Luke 13:12
And when Iesus saw her, he called her to him, and said vnto her, Woman, thou art loosed frō thy infirmitie. Luke 13:12 (KJV)
And when Jesus saw her, he called
her to him, and said unto her,
Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. Luke 13:12 (KJV)
This verse is part of the narrative in Luke 13:10‑17, describing one of Jesus’ healing miracles performed on the Sabbath. Jesus encounters a woman who had been suffering from a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years. The text notes that she was “bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself,” showing both the spiritual and physical dimensions of her affliction.
Jesus’ compassion is highlighted at the opening of the passage. When He saw the woman, He called her to Him, demonstrating His attentiveness and care for individuals in need. He actively sought out those who were suffering and extended His compassion to them.
Jesus’ healing power is evident in His declaration, “Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.” The word “loosed” conveys a release from bondage or constraint, indicating that He liberated the woman from its physical ailment and provided her with both physical and emotional healing.
The healing took place on the Sabbath, provoking controversy among the synagogue rulers who considered it a violation of the Sabbath law. Jesus defended His action by pointing out the inconsistency in their reasoning: they would untie their animals to lead them to water on the Sabbath, yet they objected to a woman being loosed from her infirmity. He emphasized that acts of healing and restoration are consistent with God’s merciful nature and the intended purpose of the Sabbath.
The response of the people was one of amazement and rejoicing. They recognized the authority and power that Jesus possessed and glorified God for His work through Jesus. The synagogue ruler, however, rebuked the people, reminding them that healing should not take place on the Sabbath.
This study of Luke 13:12 underscores Jesus’ compassion, His authority over sickness and spiritual oppression, and the tension surrounding Sabbath observance. It invites believers to reflect on the merciful character of God and His desire to bring healing and restoration into our lives.
