New Testament
Luke 8:32
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A large herd of pigs was feeding on the mountainside nearby. The demons begged Jesus to let them enter the pigs, and he gave them permission.
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And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them.
What Luke 8:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a significant encounter between Jesus and a group of demons. The demons, recognizing Jesus' authority, plead with Him to allow them to enter a nearby herd of pigs instead of being sent into the abyss. This moment highlights the power Jesus has over evil spirits. The pigs, which were feeding on the mountainside, symbolize the unclean nature of the demons, as swine were considered unclean animals in Jewish law. By granting the demons permission to enter the pigs, Jesus demonstrates His control over the spiritual realm and the consequences of evil. The herd of pigs then rushes down a steep bank into the lake and drowns, illustrating the destructive nature of demonic influence. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the authority of Christ over all creation, including the forces of darkness.
How to apply Luke 8:32 to your life
This passage encourages us to recognize the authority of Jesus in our lives. Just as He had power over the demons, He can help us overcome our struggles and fears. We should seek His guidance and protection against negative influences and trust in His ability to bring peace.
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
The demons asked Jesus for permission to go into a nearby herd of pigs instead of being sent away entirely. In the KJV, "suffer" means allow or permit. Jesus gave them permission. The verse shows that the demons could not act without His say-so.
Read It in Context
The demons had just begged Jesus not to send them into "the deep" (verse 31). The herd of pigs on the hillside gave them an alternative to ask for. Jesus granted the request, and the pigs immediately ran into the lake and drowned (verse 33).
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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 8:32 mean?
Luke 8:32 describes an encounter where demons ask Jesus for permission to enter a herd of pigs instead of being sent away. This illustrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits and highlights the destructive nature of demonic influence.
What is the significance of the pigs in Luke 8:32?
The pigs in Luke 8:32 symbolize the unclean nature of the demons, as swine were considered unclean animals in Jewish law. Their destruction after the demons enter them emphasizes the harmful consequences of evil.
Why did the demons want to enter the pigs in Luke 8:32?
The demons wanted to enter the pigs to avoid being sent into the abyss, demonstrating their desire to inhabit a living creature. This request highlights their recognition of Jesus' authority and their fear of being cast out.
What can we learn from Luke 8:32?
Luke 8:32 teaches us about the authority of Jesus over evil and the importance of seeking His protection against negative influences. It reminds us of the reality of spiritual battles in our lives.
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