New Testament
Luke 10:30
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Jesus answered with a story: "A man was traveling the road from Jerusalem down to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him, beat him, and left him lying there half dead.
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And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
What Luke 10:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus begins telling a parable about a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho, a route known for its dangers. The man is attacked by robbers who strip him of his clothes, beat him, and leave him severely injured and abandoned. This story sets the stage for a deeper lesson about compassion and the importance of helping those in need. The imagery of the man being 'half dead' emphasizes his dire situation and the urgency for someone to come to his aid. The journey from Jerusalem, a holy city, to Jericho, often associated with danger, symbolizes the challenges and perils of life. This parable highlights the vulnerability of individuals and the moral responsibility of others to assist those who are suffering, regardless of their background or circumstances. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need for empathy and action in the face of injustice and hardship.
How to apply Luke 10:30 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of those in need around us and to take action to help them. It challenges us to look beyond our own lives and consider how we can show compassion to those who are suffering or in distress, regardless of their situation.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Luke 10:30
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 10:30 mean?
Luke 10:30 describes a parable told by Jesus about a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who is attacked by robbers. This story illustrates the dangers of the journey and sets the stage for a lesson on compassion and the importance of helping those in need.
What is the significance of the road from Jerusalem to Jericho in Luke 10:30?
The road from Jerusalem to Jericho was known for its dangers, making it a fitting backdrop for the parable. It symbolizes the challenges and perils of life, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals who may find themselves in dire situations.
What does 'half dead' mean in Luke 10:30?
The phrase 'half dead' in Luke 10:30 emphasizes the man's critical condition after being attacked. It underscores the urgency for someone to come to his aid, illustrating the severity of his suffering and the need for compassion.
What lesson does Luke 10:30 teach about helping others?
Luke 10:30 teaches that we have a moral responsibility to help those who are suffering or in distress. The parable encourages us to show compassion and take action, regardless of the background or circumstances of those in need.
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