For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:

LUKE 5:9KJV
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Luke 5:9 (KJV)

What does Luke 5:9 mean?

Luke 5:9 describes Simon Peter and everyone with him being utterly amazed at the huge number of fish they had just caught. This verse highlights their shock and wonder at something far beyond their normal fishing experience.

In this scene, Jesus has just instructed Simon Peter to let down his nets after a fruitless night of fishing. When the nets come up overflowing with fish, Peter and his companions are overwhelmed by the unexpected catch. The verse sets up their reaction, showing how extraordinary and miraculous this event was to those who witnessed it.

The Greek behind Luke 5:9

  • The word "astonished" comes from two Greek words in the tags: ἐκθάμβος (ekthambos, G2285) and περιέχω (periechō, G4023, here in a passive form meaning "seized with amazement"). Together, these words emphasize not just surprise but a deep, overwhelming sense of awe and shock.
  • The word for "draught" is ἄγρα (agra, G61), which specifically refers to a catch or haul of fish, not just fishing in general. This makes clear that the focus is on the remarkable size of the catch itself.

Why Luke 5:9 matters

  • This verse helps the reader understand just how unexpected and impressive the miracle was to experienced fishermen, making the event stand out as something only possible through divine intervention.
  • The strong language for astonishment underlines that this was not a normal occurrence, setting the stage for Peter’s deeper reaction to Jesus in the following verses.
  • By focusing on the collective amazement of "all that were with him," Luke shows that the miracle affected everyone present, not just Peter, highlighting the public and undeniable nature of what Jesus had done.

Where else these words appear

“draught” Greek G61 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 5:4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

“astonished” Greek G4023 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 23:25 And he wrote a letter after this manner:
  • 1 Peter 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

“astonished” Greek G2285 · used in 3 verses

  • Luke 4:36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.
  • Acts 3:10 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.

“taken” Greek G4815 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 26:55 In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.
  • Luke 2:21 And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
  • Acts 12:3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also.(Then were the days of unleavened bread.)