Definition: And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Luke 23:37. It’s a really powerful and complex one, but here's my explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about Jesus’ final words after he was put to trial and sentenced to death. It’s essentially saying: “If you are the king of the Jews, then save yourself.” Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “And saying…” : This tells us that Jesus is speaking after he’s been given a chance to speak. “…if thou be the king of the Jews…” : This refers to the Jewish leadership – the people and authorities in Jerusalem at the time. Jesus was essentially being accused of being the leader of the Jewish community. "...save thyself." : This is the crucial part. It means Jesus is urging the leaders to prioritize their own safety over the lives of the people he’s been accused of. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse has a lot of layers of meaning, and it's often interpreted as a warning about: The dangers of power: Jesus is suggesting that even someone with significant authority – like a king – can be vulnerable to harm if they become too focused on their own safety. The importance of compassion: It highlights the idea that true leadership isn’t just about wielding power, but also about caring for others and protecting those who are vulnerable. A call to responsibility: Jesus is saying that even someone in a position of great influence has a moral obligation to act with wisdom and self-preservation. Important Note: This verse was part of a larger context within the Gospel of Luke, which deals with Jesus’ trial and execution. It's often seen as a reflection on his own suffering and the challenges he faced. In short, it’s a deeply symbolic warning – a reminder that power comes with responsibility. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore different interpretations of the verse?