Luke 22:11-15
The New Testament > Luke > Chapter 22
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Questions
Verse 15
- What does the Savior mean by "desire"?
Lexical notes
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Exegesis
Verse 15
The NRSV translates this verse: "He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer." However, the KJV nicely expresses the fact that the Greek uses two different forms of the same word twice in a row ("With desire I have desired..."). While desire is not an unfair translation of the Greek epithymia, it is often translated less felicitously, as coveting or lust, emphasizing its relation to the forbidden or secret (as well as its profound negativity). It would appear, that is, that something about this meal has been or perhaps even remains secret in relation to Jesus, has been or perhaps even remains forbidden. Whatever that means would require careful interpretation of the following verse: if so profound a longing or so real a lack in the Christ seems a bit strange, it is of importance to note that verse 16 provides a "reason" for Jesus' doubled desire.
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