And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant.

LUKE 18:36KJV
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Luke 18:36 (KJV)

What does Luke 18:36 mean?

Luke 18:36 describes a man who, upon hearing a large crowd passing by, asks what is happening. The verse shows his curiosity and alertness to the commotion around him.

In this scene, Jesus is approaching Jericho, and a blind man sitting by the roadside hears the noise of a crowd. The man cannot see what is going on, so he relies on his hearing and asks others to explain the situation. This moment sets up the following verses, where the blind man learns that Jesus is near and responds with a plea for mercy.

The Greek behind Luke 18:36

  • The word for "hearing" (ἀκούω, akouō) highlights that the man is responding to what he perceives through sound, not sight, which fits his situation as a blind beggar.
  • The term for "multitude" (ὄχλος, ochlos) refers to a large group or crowd, emphasizing that this was not just a few people but a significant gathering, which would have been unusual and noteworthy.
  • The verb "asked" (ἐπυνθάνετο, epynthaneto) carries the sense of inquiring or seeking information, showing the man's active engagement and desire to understand what is happening around him.

Why Luke 18:36 matters

  • This verse highlights the blind man's dependence on others for information, setting up his later encounter with Jesus and showing his awareness despite his disability.
  • The detail about hearing the crowd emphasizes the unusual nature of the event, drawing attention to Jesus' approach and the excitement surrounding him.
  • Luke 18:36 connects to the larger theme in Luke of people on the margins—like the blind man—being attentive to Jesus and seeking him out, even when others overlook them.

Where else these words appear

“by” Greek G1279 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 6:1 And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands.
  • Luke 13:22 And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem.
  • Acts 16:4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.

“asked” Greek G4441 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
  • John 13:24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.
  • Acts 21:33 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.

“meant” Greek G1498 · used in 12 verses

  • Luke 1:29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
  • Luke 9:46 Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.
  • Acts 8:20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.