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Luke 8:30

And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.

Luke 8:30 · King James Version

Meaning

When Jesus asked the man possessed by demons for his name, the man responded by saying "Legion," which signifies that many demons had taken hold of him. The term "Legion" in this context refers to a large group of Roman soldiers, typically consisting of around 6,000 men. By using this name, the man was essentially indicating that he was being afflicted by a multitude of evil spirits. This interaction highlights the severity of the man's condition and emphasizes the power of Jesus in casting out these demons. The story serves as a powerful demonstration of Jesus' authority over evil forces and his ability to bring about healing and restoration to those who are suffering. Through this encounter, Jesus shows his compassion and his willingness to free individuals from the grip of darkness.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Jesus encounters a man possessed by many demons who refers to himself as "Legion." The term "Legion" was a Roman military designation, referring to a unit of soldiers numbering around 6,000 troops. This implies that the man was possessed by a multitude of evil spirits, emphasizing the severity of his condition. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights Jesus' authority over the demonic realm, as he is able to command the legion of demons to leave the man and cast them into a herd of swine. By asking the man his name, Jesus not only reveals the extent of his possession but also demonstrates his power to heal and restore. This encounter serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare that exists and the ultimate victory that Jesus has over the forces of darkness.

Luke 8:30 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Jesus asked him, What is thy name? And he said, Legion; for many demons were entered into him.

World English Bible

Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He said, “Legion,” for many demons had entered into him.

Douay-Rheims

And Jesus asked him, saying: What is thy name? But he said: Legion. Because many devils were entered into him.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then Iesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? and he sayd, Legion, because many deuils were entred into him.