αὐστηρός εἰμι

The nobleman was repeating what the servant had said about him. He was not saying that it was true. Alternate translation: “You say that I am a demanding person”

Luke 19:23

διὰ τί οὐκ ἔδωκάς μου τὸ ἀργύριον…σὺν τόκῳ ἂν αὐτὸ ἔπραξα?

The nobleman uses a question to rebuke the wicked servant. Alternate translation: “you should have put my money…interest.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἔδωκάς…τὸ ἀργύριον ἐπὶ τράπεζαν

“lent my money to a bank.” Cultures that do not have banks might translate it as “let someone borrow my money.”

τράπεζαν

A bank is a business that safely holds money for people. A bank lends that money to others for a profit. Therefore it pays an extra amount, or interest, to the people who keep their money in the bank.

σὺν τόκῳ ἂν αὐτὸ ἔπραξα

“I could have collected that amount plus the interest it would have earned” or “I would have gained a profit from it”

τόκῳ

Interest is money that a bank pays people who put their money in the bank.

Luke 19:24

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

εἶπεν

The nobleman had become king. See how you translated this in Luke 19:12.

τοῖς παρεστῶσιν

“the people who were standing near them”

τὴν μνᾶν

A mina was 600 grams, probably of silver. Each mina was equal to 100 days’ wages, what people would be paid for about four months’ work. See how you translated this in Luke 19:13. (See: Biblical Weight)

Luke 19:25

ἔχει δέκα μνᾶς

“he already has ten minas!”

Luke 19:26

Jesus continues to tell the parable he began in Luke 19:11.

λέγω ὑμῖν

This was the king speaking. Some translators may want to start this verse with “And the king replied, ‘I say to you’” or “But the king said ‘I tell you this’” .

παντὶ τῷ ἔχοντι, δοθήσεται

It is implied that what he has is the money he earned by using his mina faithfully. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everyone who uses well what he has been given, I will give him more” or “to everyone who uses well what I have given him I will give more” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

ἀπὸ…τοῦ μὴ ἔχοντος

It is implied that the reason he does not have money is because he did not use his mina faithfully. Alternate translation: “from the person who does not use well what I have given him” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀρθήσεται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will take away from him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 19:27

τοὺς ἐχθρούς μου τούτους

Since the enemies were not right there, some languages would say “those enemies of mine.”

Luke 19:28

This is the end of the part of the story about Zacchaeus. This verse tells us what Jesus does after this part of the story. (See: End of Story)

εἰπὼν ταῦτα

“When Jesus had said these things”

ἀναβαίνων εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα

Jerusalem was higher than Jericho, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem.

Luke 19:29

Jesus approaches Jerusalem.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new event. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ὡς ἤγγισεν

The word “he” refers to Jesus. His disciples were also traveling with him.

Βηθφαγὴ

Bethphage was (and still is) a village on the Mount of Olives, which is across the Kidron Valley from Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

τὸ ὄρος τὸ καλούμενον Ἐλαιῶν

“the hill that is called the Mount of Olives” or “the hill that is called ‘Olive Tree Mountain’”

Luke 19:30

πῶλον

“a young donkey” or “a young riding animal”

ἐφ’ ὃν οὐδεὶς πώποτε ἀνθρώπων ἐκάθισεν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that no one has ever ridden” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 19:31

καὶ ἐάν τις ὑμᾶς…αὐτοῦ χρείαν ἔχει

Jesus tells the disciples how to answer a question that has not yet been asked. However, people in the village will soon ask the question. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

καὶ ἐάν τις ὑμᾶς ἐρωτᾷ, διὰ τί λύετε? οὕτως ἐρεῖτε

The inner quote can also be translated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “If any one asks you why you are untying it, say” (See: Quotes within Quotes and Direct and Indirect Quotations)

Luke 19:32

οἱ ἀπεσταλμένοι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The two disciples that Jesus sent” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 19:33

οἱ κύριοι

“the owners of the colt”

Luke 19:35

ἐπιρίψαντες αὐτῶν τὰ ἱμάτια ἐπὶ τὸν πῶλον

“put their robes on the young donkey.” Cloaks are outer robes.

ἐπεβίβασαν τὸν Ἰησοῦν

“helped Jesus get up on and ride on the colt”

Luke 19:36

ὑπεστρώννυον τὰ ἱμάτια ἑαυτῶν

“people spread their cloaks.” This is a sign of giving honor to someone. (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 19:37

ἐγγίζοντος δὲ αὐτοῦ ἤδη

“As Jesus was going near.” Jesus’ disciples were traveling with him.

πρὸς τῇ καταβάσει τοῦ Ὄρους τῶν Ἐλαιῶν

“where the road goes down from the Mount of Olives”

ὧν εἶδον δυνάμεων

“great things they had seen Jesus do”

Luke 19:38

εὐλογημένος ὁ…βασιλεὺς

They were saying this about Jesus.

ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου

Here “name” refers to power and authority. Also, “Lord” refers to God. (See: Metonymy)

ἐν οὐρανῷ εἰρήνη

“May there be peace in heaven” or “We want to see peace in heaven”

δόξα ἐν ὑψίστοις

“May there be glory in the highest” or “We want to see glory in the highest.” The words “the highest” refer to heaven, which is a metonym for God, who lives in heaven. Alternate translation: “Let everyone give glory to God in the highest heaven” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 19:39

ἀπὸ τοῦ ὄχλου

“in the large crowd”

ἐπιτίμησον τοῖς μαθηταῖς σου

“tell your disciples to stop doing these things”

Luke 19:40

λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus said this to emphasize what he would say next.

ἐὰν οὗτοι σιωπήσουσιν, οἱ λίθοι κράξουσιν

This is a hypothetical situation. Some translators may need to make it clear what Jesus was implying when he said this: “no, I will not rebuke them, for if these people were to be silent…cry out” (See: Hypothetical Situations and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

οἱ λίθοι κράξουσιν

“the stones would call out praises”

Luke 19:41

τὴν πόλιν

This refers to Jerusalem.

ἔκλαυσεν ἐπ’ αὐτήν

The word “it” refers to the city of Jerusalem, but it represents the people who lived in that city. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 19:42

εἰ ἔγνως…τὰ πρὸς εἰρήνην

Jesus expresses his sadness that the people of Jerusalem had missed the opportunity to be at peace with God.

ἔγνως

The word “you” is singular because Jesus is speaking to the city. But if this would be unnatural in your language, you could use a plural form of “you” to refer to the people of the city. (See: Forms of You)

ἐκρύβη ἀπὸ ὀφθαλμῶν σου

“your eyes” refer to the ability to see. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you can no longer see them” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

Luke 19:43

Jesus continues speaking.

ὅτι

What follows is the reason for Jesus’ sadness.

ἥξουσιν ἡμέραι ἐπὶ σὲ, καὶ περιβαλοῦσίν οἱ ἐχθροί σου

This indicates that they will experience difficult times. Some languages do not talk about time “coming.” Alternate translation: “in the future these things will happen to you: Your enemies” or “soon you will endure troublesome times. Your enemies”

σὲ…σου

The word “you” is singular because Jesus is speaking to the city as he would to a woman. But if this would be unnatural in your language, you could use a plural form of “you” to refer to the people of the city. (See: Forms of You and Apostrophe)

χάρακά

This refers to a wall to keep the people from getting out of the city.

Luke 19:44

ἐδαφιοῦσίν σε καὶ τὰ τέκνα σου ἐν σοί

Jesus is speaking to the people of the city as if he were speaking to the city itself as he would speak to a woman. He speaks of the people who live in the city as if they are the woman’s children, and thus the city’s children. To strike down a city is to destroy its walls and buildings, and to strike down its children is to kill those who live in it. Alternate translation: “They will completely destroy you and kill all who live in you” or “They will completely destroy your city and kill all of you” (See: Apostrophe)

οὐκ ἀφήσουσιν λίθον ἐπὶ λίθον

“They will not leave any of the stones in place.” This is a hyperbole to express that the enemies will completely destroy the city, which is built of stones. (See: Hyperbole)

σοί…οὐκ ἔγνως

“you did not acknowledge”

Luke 19:45

This is the next event in this part of the story. Jesus enters the temple in Jerusalem.

καὶ εἰσελθὼν εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν

You may need to make explicit that he first entered Jerusalem, where the temple was located. Alternate translation: “Jesus entered Jerusalem and then went to the temple courtyard” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καὶ εἰσελθὼν εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν

Only priests were allowed to enter the temple building. Alternate translation: “went into the temple courtyard” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐκβάλλειν

“throw out” or “force out”

Luke 19:46

γέγραπται

This is a quotation from Isaiah. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The scriptures say” or “A prophet wrote these words in the scriptures” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ οἶκός μου

The word “My” refers to God and “house” refers to the temple.

οἶκος προσευχῆς

“a place where people pray to me”

σπήλαιον λῃστῶν

Jesus speaks of the temple as if it were a place where thieves come together. Alternate translation: “a place where thieves hide” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 19:47

This is the end of this part of the story. These verses tell about ongoing action that continues after the main part of the story ends. (See: End of Story)

ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

“in the temple courtyard” or “at the temple”

Luke 19:48

ἐξεκρέμετο αὐτοῦ ἀκούων

“were paying close attention to what Jesus was saying”

Luke 20

Luke 20 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 20:17, 42-43, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

Using questions to trap people

When Jesus asked the Pharisees who gave John the authority to baptize (Luke 20:4), they could not answer because any answer they gave would give someone a reason to say that they were wrong (Luke 20:5-6). They thought that they would be able to say that Jesus was wrong when they asked him if people should pay taxes to Caesar (Luke 20:22), but Jesus gave them an answer that they had not thought of.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. In this chapter, Jesus quotes a psalm that records David calling his son “lord,” that is, “master.” However, to the Jews, ancestors were greater than their descendants. In this passage, Jesus is trying to lead his hearers to the true understanding that the Messiah will himself be divine, and that he himself is the Messiah. (Luke 20:41-44).

Luke 20:1

The chief priests, scribes, and elders question Jesus in the temple.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

“in the temple courtyard” or “at the temple”

Luke 20:3

Jesus responds to the chief priests, scribes, and elders.

ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς

“Jesus replied”

ἐρωτήσω ὑμᾶς κἀγὼ λόγον καὶ εἴπατέ μοι

The words “I will…ask you a question” are a statement. The words “you tell me” are a command.

Luke 20:4

ἐξ οὐρανοῦ ἦν ἢ ἐξ ἀνθρώπων

Jesus knows that John’s authority comes from heaven, so he is not asking for information. He asks the question so the Jewish leaders will have to tell what they think to all who are listening. This question is rhetorical, but you will probably have to translate it as a question. Alternate translation: “do you think John’s authority to baptize people came from heaven or from men” or “was it God who told John to baptize people, or did people tell him to do it” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐξ οὐρανοῦ

“from God.” Jewish people avoided referring to God by his name “Yahweh.” Often they used the word “heaven” to refer to him. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 20:5

οἱ…συνελογίσαντο

“They discussed” or “They considered their answer”

πρὸς ἑαυτοὺς

“among themselves” or “with each other”

ἐὰν εἴπωμεν, ἐξ οὐρανοῦ, ἐρεῖ

Some languages might prefer an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “If we say that John’s authority is from heaven, he” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

ἐξ οὐρανοῦ

“From God.” Jewish people avoided referring to God by his name “Yahweh.” Often they used the word “heaven” to refer to him. See how these words are translated in Luke 20:4. (See: Metonymy)

ἐρεῖ

“Jesus will say”

Luke 20:6

ἐὰν…εἴπωμεν, ἐξ ἀνθρώπων

Some languages might prefer an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “if we say that John’s authority is from men,” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

καταλιθάσει ἡμᾶς

“kill us by throwing stones on us.” God’s Law commanded that his people stone those of his people who mocked him or his prophets. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:7

καὶ ἀπεκρίθησαν

“So the chief priests, scribes and elders answered.” The word “so” marks an event that happened because of something else that happened first. In this case, they had reasoned with themselves (Luke 20:5-6), and they did not have an answer they wanted to say.

ἀπεκρίθησαν, μὴ εἰδέναι πόθεν

This could be stated as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “they said, ‘We do not know where it came from.’” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

πόθεν

“where John’s baptism came from.” Alternate translation: “where John’s authority to baptize came from” or “who authorized John to baptize people”

Luke 20:8

οὐδὲ ἐγὼ λέγω ὑμῖν

“And I will not tell you.” Jesus knew they were not willing to tell him the answer, so he responded in the same manner. Alternate translation: “Just as you will not tell me, I will not tell you”

Luke 20:9

Jesus begins to tell a parable to the people in the temple. (See: Parables)

ἐξέδετο αὐτὸν γεωργοῖς

“allowed some vine growers to use it in exchange for payment” or “allowed some vine growers to use it and pay him later.” Payment might be in the form of money, or a portion of the harvest.

γεωργοῖς

These are people who tend grape vines and grow grapes. Alternate translation: “grape farmers”

Luke 20:10

καιρῷ

“the time they had agreed to pay him.” This would have been at the harvest time.

ἀπὸ τοῦ καρποῦ τοῦ ἀμπελῶνος

“some of the grapes” or “some of what they produced in the vineyard.” It could also refer to the things they made from grapes or the money they earned by selling the grapes.

ἐξαπέστειλαν αὐτὸν…κενόν

An empty hand is a metaphor for “nothing.” Alternate translation: “sent him away without paying him” or “sent him away without the grapes” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 20:11

κἀκεῖνον δείραντες

“beat that servant”

ἀτιμάσαντες

“humiliated him”

ἐξαπέστειλαν κενόν

Having an empty hand is a metaphor for having nothing. Alternate translation: “sent him away without paying him” or “sent him away without any grapes” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 20:12

τρίτον

“even a third servant” or “yet another servant.” The word “yet” hints at the fact that the landowner should not have had to send the second servant, but he went beyond that and sent a third servant. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

τοῦτον τραυματίσαντες

“injured that servant”

ἐξέβαλον

“threw him out of the vineyard”

Luke 20:13

τί ποιήσω?

This question emphasizes that the vineyard owner thought carefully about what he was going to do. Alternate translation: “Here is what I will do:” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 20:14

ἰδόντες…αὐτὸν, οἱ γεωργοὶ

“when the farmers saw the owner’s son”

ἀποκτείνωμεν αὐτόν

They were not asking permission. The said this to encourage each other to kill the heir.

Luke 20:15

Jesus finishes telling his parable to the crowd.

ἐκβαλόντες αὐτὸν ἔξω τοῦ ἀμπελῶνος

“The vine growers forced the son out of the vineyard”

τί οὖν ποιήσει αὐτοῖς ὁ κύριος τοῦ ἀμπελῶνος?

