Luke 6:5

KJV

And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he said {G3004} unto them {G846}, That {G3754} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} is {G2076} Lord {G2962} also {G2532} of the sabbath {G4521}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"The Son of Man," he concluded, "is Lord of Shabbat."

Berean Standard Bible

Then Jesus declared, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”

American Standard Version

And he said unto them, The Son of man is lord of the sabbath.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 6:5 records Jesus' profound declaration of His divine authority over the Sabbath, stating, "That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath." This pivotal statement follows a confrontation with the Pharisees regarding His disciples' actions on the Sabbath, directly challenging the prevailing legalistic interpretations of the Mosaic Law and asserting His unique prerogative as the ultimate interpreter and fulfiller of God's commands, thereby revealing His true identity and the compassionate purpose of the Sabbath.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of an immediate narrative concerning Jesus and His disciples' actions on the Sabbath. In the preceding verses ([Luke 6:1-2](/luke/6-1-2 "Luke 6:1-2 - Disciples Pluck Grain on the Sabbath")), while passing through a grain field, Jesus' hungry disciples plucked heads of grain, rubbed them in their hands, and ate them. The Pharisees immediately challenged this, deeming it unlawful work on the Sabbath. Jesus responds by citing the Old Testament example of David and his men eating the consecrated showbread, which was normally reserved for priests ([Luke 6:3-4](/luke/6-3-4 "Luke 6:3-4 - Jesus Defends His Disciples with David's Example")), arguing that human need can supersede ritualistic law. This defense sets the stage for His definitive declaration in [Luke 6:5](/luke/6-5 "Luke 6:5 - Jesus Declares Lordship Over the Sabbath"), which elevates the discussion from a mere legal debate to a profound theological assertion of His identity and authority. Parallel accounts are found in [Matthew 12:1-8](/matthew/12-1-8 "Matthew 12:1-8 - Lord of the Sabbath") and [Mark 2:23-28](/mark/2-23-28 "Mark 2:23-28 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath"), underscoring the significance of this event in the Synoptic tradition.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sabbath, a cornerstone of Jewish life, was established in the Ten Commandments as a day of rest and holiness ([Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8-11 "Exodus 20:8-11 - Remember the Sabbath Day")). By Jesus' time, however, the oral traditions (later codified in the Mishnah) had expanded the Mosaic Law into an intricate web of prohibitions and regulations, particularly concerning Sabbath observance. The Pharisees, a prominent religious sect, were zealous guardians of these traditions, often prioritizing strict adherence to the letter of the law over its spirit of compassion and rest. Their legalistic interpretations often created burdens rather than blessings, leading to conflicts with Jesus, who consistently emphasized the heart of the Law and human well-being. This cultural backdrop highlights the radical nature of Jesus' claim, as it directly challenged the established religious authority and their understanding of divine law.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it underscores **Jesus' Authority**, not merely as a teacher or prophet, but as one with divine prerogative over God's own institutions. His claim to be "Lord also of the sabbath" positions Him above the Law, revealing His unique relationship with the Father. Secondly, it illuminates the **Purpose of the Sabbath**, shifting the focus from burdensome legalism to its original intent as a gift for humanity's benefit, emphasizing rest, worship, and compassion. As [Mark 2:27](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27 - The Sabbath Was Made for Man") famously states, "The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath." Lastly, the repeated use of the title **"Son of Man"** is a crucial theme. While emphasizing Jesus' true humanity, it also carries profound messianic and eschatological connotations, drawing from [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - Prophecy of the Son of Man"), where the Son of Man is depicted as a divine, sovereign figure. By linking this title to His authority over the Sabbath, Jesus subtly yet powerfully declares His unique position as both fully human and supremely divine, the one through whom God's ultimate reign is inaugurated.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **"said" (Greek, _légō'_):** This primary verb signifies "to lay forth" or "relate in words," often implying a systematic or set discourse. Here, it indicates a deliberate and authoritative declaration by Jesus, not a casual remark. It underscores the weight and intentionality of His pronouncement concerning His Lordship over the Sabbath.
* **"Son" (Greek, _huiós'_):** This word denotes kinship, often implying a direct relationship or shared nature. In the phrase "Son of Man," "Son" signifies Jesus' unique identity, emphasizing His divine origin and intimate relationship with God, while also connecting Him to humanity.
* **"man" (Greek, _ánthrōpos'_):** Referring to a human being, this word highlights Jesus' full humanity. When combined with "Son" to form "Son of Man," it points to His incarnate nature, His identification with humanity, and His role as the representative and redeemer of mankind.
* **"Lord" (Greek, _kýrios'_):** Derived from a root meaning "supremacy," this term signifies supreme authority, mastership, or controller. When applied to Jesus, it asserts His divine sovereignty and ultimate dominion, placing Him above all earthly and even heavenly institutions, including the Sabbath itself.
* **"sabbath" (Greek, _sábbaton'_):** Of Hebrew origin, this refers to the weekly day of repose from secular avocations, an institution deeply embedded in Jewish law and life. Jesus' claim to be "Lord also of the sabbath" directly challenges the prevailing legalistic interpretations and asserts His authority to redefine its true meaning and application.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he said unto them,"**: This introductory clause establishes Jesus as the speaker and the Pharisees (or the crowd, in broader context) as His audience. It sets the stage for a direct and authoritative pronouncement, emphasizing the intentionality of His words in response to the preceding conflict.
* **"That the Son of man is Lord"**: This is the core assertion. Jesus uses His preferred self-designation, "the Son of Man," which simultaneously points to His humanity and His unique, divinely appointed, messianic authority (cf. [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Comes")). The declaration that He "is Lord" signifies His supreme authority and mastership, a claim that would have been shocking and blasphemous to the Pharisees if not understood as a divine prerogative.
* **"also of the sabbath."**: The addition of "also of the sabbath" specifies the domain over which Jesus claims Lordship. This is not merely a general statement of authority but a direct challenge to the Pharisees' legalistic interpretations and their rigid control over Sabbath observance. It implies that Jesus, as Lord, has the ultimate right to interpret, modify, and even transcend the Sabbath law, revealing its true purpose.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 6:5 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Assertion**, as Jesus makes a direct and unequivocal claim to authority ("is Lord"). This assertion is amplified by the use of the **Title** "Son of Man," which, while seemingly humble, carries profound messianic and divine implications, creating a powerful **Understatement** that hints at His true identity as the divine Messiah. There is also a strong element of **Contrast** between Jesus' compassionate understanding of the Sabbath's purpose and the Pharisees' legalistic and burdensome interpretations. The verse functions as a **Climax** to the preceding Sabbath controversy, providing Jesus' definitive statement on the matter. Furthermore, it serves as **Foreshadowing** of Jesus' ultimate authority over all things, including the Law, and His role in inaugurating a new covenant of grace that transcends rigid legalism.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 6:5 stands as a foundational text for understanding Jesus' unique authority and the nature of the New Covenant. By declaring Himself "Lord also of the sabbath," Jesus asserts His divine prerogative not just to interpret the Law, but to stand above it as its author and fulfiller. This statement is a profound theological claim, indicating that the Creator of the Sabbath is now present in human form, bringing a new era where the spirit of the law, characterized by compassion and grace, supersedes rigid adherence to external regulations. It reorients the understanding of God's commands from burdensome rules to principles rooted in His character and designed for human flourishing. This declaration also speaks to the ultimate purpose of the Sabbath as a foreshadowing of the true rest found in Christ, a rest from the futile efforts of self-righteousness and legalism.

