New Testament
Luke 8:52
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Everyone there was weeping and mourning for her. Jesus said, "Stop crying. She isn't dead — she's sleeping."
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And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.
What Luke 8:52 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus encounters a situation where a young girl has died, and those around her are mourning deeply. He addresses the mourners, telling them to stop crying because he views death differently. Jesus refers to the girl as 'sleeping' rather than dead, indicating his belief in the temporary nature of death. This statement reflects his power over life and death, suggesting that he can restore her to life. The use of the term 'sleeping' implies that death is not the end, but a state from which one can awaken. This moment highlights Jesus' authority and compassion, as he seeks to comfort those who are grieving. It also sets the stage for the miraculous act that follows, where he raises the girl from the dead, demonstrating his divine power and the hope of resurrection. This verse encourages believers to trust in Jesus' ability to bring life and hope even in the darkest situations.
How to apply Luke 8:52 to your life
When faced with loss or grief, remember that Jesus offers hope and comfort. His perspective on death as 'sleep' encourages us to trust in his power to bring healing and restoration. We can find peace in knowing that he is with us in our sorrow and can transform our situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Luke 8:40–56)
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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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Keep studying Luke 8:52
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Key themes
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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 8:52 mean?
In Luke 8:52, Jesus tells the mourners not to cry because the girl is not dead but 'sleeping.' This indicates his belief in the temporary nature of death and his power to restore life.
What is the meaning of 'she is not dead, but sleepeth' in Luke 8:52?
The phrase 'she is not dead, but sleepeth' suggests that Jesus views death as a temporary state. It reflects his authority to bring the girl back to life, emphasizing hope and resurrection.
How does Luke 8:52 relate to hope in difficult times?
Luke 8:52 offers hope by showing that Jesus can transform situations of grief and loss. His perspective on death as 'sleep' encourages believers to trust in his ability to bring healing and restoration.
What themes are present in Luke 8:52?
Key themes in Luke 8:52 include death, resurrection, hope, miracles, compassion, and faith. The verse illustrates Jesus' authority over life and death and his desire to comfort those who are grieving.
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