Jesus uses a question to get his listeners to pay attention to what the owner of the vineyard will do. Alternate translation: “So now, listen to what the lord of the vineyard will do to them.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 20:16

μὴ γένοιτο!

“May it never happen”

Luke 20:17

Jesus continues teaching the crowd.

ὁ δὲ ἐμβλέψας αὐτοῖς

“But Jesus stared at them” or “But he looked straight at them.” He did this to hold them accountable to understand what he was saying.

τί οὖν ἐστιν τὸ γεγραμμένον τοῦτο, λίθον ὃν ἀπεδοκίμασαν οἱ οἰκοδομοῦντες, οὗτος ἐγενήθη εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας?

Jesus uses a question to teach the crowd. Alternate translation: “You should be able to understand that which is written: ‘The stone…cornerstone.’” (See: Rhetorical Question)

γεγραμμένον τοῦτο

“this scripture”

λίθον ὃν ἀπεδοκίμασαν οἱ οἰκοδομοῦντες, οὗτος ἐγενήθη εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας

This is the first of three metaphors in a prophecy from the book of Psalms. This one refers to the Messiah as if he were a stone that builders chose not to use, but that God made the most important stone. (See: Metaphor)

λίθον ὃν ἀπεδοκίμασαν οἱ οἰκοδομοῦντες

“The stone that the builders said was not good enough to use for building.” In those days people used stones to build the walls of houses and other buildings.

οἱ οἰκοδομοῦντες

This refers to the religious rulers who are rejecting Jesus as Messiah.

κεφαλὴν γωνίας

“the chief stone of the building” or “the most important stone of the building”

Luke 20:18

πᾶς ὁ πεσὼν…συνθλασθήσεται

This second metaphor speaks of people who reject the Messiah as if they fall over a stone and are injured. (See: Metaphor)

συνθλασθήσεται

This is a result of falling onto the stone. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “will break up into pieces” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐφ’ ὃν δ’ ἂν πέσῃ

“But whomever that stone falls on.” This third metaphor speaks about the Messiah judging those who reject him as if he were a large stone that would crush them. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 20:19

ἐζήτησαν…ἐπιβαλεῖν ἐπ’ αὐτὸν τὰς χεῖρας

In this verse, to “lay hands on” someone is to arrest that person. Alternate translation: “looked for a way to arrest Jesus” (See: Metonymy)

ἐν αὐτῇ τῇ ὥρᾳ

“immediately”

ἐφοβήθησαν τὸν λαόν

This is the reason that they did not arrest Jesus right away. The people respected Jesus, and the religious leaders were afraid of what the people might do if they arrested him. Alternate translation: “they did not arrest him because they were afraid of the people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:20

ἀπέστειλαν ἐνκαθέτους

“the scribes and chief priests sent spies to watch Jesus”

ἵνα ἐπιλάβωνται αὐτοῦ λόγου

“because they wanted to accuse Jesus of saying something bad”

τῇ ἀρχῇ καὶ τῇ ἐξουσίᾳ τοῦ ἡγεμόνος

“Rule” and “authority” are two ways of saying that they wanted the governor to judge Jesus. It can be translated with one or both expressions. Alternate translation: “so that the governor would punish Jesus” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:21

This is the beginning of the next event in this part of the story. Some time has passed since Jesus was questioned in the temple by the chief priests. The spies are now questioning Jesus.

ἐπηρώτησαν αὐτὸν

“The spies asked Jesus”

Διδάσκαλε, οἴδαμεν…ἐπ’ ἀληθείας τὴν ὁδὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ διδάσκεις

The spies were trying to deceive Jesus. They did not believe these things about Jesus.

οἴδαμεν

“we” refers only to the spies. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

οὐ λαμβάνεις πρόσωπον

Possible meanings are (1) “you tell the truth even if important people do not like it” or (2) “you do not favor one person over another” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀλλ’ ἐπ’ ἀληθείας τὴν ὁδὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ διδάσκεις

This is part of what the spies were saying that they knew about Jesus.

Luke 20:22

ἔξεστιν…ἢ οὔ?

They hoped that Jesus would say either “yes” or “no.” If he said “yes,” then the Jewish people would be angry with him for telling them to pay taxes to a foreign government. If he said “no,” then the religious leaders could tell the Romans that Jesus was teaching the people to break the Roman laws.

ἔξεστιν

They were asking about God’s law, not about Caesar’s law. Alternate translation: “Does our law permit us”

Καίσαρι

Because Caesar was the ruler of the Roman government, they could refer to the Roman government by Caesar’s name. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 20:23

κατανοήσας δὲ αὐτῶν τὴν πανουργίαν

“But Jesus understood how tricky they were” or “But Jesus saw that they were trying to trap him.” The word “their” refers to the spies.

Luke 20:24

δηνάριον

This is a Roman silver coin worth a day’s wages. (See: Biblical Money)

τίνος ἔχει εἰκόνα καὶ ἐπιγραφήν?

Jesus uses a question to respond to those who were trying to trick him. (See: Rhetorical Question)

εἰκόνα καὶ ἐπιγραφήν

“picture and name”

Luke 20:25

This is the end of this event about the spies and the part of the story which began in Luke 20:1.

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς

“Then Jesus said to them”

Καίσαρι

Here “Caesar” refers to the Roman government. (See: Metonymy)

τῷ Θεῷ

The word “give” is understood from the previous phrase. It can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “and give to God” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 20:26

καὶ οὐκ ἴσχυσαν ἐπιλαβέσθαι τοῦ ῥήματος

“The spies could not find anything wrong with what he said”

καὶ θαυμάσαντες ἐπὶ τῇ ἀποκρίσει αὐτοῦ, ἐσίγησαν

“but they were amazed at his answer and did not say anything”

Luke 20:27

We do not know where this takes place, though it possibly took place in the temple courtyard. Jesus is talking with some Sadducees.

οἱ, λέγοντες ἀνάστασιν μὴ εἶναι

This phrase identifies the Sadducees as being the group of Jews that say that no one would rise from the dead. It does not imply that some Sadducees believed that there is a resurrection and some did not. (See: Distinguishing versus Informing or Reminding)

Luke 20:28

ἐάν τινος ἀδελφὸς ἀποθάνῃ ἔχων γυναῖκα, καὶ οὗτος ἄτεκνος ᾖ

“if a man’s brother dies when he has a wife but does not have children”

ἵνα λάβῃ ὁ ἀδελφὸς αὐτοῦ τὴν γυναῖκα

“the man should marry his dead brother’s widow”

ἐξαναστήσῃ σπέρμα τῷ ἀδελφῷ αὐτοῦ

The Jews considered the first son born to a woman who married her dead husband’s brother as if he were the son of the woman’s first husband. This son inherited the property of his mother’s first husband and carried on his name. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:29

The Sadducees tell Jesus a short story in verses 29-32. This is a story they made up as an example. In verse 33, they ask Jesus a question about the story they told.

The Sadducees finish asking Jesus their question.

ἑπτὰ…ἀδελφοὶ ἦσαν

This may have happened, but it is probably a story that they made up to test Jesus.

ὁ πρῶτος

“brother number one” or “the oldest” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ἀπέθανεν ἄτεκνος

“died without having any children” or “died, but did not have any children”

Luke 20:30

καὶ ὁ δεύτερος

Jesus kept the story short by not repeating many of the details. Alternate translation: “the second married her and the same thing happened” or “the second brother married her and died without having any children” (See: Ellipsis)

ὁ δεύτερος

“brother number two” or “the oldest brother who was still alive” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Luke 20:31

ὁ τρίτος ἔλαβεν αὐτήν

“The third married her”

ὁ τρίτος

“Brother number three” or “The oldest brother who was still alive” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ὡσαύτως…καὶ οἱ ἑπτὰ, οὐ κατέλιπον τέκνα, καὶ ἀπέθανον

They did not repeat many of the details to keep the story short. Alternate translation: “in the same way the rest of the seven brothers married her and had no children and died” (See: Ellipsis)

οἱ ἑπτὰ

“all seven of the brothers” or “each of the seven brothers”

Luke 20:33

ἐν τῇ…ἀναστάσει

“When people are raised from the dead” or “When dead people will become alive again.” Some languages have a way of showing that the Sadducees did not believe that there would be a resurrection, such as “In the supposed resurrection” or “When dead people are supposedly raised from the dead.”

Luke 20:34

Jesus begins to answer the Sadducees.

οἱ υἱοὶ τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου

“The people of this world” or “The people of this time.” This is in contrast with those in heaven or the people who live after the resurrection.

γαμοῦσιν καὶ γαμίσκονται

In that culture they spoke of men marrying women and women being given in marriage to their husband. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “get married” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

Luke 20:35

οἱ…καταξιωθέντες τοῦ αἰῶνος ἐκείνου

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the people in that age whom God will consider to be worthy” (See: Active or Passive)

τῆς ἀναστάσεως τῆς ἐκ νεκρῶν

“to be raised from the dead” or “to rise from death”

ἐκ νεκρῶν

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To receive resurrection from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

οὔτε γαμοῦσιν οὔτε γαμίζονται

In that culture they spoke of men marrying women and women being given in marriage to their husband. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “will not marry” or “will not get married.” This is after the resurrection. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

Luke 20:36

οὐδὲ…ἀποθανεῖν ἔτι δύνανται

This is after the resurrection. Alternate translation: “They will not be able to die anymore” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

υἱοί εἰσιν Θεοῦ, τῆς ἀναστάσεως υἱοὶ ὄντες

“are children of God because he has brought them back from the dead”

Luke 20:37

Jesus finishes answering the Sadducees.

ὅτι δὲ ἐγείρονται οἱ νεκροὶ, καὶ Μωϋσῆς ἐμήνυσεν

The word “even” is here because the Sadducees might not have been surprised that some scriptures say that the dead are raised, but they did not expect Moses to have written something like that. Alternate translation: “But even Moses showed that dead people rise from the dead” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐγείρονται οἱ νεκροὶ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God causes the dead to live again” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐπὶ τῆς βάτου

“in the part of scripture where he wrote about the burning bush” or “in the scripture about the burning bush” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὡς λέγει Κύριον

“where Moses called the Lord”

τὸν Θεὸν Ἀβραὰμ, καὶ Θεὸν Ἰσαὰκ, καὶ Θεὸν Ἰακώβ

“the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” They all worshiped the same God.

Luke 20:38

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a break in the main teaching. Here Jesus explains how this story proves that people rise from the dead.

Θεὸς…οὐκ ἔστιν νεκρῶν, ἀλλὰ ζώντων

These two sentences have similar meaning said twice for emphasis. Some languages have different ways of showing emphasis. Alternate translation: “the Lord is the God of living people only” (See: Parallelism)

ἀλλὰ ζώντων

“but the God of living people.” Since these people died physically, they must still be alive spiritually. Alternate translation: “but the God of people whose spirits are alive, even though their bodies may have died” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

πάντες γὰρ αὐτῷ ζῶσιν

“because in God’s sight they all are still alive” or “because their spirits are alive in God’s presence”

Luke 20:39

ἀποκριθέντες…τινες τῶν γραμματέων

“Some of the scribes said to Jesus.” There were scribes present when the Sadducees were questioning Jesus. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:40

οὐκέτι γὰρ ἐτόλμων

It is unclear if this refers to the scribes, or the Sadducees, or both. It is best to keep the statement general.

οὐκέτι…ἐτόλμων ἐπερωτᾶν αὐτὸν οὐδέν

“they were afraid to ask…questions” or “they did not risk asking…questions.” They understood that they did not know as much as Jesus did, but they did not want to say that. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “they did ask him any more tricky questions because they feared that his wise answers would make them appear foolish again” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:41

Jesus asks the scribes a question.

πῶς λέγουσιν…Δαυεὶδ Υἱόν?

“Why do they say…son?” Jesus uses a question to make the scribes think about who the Messiah is. Alternate translation: “Let’s think about them saying…son.” or “I will talk about them saying…son” (See: Rhetorical Question)

λέγουσιν

The prophets, the religious rulers, and the Jewish people in general knew that the Messiah was the son of David. Alternate translation: “everyone says” or “people say” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Δαυεὶδ Υἱόν

“King David’s descendant.” The word “son” is used here to refer to a descendant. In this case it refers to the one who would reign over God’s kingdom. (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 20:42

εἶπεν ὁ Κύριος τῷ Κυρίῳ μου

This is a quotation from the book of Psalms which says “Yahweh said to my Lord.” But the Jews stopped saying “Yahweh” and often said “Lord” instead. Alternate translation: “The Lord God said to my Lord” or “God said to my Lord”

Κυρίῳ μου

David was referring to the Christ as “my Lord.”

κάθου ἐκ δεξιῶν μου

To sit at the “right hand of God” is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: “Sit in the place of honor beside me” (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 20:43

ἕως ἂν θῶ τοὺς ἐχθρούς σου ὑποπόδιον τῶν ποδῶν σου

The Messiah’s enemies are spoken of as if they were furniture on which he would rest his feet. This was an image of submission. Alternate translation: “until I make your enemies like a footstool for you” or “until I conquer your enemies for you” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 20:44

Δαυεὶδ οὖν, Κύριον, αὐτὸν καλεῖ

In the culture of that time, a father was more respected than a son. David’s us of the title ‘Lord’ for the Christ implies that he was greater than David. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

καὶ πῶς υἱός αὐτοῦ ἐστιν

“so how can the Christ be David’s son?” This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “this shows that the Christ is not merely David’s descendant” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 20:45

Jesus now directs his attention to his disciples and speaks mainly to them.

Luke 20:46

προσέχετε ἀπὸ

“Be on guard against”

θελόντων περιπατεῖν ἐν στολαῖς

Long robes would show that they were important. Alternate translation: “who like to walk around wearing their important robes” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 20:47

οἳ κατεσθίουσιν τὰς οἰκίας τῶν χηρῶν

“They also eat up widows’ houses.” The scribes are spoken of as if they were hungry animals that eat up the widows’ houses. The word “houses” is a synecdoche for both where the widow lives and all the possessions she puts in her home. Alternate translation: “They also take away from widows all their possessions” (See: Metaphor and Synecdoche)

προφάσει μακρὰ προσεύχονται

“they pretend to be righteous and make long prayers” or “they make long prayers so that people will see them”

οὗτοι λήμψονται περισσότερον κρίμα

“They will receive a more severe judgment.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will certainly punish them very severely” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 21

Luke 21 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Jesus told his disciples much about what would happen before he returned.

Special concepts in this chapter

“For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’”

Jesus taught that before he returned many people would falsely claim to be him returning. It will also be a time when many people will hate Jesus’ followers and even want to kill them.

