Luke 18:3

Hebrew Bible (DHNT) 1885 - Delitzsch's Hebrew New Testament

ואלמנה היתה בעיר ההיא ותבא אליו לאמר דינה את־דיני ממריבי׃

What Does This Mean?

This verse is about a widow who goes to someone for help. She asks him to punish her enemy for wronging her. The key message here is the struggle of the weak against oppression.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a game, and there's a bully who keeps taking your toys. You go to a teacher or parent and say, 'Please stop that mean kid from taking my stuff.' That's like what this widow did; she asked for help when someone was being mean to her.

Historical Background

Luke wrote this account as part of his Gospel, around AD 60-80. He targeted both Jewish and Gentile Christians living in the Roman Empire, where widows often faced significant hardships and were vulnerable to injustice.

Living It Out Today

Consider a scenario where a single parent is struggling with an unfair landlord. Just like the widow seeking justice, this person might need to seek legal help or community support to ensure fair treatment and protection of their rights.

Topics

• justice
• oppression
• widows
• social injustice
• seeking help
• compassion

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 10:18
• Psalm 68:5
• Proverbs 23:10-11
• James 1:27
• Luke 4:18

Recommended Reading

Commentary Luke Commentaries → Get This Bible DHNT Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the widow seeking vengeance?

The widow likely seeks vengeance because she has been wronged and feels powerless to right that wrong herself. In a society where widows were often marginalized, asking for help was crucial.

Who is 'him' in this verse?

'Him' refers to Jesus Christ, as the broader context of Luke 18 shows that Jesus is teaching about persistent prayer and justice through stories involving a widow.

What can we learn from the widow's persistence?

The widow’s persistence teaches us to be steadfast in seeking justice for ourselves and others. It also highlights the importance of not giving up when facing injustice or oppression.

How does this verse relate to Jesus' teachings on forgiveness?

While the widow seeks vengeance, Jesus often taught about forgiving one’s enemies. This contrast can lead us to reflect deeply on the balance between seeking justice and practicing forgiveness.