Luke 17:35 (KJV)

What does Luke 17:35 mean?

Luke 17:35 describes a moment when two women are working side by side, grinding grain, and suddenly one is taken while the other is left behind. The verse highlights a sudden and unexpected separation between people who are together in daily life.

In this part of Luke, Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the coming of the "Son of Man" and how it will happen unexpectedly, like in the days of Noah or Lot. The image of two women grinding grain together shows an ordinary, everyday activity, emphasizing that this event will come without warning, affecting people in the midst of their normal routines.

The Greek behind Luke 17:35

• "παραλημφθήσεται" (paralēmphthēsetai, G3880) — translated as "shall be taken," this word often means to take alongside or receive. Here, it suggests a sudden removal or being taken away, which adds to the sense of surprise and separation.
• "ἀφεθήσεται" (aphethēsetai, G863) — translated as "left," this word means to leave behind or abandon. The contrast between being taken and being left is sharp, underlining the division that will occur.
• "ἀλήθουσαι" (alēthousai, G229) — translated as "grinding," this word refers specifically to the act of grinding grain, a common daily chore for women in that culture. This grounds the scene in everyday life, showing that the event will interrupt normal activities.

Why Luke 17:35 matters

• Luke 17:35 clears up the idea that the coming of the "Son of Man" will be obvious or announced ahead of time; instead, it will happen in the midst of ordinary life.
• The verse emphasizes that people who are closely connected—working side by side—may have very different outcomes, highlighting the personal and individual nature of the event.
• This detail connects to the surrounding verses, which use similar imagery (like people in a field or on a rooftop) to stress the suddenness and unpredictability of what Jesus is describing.