New Testament
Luke 20:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus begins to share a parable about a man who plants a vineyard and then rents it out to farmers before leaving for a long time.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He then told the people this parable: "A man planted a vineyard, rented it out to some tenant farmers, and left for a distant country for a long time.
Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus begins to share a parable about a man who plants a vineyard and then rents it out to farmers before leaving for a long time. This story illustrates the relationship between God and His people, where God is the owner of the vineyard, and the tenant farmers represent the leaders of Israel. The vineyard symbolizes the nation of Israel, which God entrusted to these leaders. By leaving for a distant country, the man signifies God's temporary absence while still expecting the farmers to care for the vineyard and produce fruit. This parable sets the stage for a deeper message about accountability, stewardship, and the consequences of failing to honor one's responsibilities. It highlights the expectation that those entrusted with God's work must be faithful and productive, as they will ultimately be held accountable for their actions when the owner returns. The parable serves as a warning against neglecting one's duties and the importance of recognizing the authority of God in our lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 20:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how we manage the responsibilities entrusted to us by God. Just as the tenant farmers were expected to care for the vineyard, we too must be diligent in our roles, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. Faithfulness in our duties is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 20:9 mean?
Luke 20:9 describes a parable told by Jesus about a man who plants a vineyard and rents it out to farmers before leaving for a long time. This story illustrates God's relationship with His people, emphasizing themes of stewardship and accountability.
What is the meaning of the vineyard in Luke 20:9?
In Luke 20:9, the vineyard symbolizes the nation of Israel, which God entrusted to its leaders. The parable highlights the expectation that these leaders should care for and nurture the people, reflecting their responsibilities before God.
Who do the tenant farmers represent in Luke 20:9?
The tenant farmers in Luke 20:9 represent the leaders of Israel who were entrusted with the care of God's people. Their actions in the parable illustrate the consequences of failing to fulfill their responsibilities.
What lesson can we learn from Luke 20:9?
Luke 20:9 teaches us about the importance of stewardship and accountability in our lives. Just as the tenant farmers were expected to care for the vineyard, we are called to be diligent and responsible in our own roles.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
Unlock the full Luke summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.