Luke 11:31
The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
Luke 11:31 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here." refers to a passage in the Bible where Jesus compares himself to the wisest king in history, King Solomon. The Queen of Sheba, also known as the queen of the south, traveled a great distance to seek wisdom from Solomon, and was amazed by his knowledge and understanding. Jesus uses this example to emphasize that his own teachings and wisdom surpass even that of Solomon. By referencing the Queen of Sheba, Jesus is highlighting the importance of recognizing and accepting his divine authority and teachings. This verse serves as a reminder to remain open to receiving spiritual guidance and wisdom, especially from sources that may be unexpected or unconventional.
Theological Overview
This verse from Luke 11:31 highlights the theological concept of judgment and the comparison between the Queen of the South and Jesus. The Queen of the South, or the Queen of Sheba, is referenced in the Old Testament for her journey to King Solomon to hear his wisdom. In this verse, Jesus uses her as an example to condemn the people of his generation. He claims that the Queen of the South will rise up in judgment with them because she traveled from far to seek wisdom from Solomon, while they fail to recognize the greater wisdom standing before them in Jesus. This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the divine wisdom and authority of Jesus, surpassing even the renowned wisdom of Solomon. It serves as a lesson on the consequences of failing to recognize the truth and wisdom that is presented to us, urging us to heed the teachings of Jesus and accept his authority.
Luke 11:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and shall condemn them: for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
World English Bible
The Queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and will condemn them: for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and behold, one greater than Solomon is here.
Douay-Rheims
The queen of the south shall rise in the judgment with the men of this generation and shall condemn them: because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon. And behold more than Solomon here.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The Queene of the South shall rise in iudgement, with the men of this generation, and shall condemne them: for shee came from the vtmost partes of the earth to heare the wisedome of Salomon, and beholde, a greater then Salomon is here.