Luke 11:38
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 11:38
38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.
Chapter Context
Luke 11 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, holiness, wisdom. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-54: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 11:38
38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.
Analysis
And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner (ἐθαύμασεν ὅτι οὐ πρῶτον ἐβαπτίσθη πρὸ τοῦ ἀρίστου)—the verb thaumazō (marvelled) indicates shock or disapproval. The ritual washing (baptizō, ceremonial immersion of hands) wasn't biblical law but Pharisaic tradition (Mark 7:3-4). Jesus's deliberate omission challenges human tradition elevated to divine commandment.
The Pharisee's astonishment reveals his priorities: external ceremonial purity trumps internal spiritual condition. This sets up Jesus's devastating critique—the Pharisees obsess over ritual while ignoring justice, mercy, love (v.42). Their religion consists of visible performance, not heart transformation.
Historical Context
Pharisaic hand-washing rituals involved pouring water over hands in specific ways before meals, based on expansions of Levitical priesthood laws (Exodus 30:19-21). These traditions, codified in the Mishnah, weren't Scripture but 'tradition of the elders' (Mark 7:5). The Pharisees' shock reveals they equated human tradition with divine law—the essence of legalism.
Reflection
- What Christian 'traditions' have you elevated to the status of divine commands?
- Why might Jesus deliberately violate human religious traditions—what does this teach about challenging legalism?
- How does obsession with external religious performance distract from issues of the heart?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 3:25