“Until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled”

The Jews spoke of the time between when the Babylonians forced their ancestors to go to Babylon and the time when the Messiah would come as “the times of the Gentiles,” the time when the Gentiles would rule over the Jews.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 21:27). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 21:1

This is the next event in the story. Jesus begins teaching his disciples, either on the same day that the Sadducees question Jesus (Luke 20:27) or on a different day. (See: Background Information)

τὰ δῶρα

You may need to make explicit what the gifts were. Alternate translation: “gifts of money” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸ γαζοφυλάκιον

one of the boxes in the temple courtyard where people put money as a gift to God

Luke 21:2

τινα χήραν πενιχρὰν

This is a way of introducing a new character to the story. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

λεπτὰ δύο

“two small coins” or “two tiny copper coins.” These were the least valuable of the coins people used then. Alternate translation: “two pennies” or “two small coins of little value” (See: Biblical Money)

Luke 21:3

ἀληθῶς λέγω ὑμῖν

This means that what Jesus was about to say was very important.

λέγω ὑμῖν

Jesus was talking to his disciples. The word “you” is plural. (See: Forms of You)

ἡ χήρα αὕτη ἡ πτωχὴ, πλεῖον πάντων ἔβαλεν

God considers her gift, a small amount of money, more significant than the large amounts of money the men gave. Alternate translation: “the small gift of this widow is more valuable than the larger gifts of the rich men” (See: Hyperbole)

Luke 21:4

ἐκ τοῦ περισσεύοντος αὐτοῖς ἔβαλον εἰς τὰ δῶρα

“have a lot of money but only gave a small portion of it”

ἐκ τοῦ ὑστερήματος αὐτῆς

“who has very little money”

Luke 21:5

Jesus switches from talking about the widow to teaching about the temple.

ἀναθέμασιν

things people had given to God

Luke 21:6

ταῦτα ἃ θεωρεῖτε

This refers to the beautiful temple and its decorations.

ἐλεύσονται ἡμέραι ἐν αἷς

“there will be a time when” or “someday”

ἀφεθήσεται…ἐπὶ λίθῳ, ὃς οὐ καταλυθήσεται

A new sentence can be started here. Alternate translation: “left on another. They will all be torn down” or “left on another. Enemies will tear down every stone” (See: Active or Passive)

οὐκ ἀφεθήσεται λίθος…οὐ καταλυθήσεται

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “every stone will be removed from its place and they will all be torn down”

ἀφεθήσεται…ἐπὶ λίθῳ, ὃς οὐ καταλυθήσεται

A new sentence can be started here. Alternate translation: “left on another. They will all be torn down” or “left on another. Enemies will tear down every stone” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 21:7

ἐπηρώτησαν…αὐτὸν

“the disciples asked Jesus” or “Jesus’ disciples asked him”

ταῦτα

This refers to what Jesus has just said about enemies destroying the temple.

Luke 21:8

μὴ πλανηθῆτε

Jesus was talking to his disciples. The word “you” is plural. Alternate translation: “that you do not believe lies” or “that no one deceives you” (See: Forms of You and Active or Passive)

ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου

People coming in his name claim to represent him. Alternate translation: “claiming to be me” or “claiming to have my authority” (See: Metonymy)

ἐγώ εἰμι

“I am the Christ” or “I am the Messiah”

μὴ πορευθῆτε ὀπίσω αὐτῶν

“Do not believe them” or “Do not become their disciples”

Luke 21:9

πολέμους καὶ ἀκαταστασίας

Here “wars” probably refers to fighting between countries, and “riots” probably refers to people fighting against their own leaders or against others in their country. Alternate translation: “wars and rebellions” or “wars and revolutions”

μὴ πτοηθῆτε

“do not let these things terrify you” or “do not be afraid”

οὐκ εὐθέως τὸ τέλος

This refers to the final judgment. Alternate translation: “the end of the world will not happen immediately after the wars and riots” or “the world will not end immediately after those things happen” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὸ τέλος

“the end of everything” or “the end of the age”

Luke 21:10

τότε ἔλεγεν αὐτοῖς

“Then Jesus said to his disciples.” Since this is a continuation of Jesus speaking from the previous verse, some languages may prefer not to say “Then he said to them.”

ἐγερθήσεται ἔθνος ἐπ’ ἔθνος

Here “nation” is a metonym for the people of the nation, and “rise against” is a metonym for attack. The word “nation” represents nations in general, not one particular nation. Alternate translation: “The people of one nation will attack the people of other nations” or “The people of some nations will attack the people of other nations” (See: Metonymy and Generic Noun Phrases)

ἔθνος

This refers to ethnic groups of people rather than to countries.

βασιλεία ἐπὶ βασιλείαν

The words “will rise” are understood from the previous phrase and mean attack. Alternate translation: “kingdom will rise against kingdom” or “the people of some kingdoms will attack the people of other kingdoms” (See: Ellipsis and Metonymy and Generic Noun Phrases)

Luke 21:11

κατὰ τόπους, λιμοὶ καὶ λοιμοὶ

The words “there will be” are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “there will be famines and plagues in many places” or “there will be times of hunger and diseases in different places” (See: Ellipsis)

φόβηθρά

“events that terrify people” or “events that cause people to be very afraid”

Luke 21:12

τούτων

This refers to the terrible things that Jesus has said will happen.

ἐπιβαλοῦσιν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς τὰς χεῖρας αὐτῶν

“they will grab you.” This expression refers to people exercising authority over the disciples. Alternate translation: “they will arrest you” (See: Metonymy)

ἐπιβαλοῦσιν

“people will” or “enemies will”

ὑμᾶς

Jesus was talking to his disciples. The word “you” is plural. (See: Forms of You)

παραδιδόντες εἰς τὰς συναγωγὰς

The word “synagogues” is a metonym for the people in the synagogues, specifically the leaders. Alternate translation: “giving you over to the leaders of the synagogues” or “taking you to the synagogues so that the people there can do to you whatever they want to do” (See: Metonymy)

καὶ φυλακάς

“and delivering you over to the prisons” or “and putting you in prisons”

ἕνεκεν τοῦ ὀνόματός μου

The word “name” is here used to refer to Jesus himself. Alternate translation: “because of me” or “because you follow me” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 21:13

εἰς μαρτύριον

“for you to tell them your testimony about me”

Luke 21:14

οὖν

“Because of this,” referring to everything Jesus has said, beginning in Luke 21:10. (See: Connecting Words and Phrases)

θέτε…ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν

Here “hearts” is a metonym for people’s minds. Alternate translation: “make up your mind” or “decide firmly” (See: Metonymy)

μὴ προμελετᾶν ἀπολογηθῆναι

“not to figure out ahead of time what you will say in order to defend yourself against their accusations”

Luke 21:15

σοφίαν, ᾗ οὐ δυνήσονται ἀντιστῆναι ἢ ἀντειπεῖν, πάντες οἱ ἀντικείμενοι ὑμῖν

“wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict”

ἐγὼ…δώσω ὑμῖν στόμα καὶ σοφίαν

“I will tell you what wise things to say”

στόμα καὶ σοφίαν

These can be combined into one phrase. Alternate translation: “words of wisdom” or “wise words” (See: Hendiadys)

Luke 21:16

παραδοθήσεσθε…καὶ ὑπὸ γονέων, καὶ ἀδελφῶν, καὶ συγγενῶν, καὶ φίλων

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “even your parents, brothers, relatives, and friends will give you over to the authorities” (See: Active or Passive)

θανατώσουσιν ἐξ ὑμῶν

“they will kill some of you.” Possible meanings are (1) “the authorities will kill some of you” or (2) “those who deliver you up will kill some of you.” The first meaning is more likely.

Luke 21:17

ἔσεσθε μισούμενοι ὑπὸ πάντων

This can be translated in active form. The word “everyone” emphasizes how many people will hate the disciples, either through (1) exaggeration Alternate translation: “It will seem like you are hated by everyone” or “It will seem like everyone hates you” or (2) a generalization. Alternate translation: “You will be hated by most people” or “Most people will hate you” (See: Hyperbole)

διὰ τὸ ὄνομά μου

“my name” here refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “because of me” or “because you follow me” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 21:18

καὶ θρὶξ ἐκ τῆς κεφαλῆς ὑμῶν, οὐ μὴ ἀπόληται

Jesus speaks of one of the smallest parts of a person. He is emphasizing that the whole person will not perish. Jesus had already said that some of them would be put to death, so some understand this to mean that they would not be harmed spiritually. Alternate translation: “But these things cannot really harm you” or “Even every hair on your head will be safe” (See: Synecdoche)

Luke 21:19

ἐν τῇ ὑπομονῇ ὑμῶν

“By holding firm.” This can be stated in the opposite way. Alternate translation: “If you do not quit”

κτήσασθε τὰς ψυχὰς ὑμῶν

The “soul” was understood to represent the eternal part of a person. Alternate translation: “you will receive life” or “you will save yourselves”

Luke 21:20

κυκλουμένην ὑπὸ στρατοπέδων Ἰερουσαλήμ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “armies surrounding Jerusalem” (See: Active or Passive)

ὅτι ἤγγικεν ἡ ἐρήμωσις αὐτῆς

“that it will soon be destroyed” or “that they will soon destroy it”

Luke 21:21

φευγέτωσαν

run away from danger

ἐν ταῖς χώραις

This refers to the rural areas outside Jerusalem, and not to the nation. Alternate translation: “outside the city”

εἰσερχέσθωσαν εἰς αὐτήν

“enter Jerusalem”

Luke 21:22

ἡμέραι ἐκδικήσεως αὗταί εἰσιν

“these are days of punishment” or “this will be the time when God will punish this city”

τοῦ…πάντα τὰ γεγραμμένα

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all the things that the prophets wrote in the scriptures long ago” (See: Active or Passive)

πλησθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “will happen” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 21:23

ταῖς θηλαζούσαις

“to mothers who are nursing their babies”

ἔσται…ἀνάγκη μεγάλη ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς

Possible meanings are (1) the people of the land will be distressed or (2) there will be physical disasters in the land.

ὀργὴ τῷ λαῷ τούτῳ

“there will be wrath to the people at that time.” God will bring this wrath. Alternate translation: “this people will experience God’s anger” or “God will be very angry and will punish this people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 21:24

πεσοῦνται στόματι μαχαίρης

“They will be killed by the edge of the sword.” Here “fall by the mouth of the sword” represents being killed by enemy soldiers. Alternate translation: “Enemy soldiers will kill them” (See: Metonymy)

αἰχμαλωτισθήσονται εἰς τὰ ἔθνη πάντα

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “their enemies will capture them and take them to other countries” (See: Active or Passive)

εἰς τὰ ἔθνη πάντα

The word “all” is an exaggeration to emphasize that they will be led into many countries. Alternate translation: “into many other countries” (See: Hyperbole)

Ἰερουσαλὴμ ἔσται πατουμένη ὑπὸ ἐθνῶν

Possible meanings are (1) the Gentiles will conquer Jerusalem and occupy it or (2) the Gentiles will destroy the city of Jerusalem or (3) the Gentiles will destroy the people of Jerusalem. (See: Active or Passive)

πατουμένη ὑπὸ ἐθνῶν

This metaphor speaks of Jerusalem as if the people of other nations was walking on it and crushing it down with their feet. This refers to domination. Alternate translation: “conquered by the Gentiles” or “destroyed by the other nations” (See: Metaphor)

πληρωθῶσιν καιροὶ ἐθνῶν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the period of the Gentiles has come to an end” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 21:25

συνοχὴ ἐθνῶν

Here “the nations” refers to the people in them. Alternate translation: “The people of the nations will be distressed”

συνοχὴ ἐθνῶν, ἐν ἀπορίᾳ ἤχους θαλάσσης καὶ σάλου

“distress because they will be anxious about the roar of the sea and its waves” or “distress, and the loud noise of the sea and its rough movements will frighten them.” This seems to refer to unusual storms or disasters involving the seas.

Luke 21:26

τῶν ἐπερχομένων τῇ οἰκουμένῃ

“the things that will happen in the world” or “the things that will happen to the world”

αἱ…δυνάμεις τῶν οὐρανῶν σαλευθήσονται

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are (1) that God will shake the sun moon and stars so they do not move in their normal way or (2) God will trouble the powerful spirits in the heavens. The first is recommended. (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 21:27

τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, ἐρχόμενον

Jesus is referring to himself. Alternate translation: “me, the Son Man, coming” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἐρχόμενον ἐν νεφέλῃ

“coming down in a cloud”

μετὰ δυνάμεως καὶ δόξης πολλῆς

Here “power” probably refers to his authority to judge the world. Here “glory” may refer to a bright light. God sometimes shows his greatness with a very bright light. Alternate translation: “powerfully and gloriously” or “and he will be powerful and very glorious”

Luke 21:28

ἀνακύψατε

Sometimes when people are afraid, they crouch down in order to avoid being seen or hurt. When they are no longer afraid, they get up. Alternate translation: “stand up with confidence”

ἐπάρατε τὰς κεφαλὰς ὑμῶν

Lifting the head is a metonym for looking up. When they lift their heads up, they will be able to see their rescuer coming to them. Alternate translation: “look up” (See: Metonymy)

διότι ἐγγίζει ἡ ἀπολύτρωσις ὑμῶν

God, who delivers, is spoken of as if he were the deliverance that he causes. The word “deliverance” is an abstract noun that can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “because God will soon deliver you” (See: Metonymy and Abstract Nouns)

Luke 21:29

As Jesus continues teaching his disciples, he tells them a parable. (See: Parables)

Luke 21:30

ὅταν προβάλωσιν

“When new leaves start to grow”

ἤδη ἐγγὺς τὸ θέρος ἐστίν

“summer is about to start.” Summer in Israel follows the sprouting of fig tree leaves and is the time when the figs ripen. Alternate translation: “harvest time is ready to start” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 21:31

οὕτως καὶ ὑμεῖς, ὅταν ἴδητε ταῦτα γινόμενα

The appearance of the signs that Jesus just described signal the arrival of the kingdom of God just as appearance of the leaves of the fig tree signal the arrival of summer.

ἐγγύς ἐστιν ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ

“God will soon establish his kingdom.” Alternate translation: “God will soon rule as king” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 21:32

Jesus continues teaching his disciples.

ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν

This expression emphasizes the importance of what Jesus is about to say.

ἡ γενεὰ αὕτη

Possible meanings are (1) the generation that will see the first of the signs Jesus speaks of or (2) the generation Jesus is speaking to. The first is more likely.

οὐ μὴ παρέλθῃ…ἕως ἂν

This could be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “will still be alive when”

Luke 21:33

ὁ οὐρανὸς καὶ ἡ γῆ παρελεύσονται

“Heaven and earth will cease to exist.” The word “heaven” here refers to the sky and the universe beyond it.

οἱ…λόγοι μου οὐ μὴ παρελεύσονται

“my words will never cease to exist” or “my words will never fail.” Jesus uses “words” here to refer to everything he says. (See: Metonymy)

οὐ μὴ παρελεύσονται

This could be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “will remain forever”

Luke 21:34

μήποτε βαρηθῶσιν ὑμῶν αἱ καρδίαι

The “heart” here refers to the mind and thoughts of the person. Alternate translation: “so that you are not occupied” (See: Metonymy)

μήποτε βαρηθῶσιν

Jesus here speaks of the following sins as if they were a physical weight that a person had to carry. (See: Metaphor)

κρεπάλῃ

“what drinking too much wine will do to you” or “drunkenness”

μερίμναις βιωτικαῖς

“worrying too much about this life”

ἐπιστῇ ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς αἰφνίδιος ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνη

Just as a trap closes on an animal when the animal does not expect it, that day will happen when people do not expect it. Alternate translation: “that day will happen when you are not expecting it, as when a trap closes suddenly on an animal” (See: Simile)

ἐπιστῇ ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς αἰφνίδιος ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνη

The coming of that day will appear to be sudden and unexpected to those who are not ready and watching for it. Alternate translation: “life. For if you are not careful, that day will close on you suddenly” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνη

This refers to the day when the Messiah returns. Alternate translation: “the day when the Son of Man comes”

Luke 21:35

ἐπεισελεύσεται…ἐπὶ πάντας

“it will affect everyone” or “the events of that day will affect everyone”

ἐπὶ πρόσωπον πάσης τῆς γῆς

The surface of the earth is spoken of as if it were the outward part of the face of a person. Alternate translation: “on the surface of the whole earth” or “on the entire earth” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 21:36

Jesus finishes teaching his disciples.

ἀγρυπνεῖτε

“be ready for my coming”

κατισχύσητε ἐκφυγεῖν ταῦτα πάντα

Possible meanings are (1) “strong enough to endure these things” or (2) “able to avoid these things.”

ταῦτα πάντα τὰ μέλλοντα γίνεσθαι

“these things that will happen.” Jesus has just told them about terrible things that will happen, such as persecution, war, and captivity.

σταθῆναι ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

“to stand with confidence before the Son of Man.” This probably refers to when the Son of Man judges everyone. A person who is not ready will be afraid of the Son of Man and will not stand with confidence.

Luke 21:37

This is the end of the part of the story that begins in Luke 20:1. These verses tell about ongoing action that continues after the main part of the story ends. (See: End of Story)

ἦν…τὰς ἡμέρας…διδάσκων

“during the daytime he would teach” or “he would teach each day.” The following verses tell about things that Jesus and the people did each day during the week before he died.

ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

Only priests were allowed in the temple. Alternate translation: “at the temple” or “in the temple courtyard” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τὰς…δὲ νύκτας ἐξερχόμενος

“at night he would go out of the city” or “he went out each night”

Luke 21:38

πᾶς ὁ λαὸς

The word “all” is probably an exaggeration to emphasize that the crowd was very large. Alternate translation: “A very large number of people in the city” or “Almost everyone in the city” (See: Hyperbole)

ὤρθριζεν

“would come early each morning”

ἀκούειν αὐτοῦ

“to hear him teach”

Luke 22

Luke 22 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The eating of the body and blood

Luke 22:19-20 describes Jesus’ last meal with his followers. At this time, Jesus told them that what they were eating and drinking were his body and his blood. Nearly all Christian churches celebrate “the Lord’s Supper,” the “Eucharist”, or “Holy Communion” to remember this meal.

The new covenant

Some people think that Jesus established the new covenant during the supper. Others think he established it after he went up to heaven. Others think it will not be established until Jesus comes again. Your translation should say no more about this than the ULT does. (See: covenant)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 22:22). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 22:1

Judas agrees to betray Jesus. These verses give background information about this event. (See: Background Information)

δὲ

This word is used here to introduce a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἡ ἑορτὴ τῶν Ἀζύμων

The festival was called by this name because during the festival, the Jews did not eat bread that was made with yeast. Alternate translation: “festival when they would eat unleavened bread” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἤγγιζεν

“was almost ready to begin”

Luke 22:2

τὸ πῶς ἀνέλωσιν αὐτόν

The priests and scribes did not have the authority to kill Jesus themselves, but they hoped to get others to kill him. Alternate translation: “how they might cause Jesus to be put to death” or “how they could cause someone to kill Jesus”

ἐφοβοῦντο…τὸν λαόν

Possible meanings are (1) “scared of what the people might do” or (2) “scared that the people would make Jesus king.”

Luke 22:3

This is the beginning of the action in this part of the story.

εἰσῆλθεν…Σατανᾶς εἰς Ἰούδαν…Ἰσκαριώτην

This was probably very similar to demon possession.

Luke 22:4

τοῖς ἀρχιερεῦσιν

“the leaders of the priests”

στρατηγοῖς

officers of the temple guards

τὸ πῶς αὐτοῖς παραδῷ αὐτόν

“how he would help them arrest Jesus”

Luke 22:5

ἐχάρησαν

“The chief priests and captains were glad”

αὐτῷ ἀργύριον δοῦναι

“to give Judas money”

Luke 22:6

ἐξωμολόγησεν

“He agreed”

ἐζήτει εὐκαιρίαν τοῦ παραδοῦναι αὐτὸν ἄτερ ὄχλου αὐτοῖς

This is an ongoing action that continues after this part of the story ends. (See: End of Story)

τοῦ παραδοῦναι αὐτὸν

“take him”

ἄτερ ὄχλου

“privately” or “when there was no crowd around him”

Luke 22:7

Jesus sends Peter and John to prepare for the Passover meal. Verse 7 gives background information about the event. (See: Background Information)

ἡ ἡμέρα τῶν Ἀζύμων

“the day of bread without yeast.” This was the day the Jews would take all bread made with yeast out of their homes. Then they would celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days.

ἔδει θύεσθαι τὸ Πάσχα

Each family or group of people would kill a lamb and eat it together, so many lambs were killed. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people had to kill a lamb for their Passover meal” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

Luke 22:8

ἀπέστειλεν

“Jesus sent”

ἑτοιμάσατε

This is a general word meaning “make ready.” Jesus was not necessarily telling Peter and John to do all the cooking.

ἵνα φάγωμεν

Jesus was including Peter and John when he said “we.” Peter and John would be part of the group of the disciples that would eat the meal. (See: Inclusive and Exclusive “We”)

Luke 22:9

θέλεις ἑτοιμάσωμεν

The word “us” does not include Jesus. Jesus would not be part of the group that would prepare the meal. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

ἑτοιμάσωμεν

“make preparations for the meal” or “prepare the meal”

Luke 22:10

ὁ…εἶπεν αὐτοῖς

“Jesus answered Peter and John”

ἰδοὺ

Jesus used this word to tell them to pay close attention and to do exactly what he tells them.

συναντήσει ὑμῖν ἄνθρωπος, κεράμιον ὕδατος βαστάζων

“you will see a man carrying a pitcher of water”

κεράμιον ὕδατος βαστάζων

“carrying a jar with water in it.” He probably would be carrying the jar on his shoulder.

ἀκολουθήσατε αὐτῷ εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν

“Follow him, and go into the house”

Luke 22:11

λέγει σοι ὁ διδάσκαλος, ποῦ ἐστιν τὸ κατάλυμα, ὅπου τὸ Πάσχα μετὰ τῶν μαθητῶν μου φάγω?

The quote beginning with “Where is the guest room” is a direct quote of what Jesus, the teacher, wants to say to the master of his house. It can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “Our teacher asks where the guest room is in which he will eat the Passover with his disciples.” or “Our teacher says to show us the guest room where he will eat the Passover with us and the rest of his disciples.” (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

ὁ διδάσκαλος

This refers to Jesus.

τὸ Πάσχα…φάγω

“eat the Passover meal”

Luke 22:12

Jesus continues giving instructions to Peter and John.

κἀκεῖνος ὑμῖν δείξει

“The owner of the house will show you”

ἀνάγαιον

“room upstairs.” If your community does not have houses with rooms above other rooms, you may need to consider how to describe buildings in the city.

Luke 22:13

ἀπελθόντες δὲ

“So Peter and John went”

Luke 22:14

This is the next event in the part of the story about the Passover. Jesus and his disciples are sitting to eat the Passover meal.

καὶ ὅτε ἐγένετο ἡ ὥρα

“When it was time to eat the meal”

ἀνέπεσεν

“Jesus sat down”

Luke 22:15

ἐπιθυμίᾳ ἐπεθύμησα

“I have wanted very much”

πρὸ τοῦ με παθεῖν

Jesus is referring ahead to his death. The word for “suffer” here means to go through an unusually difficult or painful experience.

Luke 22:16

λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the importance of what he will say next.

ἕως ὅτου πληρωθῇ

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are (1) until the purpose of the Passover Festival is accomplished. Alternate translation: “until God fulfills it” or “until God completes the purpose of the Passover Festival” or (2) “until we celebrate the final Passover Festival” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 22:17

δεξάμενος ποτήριον

“picked up a cup of wine”

εὐχαριστήσας

“when he had given thanks to God”

εἶπεν

“he said to his apostles”

διαμερίσατε εἰς ἑαυτούς

They were to share the contents of the cup, and not the cup itself. Alternate translation: “share the wine in the cup among yourselves” or “each of you drink some of the wine from the cup” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 22:18

λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν

This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of what Jesus will say next.

τοῦ γενήματος τῆς ἀμπέλου

This refers to the juice that is squeezed from the grapes that grow on grapevines. Wine is made from fermented grape juice.

ἕως οὗ ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ ἔλθῃ

“until God establishes his kingdom” or “until God rules in his kingdom”

Luke 22:19

ἄρτον

This bread did not have yeast in it, so it was flat.

ἔκλασεν

“he ripped it” or “he tore it.” He may have divided it into many pieces or he may have divided it into two pieces and given them to the apostles to divide among themselves. If possible, use an expression that would apply to either situation.

τοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ σῶμά μου

Possible meanings are (1) “This bread is my body” and (2) “This bread represents my body.”

τὸ σῶμά μου, τὸ ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν διδόμενον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “my body, which I will give for you” or “my body, which I will sacrifice for you” (See: Active or Passive)

τοῦτο ποιεῖτε

“Eat this bread”

εἰς τὴν ἐμὴν ἀνάμνησιν

“in order to remember me”

Luke 22:20

τοῦτο τὸ ποτήριον

The word “cup” refers to the wine in the cup. Alternate translation: “The wine in this cup” or “This cup of wine” (See: Metonymy)

ἡ καινὴ διαθήκη ἐν τῷ αἵματί μου

This new covenant will take effect as soon his blood is shed. Alternate translation: “the new covenant that will be ratified through my blood”

τὸ ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐκχυννόμενον

Jesus speaks of his death by referring to his blood being poured out. Alternate translation: “which is poured out in death for you” or “which will flow out of my wounds for you when I die” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 22:21

Jesus continues speaking to his apostles.

τοῦ παραδιδόντος με

“The one who will betray me”

Luke 22:22

ὅτι ὁ Υἱὸς μὲν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…πορεύεται

“For, indeed, the Son of Man will go” or “For the Son of Man will die”

ὁ Υἱὸς μὲν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…πορεύεται

Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, indeed go” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

κατὰ τὸ ὡρισμένον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as God has determined” or “as God has planned” (See: Active or Passive)

πλὴν οὐαὶ τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ ἐκείνῳ δι’ οὗ παραδίδοται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But woe to the man who betrays the Son of Man” or “But how terrible it will be for that man who betrays the Son of Man” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 22:24

ἐγένετο δὲ καὶ φιλονικία ἐν αὐτοῖς

“Then the apostles began to argue among themselves”

δοκεῖ εἶναι μείζων

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “was the most important” or “the people would think was most important” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 22:25

ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτοῖς

“Jesus said to the apostles”

κυριεύουσιν αὐτῶν

“rule forcefully over the Gentiles”

καλοῦνται

The people probably did not think of those rulers as people who do good to their people. Alternate translation: “like to be called” or “call themselves”

Luke 22:26

Jesus continues teaching his apostles.

ὑμεῖς…οὐχ οὕτως

“you should not act like that”

ὁ νεώτερος

Older people were respected in that culture. The leaders were usually older people and were called “elders.” The youngest person would be the least likely to lead, and the least important. Alternate translation: “the least important” (See: Metaphor)

ὁ διακονῶν

“a servant”

Luke 22:27

γὰρ

This connects Jesus’ commands in verse 26 with the whole of verse 27. It means that the most important person should serve because Jesus is a servant.

τίς γὰρ μείζων…ὁ ἀνακείμενος?

“For who is more important…serves?” Jesus uses this question to begin to explain to the apostles who is truly great. Alternate translation: “I want you to think about who is greater…serves.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὁ ἀνακείμενος

“the one who is dining”

οὐχὶ ὁ ἀνακείμενος?

Jesus uses another question to teach the disciples. Alternate translation: “Of course the one who sits at the table is more important than the servant!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἐγὼ δὲ ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν εἰμι ὡς ὁ διακονῶν

“But I am with you to be a servant” or “But I am with you to show you how a servant acts.” The word “yet” is here because there is a contrast between what people would expect Jesus to be like and what he really was like.

Luke 22:28

οἱ διαμεμενηκότες μετ’ ἐμοῦ, ἐν τοῖς πειρασμοῖς μου

“have stayed with me through my struggles”

Luke 22:29

κἀγὼ διατίθεμαι ὑμῖν, καθὼς διέθετό μοι ὁ Πατήρ μου βασιλείαν

Some languages may need to change the order. Alternate translation: “Just as my father has given a kingdom to me, I give a kingdom to you”

κἀγὼ διατίθεμαι ὑμῖν…βασιλείαν

“I make you rulers in God’s kingdom” or “I give you authority to rule in the kingdom” or “I will make you kings”

καθὼς διέθετό μοι ὁ Πατήρ μου

“just as my Father has given me authority to rule as king in his kingdom”

Luke 22:30

καθῆσθε ἐπὶ θρόνων

Kings sit on thrones. Sitting on a throne is a symbol of ruling. Alternate translation: “you will work as kings” or “you will do the work of kings” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 22:31

Jesus speaks directly to Simon.

Σίμων, Σίμων

Jesus said his name twice to show that what he was about to say to him was very important.

