New Testament
Luke 9:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see Herod, the ruler of Galilee, becoming aware of the remarkable events surrounding Jesus' ministry.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Herod the tetrarch heard about everything that was happening, and he was perplexed because some people were saying that John had risen from the dead.
Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Herod, the ruler of Galilee, becoming aware of the remarkable events surrounding Jesus' ministry. He is confused and troubled by the reports he hears, particularly the idea that John the Baptist, whom he had executed, might have come back to life. This reflects Herod's guilt and fear, as he had a role in John's death. The mention of John’s resurrection indicates the growing impact of Jesus’ works and the rumors that were spreading about Him. People were connecting Jesus’ miracles and teachings to John, which added to Herod's anxiety. Herod's perplexity shows how the extraordinary nature of Jesus' ministry was causing unrest among the leaders of the time, as they struggled to understand the implications of these events. This moment highlights the tension between earthly authority and divine power, as well as the fear that can arise from confronting the truth of God’s work. Explore related renewal.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 9:7 to your life
This verse reminds us that even those in power can feel uncertainty and fear when faced with the truth of God’s work. It encourages us to reflect on our own responses to spiritual truths and to seek understanding rather than fear. We should be open to the transformative power of faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 9:7 mean?
Luke 9:7 describes Herod the tetrarch's confusion upon hearing reports about Jesus and the rumors that John the Baptist had risen from the dead. It highlights Herod's anxiety and guilt over John's execution and reflects the growing impact of Jesus' ministry.
What is the significance of Herod's perplexity in Luke 9:7?
Herod's perplexity in Luke 9:7 signifies the tension between earthly authority and divine power. His confusion illustrates how the extraordinary events surrounding Jesus were unsettling to leaders, revealing their fear of the implications of His ministry.
Why did people think John the Baptist had risen from the dead in Luke 9:7?
People thought John the Baptist had risen from the dead in Luke 9:7 because of the miraculous works and teachings of Jesus, which led them to connect Jesus' ministry with John's legacy. This reflects the public's fascination and uncertainty about Jesus' identity.
What does this verse reveal about Herod's character?
This verse reveals that Herod was troubled and anxious, indicating his guilt over John the Baptist's death. His perplexity shows that he was deeply affected by the rumors surrounding Jesus, reflecting his inner turmoil and fear.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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