Luke 20:47

Authorized King James Version

Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἳ
Which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
κατεσθίουσιν
devour
to eat up, i.e., devour (literally or figuratively)
#3
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
οἰκίας
houses
properly, residence (abstractly), but usually (concretely) an abode (literally or figuratively); by implication, a family (especially domestics)
#5
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
χηρῶν
widows
a widow (as lacking a husband), literally or figuratively
#7
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
προφάσει
for a shew
an outward showing, i.e., pretext
#9
μακρὰ
long
long (in place (distant) or time (neuter plural))
#10
προσεύχονται·
make
to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship
#11
οὗτοι
the same
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#12
λήψονται
shall receive
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
#13
περισσότερον
superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence
#14
κρίμα
damnation
a decision (the function or the effect, for or against ("crime"))

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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