ὑμᾶς

The word “you” refers to all of the apostles. Languages that have different forms of “you” should use the plural form. (See: Forms of You)

ὑμᾶς τοῦ σινιάσαι ὡς τὸν σῖτον

This means that Satan wanted to test the disciples to find something wrong. Alternate translation: “test you like someone passes grain through a sieve” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 22:32

ἐγὼ δὲ ἐδεήθην περὶ σοῦ

The word “you” here refers specifically to Simon. Languages that have different forms of you should use the singular form. (See: Forms of You)

ἵνα μὴ ἐκλίπῃ ἡ πίστις σου

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “that you will continue to have faith” or “that you will continue to trust me”

ποτε ἐπιστρέψας

Here “turned back again” is a metaphor for starting to believe in someone again. Alternate translation: “After you start believing in me again” or “After you start serving me again” (See: Metaphor)

στήρισον τοὺς ἀδελφούς σου

“encourage your brothers to be strong in their faith” or “help your brothers believe in me”

τοὺς ἀδελφούς σου

This refers to the other disciples. Alternate translation: “your fellow believers” or “the other disciples”

Luke 22:34

οὐ φωνήσει σήμερον ἀλέκτωρ, ἕως τρίς με ἀπαρνήσῃ εἰδέναι

The order of the parts of the verse can be reversed. Alternate translation: “you will deny three times that you know me before the rooster crows this day”

οὐ φωνήσει σήμερον ἀλέκτωρ, ἕως…ἀπαρνήσῃ

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “the rooster will crow this day only after you deny” or “before the rooster crows today, you will deny”

οὐ φωνήσει…ἀλέκτωρ

Here, the crowing of the rooster refers to a certain time of day. Roosters often crow just before the sun appears in the morning. Therefore, this refers to dawn. (See: Metonymy)

ἀλέκτωρ

a bird that calls out loudly around the time the sun comes up

σήμερον

The Jewish day begins at sunset. Jesus was speaking after the sun had set. The rooster would crow just before morning. The morning was part of “this day.” Alternate translation: “tonight” or “in the morning” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 22:35

Jesus turns his attention back to speaking to all of his disciples.

καὶ εἶπεν αὐτοῖς, ὅτε…μή τινος ὑστερήσατε? οἱ δὲ εἶπαν, οὐθενός.

Jesus uses a question to help the apostles remember how well the people provided for them as they traveled. Though this is a rhetorical question and Jesus is not asking for information, you should translate it as a question unless only a statement would cause the disciples to reply that they had lacked nothing. (See: Rhetorical Question)

ὅτε ἀπέστειλα ὑμᾶς

Jesus was talking to his apostles. So languages that have different forms of “you” should use the plural form. (See: Forms of You)

βαλλαντίου

A purse is a bag for holding money. Here it is used to refer to “money.” (See: Metonymy)

πήρας

“travelers’ bag” or “bag of food”

οὐθενός

It may be helpful to some audiences to include more about the conversation. Alternate translation: “We did not lack anything” or “We had everything we needed” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 22:36

ὁ μὴ ἔχων, πωλησάτω τὸ ἱμάτιον αὐτοῦ…μάχαιραν

Jesus was not referring to a specific person who did not have a sword. Alternate translation: “If anyone does not have a sword, he should sell his cloak”

τὸ ἱμάτιον

“coat” or “outer garment”

Luke 22:37

Jesus finishes speaking with his disciples.

τὸ γεγραμμένον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what a prophet wrote about me in the scriptures” (See: Active or Passive)

δεῖ τελεσθῆναι

The apostles would have understood that God would cause everything written in the scriptures to happen. Alternate translation: “God will fulfill” or “God will cause to happen” (See: Active or Passive)

μετὰ ἀνόμων ἐλογίσθη

Here Jesus is quoting the scriptures. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People counted him as a member of the group of lawless men” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀνόμων

“those who break the law” or “the criminals”

καὶ γὰρ τὸ περὶ ἐμοῦ τέλος ἔχει

Possible meanings are (1) “For what the prophet predicted about me is about to happen” or (2) “For my life is coming to an end” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 22:38

οἱ…εἶπαν

This refers to at least two of Jesus’ apostles.

ἱκανόν ἐστιν

Possible meanings are (1) they have enough swords. “We now have enough swords.” or (2) Jesus wants them to stop talking about having swords. “No more of this talk about swords.” When Jesus said that they should buy swords, he was mainly telling them about the danger they would all face. He may not have really wanted them to buy swords and fight.

Luke 22:39

Jesus goes to the Mount of Olives to pray.

Luke 22:40

προσεύχεσθε μὴ εἰσελθεῖν εἰς πειρασμόν

“that you are not tempted” or “that nothing tempts you and causes you to sin”

Luke 22:41

ὡσεὶ λίθου βολήν

“about the distance that someone can throw a stone.” Alternate translation: “a short distance” or with an estimated measurement like “about thirty meters” (See: Idiom)

Luke 22:42

Πάτερ, εἰ βούλει

Jesus will bear the guilt of every person’s sin on the cross. He prays to his Father, asking if there is another way.

Πάτερ

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

παρένεγκε τοῦτο τὸ ποτήριον ἀπ’ ἐμοῦ

Jesus refers to what he will soon experience as if it were a cup of bitter liquid that he would have to drink. Alternate translation: “allow me to not drink from this cup” or “allow me to not experience what is about to happen” (See: Metaphor)

πλὴν μὴ τὸ θέλημά μου, ἀλλὰ τὸ σὸν γινέσθω

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “However, do what is according to your will rather than what is according to my will” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 22:45

ἀναστὰς ἀπὸ τῆς προσευχῆς, ἐλθὼν

“When Jesus got up after praying, he” or “After praying, Jesus got up and he”

εὗρεν κοιμωμένους αὐτοὺς ἀπὸ τῆς λύπης

“saw that they were sleeping because they were tired from their sadness”

Luke 22:46

τί καθεύδετε?

Possible meanings are (1) “I am surprised that you are sleeping now.” or (2) “You should not be sleeping now!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἵνα μὴ εἰσέλθητε εἰς πειρασμόν

“so that you may not be tempted” or “so that nothing tempts you and causes you to sin”

Luke 22:47

ἰδοὺ, ὄχλος

The word “behold” alerts us to a new group in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. Alternate translation: “there was a crowd that appeared” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

προήρχετο αὐτούς

Judas was showing the people where Jesus was. He was not telling the crowd what to do. Alternate translation: “leading them to Jesus”

φιλῆσαι αὐτόν

“to greet him with a kiss” or “to greet him by kissing him.” When men greeted other men who were family or friends, they would kiss them on one cheek or both cheeks. If your readers would find it embarrassing to say that a man would kiss another man, you could translate it in a more general way: “to give him a friendly greeting.” (See: Translate Unknowns)

Luke 22:48

φιλήματι τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου παραδίδως?

Jesus uses a question to rebuke Judas for betraying him with a kiss. Normally a kiss is a sign of love. Alternate translation: “it is a kiss you are using to betray the Son of Man!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus is using this term to refer to himself. Alternate translation: “me, the Son of Man, with” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Luke 22:49

οἱ περὶ αὐτὸν

This refers to Jesus’ disciples.

τὸ ἐσόμενον

This refers to the priests and soldiers coming to arrest Jesus.

εἰ πατάξομεν ἐν μαχαίρῃ?

The question is about the type of fight they should engage in (a sword fight), not what weapon they should use (the swords that they brought, Luke 22:38), but your translation may need to speak of the weapons they brought. Alternate translation: “fight against them with the swords we brought” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 22:50

εἷς τις ἐξ αὐτῶν

“one of the disciples”

ἐπάταξεν…τὸν δοῦλον τοῦ ἀρχιερέως

“struck the servant of the high priest with a sword”

Luke 22:51

ἐᾶτε ἕως τούτου

“Do not do any more of that”

ἁψάμενος τοῦ ὠτίου, ἰάσατο αὐτόν

“Jesus touched the ear of the servant and healed him”

ἁψάμενος τοῦ ὠτίου

“touched the servant where his ear had been cut off”

Luke 22:52

ὡς ἐπὶ λῃστὴν ἐξήλθατε μετὰ μαχαιρῶν καὶ ξύλων?

“Do you come out with swords and clubs because you think I am a robber?” Jesus uses this question to scold the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “You know that I am not a robber, yet you come out to me bringing swords and clubs.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 22:53

καθ’ ἡμέραν ὄντος μου μεθ’ ὑμῶν

“I was among you every day”

ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

Only priests entered the temple. Alternate translation: “in the temple courts” or “at the temple”

οὐκ ἐξετείνατε τὰς χεῖρας ἐπ’ ἐμέ

In this verse, to lay hands on someone is to arrest that person. Alternate translation: “arrest me” (See: Metonymy)

αὕτη ἐστὶν ὑμῶν ἡ ὥρα

“this is the time for you to do whatever you want”

ἡ ἐξουσία τοῦ σκότους

It may be helpful to repeat the reference to time. “Darkness” is a metonym for Satan. Alternate translation: “the time of the authority of darkness” or “the time when God is allowing Satan to do whatever he wants” (See: Ellipsis and Metonymy)

Luke 22:54

ἤγαγον

“led Jesus away from the garden where they had arrested him”

εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν τοῦ ἀρχιερέως

“into the courtyard of the high priest’s house”

Luke 22:55

περιαψάντων…πῦρ

“some people had made a fire.” The fire was to keep the people warm during the cool night. Alternate translation: “some people started a fire to keep warm”

μέσῳ τῆς αὐλῆς

This was the courtyard at the high priest’s house. It had walls around it, but no roof.

μέσος αὐτῶν

“together with them”

Luke 22:56

καθήμενον πρὸς τὸ φῶς

He sat near the fire and its line shone on him.

καὶ ἀτενίσασα αὐτῷ εἶπεν

“and she looked straight at Peter and said to the other people in the courtyard”

καὶ οὗτος σὺν αὐτῷ ἦν

The woman was telling the people about Peter being with Jesus. She probably did not know Peter’s name.

Luke 22:57

ὁ δὲ ἠρνήσατο

“But Peter said that it was not true”

οὐκ οἶδα αὐτόν, γύναι

Peter did not know the woman’s name. He was not insulting her by calling her “woman.” If people would think he was insulting her, you could use a culturally acceptable way for a man to address a woman he does not know, or you could leave out the word.

Luke 22:58

καὶ σὺ ἐξ αὐτῶν εἶ

“You are also one of those who were with Jesus”

ἄνθρωπε, οὐκ εἰμί

Peter did not know the man’s name. He was not insulting him by calling him “Man.” If people would think he was insulting him, you could use a culturally acceptable way for a man to address a man he does not know, or you could leave out the word.

Luke 22:59

διϊσχυρίζετο λέγων

“said insistently” or “said loudly”

ἐπ’ ἀληθείας…οὗτος

Here “this man” refers to Peter. The speaker probably did not know Peter’s name.

Γαλιλαῖός ἐστιν

The man could probably tell Peter was from Galilee from the way he talked. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 22:60

ἄνθρωπε

Peter did not know the man’s name. He was not insulting him by calling him “Man.” If people would think he was insulting him, you could use a culturally acceptable way for a man to address a man he does not know, or you could leave out the word. See how you translated this in Luke 22:58.

οὐκ οἶδα ὃ λέγεις

“I do not know what you are talking about.” This expression means that Peter completely disagrees with the man. Alternate translation: “what you said is not true at all” or “what you said is completely false” (See: Idiom)

ἔτι λαλοῦντος αὐτοῦ

“while Peter was speaking”

ἐφώνησεν ἀλέκτωρ

Roosters often crow just before the sun appears in the morning. See how you translated a similar phrase in Luke 22:34.

Luke 22:61

στραφεὶς, ὁ Κύριος ἐνέβλεψεν τῷ Πέτρῳ

“The Lord turned and looked at Peter”

τοῦ ῥήματος τοῦ Κυρίου

“what Jesus had said” when Jesus had said that Peter would betray Jesus

ἀλέκτορα φωνῆσαι

Roosters often crow just before the sun appears in the morning. See how you translated a similar phrase in Luke 22:34.

σήμερον

The Jewish day started at sundown and continued to the next evening. Jesus had spoken the previous evening about what would happen shortly before dawn or at dawn. Alternate translation: “tonight” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπαρνήσῃ με τρίς

“deny three times that you know me”

Luke 22:62

ἐξελθὼν ἔξω

“Peter went out of the courtyard”

Luke 22:63

οἱ συνέχοντες αὐτὸν, ἐνέπαιζον αὐτῷ δέροντες

“who were guarding Jesus mocked and beat Jesus”

Luke 22:64

περικαλύψαντες αὐτὸν

“They covered his eyes so that he could not see”

προφήτευσον, τίς ἐστιν ὁ παίσας σε

The guards did not believe that Jesus was a prophet. Rather, they believed that a real prophet would know who hit him even if he could not see. They called Jesus a prophet, but they were teasing him and showing him why they did not think that he was a prophet. Alternate translation: “Prove that you are a prophet. Tell us who hit you!” or “Hey prophet, who hit you?” (See: Irony)

προφήτευσον

“Speak words from God!” The implied information is that God would have to tell Jesus who struck him since Jesus was blindfolded and could not see. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 22:66

It is now the next day and Jesus is brought before the council.

καὶ ὡς ἐγένετο ἡμέρα

“At dawn the next morning”

ἀπήγαγον αὐτὸν εἰς τὸ Συνέδριον αὐτῶν

Possible meanings are (1) “The elders had Jesus brought into the council” or (2) “The guards led Jesus into the council of the elders.” Some languages may avoid saying who led him by using the pronoun “they” or by using a passive verb: “Jesus was led into the council” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 22:67

λέγοντες

A new sentence can be started here. Alternate translation: “The elders said to Jesus”

εἰ σὺ εἶ ὁ Χριστός, εἰπὸν ἡμῖν

“Tell us if you are the Christ”

ἐὰν ὑμῖν εἴπω, οὐ μὴ πιστεύσητε

This is the first of two hypothetical statements by Jesus. It was a way for Jesus to respond without giving them a reason to say that he was guilty of blasphemy. Your language may have a way of indicating that the action has not actually happened. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

Luke 22:68

ἐὰν…ἐρωτήσω, οὐ μὴ ἀποκριθῆτε

This is the second hypothetical statement. It was a way for Jesus to rebuke them without giving them a reason to convict him. These words, along with “If I tell you, you will not believe” (verse 67), show that Jesus did not believe that the council was really looking for the truth. Your language may have a way of indicating that the action has not actually happened. Jesus is saying that whether he speaks or asks them to speak, they will not respond correctly. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

Luke 22:69

Jesus continues speaking to the council.

