But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
LUKE 10:40KJVWhat does Luke 10:40 mean?
Luke 10:40 describes Martha feeling overwhelmed by all the work of serving and asking Jesus to tell her sister Mary to help her. Martha is frustrated that Mary has left her to handle the preparations alone and wants Jesus to intervene.
In this scene, Martha speaks directly to Jesus while Mary is sitting and listening to him. The verse shows Martha’s concern with practical tasks and her sense of unfairness, while Mary is focused on Jesus’ teaching. The verse sets up a contrast between the two sisters’ priorities and highlights Martha’s emotional state as she seeks help from Jesus.
The Greek behind Luke 10:40
- The word "cumbered" is from περιεσπάτο (periespato), which means to be distracted or pulled away by many things. This shows Martha is not just busy, but her attention is scattered and weighed down by her responsibilities.
- The word "serving" is διακονία (diakonia), which often means practical service or ministry. Here, it refers to Martha’s work preparing and serving, highlighting the real, hands-on nature of her tasks.
- The word "help" is συναντιλάβηται (synantilabētai), which means to take hold together with, or to assist. Martha is not just asking for company, but for real, active help in her work.
Why Luke 10:40 matters
- This verse clears up that Martha’s frustration is not just about being busy, but about feeling alone and unsupported in her work, which adds emotional weight to her request.
- The verse highlights the tension between practical service and attentive listening, a theme that Jesus will address in the following verses.
- Understanding Martha’s words and actions helps set up the lesson Jesus gives about priorities, showing that both action and attention have their place in following him.