What does Luke 21:23 mean?

Explanation

The verse Luke 21:23 is a part of a larger passage where Jesus is describing the events that will occur before the destruction of Jerusalem and the difficulties that people will face during that time.

The "woe" mentioned here is an expression of deep regret or distress, implying that those who are pregnant or nursing infants will experience extreme hardship.

The reference to "great distress in the land" speaks of widespread suffering, while "wrath upon this people" suggests divine judgement or punishment.

The literal meaning is straightforward, it warns of a difficult time for expectant and nursing mothers, but it also has a figurative interpretation, as it may be seen as a metaphor for the vulnerability and challenges the followers of Christ will endure in times of persecution and tribulation.

Historical Context

This verse is part of what is often called the Olivet Discourse, a speech given by Jesus on the Mount of Olives, as recorded in Luke 21.

The speech is a response to the disciples' questions about the signs of the end times and the destruction of the temple.

This was a particularly turbulent period in Judean history, leading up to the First Jewish–Roman War (66-73 CE), which culminated in the siege of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE.

The cultural and historical context of this verse is rooted in the Jewish expectation of an imminent Messianic age and the accompanying geopolitical tensions between the Jewish people and the Roman Empire.

The discourse reflects an apocalyptic worldview common at that time, which expected divine intervention in human affairs.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints interpret this verse in various ways.

Preterists argue that this verse was specifically referring to the hardship faced during the Roman siege of Jerusalem.

Futurists, on the other hand, believe this verse predicts events that are yet to come, a Great Tribulation that will occur before the second coming of Christ.

Historically, some theologians have seen the suffering described in the verse as symbolic of the church's hardships, representing spiritual trials and persecution.

Practical Applications

Despite its context of impending doom, this verse can offer modern-day practical applications, such as the importance of preparedness for difficult times and the need for support and compassion towards those who are particularly vulnerable, such as pregnant women or new mothers.

It also serves as a reminder for communities to come together in times of crisis, providing assistance and protection to those who need it most.

Cross-References

• Matthew 24:19: "And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!"
• Mark 13:17: "But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!"

These parallel verses in Matthew and Mark also describe the difficulties faced by pregnant women and nursing mothers during times of tribulation.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key word "ἐντοῖς ἡμέραις ἐκείναις" translates to "in those days," suggesting a specific time period of struggle.

The word "οὐαί" (woe) is used as an exclamation of grief or denunciation.

The phrase "μεγάλη ἀνάγκη" (great distress) implies severe hardship or necessity, and "τῷ λαῷ τούτῳ" (upon this people) identifies the recipients of the divine wrath, which could historically refer to the Jewish people under Roman rule.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn with apocalyptic elements present in other ancient myths, such as those found in the epic poetry of Homer or the prophetic writings of Zoroastrianism, which also speak of a time of great suffering preceding a new era.

Additionally, many religious interpretations share the notion of a testing period before a promised deliverance, such as in Hinduism's concept of Kali Yuga, a dark age before renewal.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific perspective, the verse's reference to pregnant women and nursing mothers speaks to the increased vulnerability of these groups during times of social upheaval, famine, or war.

Studies in fields such as psychology and sociology might examine how these populations cope under extreme stress, echoing the concerns raised in this biblical text.

Commentaries

Commentaries vary in their interpretation of Luke 21:23.

• Some commentators view it as directly fulfilling Jesus' prophesied destruction of Jerusalem and the temple in 70 CE.
• Others, taking a futurist approach, relate it to the end-times scenario and the tribulation period described in the Book of Revelation.
• Apocalyptic-focused interpretations highlight the urgent need for repentance and aligning oneself with God's will before the arrival of these distressing times.
• Ethical responses from commentators stress the social responsibility Christians have to protect and support the most vulnerable in society, particularly in the face of conflict and disaster.

Overall, these commentaries reflect a range of perspectives, encompassing historical, eschatological, social, and ethical considerations.