Luke 9:45
What does Luke 9:45 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 9:45 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 9:45 means
The disciples did not understand; it was concealed from them so they would not perceive it, and they were afraid to ask about it. Their lack of comprehension shows human limitation in grasping God’s ways; divine timing and inward readiness often control revelation. Fear to question may indicate confusion, respect, or reluctance to face painful truths. This concealment protects the narrative’s unfolding: full meaning of Jesus’ suffering becomes clear only through the cross and resurrection. The disciples’ silence points to a learning process that requires experience, not just hearing.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But they understood not this saying, and it was concealed from them, that they should not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
KJV
King James Version · 1611But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But they understood not this saying, and it was concealed from them, that they should not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But this saying was not clear to them and its sense was kept secret from them so that they were not able to see it: and they had fear of questioning him about it.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And they were not knowing this saying, and it was veiled from them, that they might not perceive it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752But they understood not this word: and it was hid from them, so that they perceived it not. And they were afraid to ask him concerning this word.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them that they should not perceive it. And they feared to ask him concerning this saying.
Context
This verse follows Jesus’ reminder about his being handed over (v.44) and explains the disciples’ inability to grasp it. Luke clarifies their confusion is not mere stupidity but part of a larger pedagogical pattern: they will only understand after events unfold. Their fear to ask suggests a complex mix of reverence and uncertainty. What follows—dispute over greatness (v.46) and Jesus teaching humility (vv.47–48)—shows their misunderstanding of true discipleship despite their privileged intimacy.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 16:17
Some of his disciples therefore said one to another, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye behold me not; and again a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?
- Mark 9:32
But they understood not the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
- Luke 18:34
And they understood none of these things; and this saying was hid from them, and they perceived not the things that were said.
- John 12:34
The multitude therefore answered him, We have heard out of the law that the Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man?
- Luke 2:50
And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
- 2 Corinthians 3:14
but their minds were hardened: for until this very day at the reading of the old covenant the same veil remaineth, it not being revealed to them that it is done away in Christ.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Luke 9
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Luke 9.
Topics that quote it
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.
Topic
Bible Verses About Compassion
The Bible reveals God’s deep compassion for humanity and calls believers to extend similar mercy and understanding to others, reflecting His love.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
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.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When You Feel Forgotten by God
When the prayers feel one-sided — verses for the quiet seasons.