King James Version
What Does Luke 24:42 Mean?
“And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb .”
Context
40
And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
41
And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?
42
And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb .
43
And he took it, and did eat before them.
44
And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(42) **A piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.**—The fact is interesting as pointing to the common food of the disciples. Fish—as in the miracles of the Five Thousand and the Four, and, we may add, in the narrative of John 21:9—seems to have been the staple article of diet. Honey—as in the proverbial speech which described Canaan as a land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 3:8; Exodus 3:17; Deuteronomy 26:9; Deuteronomy 26:15; Jeremiah 11:5, *et al.*)*,* as in the histories of Samson (Judges 14:8) and Jonathan (1Samuel 14:27) and John the Baptist (Matthew 3:4)—was common enough to enter into the diet of the poor. Even in a time of scarcity, when the corn and the olive crops failed, or were laid waste, butter and honey remained as a resource which did not fail (Isaiah 7:15; Isaiah 7:22).
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 24:42 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.