Luke 13:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 13:11
11 And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself.
Chapter Context
Luke 13 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, salvation, truth. 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 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 13:11
11 And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself.
Analysis
Jesus heals on the Sabbath: 'And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself' (καὶ ἰδοὺ γυνὴ πνεῦμα ἔχουσα ἀσθενείας ἔτη δεκαοκτώ, καὶ ἦν συγκύπτουσα καὶ μὴ δυναμένη ἀνακύψαι εἰς τὸ παντελές). This woman had suffered 18 years under demonic bondage ('spirit of infirmity,' πνεῦμα ἀσθενείας), bent double, unable to straighten. Jesus' compassion overcomes Sabbath regulations—He calls her 'daughter of Abraham' (v.16), affirming her covenant status despite physical affliction. His healing demonstrates that the Sabbath's true purpose is liberation from bondage, foreshadowing gospel freedom from sin's slavery.
Historical Context
Jewish Sabbath restrictions had multiplied through oral tradition (Mishnah tractate Shabbat lists 39 prohibited activities). While emergency medical care was permitted, Jesus' critics viewed this chronic condition as non-emergency. Jesus exposes their hypocrisy—they untie animals for water on Sabbath (v.15) but object to liberating humans from Satan's bondage. His argument from lesser to greater (animals vs. humans) follows rabbinic logic while subverting their conclusions. This confrontation exemplifies Jesus' Sabbath controversies throughout His ministry.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' healing on the Sabbath reveal that religious rules must serve human flourishing rather than become ends in themselves?
- What does calling this afflicted woman 'daughter of Abraham' teach about God's covenant faithfulness even in suffering?
Word Studies
- Spirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma) G4151 - Spirit, wind, breath