King James Version
What Does Luke 12:55 Mean?
“And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.”
Context
53
The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
54
And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.
55
And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.
56
Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?
57
Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(55) **There will be heat.**—See Note on Matthew 20:12. The word rendered “heat” is probably used here as signifying the “burning wind,” the *simoom,* which, blowing over the desert, scorched and withered all that was green and fresh. (Comp. James 1:11, where it is rightly rendered “burning heat.”)
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 12:55 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 12:55
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge