Luke 19:3

Authorized King James Version

And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐζήτει

G2212

he sought

to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)

ἰδεῖν

G1492

to see

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

τὸν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Ἰησοῦν

G2424

Jesus

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

τίς

G5101

who

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

ἐστιν

G2076

he was

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#10

ἠδύνατο

G1410

could

to be able or possible

#11

ἀπὸ

G575

for

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#12

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#13

ὄχλου

G3793

the press

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

#14

ὅτι

G3754

because

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

#15

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

ἡλικίᾳ

G2244

of stature

maturity (in years or size)

#17

μικρὸς

G3398

little

small (in size, quantity, number or (figuratively) dignity)

#18

ἦν

G2258

he was

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Luke.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Luke 19:3

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources