Luke 21:20 (KJV)

What does Luke 21:20 mean?

Luke 21:20 means that when people see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, they should recognize that the city’s destruction is very close. Jesus is warning his listeners to watch for this clear sign as an indication that a time of devastation for Jerusalem is about to happen.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples about future events, specifically warning them about the coming siege of Jerusalem. The setting is a conversation where Jesus describes signs that will precede great trouble. The verse is a straightforward alert: the presence of armies around Jerusalem is the unmistakable signal that the city’s ruin is near.

The Greek behind Luke 21:20

• The word "compassed" is from the Greek κυκλουμένην (kykloumenēn, from G2944), which means "being surrounded" or "encircled." This word paints a vivid picture of armies completely enclosing the city, leaving no way out.
• The Greek word for "desolation" is ἐρήμωσις (erēmōsis, from G2050), which refers to devastation, ruin, or being laid waste. This term emphasizes not just defeat but a thorough destruction and abandonment.
• The word "nigh" is ἤγγικεν (ēngiken, from G1448), meaning "has drawn near" or "is at hand." This signals urgency and immediacy, showing that the event is not distant but about to happen.

Why Luke 21:20 matters

• Luke 21:20 clarifies that the warning sign for Jerusalem’s destruction is not vague or hidden but something visible and unmistakable: armies surrounding the city.
• This verse helps readers understand that Jesus’ prophecy was specific and practical, giving his followers a way to recognize when to take action.
• The verse connects to the larger context of Luke 21, where Jesus describes signs of coming judgment, helping to set apart the fall of Jerusalem from other future events he discusses.