Luke 6:2

And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?

And {G1161} certain {G5100} of the Pharisees {G5330} said {G2036} unto them {G846}, Why {G5101} do ye {G4160} that which {G3739} is {G1832} not {G3756} lawful {G1832} to do {G4160} on {G1722} the sabbath days {G4521}?

Some of the P'rushim said, "Why are you violating Shabbat?"

But some of the Pharisees asked, “Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”

But certain of the Pharisees said, Why do ye that which it is not lawful to do on the sabbath day?

Commentary

Context of Luke 6:2

Luke 6:2 presents an immediate challenge to Jesus and His disciples, following the events described in Luke 6:1. As they were passing through grainfields on the Sabbath, Jesus' disciples began to pluck and eat heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. While the act of plucking grain for immediate consumption was permitted under Mosaic Law for travelers (Deuteronomy 23:25), the issue here was *when* it was done. The Pharisees, a prominent Jewish religious sect known for their strict adherence to the Law and their elaborate oral traditions, interpreted this act as "reaping" and "threshing," which were forbidden forms of work on the Sabbath. This verse captures their direct accusation, setting the stage for Jesus' response concerning the true meaning of Sabbath observance.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Sabbath Observance vs. Human Need: The core conflict revolves around the proper interpretation and application of the Sabbath commandment. The Pharisees prioritized their detailed traditions over the practical needs of the disciples, highlighting a tension between rigid legalism and compassionate understanding.
  • The Authority of Jesus: This encounter, along with similar ones (Matthew 12:1-8, Mark 2:23-28), serves to demonstrate Jesus' divine authority. His subsequent defense (found in Luke 6:3-5) culminates in His declaration that the Son of Man is "Lord also of the sabbath," asserting His preeminence over human traditions and even the Law itself in its proper context.
  • Legalism vs. Grace: The Pharisees' question reveals a mindset focused on the letter of the law and human-made rules, often at the expense of mercy and the spirit of the Law. Jesus consistently challenged this legalistic approach, advocating for a heart-centered obedience that prioritizes love and compassion (Luke 6:9).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "not lawful" (Greek: ouk exestin) underscores the Pharisees' perspective. They were operating from a rigid legal framework, viewing the disciples' actions as a violation of their established religious decrees concerning the Sabbath. The term "sabbath days" (Greek: sabbaton) literally means "rest" and refers to the seventh day, set apart by God for cessation from labor and for worship (Exodus 20:8-11).

Practical Application

Luke 6:2 offers profound lessons for believers today. It cautions against the dangers of religious legalism, where human traditions or interpretations can overshadow God's true intent for His commandments. We are reminded that God's laws are given for our good and flourishing, not as burdensome restrictions that stifle compassion or neglect basic human needs. The passage encourages us to seek the spirit of the law, understanding that Christ is the fulfillment of the Law and that true freedom is found in Him. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: do we prioritize rigid rules, or do we walk in grace and mercy, reflecting the character of our Lord who is Lord of the Sabbath?

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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

  • Matthew 12:2

    But when the Pharisees saw [it], they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.

  • John 5:16

    And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.

  • Mark 2:24

    And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?

  • John 5:9

    And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.

  • John 5:11

    He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk.

  • Luke 6:7

    And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him.

  • Luke 6:9

    Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy [it]?
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