Luke 23:37
What does Luke 23:37 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 23:37 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 23:37 means
Their taunt—“If thou art the King of the Jews, save thyself”—shows they think true kingship means self-preservation and display of power. Jesus’ kingship is different: He saves others by not saving Himself. The mock challenge becomes a mirror for all who demand proof on their terms. The One hanging on the cross is indeed King, but His crown is of thorns, and His throne is a tree. He reigns by laying down His life, revealing a kingdom founded on sacrificial love, not coercion. Their words, meant to shame Him, instead testify to the truth written above His head.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000and saying, If thou art the King of the Jews, save thyself.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901and saying, If thou art the King of the Jews, save thyself.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And saying, If you are the King of the Jews, get yourself free.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and saying, `If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And saying: If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890and saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.
Context
This line continues the soldiers’ ridicule and connects with the public notice that will be mentioned next. The superscription—THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS—states the official charge and becomes an unintended proclamation of truth. Immediately afterward, one criminal joins the insults, while the other recognizes Jesus’ innocence and royal authority. The contrast highlights the two ways people respond to the crucified King.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Luke 23
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Luke 23.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About The Cross
The cross of Jesus Christ is central to Christian faith, representing God's love, sacrifice, and the path to salvation, forgiveness, and new life.
Topic
Bible Verses About Children
God’s Word provides profound insights into the rearing, value, and blessing of children, as well as the responsibilities of both parents and children.
Topic
Bible Verses About Communion
Communion, often called the Lord's Supper, is a sacred practice remembering Jesus' sacrifice and looking forward to His return.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for Trying to Forgive Someone
Honest scripture for when forgiveness feels impossible — or unfair.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Anxiety Before a Job Interview
Quiet your nerves and walk in with steady steps — six verses to pray on the way.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When Prayer Feels Empty
When the words won't come — scripture for the dry prayer life.