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Luke 23:28

But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.

Luke 23:28 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the Bible, Jesus is addressing a group of women who are lamenting and weeping for him as he is being led to his crucifixion. His words, "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children," carry a profound message about the importance of looking beyond the immediate suffering and towards the bigger picture. Jesus is urging the women to focus on their own spiritual well-being and that of their children, rather than solely mourning his physical pain. By encouraging them to consider the future and the consequences of their actions, Jesus is teaching a valuable lesson about compassion, empathy, and the interconnectedness of humanity. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize the well-being of others and to understand the deeper implications of our actions on ourselves and future generations.

Theological Overview

When Jesus turned to the women of Jerusalem and told them not to weep for him but for themselves and their children, it reveals a deep theological interpretation of his mission and purpose. The act of comforting the women amidst his own suffering shows Jesus’ selflessness and compassion, highlighting his role as the Savior who came to bear the burdens of humanity. The call to weep for themselves and their children can be seen as a warning of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, a prophetic message that encourages repentance and a turning towards God. This verse emphasizes the importance of looking beyond immediate circumstances to the greater spiritual realities at play, pointing towards the ultimate redemption and restoration that Jesus came to bring through his sacrifice. The word "weep" holds a significant theological weight, encompassing not just a surface-level emotional response but a call to lament and seek God's mercy and forgiveness. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of Jesus' sacrificial love and the urgent need for spiritual renewal and reconciliation.

Luke 23:28 in other translations

American Standard Version

But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.

World English Bible

But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, don’t weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children.

Douay-Rheims

But Jesus turning to them, said: Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not over me; but weep for yourselves and for your children.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But Iesus turned backe vnto them, and said, Daughters of Hierusalem, weepe not for me, but weepe for your selues, and for your children.