Luke 13:11 (KJV)

What does Luke 13:11 mean?

Luke 13:11 describes a woman who had suffered from a disabling condition for eighteen years, caused by what the text calls a "spirit of infirmity," leaving her bent over and unable to straighten herself. The verse draws attention to the severity and long duration of her suffering, highlighting her complete inability to stand upright.

In this scene, Luke is narrating an event during Jesus’ teaching in a synagogue. The focus is on the woman’s physical and spiritual affliction, which is described as lasting for a significant period—eighteen years. The language used underlines both her helplessness and the extraordinary nature of her condition, setting the stage for what Jesus will do next.

The Greek behind Luke 13:11

• πνεῦμα (pneuma, "spirit"): This word is often understood as referring to a spiritual influence or force, not just a physical illness. Here, it suggests that her condition had a spiritual dimension, not merely a medical one.
• ἀσθενείας (astheneias, "infirmity"): This word means weakness or sickness, emphasizing her lack of strength and the seriousness of her disability.
• συγκύπτουσα (sugkyptousa, "bowed together"): The Greek word paints a vivid picture of someone bent completely forward, unable to straighten up, stressing the total effect of her condition.
• οὐκ ἠδύνατο (ouk ēdynato, "could in no wise"): This phrase strongly emphasizes her inability—she was completely powerless to help herself, no matter how hard she tried.

Why Luke 13:11 matters

• Luke 13:11 clarifies that the woman’s suffering was not just physical but also had a spiritual cause, which is important for understanding Jesus’ response in the following verses.
• The verse highlights the length and severity of her condition, making her healing a clear sign of Jesus’ compassion and authority.
• This detail prepares the reader for the controversy that follows, as Jesus’ healing on the Sabbath challenges the religious leaders’ expectations and priorities.