Luke 8:30
And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Roman legions were the backbone of imperial military might, feared throughout the ancient world for their discipline, brutality, and effectiveness. A full legion comprised approximately 5,000-6,000 soldiers, though auxiliary forces could double that number. For first-century Jews living under Roman occupation, "legion" evoked images of military oppression, taxation, crucifixion, and foreign domination.
That a demon would identify using a Roman military term in Gentile territory (the Decapolis) is significant. The region had been heavily Romanized, with significant military presence. Some scholars suggest the political symbolism is intentional—Jesus demonstrates power over both demonic and imperial forces. The destruction of "Legion" in unclean animals (pigs) that drown in water may echo Exodus 14-15 where Pharaoh's army drowned in the Red Sea.
Jewish exorcism traditions sometimes asked demons their names, believing knowledge of the name granted power over the spirit. Jesus' question follows this pattern but demonstrates that His authority doesn't derive from knowing names—He has inherent power over all demonic forces. Early church writers (Origen, Augustine) noted that this most extreme case of possession yielding to Christ's word proved no spiritual bondage is too strong for divine grace to break.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the name "Legion" reveal about the severity of demonic oppression and the extent of Satan's destructive power?
- How does Jesus' ability to cast out thousands of demons with a word demonstrate His absolute authority over evil?
- What comfort does this extreme case of deliverance offer to those struggling with seemingly insurmountable spiritual bondage?
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Analysis & Commentary
And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him. Jesus' question, "What is thy name?" (Ti soi onoma estin, Τί σοι ὄνομα ἐστιν), establishes personal engagement—even with one so degraded, Jesus treats him as a person worth addressing. The answer reveals the horrifying extent of possession: "Legion" (Legiōn, Λεγιών). A Roman legion numbered 4,000-6,000 soldiers. Whether literally thousands of demons or using "Legion" metaphorically for "many," the term conveys overwhelming demonic occupation.
The explanation clarifies: "because many devils were entered into him" (hoti eisēlthei daimonia polla eis auton, ὅτι εἰσῆλθει δαιμόνια πολλὰ εἰς αὐτόν). The verb "entered" (εἰσῆλθει) describes invasion, taking possession from within. "Many devils" (δαιμόνια πολλὰ) indicates not mere harassment but massive internal occupation—a fortress of evil spirits inhabiting one human being. This explains his superhuman strength (v. 29), violent seizures, total personality fragmentation, and utter degradation.
Theologically, this verse reveals the depths of human bondage to evil and the capacity of fallen humanity to be thoroughly enslaved by demonic forces. Yet even "Legion"—perhaps the most severely possessed individual in Scripture—was not beyond Christ's saving power. The name also carries political overtones. Roman legions occupied Palestine, oppressing God's people. That Jesus would cast out "Legion" and destroy them (in swine) may symbolize His ultimate victory over all oppressive powers, both spiritual and political.