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Luke 17:35

Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

Luke 17:35 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from Luke 17:35, Jesus uses the imagery of two women grinding together to illustrate the concept of judgment and separation. The act of grinding grain was typically done by two women working together, so the scenario described is a common, everyday scene. However, the outcome is unexpected as one woman is taken while the other is left behind. This imagery is meant to convey the sudden and definitive nature of judgment, where individuals will be separated based on their faith and relationship with God. The woman who is taken represents those who are chosen by God for salvation, while the woman who is left behind symbolizes those who are not. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual readiness and faithfulness, as no one knows the exact moment when judgment will come. It encourages believers to be vigilant in their relationship with God and to live in a way that aligns with His will.

Theological Overview

Some theologians interpret the verse 'Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.' as a reference to the coming judgement day, as taught by Jesus in the Gospels. The act of grinding together could symbolize the routine and mundane tasks of daily life, highlighting that the judgement day will come suddenly and unexpectedly, catching people in the midst of their daily activities. This interpretation underscores the importance of being spiritually prepared at all times, as indicated by the two different outcomes for the women. The word "taken" could signify being taken into the kingdom of God, while the word "left" could imply being left behind for judgement. Word studies of 'grinding' in this context could suggest the idea of separation, with one woman being taken away and the other remaining behind. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the uncertainty of when the end times will come and the need for readiness and spiritual vigilance in anticipation of that day.

Luke 17:35 in other translations

American Standard Version

There shall be two women grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

World English Bible

There will be two grinding grain together. One will be taken, and the other will be left.”

Douay-Rheims

Two women shall be grinding together. The one shall be taken and the other shall be left. Two men shall be in the field. The one shall be taken and the other shall be left.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Two women shalbe grinding together: the one shalbe taken, and the other shalbe left.