Luke 12:27
Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Solomon's wealth was proverbial in Jewish tradition—the temple's gold, his 1,000 garments, his legendary wisdom and prosperity made him the standard for regal splendor. Yet Palestinian wildflowers, though beautiful, lasted only days before withering in the intense sun or being gathered for oven fuel (v. 28). Jesus uses creation's beauty as evidence of the Creator's generous provision. First-century hearers would immediately grasp the comparison: if God lavishes such care on transient flowers, how much more will He provide for His image-bearers? This teaching contrasts sharply with Roman and Hellenistic emphasis on self-sufficiency and displays of wealth as social power.
Questions for Reflection
- What does God's meticulous care in adorning temporary wildflowers reveal about His character and priorities?
- How does contemplating God's provision in creation reduce anxiety about His provision for your needs?
- In what ways does consumer culture tempt you to pursue 'Solomon's glory' rather than trusting God's simple, sufficient provision?
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Analysis & Commentary
Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Jesus commands Consider (katanoesate, κατανοήσατε)—observe carefully, study attentively, examine thoroughly. The imperative calls for more than casual glancing; disciples must meditate on the lilies (ta krina, τὰ κρίνα), likely referring to various wildflowers carpeting Galilean hillsides in spring—anemones, poppies, irises—rather than cultivated garden flowers.
The observation: they toil not, they spin not (ou kopiai oude nethei, οὐ κοπιᾷ οὐδὲ νήθει). The verb kopiao (κοπιάω) means to labor to the point of exhaustion, while netho (νήθω) specifically refers to spinning thread—women's work essential for producing clothing. Wildflowers neither engage in hard agricultural labor nor textile production, yet they are magnificently clothed by God's creative provision.
The stunning comparison: Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. King Solomon epitomized wealth, wisdom, and splendor (1 Kings 10:4-7, 14-23)—his throne, temple, and robes were legendary. Yet oude Solomōn en pase te doxe autou periebaleto hos hen touton (οὐδὲ Σολομὼν ἐν πάσῃ τῇ δόξῃ αὐτοῦ περιεβάλετο ὡς ἓν τούτων)—not even Solomon in all his doxa (δόξα, glory/splendor) was clothed (periebaleto, περιεβάλετο) as one of these. God's artistry in nature surpasses human magnificence. If God clothes ephemeral wildflowers with such beauty, He will certainly clothe His children (v. 28).