ἀπὸ τοῦ νῦν

“from this day” or “starting from today”

ἔσται ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου

Jesus uses this phrase to refer to himself. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, will” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

καθήμενος ἐκ δεξιῶν τῆς δυνάμεως τοῦ Θεοῦ

To sit at the “right hand of God” is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: “seated in the place of honor beside the power of God” (See: Symbolic Action)

τῆς δυνάμεως τοῦ Θεοῦ

“the all-powerful God.” Here “power” refers to his supreme authority. (See: Metonymy)

Luke 22:70

σὺ οὖν εἶ ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ

The council asked this question because they wanted Jesus to explicitly confirm their understanding that he was saying he was the Son of God. Alternate translation: “So when you said that, did you mean that you are the Son of God?” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ὑμεῖς λέγετε ὅτι ἐγώ εἰμι

“Yes, it is just like you say”

Luke 22:71

τί ἔτι ἔχομεν μαρτυρίας χρείαν?

They use a question for emphasis. Alternate translation: “We have no further need for witnesses!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

ἠκούσαμεν ἀπὸ τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ

The phrase “his own mouth” refers to his speech. Alternate translation: “heard him say that he believes he is the Son of God” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 23

Luke 23 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The ULT sets the last line of this chapter apart because it is more connected with chapter 24 than with chapter 23.

Special concepts in this chapter

Accuse

The chief priests and scribes accused Jesus of doing evil because they wanted Pilate to kill Jesus. But they were accusing him falsely, because Jesus had never done what they accused him of doing.

“The curtain of the temple was split in two”

The curtain in the temple was an important symbol that showed that people needed to have someone speak to God for them. They could not speak to God directly because all people are sinful and God hates sin. God split the curtain to show that Jesus’ people can now speak to God directly because Jesus has paid for their sins.

The tomb

The tomb in which Jesus was buried (Luke 23:53) was the kind of tomb in which wealthy Jewish families buried their dead. It was an actual room cut into a rock. It had a flat place on one side where they could place the body after they had put oil and spices on it and wrapped it in cloth. Then they would roll a large rock in front of the tomb so no one could see inside or enter.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“I find no fault in this man”

Pilate was saying that he did not know of any reason why he should punish Jesus because Jesus had not broken any laws. Pilate was not saying that Jesus was perfect.

Luke 23:1

Jesus is brought before Pilate.

ἅπαν τὸ πλῆθος αὐτῶν

“All of the Jewish leaders” or “All the members of the Council”

ἀναστὰν

“stood” or “stood to their feet”

ἐπὶ τὸν Πειλᾶτον

To appear before someone means to enter into their authority. Alternate translation: “to be judged by Pilate” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 23:2

εὕρομεν

“We” refers only the Council members, and not to Pilate of any other people nearby. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

διαστρέφοντα τὸ ἔθνος ἡμῶν

“causing our people to do things that are not right” or “causing trouble by telling lies to our people”

κωλύοντα φόρους…διδόναι

“telling them not to pay taxes”

Καίσαρι

Caesar represents the Emperor of Rome. Alternate translation: “to the Emperor” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 23:3

ὁ δὲ Πειλᾶτος ἠρώτησεν αὐτὸν

“Pilate asked Jesus”

σὺ λέγεις

Possible meanings are (1) by saying this, Jesus implied that he is the King of the Jews. Alternate translation: “Yes, as you said, I am” or “Yes. It is as you said” or (2) by saying this, Jesus was saying that Pilate, not Jesus, was the one calling him the King of the Jews. Alternate translation: “You yourself have said so” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 23:4

τοὺς ὄχλους

large groups of people

οὐδὲν εὑρίσκω αἴτιον ἐν τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ τούτῳ

“I do not find this man guilty of anything”

Luke 23:5

ἀνασείει

“causes trouble among”

ὅλης τῆς Ἰουδαίας, καὶ ἀρξάμενος ἀπὸ τῆς Γαλιλαίας ἕως ὧδε

This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “all Judea. He began causing trouble in Galilee and now is causing trouble here”

Luke 23:6

ἀκούσας

“heard that Jesus began to teach in Galilee”

ἐπηρώτησεν εἰ ὁ ἄνθρωπος Γαλιλαῖός ἐστιν

Pilate wanted to know from which area Jesus came because he wanted to have a lower-ranking government official judge Jesus. If Jesus were from Galilee, Pilate could have Herod judge Jesus because Herod had authority over Galilee.

ὁ ἄνθρωπος

This refers to Jesus.

Luke 23:7

ἐπιγνοὺς

“Pilate found out”

ἐκ τῆς ἐξουσίας Ἡρῴδου ἐστὶν

The passage does not state the implied fact that Herod was the ruler of Galilee. Alternate translation: “Jesus was under the authority of Herod because Herod ruled over Galilee” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀνέπεμψεν

“Pilate sent”

ὄντα…αὐτὸν

This refers to Herod.

ἐν ταύταις ταῖς ἡμέραις

“at that time”

Luke 23:8

ἐχάρη λείαν; ἦν

“Herod was very glad”

θέλων ἰδεῖν αὐτὸν

“Herod had wanted to see Jesus”

τὸ ἀκούειν περὶ αὐτοῦ

“Herod had heard about Jesus”

ἤλπιζέν

“Herod hoped”

τι σημεῖον ἰδεῖν ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ γινόμενον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to see him perform some kind of miracle” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 23:9

ἐπηρώτα δὲ αὐτὸν ἐν λόγοις ἱκανοῖς

“Herod asked Jesus a lot of questions”

οὐδὲν ἀπεκρίνατο αὐτῷ

“did not reply” or “did not give Herod an answer”

Luke 23:10

ἵστήκεισαν…οἱ γραμματεῖς

“the scribes were standing there”

εὐτόνως κατηγοροῦντες αὐτοῦ

“severely accusing Jesus” or “accusing him of all kinds of crimes”

Luke 23:11

ὁ Ἡρῴδης σὺν τοῖς στρατεύμασιν αὐτοῦ

“Herod and his soldiers”

περιβαλὼν ἐσθῆτα λαμπρὰν

“put beautiful clothes on him.” The translation should not imply that this was done to honor or care for Jesus. They did it to mock Jesus and to make fun of him.

Luke 23:12

ἐγένοντο…φίλοι ὅ τε Ἡρῴδης καὶ ὁ Πειλᾶτος ἐν αὐτῇ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ μετ’ ἀλλήλων

The implied information is that they became friends because Herod appreciated Pilate allowing him to judge Jesus. Alternate translation: “Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day because Pilate had sent Jesus to Herod for judgment” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

προϋπῆρχον γὰρ ἐν ἔχθρᾳ ὄντες πρὸς αὑτούς

This information is enclosed in parentheses to show that it is background information. Use a format that your audience would understand. (See: Background Information)

Luke 23:13

συνκαλεσάμενος τοὺς ἀρχιερεῖς, καὶ τοὺς ἄρχοντας, καὶ τὸν λαὸν

“called the chief priests and the rulers and the crowd of people to come meet together”

τὸν λαὸν

It is not likely that Pilate asked a crowd to come. The crowd was probably still there waiting to see what would happen to Jesus. Alternate translation: “the crowd that was still there” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 23:14

τὸν ἄνθρωπον τοῦτον

This refers to Jesus.

ὡς ἀποστρέφοντα

“saying that he”

ἐνώπιον ὑμῶν ἀνακρίνας

“I have questioned Jesus in your presence, and.” It is implied that they were witnesses to the proceedings. Alternate translation: “I have questioned Jesus with you here as witnesses, and” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐγὼ…οὐθὲν εὗρον ἐν τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ τούτῳ

“do not think that he is guilty”

Luke 23:15

Pilate continues speaking to the Jewish leaders and to the crowd.

ἀλλ’ οὐδὲ Ἡρῴδης

It may be helpful to add information that is not included in the short statement. Alternate translation: “Even Herod does not think he is guilty” or “Even Herod thinks he is innocent” (See: Ellipsis)

οὐδὲ Ἡρῴδης…γὰρ

“nor does Herod, because” or “nor does Herod. We know this because”

ἀνέπεμψεν…αὐτὸν πρὸς ἡμᾶς

“Herod sent Jesus to return to us.” The word “us” refers to Pilate, his soldiers, and the priests and scribes, but not those who were listening to Pilate. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

οὐδὲν ἄξιον θανάτου ἐστὶν πεπραγμένον αὐτῷ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he has not done anything to deserve a death sentence” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 23:16

παιδεύσας οὖν αὐτὸν

Because Pilate had found no fault in Jesus he should have released him without punishment. It is not necessary to try to make this statement fit logically into the translation. Pilate punished Jesus, whom he knew to be innocent, only because he was afraid of the crowd.

Luke 23:18

Verse 19 tells us background information about who Barabbas is. (See: Background Information)

ἀνέκραγον…πανπληθεὶ

“All the people in the crowd shouted”

αἶρε τοῦτον, ἀπόλυσον δὲ

“Take this man away! Release.” They are asking him to have his soldiers kill Jesus. Alternate translation: “Take this man away and execute him! Release” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπόλυσον…ἡμῖν

“us” refers to the crowd only, and not to Pilate and his soldiers. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive 'We')

Luke 23:19

ὅστις ἦν…φόνον, βληθεὶς ἐν τῇ φυλακῇ

This is background information that Luke gives about who Barabbas was. (See: Background Information)

ὅστις ἦν…βληθεὶς ἐν τῇ φυλακῇ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom the Romans had put in prison” (See: Active or Passive)

στάσιν τινὰ γενομένην ἐν τῇ πόλει

“trying to persuade the people of the city to rebel against the Roman government”

Luke 23:20

πάλιν…προσεφώνησεν αὐτοῖς

“spoke to them again” or “spoke again to the people in the crowd and to the religious rulers”

θέλων ἀπολῦσαι τὸν Ἰησοῦν

“because he wanted to set Jesus free”

Luke 23:22

ὁ δὲ τρίτον εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς

“Pilate said to the crowd again, for the third time” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

τί…κακὸν ἐποίησεν οὗτος?

Pilate uses this question to cause the crowd to understand that Jesus is innocent. Alternate translation: “this man has not done anything wrong!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

οὐδὲν αἴτιον θανάτου εὗρον ἐν αὐτῷ

“He has done nothing for which he deserves to die”

παιδεύσας…αὐτὸν, ἀπολύσω

As in Luke 23:16, Pilate should have released Jesus without punishment because he was innocent. However, he offered to punish Jesus to appease the crowd.

ἀπολύσω

“I will set him free”

Luke 23:23

οἱ…ἐπέκειντο

“the crowd insisted”

φωναῖς μεγάλαις

“with shouting”

αὐτὸν σταυρωθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for Pilate to have his soldiers crucify Jesus” (See: Active or Passive)

κατίσχυον αἱ φωναὶ αὐτῶν

“The crowd kept shouting until they convinced Pilate”

Luke 23:24

γενέσθαι τὸ αἴτημα αὐτῶν

“to do what the crowd requested”

Luke 23:25

ἀπέλυσεν δὲ τὸν…ὃν ᾐτοῦντο

Pilate released Barrabas from prison. Alternate translation: “Pilate freed Barabbas, whom the crowd had asked be released”

διὰ στάσιν καὶ φόνον βεβλημένον εἰς φυλακὴν

This is background information about where Barrabas was at that time. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom the Romans had put in prison…murder” (See: Background Information)

τὸν δὲ Ἰησοῦν παρέδωκεν τῷ θελήματι αὐτῶν

“Pilate commanded the soldiers to bring Jesus to them to do whatever the crowd wanted to do”

Luke 23:26

ὡς ἀπήγαγον αὐτόν

“While the soldiers led Jesus away from where Pilate was”

ἐπιλαβόμενοι

The Roman soldiers had the authority to compel people to carry their loads. Do not translate this in a way that indicates that Simon was arrested or had done anything wrong.

Σίμωνά, τινα Κυρηναῖον

“a man named Simon, from the city of Cyrene” (See: How to Translate Names)

ἐρχόμενον ἀπ’ ἀγροῦ

“who was coming into Jerusalem from the countryside”

ἐπέθηκαν αὐτῷ τὸν σταυρὸν

“put the cross on his shoulders”

ὄπισθεν τοῦ Ἰησοῦ

“and he followed behind Jesus”

Luke 23:27

πολὺ πλῆθος

“A large crowd”

πολὺ πλῆθος τοῦ λαοῦ, καὶ γυναικῶν

The woman were part of the large crowd, and not a separate crowd.

ἐθρήνουν αὐτόν

“mourned for Jesus”

ἠκολούθει…αὐτῷ

This does not mean that they were Jesus’ disciples. It simply means they were walking along behind him.

Luke 23:28

στραφεὶς…πρὸς αὐτὰς

This indicates that Jesus turned to face the women and address them directly.

θυγατέρες Ἰερουσαλήμ

The “daughter” of a city means the women of the city. This was not rude. It was a normal form of address to a group of women from one location. Alternate translation: “You women who are from Jerusalem”

μὴ κλαίετε ἐπ’ ἐμέ, πλὴν ἐφ’ ἑαυτὰς κλαίετε, καὶ ἐπὶ τὰ τέκνα ὑμῶν

The person is a metonym for what happens to the person. Alternate translation: “do not weep about the bad things that will happen to me. Instead, weep because worse things will happen to you and to your children” or “you are weeping because bad things are happening to me, but you will weep even more when worse things happen to you and your children” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 23:29

Jesus finishes speaking to the crowd.

ὅτι ἰδοὺ

This introduces the reason why the women of Jerusalem should weep for themselves.

ἔρχονται ἡμέραι

“there will soon be a time”

ἐν αἷς ἐροῦσιν

“when people will say”

αἱ στεῖραι

“women who have not given birth to children”

αἱ κοιλίαι αἳ οὐκ ἐγέννησαν, καὶ μαστοὶ οἳ οὐκ ἔθρεψαν

These clauses are used to more fully describe “the barren.” Those women neither gave birth nor nursed children. It may be helpful to combine these together with “the barren.” Alternate translation: “the women who have never given birth to children or nursed babies”

ἐροῦσιν

This can refer to either the Romans or the Jewish leaders, or no one in particular.

Luke 23:30

τότε

at that time

τοῖς βουνοῖς

Words are left out to keep the phrase short. Alternate translation: “they will say to the hills” (See: Ellipsis)

Luke 23:31

ὅτι εἰ ἐν τῷ ὑγρῷ ξύλῳ, ταῦτα ποιοῦσιν; ἐν τῷ ξηρῷ, τί γένηται?

