New Testament · Gospel

Luke 10:35

The Good Samaritan

The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Take care of him,’ he said, ‘and on my return I will repay you for any additional expense.’ Luke 10:35 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Luke 10:35, in plain English

The Samaritan pays for the stranger's recovery and promises to come back and cover any extra costs. His generosity has no ceiling -- whatever it takes, he's in.

Why it's here

Two denarii was about two days' pay, enough for a lengthy stay. He's essentially writing a blank check for a man he's never met before.

Who's speaking

Jesus continues the parable, showing how the Samaritan's love includes long-term follow-through, not just a quick rescue.

Where it sits in the story

Even after the dramatic rescue, the Samaritan keeps caring. He pays upfront, promises more if needed, and plans to return. This is love that sticks around.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Two denarii equaled roughly two days' wages, covering extended stay at the inn. The Samaritan's open-ended financial commitment (I will repay any additional expense) signals unlimited generosity.

Language and setting

The pandocheion (inn) was a full-service lodging, not merely a roadside shelter. The promise to return and settle accounts shows sustained, ongoing care rather than a one-time gesture.

Voice

Jesus narrates the Samaritan's parting instructions to the innkeeper, showing love that plans ahead.

Significance

The Samaritan's care extends beyond the immediate crisis. He arranges ongoing provision and promises to return, modeling a love that doesn't walk away when the crisis passes.

In context

Luke 10:33–37

33But a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, and when he saw him, he had compassion.

34He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

35The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Take care of him,’ he said, ‘and on my return I will repay you for any additional expense.’

36Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

37“The one who showed him mercy,” replied the expert in the law.

Read all of Luke 10 — A lawyer asks how to inherit eternal life and gets an answer he doesn't expect. The hero of the story is the one everyone despises.

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