King James Version

What Does Luke 21:22 Mean?

“For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.”

Context

And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.

Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto .

For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.

But woe unto them that are with child , and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.

And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **These be the days of vengeance.**—The words answer to the “great tribulation” of St. Matthew and St. Mark, and seem, as indeed does St. Luke’s report of the discourse throughout, to be of the nature of a paraphrase. The word “vengeance” may have been chosen, on this view, in allusive reference to the teaching of Luke 18:7-8. It may be noted as one which, though not exclusively used by them, is yet characteristic both of St. Luke and St. Paul (Romans 12:19; 2Corinthians 7:11; and 2Thessalonians 1:8). The reference to the “things which are (better, *have been*) written,” is peculiar to St. Luke.

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 21:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.