Luke 15:26
What does Luke 15:26 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 15:26 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 15:26 means
Confused by the unexpected festivities, the elder son calls one of the servants to inquire about the meaning of the music and dancing. This immediate questioning reveals his surprise and lack of understanding regarding the sudden celebration. His need to ask a servant, rather than inferring the reason, subtly hints at his detachment or inability to comprehend such an outpouring of joy within his own household, setting up his soon-to-be-revealed resentment.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And he called to him one of the servants, and inquired what these things might be.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And he called to him one of the servants, and inquired what these things might be.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And he sent for one of the servants, questioning him about what it might be.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and having called near one of the young men, he was inquiring what these things might be,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And having called one of the servants, he inquired what these things might be.
Context
This verse details the elder son's initial reaction and curiosity, showing his alienation from the joy inside the house. His inquiry to a servant prepares the reader for the shocking news he is about to receive, which will directly trigger his negative response. This step-by-step revelation builds anticipation for the emotional confrontation between the father and the elder son.
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