* [Matthew 12:8](/matthew/12-8 "Matthew 12:8 - The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath"): A direct parallel, reinforcing Jesus' authority over the Sabbath.
* [Mark 2:27-28](/mark/2-27-28 "Mark 2:27-28 - The Sabbath Was Made for Man"): Explains the purpose of the Sabbath ("The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath") immediately preceding Jesus' declaration of Lordship.
* [Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People"): Connects the Sabbath rest to the ultimate spiritual rest found in Christ, indicating a fulfillment beyond the physical day.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 6:5 calls us to a radical re-evaluation of our understanding of authority, law, and grace. Jesus' declaration that He is "Lord also of the sabbath" is not merely a historical theological statement but a living truth that impacts our daily lives. It challenges us to examine where we place our ultimate authority – in human traditions, legalistic interpretations, or in the person of Jesus Christ Himself. This verse invites us to move beyond a performance-based spirituality, where we strive to earn God's favor through strict adherence to rules, and instead embrace a relationship-based faith centered on the Lordship of Jesus. It encourages us to prioritize compassion, human need, and the spirit of God's commands over rigid, burdensome regulations. Ultimately, it reminds us that true freedom and rest are found not in perfect adherence to a checklist, but in yielding to the gracious Lordship of the One who made the Sabbath for our good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to prioritize human traditions or legalistic rules over the compassionate heart of God's commands?**
* **How does acknowledging Jesus as "Lord also of the sabbath" change my perspective on rest, work, and worship in my own life?**
* **What does it mean practically to live under the Lordship of Jesus, rather than under the burden of religious performance?**
* **How can I extend grace and compassion to others, reflecting Jesus' approach to the Sabbath, especially when their practices differ from my own?**

### FAQ
**What does "Son of Man" mean in this context?**

Answer: The title "Son of Man" (Greek: _Ho huios tou anthrōpou_) is Jesus' most frequent self-designation in the Gospels. In [Luke 6:5](/luke/6-5 "Luke 6:5 - Jesus Declares Lordship Over the Sabbath"), it carries a dual significance. On one hand, it emphasizes Jesus' true humanity, His identification with mankind, and His humble, suffering servant role. On the other hand, and more profoundly in this context, it alludes to the powerful, divine, and authoritative figure prophesied in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Receives Dominion"), who receives everlasting dominion and glory from God. By linking this title to His Lordship over the Sabbath, Jesus subtly yet powerfully declares His unique position as both fully human and supremely divine, the one through whom God's ultimate reign is inaugurated.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 6:5 powerfully points to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the Sabbath and the Law. Jesus' declaration, "That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath," is a direct assertion of His divine authority, positioning Him not merely as a prophet interpreting the Law, but as the very source and goal of the Law. The Sabbath, given to Israel as a sign of the covenant and a foretaste of God's rest, finds its true meaning and ultimate rest in Jesus. He is the one who provides the true spiritual rest for weary souls, inviting all who labor and are heavy laden to come to Him for rest ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). His Lordship over the Sabbath signifies that the old covenant's shadows have given way to the substance found in Him ([Colossians 2:16-17](/colossians/2-16-17 "Colossians 2:16-17 - Shadow and Substance in Christ")). Through His atoning work on the cross, Jesus ushered in a new covenant of grace, fulfilling the demands of the Law and offering a rest that transcends a mere day of the week, a rest for the soul in His finished work ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). Thus, Jesus is not only the Lord of the Sabbath but the very embodiment of the Sabbath rest, providing salvation and true freedom from the burden of legalism for all who believe in Him ([Galatians 5:1](/galatians/5-1 "Galatians 5:1 - Freedom in Christ")).

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

Mark 2:27

And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:

Revelation 1:10

I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,

Mark 9:7

And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.

Matthew 11:5

The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.

Matthew 11:8

But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft [clothing] are in kings' houses.