Luke 19:3
What does Luke 19:3 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 19:3 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 19:3 means
Zaccheus eagerly sought to see Jesus, curious about who he was. However, his short stature prevented him from seeing over the large crowd that had gathered around Jesus. This physical limitation highlights his earnest desire to encounter Jesus despite the obstacles, demonstrating an initial step of spiritual yearning beyond mere curiosity. His determined effort to overcome this crowd barrier sets him apart from casual onlookers.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the crowd, because he was little of stature.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the crowd, because he was little of stature.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Made an attempt to get a view of Jesus, and was not able to do so, because of the people, for he was a small man.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and he was seeking to see Jesus, who he is, and was not able for the multitude, because in stature he was small,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And he sought to see Jesus who he was: and he could not for the crowd, because he was low of stature.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And he sought to see Jesus who he was: and he could not for the crowd, because he was little in stature.
Context
This verse describes Zaccheus's initial, yet frustrated, attempt to see Jesus, immediately following his introduction. It sets up the problem he faced due to the crowd and his height, which then leads directly to his creative solution in the next verse. This intense desire, despite his status, is a significant part of the narrative's development, showcasing his active pursuit of an encounter with Jesus.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 12:21
these therefore came to Philip, who was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
- Luke 23:8
Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was of a long time desirous to see him, because he had heard concerning him; and he hoped to see some miracle done by him.
- Luke 9:7
Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done: and he was much perplexed, because that it was said by some, that John was risen from the dead;
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