New Testament
Luke 23:29
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 predicts a time of great distress and suffering, where people will ironically bless those who are childless.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
"Because the days are coming when people will say, 'Blessed are the women who never had children — the wombs that never carried a baby and the breasts that never nursed.'"
For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus predicts a time of great distress and suffering, where people will ironically bless those who are childless. This reflects a cultural shift where having children, traditionally seen as a blessing, is viewed differently due to the hardships faced. The statement highlights the deep sorrow and desperation of the times, suggesting that people will long for a life free from the pain of raising children in such dire circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the value of life and the challenges that come with it, emphasizing that in times of crisis, societal values can become distorted. The mention of barren women and those who have not nursed indicates a profound sense of loss and the longing for a different reality, where motherhood is celebrated rather than lamented. This verse invites reflection on the nature of blessings and the societal pressures that can shape our perceptions of worth and fulfillment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 23:29 to your life
This verse encourages us to appreciate the blessings in our lives, especially during difficult times. It reminds us to support those who may feel societal pressure or shame, fostering a community that values all experiences, including those of childlessness, rather than judging them.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 23:29 mean?
Luke 23:29 reflects a time of great suffering where people will ironically bless those who are childless. It highlights a cultural shift in values during distress, suggesting that motherhood, once seen as a blessing, is viewed differently in times of crisis.
What is the meaning of 'blessed are the barren' in Luke 23:29?
The phrase 'blessed are the barren' indicates a societal perspective during hardship where having children is seen as a burden rather than a blessing. It underscores the deep sorrow and desperation of the times, contrasting traditional views on motherhood.
How does Luke 23:29 relate to motherhood?
Luke 23:29 presents a stark view of motherhood during difficult times, suggesting that the pain and challenges of raising children can lead to a longing for childlessness. It reflects a cultural shift in how motherhood is perceived in the face of adversity.
What themes are present in Luke 23:29?
Key themes in Luke 23:29 include suffering, irony, cultural values, motherhood, desperation, and blessings. The verse invites reflection on how societal pressures can shape our understanding of what it means to be blessed.
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