What does Luke 11:38 mean?

Explanation

Luke 11:38 recounts an incident involving Jesus and a Pharisee who was surprised that Jesus did not perform a ritual washing before having a meal. The Pharisee's marveling highlights a discrepancy between Jesus' actions and the traditional Jewish practices of that time.

While it's easy to interpret this verse as just a note on hygiene, the focus is on the religious ritual of ceremonial cleanness. Jesus, in other gospel accounts, teaches that outward cleanliness is of less importance than the purity of the heart.

This verse sets the stage for the subsequent teachings of Jesus on the topic of tradition vs. inner righteousness.

Historical Context

During the time when Luke was written, Jewish society was highly observant of various laws and traditions, many of which are documented in the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible).

Among these were detailed instructions about ceremonial washings, which were thought to purify individuals from defilement.

By the first century, these practices had developed into a complex system of ritual purity.

The Pharisees, a prominent religious sect at that time, were particularly known for their strict observance of these washings, which they extended beyond the requirements of the Torah.

Jesus, engaging with this context, often challenged these traditions, focusing instead on the intentions and morality of individuals.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be interpreted in several ways.

One perspective focuses on the contrast between the letter of the law and the spirit of the law.

Jesus often emphasized the importance of the heart's condition over adherence to external rituals.

Another viewpoint considers the criticism of religious hypocrisy, where ritualistic practices are performed for appearance rather than for genuine faith and holiness.

Some theologians see this as a precursor to the New Covenant, where Jesus would establish a more direct, personal relationship with believers, supplanting some of the Old Testament rituals.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, this verse can encourage individuals to prioritize inner transformation over outward religious expressions.

It serves as a reminder that one’s faith and righteousness are not measured by strict adherence to rituals but by the authenticity of one's love and moral character.

It calls on believers to self-reflect on their actions, ensuring they align with genuine faith and compassion rather than mere habit or show.

Cross-References

• Matthew 15:11,20 - Jesus teaching that what comes out of the mouth defiles a person, not what they eat.
• Mark 7:5-8 - The Pharisees and scribes questioning Jesus about his disciples not washing their hands according to the tradition of the elders.
• Isaiah 29:13 - Where God rebukes those whose worship is just a human command learned by rote.
• Matthew 23:25-28 - Jesus admonishing the Pharisees for cleansing the outside of the cup while inside are full of greed and self-indulgence.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word used for "washed" is "baptizo," which often refers to submerging or immersing something in water. In the context of the New Testament, it is commonly associated with the Christian practice of baptism.

However, in this case, it is used to describe a ritual washing, which was a smaller scale purification and not the same as Christian baptism. Another significant word is "pharisaio," referring to the Pharisee, which often alludes to a religious leader known for being meticulous about the law.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient religions and cultures, rituals of purification were common.

For example, in ancient Egypt, there were elaborate rituals of cleansing before ceremonies.

In Greek and Roman religious practices, ablutions were often required before entering a sacred space.

Comparing these, the Jewish purity laws were unique in their extensive integration into daily life and their connection to maintaining the covenant with God.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science emphasizes the importance of hygiene for health purposes, which might initially seem to support the Pharisee's concern for washing before eating.

However, this verse is not primarily about hygiene but about ritual purity. It's interesting to note from a psychological perspective that the power of ritual can strongly influence human behavior, often serving to reinforce group identity and moral codes.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentators have reflected on this verse with differing emphases.

Some, like William Barclay, suggest that Jesus' response exposed the danger of elevating tradition above compassion and the commandment of God.

Others, such as John Gill, underline the tension between Jesus' focus on internal purity and the Pharisees' emphasis on external purity.

Matthew Henry expands on the idea that ceremonial washings, while part of Jewish law, were being applied beyond their intended scope, thus becoming burdens rather than aids to faithful living.