Luke 19:20 (KJV)

What does Luke 19:20 mean?

Luke 19:20 describes how a servant approaches his master and returns the money ("pound") he was given, explaining that he kept it hidden away in a cloth instead of using it. The servant did not invest or use the money in any way, but simply preserved it and now gives it back just as it was.

In this scene, Jesus is telling a parable to His listeners. The "lord" in the story represents a master who had entrusted his servants with money while he was away. This particular servant admits to doing nothing with what he was given, choosing instead to keep it wrapped up and unused. The verse sets up a contrast with other servants who tried to make more with what they received.

The Greek behind Luke 19:20

• "napkin" (σουδάριον, soudarion): This word refers to a cloth or handkerchief, often used for wrapping or covering things. Here, it emphasizes that the servant hid the money away, not intending to use or risk it in any way.
• "pound" (μνᾶ, mna): This was a unit of money in the ancient world, representing something valuable entrusted to the servant. The use of this specific term highlights that the servant was given a real responsibility.

Why Luke 19:20 matters

• Luke 19:20 clarifies that the servant's failure was not losing the money, but refusing to use or invest what was entrusted to him, which is a key point in the parable.
• This verse helps set up the master's response in the following verses, showing the consequences of inaction and missed opportunity.
• The detail about the napkin (σουδάριον, soudarion) adds a sense of caution or even fear, suggesting the servant was more concerned with avoiding loss than with doing anything productive.