New Testament
Luke 23:44
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It was about the sixth hour, and darkness covered the entire land until the ninth hour.
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And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.
What Luke 23:44 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a significant event occurring during the crucifixion of Jesus. The sixth hour refers to noon, a time when the sun is usually at its highest and brightest. However, instead of light, darkness envelops the land for three hours until the ninth hour, which is around 3 PM. This darkness symbolizes the gravity of the moment, reflecting the spiritual turmoil and the weight of sin being placed upon Jesus as He bears the punishment for humanity's transgressions. It serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of the crucifixion and the cosmic implications of Jesus' sacrifice. The darkness can also be interpreted as God's judgment and sorrow over the sin that led to the crucifixion of His Son. This moment is not just a physical phenomenon but a profound spiritual event that signifies the turning point in human history, where light and hope would eventually emerge from this darkness through the resurrection of Jesus.
How to apply Luke 23:44 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the seriousness of sin and the cost of redemption. In moments of darkness in our lives, we can remember that Jesus endured great suffering for our sake. We should seek to live in the light of His sacrifice, sharing hope with others.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Death of Jesus (Luke 23:44–49)
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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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Keep studying Luke 23:44
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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 23:44 mean?
Luke 23:44 describes a period of darkness that lasted from noon until 3 PM during the crucifixion of Jesus. This darkness symbolizes the weight of sin and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice.
What is the significance of darkness in Luke 23:44?
The darkness in Luke 23:44 represents God's judgment and sorrow over sin during the crucifixion. It highlights the seriousness of the moment as Jesus bears the punishment for humanity's sins.
Why did darkness cover the land in Luke 23:44?
The darkness that covered the land from the sixth to the ninth hour signifies a profound spiritual event, reflecting the turmoil of Jesus' suffering and the impact of sin on humanity.
How long did the darkness last in Luke 23:44?
The darkness lasted for three hours, from the sixth hour (noon) until the ninth hour (3 PM), marking a significant moment during the crucifixion of Jesus.
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