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Luke 5:13

And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

Luke 5:13 · King James Version

Meaning

When Jesus encountered a man with leprosy, a disease considered unclean and untouchable in biblical times, he demonstrated his power and compassion by reaching out and touching the man. By doing so, he not only healed him physically but also symbolically cleansed him of his impurity. The act of touching the leper was a powerful gesture, as it showed that Jesus was not afraid to come into contact with those who were marginalized and shunned by society. The words "I will: be thou clean" speak to Jesus's authority and ability to heal with just a word. The immediate departure of the leprosy highlights the quick and complete healing power of Jesus. This verse serves as a reminder of Jesus's compassion for the outcasts and his ability to bring about transformation and restoration in the lives of those who are suffering. It also demonstrates the importance of faith and belief in receiving healing from Jesus.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the story of Jesus healing a leper is told. The theological interpretation of this passage points to the compassion and power of Jesus, as he reaches out and touches the leper, declaring his intention to heal him. The act of touching the leper was significant as leprosy was considered highly contagious and untouchable. By touching the leper, Jesus displayed his willingness to take on the uncleanness of the man in order to heal him. The word studies of this verse reveal the Greek word used for 'I will' is 'θέλω' (thelō), which denotes a strong desire or purposeful intention. This emphasizes Jesus' deliberate decision to heal the leper, showing his authority in declaring the man clean. The immediate healing that follows further underscores Jesus' divine power and ability to bring about instant transformation. Overall, this verse showcases Jesus' compassion, authority, and miraculous abilities in bringing healing and restoration to those in need.

Luke 5:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

And he stretched forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou made clean. And straightway the leprosy departed from him.

World English Bible

He stretched out his hand, and touched him, saying, “I want to. Be made clean.” Immediately the leprosy left him.

Douay-Rheims

And stretching forth his hand, he touched him, saying: I will. Be thou cleansed. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

Geneva Bible (1599)

So he stretched forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will, be thou cleane. And immediately the leprosie departed from him.