And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell.

LUKE 10:15KJV
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Luke 10:15 (KJV)

What does Luke 10:15 mean?

Luke 10:15 describes how Capernaum, a city that saw itself as highly favored or important (“exalted to heaven”), will face a dramatic reversal and be brought down to destruction (“thrust down to hell”). The verse warns that pride and privilege do not guarantee safety from judgment.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to the people of Capernaum, a city where He performed many miracles. He is warning them that despite their blessings and opportunities, their lack of response and repentance will lead to severe consequences. The language paints a vivid contrast between being lifted up and being cast down, highlighting the seriousness of ignoring Jesus’ message.

The Greek behind Luke 10:15

  • ἐξαρθῇς (exalted, G5312): This word means to be lifted up or raised high. Here, it suggests Capernaum’s sense of pride or special status.
  • οὐρανός (heaven, G3772): The Greek word for “heaven” emphasizes the extreme height of Capernaum’s perceived position.
  • καταβιβασθήσῃ (down, G2601): This word means to be brought down or cast down, showing a sharp reversal from their high position.
  • ᾅδης (hell, G86): The Greek word here is “Hades,” often understood as the realm of the dead or a place of judgment, not necessarily the final place of punishment but a serious warning of downfall.

Why Luke 10:15 matters

  • Luke 10:15 clarifies that spiritual privilege or exposure to Jesus’ works does not guarantee favor if there is no genuine response.
  • The verse connects to Jesus’ broader warnings to other cities, showing a pattern of accountability for those who witness God’s work but remain unrepentant.
  • The strong imagery of being lifted to heaven and cast down to Hades helps readers understand the seriousness of ignoring Jesus’ message, regardless of one’s status or history.

Where else these words appear

“down” Greek G2601 · used in 2 verses

  • Matthew 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.

“hell” Greek G86 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
  • Acts 2:27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
  • Revelation 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

“Capernaum” Greek G2584 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 4:13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
  • Mark 2:1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.
  • John 2:12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.

“exalted” Greek G5312 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
  • John 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
  • Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.