King James Version

What Does Luke 20:30 Mean?

Luke 20:30 in the King James Version says “And the second took her to wife, and he died childless.” — study this verse from Luke chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And the second took her to wife, and he died childless.”

Luke 20:30 · KJV

Context

28

Saying, Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man's brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.

29

There were therefore seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and died without children.

30

And the second took her to wife, and he died childless.

31

And the third took her; and in like manner the seven also: and they left no children, and died.

32

Last of all the woman died also.

Read Luke 20 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the second took her to wife, and he died childless (ἄτεκνος, ateknos)—The second brother fulfilled his levirate duty but also died without producing offspring. The Sadducees' scenario continues the pattern, building toward their rhetorical climax. Each brother's death childless triggers the next brother's obligation.

The repetition emphasizes the supposed absurdity they're constructing: with each successive brother, the resurrection 'problem' compounds. This verse advances their argument methodically, like a legal brief building its case. The Sadducees were known for their rhetorical skill—this question showcases their sophistication, even as it reveals their theological bankruptcy.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Sadducees controlled the Sanhedrin's majority and were known for their wealth, political power, and collaboration with Rome. They emphasized temple ritual and priestly prerogatives. Their rejection of resurrection stemmed partly from their realized eschatology—God's blessing was prosperity and political stability in the present, not hope for a future age.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does materialistic theology tend to dismiss spiritual realities it cannot control or comprehend?
  2. When does rhetorical sophistication mask spiritual poverty?
  3. What assumptions about marriage and family are you tempted to project onto eternal realities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
καὶ1 of 10

“And”

G2532

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

ἔλαβεν2 of 10

“took”

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

ὁ3 of 10
G3588

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

δεύτερος4 of 10

“the second”

G1208

(ordinal) second (in time, place, or rank; also adverb)

τὴν5 of 10
G3588

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

γυναῖκα,6 of 10

“her to wife”

G1135

a woman; specially, a wife

καὶ7 of 10

“And”

G2532

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

οὑτὸς8 of 10

“he”

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

απέθανεν9 of 10

“died”

G599

to die off (literally or figuratively)

ἄτεκνος10 of 10

“childless”

G815

childless

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 20:30 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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