New Testament · Gospel

Luke 9:12

The Turning Point

As the day neared its end, the Twelve came to Jesus and said, “Dismiss the crowd so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside for lodging and provisions. For we are in a desolate place here.” Luke 9:12 · Berean Standard Bible

What It Means

Luke 9:12, in plain English

As the day was ending, the Twelve told Jesus to send the crowd away so they could find food and lodging nearby, since they were in the middle of nowhere.

Why it's here

The disciples saw a problem: too many people, not enough food, middle of nowhere. Their solution was logical: send everyone away. But Jesus had a completely different plan in mind.

Who's speaking

The Twelve present their practical concern to Jesus.

Where it sits in the story

The sun was going down, stomachs were growling, and there was nothing around. The disciples had a reasonable suggestion: send everyone home. Jesus was about to show them a better way.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

As the hēmera ('day') declines, the Twelve urge Jesus to apolyson ('dismiss') the crowd so they can find katalyma ('lodging') and episitismon ('provisions') in the surrounding areas, noting hōde en erēmō topō esmen ('we are in a desolate place').

Language and setting

The disciples' practical concern highlights the tension between the crowd's spiritual hunger and physical needs. The 'desolate place' echoes wilderness motifs from Exodus, setting the stage for a new manna-like provision.

Voice

The Twelve approach Jesus with a practical concern about the crowd's needs.

Significance

As evening approached, the practical-minded disciples urged Jesus to send the crowds away to find food and shelter in nearby villages, since they were in an isolated area with no provisions.

In context

Luke 9:10–14

10Then the apostles returned and reported to Jesus all that they had done. Taking them away privately, He withdrew to a town called Bethsaida.

11But the crowds found out and followed Him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and He healed those who needed healing.

12As the day neared its end, the Twelve came to Jesus and said, “Dismiss the crowd so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside for lodging and provisions. For we are in a desolate place here.”

13But Jesus told them, “You give them something to eat.”

14(There were about five thousand men.)

Read all of Luke 9 — Peter confesses, the Transfiguration blazes, and Jesus sets his face toward Jerusalem. Everything from here moves toward the cross.

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