And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.

LUKE 22:23KJV
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Luke 22:23 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:23 mean?

Luke 22:23 describes how Jesus’ disciples began questioning each other about which one of them might betray him, after Jesus had just revealed that someone at the table would do so. The verse shows their confusion and concern as they try to figure out who among them could possibly commit such a thing.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his closest followers during the Last Supper. The disciples are unsettled by Jesus’ announcement that one of them will betray him, and they start discussing and wondering who he could be talking about. The verse captures a moment of uncertainty and self-examination among the group.

The Greek behind Luke 22:23

  • The word "enquire" comes from the Greek word συζητέω (suzēteō), which means to discuss or debate together. This shows that the disciples were not just quietly wondering, but actively talking among themselves, possibly even debating or accusing.
  • The phrase "among themselves" uses the Greek ἑαυτοῖς (heautois), meaning "to themselves" or "among themselves," emphasizing that this was a private, internal conversation within the group, not a public accusation.
  • The word "should do" is from μέλλω (mellō), which often means "to be about to" or "to be destined to." This highlights that the disciples are trying to figure out who is about to do this act, not who has already done it.

Why Luke 22:23 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the disciples did not know who would betray Jesus, showing their innocence and surprise at the accusation.
  • The verse sets the stage for the tension and uncertainty that follows in the narrative, highlighting the seriousness of Jesus’ warning.
  • It connects to the broader theme of misunderstanding and confusion among the disciples, which is a recurring element in the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest.

Where else these words appear

“enquire” Greek G4802 · used in 10 verses

  • Mark 1:27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.
  • Mark 9:14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them.
  • Luke 24:15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.

“was” 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.

“do” Greek G4238 · used in 36 verses

  • Luke 3:13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.
  • Acts 19:19 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.
  • Romans 2:25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.

“which” Greek G686 · used in 51 verses

  • Matthew 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
  • Acts 11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.