Devine Scripture

Luke 24:40

What does Luke 24:40 mean?

A plain-English look at Luke 24:40 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Luke 24:40 means

He shows them His hands and feet—marks of crucifixion that authenticate His identity. These scars, once signs of shame, now serve as royal seals of victory. The continuity between the pre-death Jesus and the risen Lord is undeniable. The same body that was nailed to the cross now stands alive in their midst. This brief verse underscores that the resurrection is not a replacement but a transformation. The wounds speak: the price has been paid, and death has been conquered. The disciples’ senses are confronted with grace embodied, compelling faith that moves beyond terror to joyful certainty.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And when he had said this, he let them see his hands and his feet.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And having said this, he shewed to them the hands and the feet,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And when he had said this, he shewed them his hands and feet.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And having said this he shewed them his hands and his feet.

Context

Verse 40 succinctly records Jesus’ demonstration following His invitation in verse 39. The narrative then notes their mixture of joy and disbelief in verse 41 and Jesus’ request for food, leading to His eating in front of them (vv. 41–43). This sequence removes any doubt that they might be seeing a non-corporeal vision. With evidence established, the chapter will shift to Jesus’ instruction about Scripture fulfillment and the mission that flows from His death and resurrection (vv. 44–49).

v.39See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye behold me having.

v.40This passage

v.41And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here anything to eat?

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