Luke 13:12

KJV

And when Jesus saw her, he called [her to him], and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when Jesus {G2424} saw {G1492} her {G846}, he called {G4377} her to him, and {G2532} said {G2036} unto her {G846}, Woman {G1135}, thou art loosed {G630} from thine {G4675} infirmity {G769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On seeing her, Yeshua called her and said to her, “Lady, you have been set free from your weakness!”

Berean Standard Bible

When Jesus saw her, He called her over and said, “Woman, you are set free from your disability.”

American Standard Version

And when Jesus saw her, he called her, and said to her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 13:12 powerfully illustrates Jesus' active compassion and divine authority as he encounters a woman in a synagogue who has suffered from a debilitating infirmity for eighteen years. Without being asked, Jesus initiates her healing, calling her to himself and declaring her freedom from her affliction, an act that immediately restores her and sets the stage for a significant theological confrontation regarding the Sabbath.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This healing narrative is strategically placed within Luke's Gospel, specifically during Jesus' journey toward Jerusalem, often referred to as the "Travel Narrative" (Luke 9:51–19:27). It follows a series of parables and teachings about the kingdom of God and repentance, such as the parable of the barren fig tree in [Luke 13:6-9](/luke/13-6-9 "Luke 13:6-9 - Parable of the Barren Fig Tree"). The immediate context is Jesus teaching in a synagogue on the Sabbath ([Luke 13:10](/luke/13-10 "Luke 13:10 - Jesus Teaching in the Synagogue")), setting up the inevitable conflict with the synagogue ruler in the subsequent verses ([Luke 13:14-17](/luke/13-14-17 "Luke 13:14-17 - The Synagogue Ruler's Indignation")). This episode serves as a concrete example of Jesus' teaching on the true purpose of the Sabbath—to do good and to liberate, rather than to adhere rigidly to legalistic interpretations.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sabbath, a cornerstone of Jewish life and law, was observed from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday. By the time of Jesus, rabbinic traditions had developed numerous interpretations and restrictions regarding what constituted "work" on the Sabbath, often prioritizing legalistic adherence over humanitarian needs. Healing was generally considered unlawful on the Sabbath unless a life was in immediate danger. The woman's condition, described as being "bent over" for eighteen years due to a "spirit of infirmity" ([Luke 13:11](/luke/13-11 "Luke 13:11 - The Woman with a Spirit of Infirmity")), highlights a long-term, chronic suffering that was not life-threatening in the immediate sense, making Jesus' healing a direct challenge to the prevailing legalistic interpretations of Sabbath law. Synagogues were central to Jewish community life, serving as places of worship, teaching, and social gathering.

* **Key Themes:** This passage contributes to several prominent themes in Luke's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores Jesus' **compassion for the marginalized and suffering**, a recurring motif in Luke, who often highlights Jesus' interactions with women, the poor, and the sick (e.g., [Luke 7:11-17](/luke/7-11-17 "Luke 7:11-17 - Jesus Raises the Widow's Son")). Secondly, it emphasizes **Jesus' divine authority** over sickness, evil spirits, and even the Law, demonstrating that His power transcends human limitations and legalistic constraints. His declaration, "Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity," is an authoritative word that brings immediate liberation. Thirdly, the narrative explores the **true meaning and purpose of the Sabbath**, challenging the rigid interpretations of the religious leaders and asserting that acts of mercy and liberation are not only permissible but commanded on the Lord's Day, aligning with Jesus' earlier teachings on the Sabbath in [Luke 6:1-11](/luke/6-1-11 "Luke 6:1-11 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Woman (Greek, _gynḗ'_):** This term (G1135) refers to a female, here specifically an adult woman. Its use by Jesus is direct and personal, acknowledging her humanity and dignity despite her long-term affliction. It contrasts with the synagogue ruler's later impersonal reference to her as "this woman" in [Luke 13:14](/luke/13-14 "Luke 13:14 - The Synagogue Ruler's Indignation"), highlighting Jesus' compassionate and respectful approach.
* **loosed (Greek, _apolýō'_):** This verb (G630) means "to free fully," "relieve," "release," or "set at liberty." Its application here is profound, signifying not just a physical healing but a complete liberation from the bondage of her infirmity. The term implies an authoritative act of unbinding, echoing the concept of spiritual release from oppressive forces.
* **infirmity (Greek, _asthéneia'_):** This noun (G769) denotes "feebleness (of mind or body)," "malady," "sickness," or "weakness." It describes the physical manifestation of her long-standing condition, which had left her severely bent over. The text explicitly links this infirmity to a "spirit" in [Luke 13:11](/luke/13-11 "Luke 13:11 - The Woman with a Spirit of Infirmity"), indicating a spiritual dimension to her physical suffering, from which Jesus liberates her.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when Jesus saw her":** This opening phrase immediately establishes Jesus' divine perception and initiative. He doesn't wait for a request; He actively "sees" her suffering, implying a deep awareness and compassion for her plight. This seeing is not merely physical observation but a profound recognition of her long-term pain and spiritual bondage.
* **"he called [her to him]":** Jesus' action of calling her signifies a deliberate, personal invitation. He draws her out from the crowd, singling her out for attention and healing. This act of calling is an exercise of His authority and compassion, demonstrating His desire to engage directly with the afflicted individual.
* **"and said unto her, 'Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.'":** This is the pivotal moment of divine declaration. Jesus' words are not a prayer or a request but an authoritative pronouncement. The phrase "thou art loosed" (passive voice) emphasizes that the action of liberation is performed upon her by a higher power, namely Jesus himself. It is a complete and instantaneous release from the physical and spiritual burden that had held her captive for eighteen years.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices. **Divine Initiative** is evident in Jesus "seeing" the woman and "calling" her, highlighting His active compassion rather than a reactive response to a plea. This sets Him apart from the passive or judgmental religious authorities. The phrase "thou art loosed" is an example of **Authoritative Declaration**, where Jesus' words themselves are the instrument of healing, demonstrating His absolute power over sickness and spiritual bondage. This is further reinforced by the immediate and complete nature of her healing. The woman's bent-over posture for eighteen years serves as **Symbolism** for the oppressive nature of sin and spiritual affliction, from which Jesus offers complete **Liberation**. Her physical straightening thus symbolizes a deeper spiritual freedom that Jesus brings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage profoundly illustrates Jesus' identity as the compassionate Son of God who actively seeks to liberate humanity from all forms of bondage—physical, spiritual, and systemic. His willingness to heal on the Sabbath, despite knowing it would provoke conflict, underscores His commitment to mercy over rigid legalism, revealing the heart of God's law as love and liberation. The woman's long-term suffering and immediate release serve as a powerful metaphor for humanity's condition under the weight of sin and the instantaneous, authoritative freedom offered through Christ. This act of unbinding foreshadows the broader work of redemption, where Jesus breaks the chains of sin and death, offering true rest and restoration.

