Luke 22:7 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:7 mean?

Luke 22:7 describes the arrival of the day during the Jewish festival of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed according to tradition. This verse marks the time when preparations for the Passover meal were required by Jewish law.

In this verse, Luke is narrating the events leading up to Jesus’ final meal with his disciples. The “day of unleavened bread” refers to the start of a week-long festival, and the specific requirement to kill the Passover lamb sets the stage for the Last Supper. This moment signals the beginning of a significant sequence in the story, as Jesus and his followers prepare to observe a central Jewish tradition.

The Greek behind Luke 22:7

• ἡμέρα (hēmera, G2250): This word means “day.” Here, it highlights the specific, appointed time in the Jewish calendar, emphasizing the importance of timing in the unfolding events.
• πάσχα (pascha, G3957): This is the Greek word for “Passover.” It refers both to the festival and the sacrificial lamb, underlining the connection between the meal Jesus will share and the ancient tradition of deliverance.
• δεῖ (dei, G1163): This word is often translated “must.” It expresses necessity or obligation, showing that the sacrifice of the Passover lamb was not optional but a required part of the festival.

Why Luke 22:7 matters

• Luke 22:7 clarifies that Jesus’ final meal with his disciples takes place at a specific, meaningful moment in the Jewish year, connecting his actions to the story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.
• The verse sets the stage for the Last Supper, helping readers understand why Jesus and his disciples are gathering and what is at stake in the events that follow.
• By mentioning the requirement to kill the Passover lamb, Luke draws attention to themes of sacrifice and fulfillment that run throughout the chapter and the wider Gospel narrative.