Jesus uses a question to help the crowd understand that people are doing bad things now in good times, so certainly they will do worse things in the bad times in the future. Alternate translation: “You can see that they are doing these bad things while the tree is green, so you can be sure that they will do worse things when the tree is dry.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τῷ ὑγρῷ ξύλῳ

The green tree is a metaphor for something that is good. If your language has a similar metaphor, you should use it here. (See: Metaphor)

τῷ ξηρῷ

The dry wood is a metaphor for something that will be useful only to burn. (See: Metaphor)

Luke 23:32

ἤγοντο δὲ καὶ ἕτεροι κακοῦργοι δύο σὺν αὐτῷ ἀναιρεθῆναι

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The soldiers led away with Jesus two criminals to execute them also” (See: Active or Passive)

ἕτεροι κακοῦργοι δύο

“Two other men who were criminals” or “Two criminals.” Luke avoids saying “other criminals” because Jesus was innocent, even though he was treated as a criminal. Luke calls the other two men criminals, but not Jesus.

Luke 23:33

ὅτε ἦλθον

The word “they” includes the soldiers, the criminals, and Jesus.

ἐσταύρωσαν αὐτὸν

“the Roman soldiers crucified Jesus”

ὃν μὲν ἐκ δεξιῶν, ὃν δὲ ἐξ ἀριστερῶν

“they crucified one criminal on Jesus’ right side and the other criminal on Jesus’ left side”

Luke 23:34

ἔβαλον κλῆρον

The soldiers participated in a type of gambling. Alternate translation: “they gambled”

διαμεριζόμενοι…τὰ ἱμάτια αὐτοῦ, ἔβαλον κλῆρον

“cast lots to decide who among the soldiers would take home each piece of Jesus’ clothing”

Luke 23:35

ἵστήκει, ὁ λαὸς

“The people were standing there”

σωσάτω

This refers to Jesus.

ἄλλους ἔσωσεν, σωσάτω ἑαυτόν

Luke records the ironic words of the rulers. The only way Jesus could save others was by dying instead of saving himself. (See: Irony)

σωσάτω ἑαυτόν

“Jesus should be able to save himself.” They said this to mock Jesus. They did not believe he could save himself. Alternate translation: “We would like to see him prove who he is by saving himself from the cross”

ὁ…ἐκλεκτός

“the one that God has chosen”

Luke 23:36

αὐτῷ

Jesus

προσερχόμενοι

“coming close to Jesus”

ὄξος προσφέροντες αὐτῷ

“offering Jesus vinegar to drink.” Vinegar is a cheap drink that common people drink. The soldiers were mocking Jesus by giving a cheap drink to someone who claims to be a king.

Luke 23:37

εἰ σὺ εἶ ὁ Βασιλεὺς τῶν Ἰουδαίων, σῶσον σεαυτόν

The soldiers were mocking Jesus. Alternate translation: “We do not believe you are the King of the Jews, but if you are, prove us wrong by saving yourself” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 23:38

ἐπιγραφὴ ἐπ’ αὐτῷ

“a placard at the top of Jesus’ cross that stated”

ὁ Βασιλεὺς τῶν Ἰουδαίων οὗτος

The people who put this sign above Jesus were mocking him. They did not really think he was a king.

Luke 23:39

ἐβλασφήμει αὐτόν

“insulted Jesus”

οὐχὶ σὺ εἶ ὁ Χριστός? σῶσον σεαυτὸν

The criminal uses a question to mock Jesus. Alternate translation: “You claim to be the Christ. Save yourself” or “If you really were the Christ, you would save yourself” (See: Rhetorical Question)

σῶσον σεαυτὸν καὶ ἡμᾶς

The criminal did not really think that Jesus could rescue them from the cross. (See: Irony)

Luke 23:40

ὁ ἕτερος ἐπιτιμῶν αὐτῷ

“the other criminal rebuked him”

οὐδὲ φοβῇ σὺ τὸν Θεόν, ὅτι ἐν τῷ αὐτῷ κρίματι εἶ

The criminal uses a question to scold the other criminal. Alternate translation: “You should fear God, because they are punishing you the same way they are punishing him” or “You must have no fear of God, since you mock him while you are hanging on a cross the same as he is” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Luke 23:41

ἡμεῖς μὲν…ἐπράξαμεν ἀπολαμβάνομεν

These usages of “we” refer only to the two criminals, and not to Jesus or the other people. (See: First, Second or Third Person)

ἡμεῖς μὲν δικαίως

“Truly we deserve this punishment”

οὗτος

This refers to Jesus.

Luke 23:42

καὶ ἔλεγεν

“The criminal also said”

μνήσθητί μου

“think about me and treat me well”

ὅταν ἔλθῃς ἐν τῇ βασιλείᾳ σου

To “come into” a kingdom means to begin to rule. Alternate translation: “begin to rule as king” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 23:43

εἶπεν αὐτῷ

“Jesus said to the criminal”

ἀμήν, σοι λέγω, σήμερον

“Truly” adds emphasis to what Jesus is saying. Alternate translation: “I want you to know that today”

τῷ Παραδείσῳ

This is the place that righteous people go to when they die. Jesus was assuring the man that he would be with God and God would accept him. Alternate translation: “the place where the righteous people live” or “the place where people live well”

Luke 23:44

ὡσεὶ ὥρα ἕκτη

“about noon.” This reflects the custom at the time of counting hours beginning with daybreak at 6 a.m.

σκότος ἐγένετο ἐφ’ ὅλην τὴν γῆν

“the entire land became dark”

ἕως ὥρας ἐνάτης

“until 3 p.m.” This reflects the custom at the time of counting hours beginning with daybreak at 6 a.m.

Luke 23:45

τοῦ ἡλίου ἐκλειπόντος

This does not refer to sundown. Rather, the light of the sun darkened during the middle of the day. Use a term to describe the sun becoming dark rather than the sun going down.

τὸ καταπέτασμα τοῦ ναοῦ

“the curtain inside the temple.” This was the curtain that separated the most holy place from the rest of the temple.

ἐσχίσθη δὲ τὸ καταπέτασμα τοῦ ναοῦ μέσον

“the curtain of the temple was torn into two pieces.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God tore the temple curtain into two pieces from the top to the bottom” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 23:46

φωνήσας φωνῇ μεγάλῃ

“Shouting loudly.” It may be helpful to show how this is related to the events of the previous verses. Alternate translation: “When that happened, Jesus shouted loudly”

Πάτερ

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

εἰς χεῖράς σου παρατίθεμαι τὸ Πνεῦμά μου

“The phrase “into your hands” refers to God’s care. Alternate translation: “I entrust my spirit to your care” or “I give my spirit to you, knowing you will care for it” (See: Metonymy)

τοῦτο δὲ εἰπὼν

“After Jesus said this”

ἐξέπνευσεν

“Jesus died”

Luke 23:47

ὁ ἑκατοντάρχης

This was the title for the Roman officer who was in charge of the other Roman soldiers. He supervised the crucifixion.

τὸ γενόμενον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all the things that had happened” (See: Active or Passive)

ὁ ἄνθρωπος οὗτος δίκαιος ἦν

“this man did nothing wrong” or “this man did not do anything wrong”

Luke 23:48

ὄχλοι

large groups of people

οἱ συνπαραγενόμενοι

“who gathered together”

ἐπὶ τὴν θεωρίαν ταύτην

“see this event” or “observe what was happening”

τὰ γενόμενα

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what had happened” (See: Active or Passive)

τύπτοντες…ὑπέστρεφον

“returned to their homes beating”

τύπτοντες τὰ στήθη

This was a symbol of sorrow and regret. Alternate translation: “hitting their own chests to show that they were sorrowful” (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 23:49

αἱ συνακολουθοῦσαι αὐτῷ

“traveled with Jesus”

ἀπὸ μακρόθεν

“some distance away from Jesus”

ταῦτα

“what happened”

Luke 23:50

Joseph asks Pilate for Jesus’ body. These verses give us background information about who Joseph is. It may be helpful to reorder some of this information with a verse bridge, as the UST does. (See: Background Information and Verse Bridges)

καὶ ἰδοὺ, ἀνὴρ

The word “behold” alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this. Alternate translation: “There was a man who was” (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

βουλευτὴς

“the Jewish Council”

Luke 23:51

οὗτος οὐκ ἦν συνκατατεθειμένος τῇ βουλῇ καὶ τῇ πράξει αὐτῶν

What the decision was can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “with either the Council’s decision to kill Jesus or with their action in killing him” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπὸ Ἁριμαθαίας

Here “Judean town” means it was located in Judea. Alternate translation: “the town called Arimathea, which is in Judea” (See: How to Translate Names)

Luke 23:52

οὗτος, προσελθὼν τῷ Πειλάτῳ, ᾐτήσατο τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ

“This man went to Pilate and requested the body of Jesus, to bury it.”

Luke 23:53

καθελὼν

“Joseph took Jesus’ body from the cross”

ἐνετύλιξεν αὐτὸ σινδόνι

“wrapped the body in a fine linen cloth.” This was the normal burial custom at that time.

λαξευτῷ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which someone had cut in a rock cliff” (See: Active or Passive)

οὗ οὐκ ἦν οὐδεὶς οὔπω κείμενος

This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “No one had ever before put a body in that tomb”

Luke 23:54

ἡμέρα…παρασκευῆς

“the day when people got ready for the Jewish day of rest called the Sabbath”

Σάββατον ἐπέφωσκεν

For the Jews, the day began at sunset. Alternate translation: “it was soon going to be sunset, the start of the Sabbath” (See: Metaphor)

Luke 23:55

αἵτινες ἦσαν συνεληλυθυῖαι ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας αὐτῷ

“who had traveled with Jesus from the region of Galilee”

κατακολουθήσασαι…ἐθεάσαντο τὸ μνημεῖον καὶ ὡς ἐτέθη τὸ σῶμα αὐτοῦ

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “walked along behind Joseph and the men who were with him; the women saw the tomb and how the men laid Jesus’ body inside the tomb” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 23:56

ὑποστρέψασαι

“The women went to the houses where the women were staying”

ἡτοίμασαν ἀρώματα καὶ μύρα

Because they had had no time to honor Jesus by putting fragrant spices and ointments on his body on the day he died, they were going to do it on the morning of the first day of the week. Alternate translation: “prepared spices and ointments to put on Jesus’ body” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἡσύχασαν

“the women did no work”

κατὰ τὴν ἐντολήν

“according to the Jewish law” or “as the Jewish law required.” They were not allowed to prepare his body on the Sabbath according to the law.

Luke 24

Luke 24 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The tomb

The tomb in which Jesus was buried (Luke 24:1) was the kind of tomb in which wealthy Jewish families buried their dead. It was an actual room cut into a rock. It had a flat place on one side where they could place the body after they had put oil and spices on it and wrapped it in cloth. Then they would roll a large rock in front of the tomb so no one could see inside or enter.

The faith of the women

Most of Luke’s original readers would have thought of women as less important than men, but Luke carefully shows that some women loved Jesus very much and had more faith than the twelve disciples had.

Resurrection

Luke wants his readers to understand that Jesus came alive again in a physical body (Luke 24:38-43).

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (Luke 24:7). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

“On the third day”

Jesus told his followers that he would become alive again “on the third day” (Luke 18:33). He died on a Friday afternoon (before sunset) and became alive again on a Sunday, so he became alive again “on the third day” because the Jews said that the day began and ended at sunset, and they counted any part of the day as a day. Friday was the first day, Saturday was the second day, and Sunday was the third day.

Two men in bright shining robes

Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all wrote about angels in white clothing with the women at Jesus’ tomb. Two of the authors called them men, but that is only because the angels were in human form. Two of the authors wrote about two angels, but the other two authors wrote about only one of them. It is best to translate each of these passages as it appears in the ULT without trying to make the passages all say exactly the same thing. (See: Matthew 28:1-2 and Mark 16:5 and Luke 24:4 and John 20:12)

Luke 24:1

The women (Luke 23:55) return to the tomb with spices to put on Jesus’ body.

τῇ δὲ μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων, ὄρθρου βαθέως

“Before dawn on Sunday” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμα ἦλθαν

“the women arrived at the tomb.” These were the women spoken of in Luke 23:55.

τὸ μνῆμα

This tomb was cut in the rock of a cliff.

φέρουσαι…ἀρώματα

These were the same spices they prepared in Luke 23:56.

Luke 24:2

εὗρον…τὸν λίθον

“They saw that the stone was”

τὸν λίθον ἀποκεκυλισμένον

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that someone had rolled the stone” (See: Active or Passive)

τὸν λίθον

This was a large, cut, round stone big enough to completely block the doorway to the tomb. It required several men to roll it.

Luke 24:3

οὐχ εὗρον τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ

You can state explicitly that they did not find it because it was not there. Alternate translation: “the body of the Lord Jesus was not there” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Luke 24:4

Two angels appear and begin speaking to the women.

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

Luke 24:5

ἐμφόβων…γενομένων αὐτῶν

“became afraid”

κλινουσῶν τὰ πρόσωπα εἰς τὴν γῆν

“bowed low to the ground.” This action expresses their humility and submission to the men. (See: Symbolic Action)

εἶπαν πρὸς αὐτάς

“the men said to the women”

τί ζητεῖτε τὸν ζῶντα μετὰ τῶν νεκρῶν?

The men use a question to mildly criticize the women for looking in a tomb for a living person. Alternate translation: “You are looking for a living person among dead people!” or “You should not be looking for someone who is alive in a place where they bury dead people!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

τί ζητεῖτε

Here “you” is plural, referring to the women who came. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 24:6

The angels finish speaking to the women.

ἀλλὰ ἠγέρθη

“but he has been made alive again.” “Raised” here is an idiom for “caused to live again.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because God has made him alive again” (See: Active or Passive and Idiom)

μνήσθητε ὡς

“Remember what”

ὑμῖν

The word “you” is plural. It refers to the women and possibly the other disciples in addition. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 24:7

τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ὅτι

This is the beginning of an indirect quote. It can also be translated with a direct quote as in the UST. (See: Direct and Indirect Quotations)

τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…δεῖ παραδοθῆναι εἰς χεῖρας ἀνθρώπων ἁμαρτωλῶν, καὶ σταυρωθῆναι

The phrase “must be” means this is something that would certainly happen because God had already decided that it would happen. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “it was necessary that they hand the Son of Man over to sinful men who would crucify him” (See: Active or Passive)

εἰς χεῖρας

Here “hands” refers to power or control. (See: Metonymy)

τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ

The Jews counted any portion of a day as a day. Therefore, the day Jesus was raised was the “third day” because it followed the day of his burial and the Sabbath day. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Luke 24:8

The women go to tell the apostles about what they found at the tomb.

ἐμνήσθησαν τῶν ῥημάτων αὐτοῦ

Here “words” refers to the statement that Jesus made. Alternate translation: “remembered what Jesus said” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 24:9

τοῖς ἕνδεκα, καὶ πᾶσιν τοῖς λοιποῖς

“the eleven apostles and all the rest of the disciples who were with them”

τοῖς ἕνδεκα

This is Luke’s first reference to the eleven, because Judas left the twelve and betrayed Jesus.

