King James Version
What Does Luke 11:44 Mean?
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.”
Context
42
But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
43
Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.
44
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.
45
Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also.
46
And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(44) **Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!**—The better MSS. give simply, *Woe unto you, Pharisees,* (See Note on Matthew 23:27.)
**Ye are as graves which appear not.**—The comparison, though drawn from the same object, presents a different phase of it. In St. Matthew the contrast is between the whitened surface and the decaying bones within. Here the whitewash is worn out, and there is nothing to distinguish the graves, and men walk over them without knowing what lies below the surface.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Luke 11:44 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Luke 11:44
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge