Luke 10:32

And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked [on him], and passed by on the other side.

And {G1161} likewise {G3668}{G2532} a Levite {G3019}, when he was {G1096} at {G2596} the place {G5117}, came {G2064} and {G2532} looked {G1492} on him, and passed by on the other side {G492}.

Likewise a Levi who reached the place and saw him also passed by on the other side.

So too, when a Levite came to that spot and saw him, he passed by on the other side.

And in like manner a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side.

Commentary

Luke 10:32 continues the narrative of Jesus's renowned Parable of the Good Samaritan, describing the second individual to encounter the man who had been robbed, beaten, and left for dead on the dangerous road from Jerusalem to Jericho.

Context of the Parable

This verse is part of a larger story Jesus tells in response to a lawyer's question about how to inherit eternal life and, more specifically, "who is my neighbour?" (Luke 10:29). The parable highlights the true meaning of neighbourliness and compassion. The road itself was notorious for ambushes by robbers, making the victim's plight all the more desperate.

The Levite's Action

Following a priest who also "passed by on the other side" (Luke 10:31), a Levite comes upon the scene. Levites were members of the tribe of Levi, designated for service in the Temple and guardians of the Law. They assisted the priests and were responsible for various religious duties. Their role typically commanded respect and implied a deep understanding and practice of God's commandments, including those related to love and mercy.

The text states that the Levite "came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side." Unlike someone who might genuinely not see the victim, the Levite made a conscious observation. The phrase "passed by on the other side" (Greek: antiparelthon) implies a deliberate act of moving to the opposite side of the road, actively avoiding engagement or responsibility. While some commentators suggest fear of ritual impurity (e.g., from touching a potentially dead body, which would prevent Temple service, as per Numbers 19:11), the parable's ultimate message critiques this prioritization over immediate human suffering.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Failure of Religious Duty: The actions of both the priest and the Levite reveal a significant disconnect between religious position and genuine compassion. Despite their knowledge of the Law and their sacred roles, they fail to demonstrate mercy to a fellow human in dire need.
  • Indifference and Avoidance: This verse powerfully illustrates the sin of indifference. The Levite's "looking on him" but then "passing by" signifies a conscious decision to ignore suffering and avoid personal inconvenience or risk.
  • Critique of Hypocrisy: Jesus uses these figures, who were highly esteemed in Jewish society, to challenge the superficiality of religious observance that lacks true love for one's neighbour. This sets the stage for the unexpected hero of the parable.

Practical Application

Luke 10:32 challenges us to examine our own responses to suffering. Do we, like the Levite, acknowledge the pain of others but then choose to "pass by on the other side" for reasons of convenience, fear, or self-interest? This verse serves as a powerful reminder that true faith is demonstrated not merely by religious title or ritual, but by active, compassionate love for those in need, regardless of their background or our perceived inconvenience. It prepares the reader for the radical example of the Samaritan who follows (Luke 10:33).

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 27:10 (3 votes)

    Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: [for] better [is] a neighbour [that is] near than a brother far off.

  • Acts 18:17 (3 votes)

    Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat [him] before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.

  • Psalms 109:25 (3 votes)

    I became also a reproach unto them: [when] they looked upon me they shaked their heads.

  • 2 Timothy 3:2 (1 votes)

    For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,