King James Version

What Does Luke 18:36 Mean?

Luke 18:36 in the King James Version says “And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant.” — study this verse from Luke chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant.”

Luke 18:36 · KJV

Context

34

And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.

35

And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging:

36

And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant.

37

And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.

38

And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant (ἀκούσας ὄχλου διαπορευομένου ἐπυνθάνετο τί εἴη τοῦτο, akousas ochlou diaporeuomenou epynthaneto ti eiē touto)—Blindness heightens hearing; the beggar detects unusual commotion. The verb diaporeuomai (to pass through, travel past) in participle form emphasizes movement's immediacy—this is his moment. Epynthaneto (he was inquiring, asking repeatedly) suggests persistent questions: Why this crowd? Who comes?

The phrase what it meant (τί εἴη τοῦτο, ti eiē touto) uses the optative mood, expressing deliberative questioning. He senses something significant is happening—Passover pilgrims were common, but this crowd sounds different. His question demonstrates spiritual alertness despite physical blindness. Unlike the seeing disciples who understand 'none of these things' (v. 34), this blind man will perceive Jesus's identity with theological precision.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Blind beggars relied on auditory cues to identify potential benefactors. A large, excited crowd suggested someone important—perhaps a wealthy patron or popular teacher. The beggar's question shows strategic thinking: knowing who passed might inform his begging appeal.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does spiritual alertness often compensate for other deficiencies, whether physical or social?
  2. What 'sounds' or spiritual stirrings in your life have prompted you to ask, 'What does this mean?'
  3. How does the beggar's curiosity model the seeking heart that recognizes divine opportunity?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
ἀκούσας1 of 8

“hearing”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

δὲ2 of 8

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

ὄχλου3 of 8

“the multitude”

G3793

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

διαπορευομένου4 of 8

“pass by”

G1279

to travel through

ἐπυνθάνετο5 of 8

“he asked”

G4441

to question, i.e., ascertain by inquiry (as a matter of information merely; and thus differing from g2065, which properly means a request as a favor;

τί6 of 8

“what”

G5101

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

εἴη7 of 8

“meant”

G1498

might (could, would, or should) be

τοῦτο8 of 8

“it”

G5124

that thing

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 18:36 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 18:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 21:10-11Luke 15:26

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