King James Version

What Does Luke 12:7 Mean?

Luke 12:7 in the King James Version says “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. — study this verse from Luke chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Luke 12:7 · KJV


Context

5

But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

6

Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?

7

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

8

Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:

9

But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus assures: 'But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.' The phrase 'hairs of your head are numbered' (Greek 'trikes tēs kephalēs pantes ērithmēntai,' τρίχες τῆς κεφαλῆς πάντες ἠρίθμηνται, perfect tense) indicates God's comprehensive knowledge—He knows everything about us, even minutiae. If God tracks individual hairs, He certainly cares about our lives. The comparison to sparrows (v. 6)—worthless birds that God nonetheless provides for—argues from lesser to greater. We're 'of more value' (Greek 'diapherete,' διαφέρετε, differ, excel), therefore God surely cares for us. Fear dissolves when we grasp God's detailed care.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This comes during Jesus' teaching about persecution and confession (vv. 1-12). Disciples faced pressure, threats, and martyrdom. Jesus combats fear with truth about God's care—if He notes sparrows' deaths, He certainly watches over His children. The numbered-hairs statement demonstrates God's omniscience—nothing escapes His notice. Ancient Jews understood God's care for creation (Psalm 147:9—He feeds ravens) but Jesus personalizes it—God knows and cares about each individual's smallest details. This assurance sustained early Christians through persecution. Modern believers facing trials can trust the same detailed, comprehensive divine care.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the image of God numbering our hairs demonstrate His comprehensive knowledge and intimate care for us?
  2. What does the comparison to sparrows teach about arguing from God's care for lesser things to His certain care for His children?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
ἀλλὰ1 of 15

But

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

καὶ2 of 15

even the very

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

αἱ3 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τρίχες4 of 15

hairs

G2359

of uncertain derivation; hair

τῆς5 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κεφαλῆς6 of 15

head

G2776

the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively

ὑμῶν7 of 15

of your

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

πᾶσαι8 of 15

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἠρίθμηνται9 of 15

are

G705

to enumerate or count

μὴ10 of 15

not

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

οὖν11 of 15

therefore

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

φοβεῖσθε·12 of 15

Fear

G5399

to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

πολλῶν13 of 15

than many

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

στρουθίων14 of 15

sparrows

G4765

a little sparrow

διαφέρετε15 of 15

ye are of more value

G1308

to bear through, i.e., (literally) transport; usually to bear apart, i.e., (objectively) to toss about (figuratively, report); subjectively, to "diffe


Study Guide

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 12:7 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 12:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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