Luke 18:9 (KJV)

What does Luke 18:9 mean?

Luke 18:9 introduces a parable Jesus told to people who were confident in their own goodness and looked down on others. The verse sets the stage by pointing out that the story is aimed at those who trusted in themselves for righteousness and had contempt for other people.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a group that believed their own actions or character made them right before God, while dismissing others as less worthy. The verse highlights the attitude of self-righteousness and judgmentalism, which becomes the main issue addressed in the parable that follows (the Pharisee and the tax collector). Luke, the writer, makes it clear from the start who the lesson is for and what kind of mindset is being challenged.

The Greek behind Luke 18:9

• The word "trusted" is from the Greek πεποιθότας (pepoithotas), which means to be convinced or to have confidence. Here, it emphasizes that these people relied on themselves for being "righteous" rather than on God.
• The word "despised" comes from ἐξουθενέω (exoutheneo), meaning to treat others as nothing or to look down on them. This shows that the problem is not just self-confidence, but also a dismissive attitude toward others.
• The word "righteous" is from δίκαιοι (dikaioi), which means morally right or just. The verse points out that the people thought of themselves as already meeting the standard of goodness.

Why Luke 18:9 matters

• Luke 18:9 clarifies that the parable is not a general story, but a direct challenge to those who are self-satisfied and judgmental, helping readers understand the target audience.
• The verse warns against the danger of comparing oneself to others and feeling superior, which is a subtle but common human tendency.
• By setting up the parable this way, Luke helps the reader see that Jesus is addressing not just outward actions, but the inner attitude of the heart.