New Testament
Luke 23:27
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A huge crowd followed, including women who were weeping and mourning for him.
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And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.
What Luke 23:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a large crowd following Jesus as he carries his cross to his crucifixion. Among them are women who are visibly upset, crying and mourning for him. This moment highlights the deep emotional impact of Jesus' suffering and the compassion of those who loved him. The women’s lamentation signifies their sorrow not just for his physical pain but also for the injustice of his situation. Their tears reflect the love and respect they had for Jesus, showing that even in his darkest hour, he was not alone. This scene serves as a poignant reminder of the human response to suffering and the importance of empathy in times of distress. It also foreshadows the profound sacrifice Jesus is making for humanity, as he endures this pain for the sake of others. The crowd's reaction illustrates the mixed emotions surrounding Jesus' journey to the cross, combining grief with the hope of redemption that his sacrifice would ultimately bring.
How to apply Luke 23:27 to your life
When we witness suffering, like the women in this verse, we are called to respond with compassion. It’s important to support those in pain and to express our empathy. This can strengthen our community and remind us of our shared humanity, encouraging us to be present for one another in difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Crucifixion (Luke 23:26–43)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 23:27
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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 23:27 mean?
Luke 23:27 describes a large crowd following Jesus as he carries his cross, highlighting the emotional response of the people, particularly the women who are mourning for him. This moment emphasizes the compassion and sorrow felt by those witnessing his suffering.
What is the significance of the women in Luke 23:27?
The women in Luke 23:27 represent empathy and compassion, as they weep and lament for Jesus during his journey to crucifixion. Their presence underscores the emotional weight of his suffering and the injustice of his situation.
What does 'bewailed and lamented' mean in Luke 23:27?
'Bewailed and lamented' refers to the expressions of grief and sorrow shown by the women as they mourn for Jesus. It signifies their deep emotional pain and concern for his suffering.
How does Luke 23:27 relate to themes of compassion?
Luke 23:27 highlights the theme of compassion through the women's tears for Jesus, reminding us of the importance of empathy in the face of suffering and the need to support those in pain.
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