New Testament
Luke 8:30
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Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" He answered, "Legion" — because many demons had entered him.
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And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.
What Luke 8:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jesus encounters a man possessed by many demons. When Jesus asks for the man's name, he responds with 'Legion,' indicating that he is overwhelmed by a multitude of evil spirits. A Roman legion typically consisted of thousands of soldiers, symbolizing the man's severe condition. This interaction highlights Jesus' authority over evil and His ability to confront and heal those tormented by spiritual forces. The name 'Legion' reflects not just the number of demons but also the chaos and suffering they bring to the man's life. This moment illustrates the transformative power of Jesus, who can restore individuals from deep spiritual bondage and despair. It serves as a reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the hope found in Christ's intervention.
How to apply Luke 8:30 to your life
This passage encourages us to recognize the struggles we face, whether spiritual or emotional. Just as Jesus confronted the demons, we can seek His help in our own battles. Trusting in His power can lead to healing and restoration in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Freeing a Man from Demons (Luke 8:26–39)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Plain Meaning
Jesus asks the man his name. The answer comes back: "Legion." The verse explains this name right away — many devils had entered into the man. A Roman legion was a large military unit, so the name points to a very large number. The man is not giving his own name; he is describing what is inside him.
Read It in Context
Jesus has just arrived and commanded the unclean spirit to come out. The man ran to Jesus, fell down, and cried out. Verse 29 explains that the spirit had seized him many times and that chains could not hold him. Jesus asks the name as part of this confrontation.
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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 8:30 mean?
Luke 8:30 describes an encounter between Jesus and a man possessed by many demons. The man identifies himself as 'Legion,' indicating he is overwhelmed by numerous evil spirits, symbolizing his severe suffering and chaos.
What is the significance of the name 'Legion' in Luke 8:30?
The name 'Legion' signifies the presence of many demons within the man, reflecting his torment and the overwhelming nature of his condition. It also symbolizes the chaos and destruction caused by these spirits.
How does Luke 8:30 relate to spiritual warfare?
Luke 8:30 emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare by showing the struggle between Jesus and the demons possessing the man. It serves as a reminder of the battles individuals face and the hope found in seeking Jesus' help.
What can we learn from Luke 8:30?
From Luke 8:30, we learn about the importance of recognizing our struggles and the need for help. It encourages us to trust in Jesus' power for healing and restoration in our own lives.
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