* [Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me")
* [Matthew 12:10-13](/matthew/12-10-13 "Matthew 12:10-13 - Healing on the Sabbath")
* [John 8:36](/john/8-36 "John 8:36 - The Son Sets You Free")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 13:12 offers profound encouragement for those who have endured long-term suffering, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. It reminds us that Jesus sees our pain, even when we feel invisible or forgotten by the world. His compassion is not passive; it is an active, initiating force that moves Him to intervene. Just as He called the bent-over woman to Himself, He calls us to draw near, inviting us to lay down our burdens and trust in His liberating power. This passage challenges us to examine areas in our lives where we might feel "bent over" by chronic issues, past hurts, or spiritual oppression, and to believe that Jesus' authoritative word can bring complete release and restoration. It also calls us to embody Jesus' compassion, seeing the suffering around us and actively seeking to bring healing and liberation to others, even if it means challenging conventional norms or religious traditions that hinder true mercy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "infirmities" or long-standing burdens might Jesus be calling you to be "loosed" from in your life today?**
* **How does Jesus' proactive compassion in this passage challenge your own understanding of how God intervenes in human suffering?**
* **In what ways might we, like the religious leaders, prioritize rules or traditions over acts of mercy and liberation in our own lives or communities?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus call her to Him instead of healing her from a distance?**

Answer: Jesus' act of calling the woman to Him was a deliberate and deeply significant gesture. While Jesus certainly had the power to heal from a distance (as seen in [Matthew 8:5-13](/matthew/8-5-13 "Matthew 8:5-13 - The Centurion's Faith")), His decision to call her forward emphasizes His personal engagement and compassion. It brought her out of anonymity and into direct, intimate contact with the Healer, affirming her dignity and worth. This public act also served as a clear demonstration of His authority, making the healing undeniable to all present, especially the synagogue ruler who would soon challenge Him ([Luke 13:14](/luke/13-14 "Luke 13:14 - The Synagogue Ruler's Indignation")). It was a powerful visual and relational component to the miracle, inviting her into a moment of personal encounter and publicly confirming her liberation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 13:12 finds its Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus as the ultimate Liberator, the one who comes to "proclaim liberty to the captives" ([Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me")). The woman's eighteen years of being "bent over" powerfully symbolizes the human condition under the bondage of sin and its effects—a state of being weighed down, unable to stand upright in the presence of God. Just as Jesus authoritatively declared her "loosed from thine infirmity," so too does He, through His atoning work on the cross, declare all who believe "loosed" from the power and penalty of sin ([Romans 6:6-7](/romans/6-6-7 "Romans 6:6-7 - Our Old Self Crucified")). His death and resurrection are the definitive act of "unbinding," freeing humanity from the spiritual infirmity that has plagued us since the fall. He is the one who sets the captives free ([John 8:36](/john/8-36 "John 8:36 - The Son Sets You Free")), not only from physical ailments but, more profoundly, from the spiritual death that separates us from God ([Ephesians 2:1-5](/ephesians/2-1-5 "Ephesians 2:1-5 - Dead in Sins, Made Alive in Christ")). The immediate and complete nature of her healing foreshadows the complete and perfect salvation offered in Christ, where believers are fully redeemed and empowered to walk in newness of life ([Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Newness of Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 107:20

He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered [them] from their destructions.

Matthew 8:16

When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with [his] word, and healed all that were sick:

Luke 13:16

And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?

Joel 3:10

Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I [am] strong.

Luke 6:8

But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth.

Luke 6:10

And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other.

Isaiah 65:1

¶ I am sought of [them that] asked not [for me]; I am found of [them that] sought me not: I said, Behold me, behold me, unto a nation [that] was not called by my name.