And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites.
LUKE 21:2KJVWhat does Luke 21:2 mean?
Luke 21:2 describes Jesus noticing a particular poor widow putting two small coins, called mites, into the temple offering. The verse highlights her poverty and the smallness of her gift in material terms.
In this scene, Jesus is at the temple in Jerusalem, watching people give their offerings. He observes not just the wealthy but also a widow, someone especially vulnerable in that society, contributing what little she has. The verse sets up a contrast between her humble gift and the larger amounts given by others, drawing attention to her situation and the significance of her act.
The Greek behind Luke 21:2
- The word πτωχὴν (ptōchēn, "poor") describes someone in real need, not just modest means. This emphasizes the widow's desperate situation.
- The word λεπτά (lepta, "mites") refers to the smallest coins in circulation, worth very little. This detail underlines how little she had to give, making her act stand out even more.
Why Luke 21:2 matters
- Luke 21:2 helps correct the idea that only large or impressive gifts matter; it draws attention to the value of even the smallest offering when given by someone in need.
- The verse sets up the teaching that follows, where Jesus explains the deeper meaning behind the widow’s act, showing that God values the heart and sacrifice behind a gift.
- By focusing on a widow, the verse highlights the social realities of the time and Jesus’ concern for those on the margins.