Luke 9:46
Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.
Original Language Analysis
διαλογισμὸς
a reasoning
G1261
διαλογισμὸς
a reasoning
Strong's:
G1261
Word #:
3 of 11
discussion, i.e., (internal) consideration (by implication, purpose), or (external) debate
αὐτῶν
of them
G846
αὐτῶν
of them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τίς
which
G5101
τίς
which
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
7 of 11
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
Historical Context
This dispute reflects first-century Palestinian culture where honor and social rank were fiercely contested. Disciples of rabbis often jockeyed for position, expecting their master's elevation would mean their own advancement. The Twelve expected Jesus to establish an earthly Davidic kingdom imminently, complete with cabinet positions and governmental authority. Jesus's teaching would radically invert these expectations.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you found yourself mentally calculating your rank or importance compared to other believers, and what does this reveal about your understanding of kingdom values?
- How does the disciples' concern for greatness immediately after Jesus predicts His suffering expose the fundamental conflict between worldly ambition and cross-bearing discipleship?
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Analysis & Commentary
Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest (διαλογισμὸς, dialogismos)—the disciples engage in a deliberative debate about rank and status. The Greek term suggests calculated, self-interested argumentation, not innocent curiosity. This dispute erupts immediately after Jesus predicts His suffering (9:44), revealing how completely they misunderstood the nature of Messiah's kingdom.
Their question which of them should be greatest (τίς εἴη μείζων, tis eiē meizōn) assumes a hierarchy of honor in the coming kingdom. They debate who deserves first rank—Peter for his confession? James and John for witnessing the Transfiguration? Judas for managing finances? Jesus will answer by redefining greatness itself: true megas (greatness) means becoming the least, servant of all (9:48). The disciples sought crowns; Jesus offered a cross.