Luke 18:6

What does Luke 18:6 mean?

A plain-English look at Luke 18:6 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Luke 18:6 means

Jesus draws attention to the judge's words and actions within the parable. By asking his listeners to "hear what the unrighteous judge saith," Jesus is not affirming the judge's character but rather highlighting the implication of his decision. The judge's capitulation, even from selfish motives, provides the groundwork for an 'a fortiori' argument: if even such a person can be moved, how much more certainly will a just and loving God respond.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And the Lord said, Hear what the unrighteous judge saith.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And the Lord said, Hear what the unrighteous judge saith.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And the Lord said, Give ear to the words of the evil judge.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And the Lord said, `Hear ye what the unrighteous judge saith:

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And the Lord said: Hear what the unjust judge saith.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge says.

Context

This verse marks a transition from the parable's narrative to Jesus's interpretation and application of its lesson. Jesus directly points His listeners to consider the judge's conclusion, signaling that the divine comparison is about to be made. It prepares the audience to understand the theological implications of the judge's reluctant justice for persistent prayer.

v.5yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest she wear me out by her continual coming.

v.6This passage

v.7And shall not God avenge his elect, that cry to him day and night, and yet he is longsuffering over them?

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 7:13

    And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.

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