Luke 10:35 (KJV)

What does Luke 10:35 mean?

Luke 10:35 describes how the Samaritan, after caring for the wounded man, gives money to an innkeeper and promises to cover any extra costs when he returns. The verse shows the Samaritan’s ongoing commitment to the injured man’s well-being, not just a one-time act of kindness.

In this part of Jesus’ parable, the Samaritan is speaking to the innkeeper. The Samaritan gives “two pence” (about two days’ wages) and asks the innkeeper to take care of the man, assuring him that any additional expenses will be repaid. This detail highlights the Samaritan’s generosity and sense of responsibility, which would have stood out to Jesus’ listeners.

The Greek behind Luke 10:35

• The word for “host” is πανδοχεύς (pandocheus), meaning “innkeeper.” This is the only place in the New Testament where this word appears, emphasizing the specific role of the person entrusted with the wounded man’s care.
• The phrase “when I come again” uses ἐν τῷ ἐπανέρχεσθαι (en tō epanerchesthai), which carries the idea of a definite return. The Samaritan is not just making a vague promise but is committed to coming back.
• The Greek word for “repay” is ἀποδίδωμι (apodidōmi), which means to pay back or return what is owed. This underlines the Samaritan’s sense of accountability for any extra costs.

Why Luke 10:35 matters

• Luke 10:35 clarifies that the Samaritan’s help is not limited to immediate aid but includes ongoing care and personal responsibility, which deepens the meaning of “neighbor” in Jesus’ teaching.
• The verse shows that true compassion involves both generosity and follow-through, not just a single act of charity.
• This detail connects to the wider parable by illustrating the contrast between the Samaritan’s actions and the earlier inaction of the priest and Levite, reinforcing Jesus’ point about who truly acts as a neighbor.