Luke 24:10

δὲ

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Luke gives the names of some of the women who came from the tomb and told the apostles what had happened there.

Luke 24:11

καὶ ἐφάνησαν ἐνώπιον αὐτῶν ὡσεὶ λῆρος τὰ ῥήματα ταῦτα

“But the apostles thought that what the women said was foolish talk”

Luke 24:12

ὁ δὲ Πέτρος

This phrase contrasts Peter to the other apostles. He did not dismiss what the women said, but ran to the tomb to see for himself.

ἀναστὰς

This is an idiom that means “began to act.” Whether Peter was sitting or standing when he decided to act is not important. Alternate translation: “started out” (See: Idiom)

παρακύψας

Peter had to bend over in order to see inside the tomb because tombs cut in solid rock were very low. Alternate translation: “bending himself at the waist”

τὰ ὀθόνια μόνα

“only the linen cloths.” This refers to the cloths that had been wrapped around Jesus’ body when he was buried in Luke 23:53. It is implied that the body of Jesus was not there. Alternate translation: “the linen cloths in which Jesus’ body had been wrapped, but Jesus was not there” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀπῆλθεν πρὸς ἑαυτὸν

“went away to his home”

Luke 24:13

Two of the disciples are on their way to Emmaus. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἰδοὺ

The author uses this word to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

δύο ἐξ αὐτῶν

“two of the disciples”

ἐν αὐτῇ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ

“that same day.” This refers to the day when the women found the tomb to be empty.

Ἐμμαοῦς

This is the name of a town. (See: How to Translate Names)

σταδίους ἑξήκοντα

“eleven kilometers.” A “stadium” was 185 meters. (See: Biblical Distance)

Luke 24:15

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark where the action starts. It starts with Jesus approaching them. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

αὐτὸς Ἰησοῦς

The word “himself” emphasizes the fact that the very Jesus they were talking about actually appeared to them. So far the women had seen the angels, but no one had seen Jesus.

Luke 24:16

οἱ…ὀφθαλμοὶ αὐτῶν ἐκρατοῦντο τοῦ μὴ ἐπιγνῶναι αὐτόν

“their eyes were kept from recognizing Jesus.” The men’s ability to recognize Jesus is spoken of as their eyes’ ability to recognize him. This can be stated in active form. It is most likely that it was God who prevented them from recognizing Jesus. Alternate translation: “something happened to them so they could not recognize him” or “God prevented them from recognizing him” (See: Synecdoche and Active or Passive)

Luke 24:17

εἶπεν…πρὸς αὐτούς

“Jesus said to the two men”

Luke 24:18

Κλεοπᾶς

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

σὺ μόνος παροικεῖς…ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις ταύταις?

Cleopas uses this question to show his surprise that this man appears not to know about the things that have happened in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “You must be the only person…days” (See: Rhetorical Question)

σὺ

Here “you” is singular. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 24:19

ποῖα

“What things have happened?” or “What things have taken place?”

προφήτης, δυνατὸς ἐν ἔργῳ καὶ λόγῳ, ἐναντίον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ παντὸς τοῦ λαοῦ

This means that God caused Jesus to be mighty and that the people saw that he was mighty. Alternate translation: “a prophet to whom God gave power to do and teach great things that were amazing to all the people”

Luke 24:20

παρέδωκαν αὐτὸν

“gave him over”

εἰς κρίμα θανάτου, καὶ ἐσταύρωσαν αὐτόν

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in order for the governor to put Jesus to death by crucifying him” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 24:21

The two men continue responding to Jesus.

ὁ μέλλων λυτροῦσθαι τὸν Ἰσραήλ

The Romans ruled over the Jews. Alternate translation: “who would free the Israelites from our Roman enemies” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἀλλά γε καὶ σὺν πᾶσιν τούτοις

This introduces another reason why they believed Jesus would not free Israel. Alternate translation: “Now that does not seem possible because”

τρίτην…ἡμέραν

The Jews counted any portion of a day as a day. Therefore, the day Jesus was raised was the “third day” because it followed the day of his burial and the Sabbath day. See how you translated this in Luke 24:7. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

ἀφ’ οὗ ταῦτα ἐγένετο

“since all the many actions that led up to the death of Jesus have taken place”

Luke 24:22

The two men finish responding to Jesus.

ἀλλὰ καὶ

This introduces another reason why it the men did not understand what was happening concerning Jesus.

ἐξ ἡμῶν

“in our group”

γενόμεναι…ἐπὶ τὸ μνημεῖον

The women were the ones who were at the tomb.

Luke 24:23

ὀπτασίαν ἀγγέλων

“angels in a vision”

Luke 24:24

αὐτὸν δὲ οὐκ εἶδον

“they did not see Jesus”

Luke 24:25

αὐτὸς εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς

Jesus is speaking to the two disciples.

βραδεῖς τῇ καρδίᾳ, τοῦ πιστεύειν

Here “heart” is a metonym for a person’s mind. Alternate translation: “your minds are slow to believe” or “you are slow to believe” (See: Metonymy)

Luke 24:26

οὐχὶ…ἔδει…τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ?

Jesus uses a question to remind the disciples about what the prophets said. Alternate translation: “It was necessary…glory.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ

This refers to Jesus beginning to rule and to receive honor and glory.

Luke 24:27

ἀρξάμενος ἀπὸ Μωϋσέως

Moses wrote the first books of the Bible. Alternate translation: “beginning with the writings of Moses” (See: Metonymy)

διερμήνευσεν αὐτοῖς

“Jesus explained to them”

Luke 24:28

αὐτὸς προσεποιήσατο πορρώτερον πορεύεσθαι

The two men understood from his actions that he was going on to another destination. Perhaps he kept walking on the road when they turned off to enter the gate into the village. There is no indication that Jesus deceived them with words.

Luke 24:29

παρεβιάσαντο αὐτὸν

You may need to make explicit what they compelled him to do. This is probably an exaggeration to show that they needed to speak with him for a long time before they could change his mind. The word “compel” means to use physical force, but it seems that they persuaded him using only words. Alternate translation: “they were able to persuade him to stay” (See: Hyperbole)

πρὸς ἑσπέραν ἐστὶν, καὶ κέκλικεν ἤδη ἡ ἡμέρα

The Jewish day ended at sundown.

εἰσῆλθεν

“Jesus entered the house”

τοῦ μεῖναι σὺν αὐτοῖς

“stay with the two disciples”

Luke 24:30

καὶ ἐγένετο

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

τὸν ἄρτον

This refers to bread made without yeast. It does not refer to food in general.

εὐλόγησεν

“gave thanks for it” or “thanked God for it”

Luke 24:31

αὐτῶν δὲ διηνοίχθησαν οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ

Their “eyes” represent their understanding. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Then they understood” or “Then they realized” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

ἐπέγνωσαν αὐτόν

“they recognized him.” These disciples had known him before his death.

αὐτὸς ἄφαντος ἐγένετο ἀπ’ αὐτῶν

This means that suddenly he was no longer there. It does not mean that he became invisible.

Luke 24:32

οὐχὶ ἡ καρδία ἡμῶν καιομένη ἦν…τὰς Γραφάς?

They use a question to emphasize how amazed they were about their encounter with Jesus. The intense feelings they had while talking to Jesus are spoken of as if they were a fire burning inside them. Alternate translation: “Our hearts were burning…scriptures.” (See: Metaphor and Rhetorical Question)

ὡς διήνοιγεν ἡμῖν τὰς Γραφάς

Jesus did not open a book or scroll. “opened” refers to their understanding. Alternate translation: “while he explained the scriptures to us” or “while he enabled us to understand the scriptures”

Luke 24:33

The two men go to Jerusalem to the eleven disciples to tell them about Jesus.

καὶ ἀναστάντες

“They” refers to the two men.

ἀναστάντες

“got up” or “stood up”

τοὺς ἕνδεκα

This refers to Jesus’ apostles. Judas was no longer included with them.

Luke 24:34

λέγοντας

“and those people told the two men”

Luke 24:35

καὶ αὐτοὶ ἐξηγοῦντο

“So the two men told them”

τὰ ἐν τῇ ὁδῷ

This refers to Jesus appearing to them while they were on their way to the village of Emmaus.

ὡς ἐγνώσθη αὐτοῖς

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “how they recognized Jesus” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐν τῇ κλάσει τοῦ ἄρτου

“when Jesus broke the bread” or “when Jesus tore the bread”

Luke 24:36

Jesus appears to the disciples. When the two men previously arrived at the house where the Eleven were, Jesus was not with them.

αὐτὸς

The word “himself” focuses on Jesus and the surprise of Jesus actually appearing to them. Most of them had not seen him after his resurrection. (See: Reflexive Pronouns)

ἐν μέσῳ αὐτῶν

“among them”

εἰρήνη ὑμῖν

“May you have peace” or “May God give you peace!” The word “you” is plural. (See: Forms of You)

Luke 24:37

πτοηθέντες δὲ

“But” indicates a strong contrast. Jesus told them to be at peace, but they were very afraid instead.

πτοηθέντες…καὶ ἔμφοβοι γενόμενοι

“startled and afraid.” These two phrases mean about the same thing, and are used together to emphasize their fear. (See: Doublet)

ἐδόκουν πνεῦμα θεωρεῖν

“thought that they were seeing a ghost.” They did not yet truly understand that Jesus was really alive.

πνεῦμα

Here it refers to the spirit of a dead person.

Luke 24:38

τί τεταραγμένοι ἐστέ

Jesus uses a question to comfort them. Alternate translation: “Do not be frightened.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

διὰ τί διαλογισμοὶ ἀναβαίνουσιν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμῶν?

Jesus uses a question to mildly rebuke them. Jesus was telling them not to doubt that he was alive. The word “heart” is a metonym for a persons’ mind. Alternate translation: “Do not doubt in your minds!” or “Stop doubting!” (See: Rhetorical Question and Metonymy)

Luke 24:39

ψηλαφήσατέ με καὶ ἴδετε…ἐμὲ θεωρεῖτε ἔχοντα

Jesus asks them to confirm by touch that he is not a ghost. It may be helpful to combine and reorder these two sentences. Alternate translation: “Touch me and feel that I have flesh and bones that a ghost would not have”

σάρκα καὶ ὀστέα

This is a way of referring to the physical body.

Luke 24:40

τὰς χεῖρας καὶ τοὺς πόδας

It is understood that his hands and feet contained the nail marks from his crucifixion that would prove it was really Jesus. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the wounds in his hands and his feet”

Luke 24:41

ἔτι δὲ ἀπιστούντων αὐτῶν ἀπὸ τῆς χαρᾶς

“They were so full of joy that they still could not believe it was really true”

Luke 24:43

ἐνώπιον αὐτῶν ἔφαγεν

Jesus did this to prove that he had a physical body. Spirits would not be able to eat food. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

ἐνώπιον αὐτῶν

“in front of them” or “while they were watching”

Luke 24:44

ἔτι ὢν σὺν ὑμῖν

“When I was with you before”

δεῖ πληρωθῆναι πάντα τὰ γεγραμμένα…ψαλμοῖς, περὶ ἐμοῦ

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God would fulfill all that was written…Psalms” or “God would cause all that was written…Psalms to happen” (See: Active or Passive)

πάντα τὰ γεγραμμένα ἐν τῷ νόμῳ Μωϋσέως, καὶ τοῖς προφήταις, καὶ ψαλμοῖς, περὶ ἐμοῦ

The words “law of Moses,” “the Prophets,” and “the Psalms” are proper names for parts of the Hebrew Bible. This can be stated in active form and using common nouns. Alternate translation: “all that Moses wrote in the law, all that the prophets wrote, and all that the writers of the Psalms wrote about me” (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 24:45

τότε διήνοιξεν αὐτῶν τὸν νοῦν τοῦ συνιέναι τὰς Γραφάς

To “open the mind” is an idiom that means to enable someone to understand. Alternate translation: “Then he enabled them to understand the scriptures” (See: Idiom)

Luke 24:46

οὕτως γέγραπται

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This is what people long ago wrote” (See: Active or Passive)

ἀναστῆναι ἐκ νεκρῶν

In this verse, “to rise” is to come alive again. The words “from the dead” speak of all dead people together in the underworld.

τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ

The Jews counted any portion of a day as a day. Therefore, the day Jesus was raised was the “third day” because it followed the day of his burial and the Sabbath day. See how you translated this in Luke 24:7. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Luke 24:47

κηρυχθῆναι ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ μετάνοιαν εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν εἰς πάντα τὰ ἔθνη

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Followers of the Christ should preach to people in all the nations that they need to repent and that they need God to forgive their sins through Jesus” (See: Active or Passive)

ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ

His “name” here refers to his authority. Alternate translation: “by the Christ’s authority” (See: Metonymy)

πάντα τὰ ἔθνη

“all the ethnic communities” or “all the people groups”

ἀρξάμενοι ἀπὸ Ἰερουσαλήμ

“starting in Jerusalem”

Luke 24:48

Jesus continues speaking to the disciples.

ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες

“You are to tell others that what you saw about me is true.” The disciples had observed Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, and could describe to other people what he did.

Luke 24:49

ἐγὼ ἀποστέλλω τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ Πατρός μου ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς

“I will give you what my Father promised to give you.” God had promised to give the Holy Spirit. The UST makes this explicit. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

τοῦ Πατρός

This is an important title for God. (See: Translating Son and Father)

ἐνδύσησθε…δύναμιν

God’s power will cover them in the same way that clothes cover a person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you receive power” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

ἐξ ὕψους

“from above” or “from God”

Luke 24:50

ἐξήγαγεν…αὐτοὺς

“Jesus led the disciples outside the city”

ἐπάρας τὰς χεῖρας αὐτοῦ

This was the action that priests performed when they blessed the people. (See: Symbolic Action)

Luke 24:51

καὶ ἐγένετο

“It came about.” This introduces a new event in the story. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

ἐν τῷ εὐλογεῖν αὐτὸν αὐτοὺς

“while Jesus was asking God to do good to them”

ἀνεφέρετο

Since Luke does not specify who carried Jesus up, we do not know if it was God himself or one or more angels. If your language would have to specify who did the carrying, it would be better to use “went” instead, as the UST does. (See: Active or Passive)

Luke 24:52

These verses tell us about the ongoing actions of the disciples as the story ends. (See: End of Story)

αὐτοὶ προσκυνήσαντες αὐτὸν

“the disciples worshiped Jesus”

ὑπέστρεψαν

“and then returned”

Luke 24:53

διὰ…ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

This is an exaggeration to express that they went into the temple courtyard every day. (See: Hyperbole)

ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ

Only priests were allowed into the temple building. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

εὐλογοῦντες τὸν Θεόν

“praising God”