King James Version

What Does Luke 20:32 Mean?

Luke 20:32 in the King James Version says “Last of all the woman died also.” — study this verse from Luke chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Last of all the woman died also.”

Luke 20:32 · KJV

Context

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.

33

Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she? for seven had her to wife.

34

And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Last of all the woman died also (ὕστερον πάντων ἀπέθανεν ἡ γυνή, hysteron pantōn apethanen hē gynē)—The adverb ὕστερον (hysteron) means 'afterward' or 'finally.' After outliving all seven brothers, the widow herself dies. The stage is now set for the Sadducees' question about resurrection.

This detail is crucial to their argument: if she died after all seven, none can claim priority based on ongoing marriage. The woman's death completes the scenario, removing any earthly resolution. The Sadducees will argue that resurrection creates irresolvable contradictions with Mosaic law—forcing Jesus to either deny Moses or deny resurrection.

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Historical & Cultural Context

High female mortality in childbirth meant many women died before their husbands. That this woman outlived seven husbands would be extraordinary but dramatizes the dilemma. Widows without children or living brothers-in-law often became destitute, dependent on charity—another reason levirate marriage was merciful legislation in its context.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this story highlight the vulnerability of childless widows in ancient patriarchal cultures?
  2. What does it mean that God's law protected the socially vulnerable through institutions like levirate marriage?
  3. How do we honor the purpose of biblical laws (protection, justice) without merely replicating their forms?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
ὕστερον1 of 7

“Last”

G5305

more lately, i.e., eventually

δὲ2 of 7
G1161

but, and, etc

πάντων3 of 7

“of all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἀπέθανεν4 of 7

“died”

G599

to die off (literally or figuratively)

καὶ5 of 7

“also”

G2532

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

ἡ6 of 7
G3588

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

γυνὴ7 of 7

“the woman”

G1135

a woman; specially, a wife

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 20:32 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 20:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ecclesiastes 1:4Ecclesiastes 9:5Hebrews 9:27Judges 2:10

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