New Testament

Luke 6:39

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

He also told them a parable: "Can a blind person lead another blind person? Won't they both fall into a pit?

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?

What Luke 6:39 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus uses a parable to illustrate the danger of following someone who lacks understanding or insight. The metaphor of a blind person leading another blind person highlights the futility and risk of relying on someone who cannot see the truth or the right path. Just as two blind individuals would likely stumble and fall into a pit, so too will people who follow misguided leaders or teachings. This parable serves as a warning to be discerning about whom we choose to follow in life, especially in matters of faith and morality. It emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from those who have clear vision and understanding, rather than blindly following others who may lead us astray. Ultimately, it encourages self-reflection and the pursuit of knowledge to avoid pitfalls in our spiritual journey.

How to apply Luke 6:39 to your life

This verse encourages us to evaluate our leaders and mentors carefully. We should seek guidance from those who demonstrate wisdom and understanding, rather than following blindly. It reminds us to cultivate our own discernment and knowledge to avoid falling into traps set by misguided influences.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of young Saul guarding the cloaks at the stoning of Stephen

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Paul

An old color photograph of Nazareth spread across a hillside in Galilee.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Nazareth

The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Luke 6:39

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Luke 6:39

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 6:39 mean?

Luke 6:39 uses a parable to illustrate the danger of following someone who lacks insight. It warns that just as a blind person leading another blind person will likely lead them both to danger, so too will following misguided leaders lead to negative consequences.

What is the meaning of the phrase 'blind person' in Luke 6:39?

In Luke 6:39, 'blind person' symbolizes someone who lacks understanding or awareness. This metaphor emphasizes the risk of being led by those who do not have clear insight or truth.

How can I apply Luke 6:39 to my life?

You can apply Luke 6:39 by carefully evaluating your mentors and leaders. Seek guidance from those who demonstrate clear understanding and wisdom, and cultivate your own discernment to avoid misguided influences.

What lesson can we learn from Luke 6:39?

The lesson from Luke 6:39 is to be cautious about whom we trust for guidance. It teaches the importance of seeking knowledgeable and wise leaders to avoid potential dangers in our decisions.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.