Luke 21:23
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.
Luke 21:23 · King James Version
Meaning
Jesus' warning in this verse from the book of Luke is a prophecy about the trials and hardships that will befall people during a time of great distress. The mention of women who are pregnant or nursing infants carries a particular weight, as these vulnerable individuals will face even more challenges and difficulties. The phrase "woe unto them" serves as a somber reminder of the difficult circumstances that will arise during this period of turmoil. The verse speaks to the severity of the situation, emphasizing the gravity of the distress that will be experienced by all. The mention of "wrath upon this people" further emphasizes the consequences of living in a time of great turmoil and upheaval. This verse serves as a cautionary message, urging readers to be prepared for hardships and challenges that may come their way.
Theological Overview
Here, Jesus is warning about the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, which historically occurred in 70 AD when the Romans besieged the city. The reference to women who are pregnant or nursing babies being especially vulnerable in those days may have a dual significance. On one level, it speaks to the physical dangers that pregnant and nursing mothers would face during a time of intense upheaval and distress. On a symbolic level, it may also point to the spiritual vulnerability and need for protection during times of trial and tribulation.
The word "woe" in this context is a pronouncement of judgment or distress, highlighting the severity of the situation that is to come. The term "great distress" speaks to the widespread suffering and hardship that will be experienced by the people of that time. The mention of "wrath upon this people" suggests divine anger or punishment for their sins and disobedience.
Overall, this verse serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of rejecting God and disobeying His commandments. It underscores the importance of remaining faithful and seeking refuge in Him during times of trouble and turmoil. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can gain a deeper understanding of the prophetic warnings and teachings found in this passage.
Luke 21:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
Woe unto them that are with child and to them that give suck in those days! for there shall be great distress upon the land, and wrath unto this people.
World English Bible
Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who nurse infants in those days! For there will be great distress in the land, and wrath to this people.
Douay-Rheims
But woe to them that are with child and give suck in those days: for there shall be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But woe be to them that be with childe, and to them that giue sucke in those dayes: for there shalbe great distresse in this land, and wrath ouer this people.