What does Luke 18:11 mean?

Explanation

The verse Luke 18:11 is taken from the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, as told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke.

This parable contrasts the attitude and prayer of a Pharisee with that of a tax collector.

The Pharisee's prayer is self-righteous and exalting, as he stands by himself and declares his own virtue in comparison to others.

He thanks God that he is not like extortioners, unjust people, adulterers, or even like the tax collector.

The deeper meaning of this parable is a caution against self-righteousness and the belief that one's own actions can justify oneself before God.

Jesus presents the Pharisee as someone who is confident in his own righteousness, missing the heart of what it means to be right before God, which is humility and repentance.

Historical Context

During the time of Jesus, Pharisees were a religious group known for their strict observance of the Law of Moses. Tax collectors, on the other hand, were often despised by the Jewish community for their role in collecting taxes for the Roman Empire and frequently for dishonest practices.

The cultural and religious context of this parable is critical in understanding the contrast Jesus is drawing. It reflects the socio-religious dynamics of first-century Judea and the Pharisees' position of esteem in society versus the tax collectors' reputation for corruption and sin.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse speaks to the danger of legalism and works-righteousness. The Pharisee represents those who rely on their adherence to the law and good deeds to earn God's favor, missing the central Christian tenet of grace.

In contrast, the humble approach of the tax collector later in the parable (Luke 18:13) embodies a recognition of one's sinfulness and the need for God's mercy, aligning with the Christian doctrine of justification by faith.

The Pharisee's prayer also reflects a lack of love and compassion for his fellow man, showcasing a disregard for the second greatest commandment, to love one's neighbor.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse reminds individuals to approach God with humility rather than pride. It advises against comparing oneself with others in a manner that elevates oneself and devalues others. Instead, it encourages self-reflection on one's own need for God's grace and mercy.

The verse can be applied in daily life as a warning against judging others and as a call to cultivate an attitude of humility in personal faith and community relations.

Cross-References

• Matthew 6:5 - "And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men.

Verily I say unto you, They have their reward."

• [Luke 18:13-14](/new-testament/luke/18/13/what-does-luke-18-13-mean) - "And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

• Isaiah 66:2 - "For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word."

Language Study

Significant phrases in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• "stood" (σταθεὶς, statheis): This term indicates not just the physical posture but also the proud attitude of the Pharisee as he sets himself apart to pray.
• "prayed thus with himself" (πρὸς ἑαυτὸν ταῦτα προσηύχετο, pros heauton tauta proseucheto): This phrase suggests a self-referential prayer, focused not on God, but rather on his own self-affirmation.
• "extortioners, unjust, adulterers" (ἅρπαγες, ἄδικοι, μοιχοί, harpages, adikoi, moichoi): These terms categorize grave sins prevalent in society, from which the Pharisee distances himself.
• "as this publican" (ὡς οὗτος ὁ τελώνης, hos houtos ho telones): The reference to the tax collector is used with disdain, showing a societal and personal contempt for this group of people.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn between the self-righteousness of the Pharisee and characters in other ancient myths and religions.

For instance, the Greek mythological character of Narcissus is also absorbed with his own image, although more in physical vanity than moral righteousness.

Religious interpretations from other traditions, such as the Hindu concept of Karma, may emphasize self-improvement and actions leading to spiritual progress, which could contrast with the Christian notion of grace and humility before God.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychological studies often address the concept of the "better-than-average" effect, where individuals tend to overestimate their own qualities and abilities relative to others.

This verse can be seen as an admonition against such cognitive bias.

Moreover, the verse might intersect with scientific understandings of ethical behavior, moral psychology, and communal harmony, reinforcing the value of humility and the avoidance of self-aggrandizement for healthier social dynamics.

commentaries

Various Bible commentators have expounded on Luke 18:11. For example:

• The Expositor's Greek Testament notes that the Pharisee's prayer was more of a "self-congratulatory thanksgiving" than a petition to God.
• Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes how self-righteous the Pharisee is and that he "prayed with himself," suggesting a lack of genuine communication with God.
• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges observes that the Pharisee believed he was justified by comparing himself to others, rather than examining his standing with God.

These commentaries consistently recognize that the Pharisee's prayer is used by Jesus to illustrate a flawed approach to piety and righteousness.