Luke 20:32

Last of all the woman died also.

Luke 20:32 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes the hypothetical scenario that the Sadducees, a Jewish sect who denied the resurrection, presented to Jesus. They described a woman who married seven brothers in succession, each dying without children, according to the levirate marriage law. Verse 32 completes the story by noting that the woman also died, setting up their question in verse 33: “Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she? for seven had her to wife.“

Meaning

The verse underscores the complete absence of offspring and the apparent hopelessness of the situation from a human perspective. The woman’s death after all seven brothers highlights the temporary nature of earthly relationships and the reality of death, directing attention to the eternal reality of life with God. Jesus answers that the children of this world marry and are given in marriage, but those who are counted worthy of the resurrection “neither marry, nor are given in marriage; neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels, and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection.” He then points to Moses at the burning bush, where God identified Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus explains that God is “not a God of the dead, but of the living; for all live unto him.” This shows that the patriarchs, though physically dead, are alive to God, confirming the reality of the resurrection.

Biblical connections

The Greek text (SBLGNT) reads “ὕστερον καὶ ἡ γυνὴ ἀπέθανεν,” which translates as “afterward the woman also died,” emphasizing the sequence of events. This verse is not a standalone teaching but a crucial part of the larger narrative that leads to Jesus’ profound teaching on the resurrection and the nature of the age to come.

Application

After hearing this, certain scribes say, “Master, thou hast well said,” and the Sadducees dare not ask Him any further question. This response encourages believers to trust in the resurrection and to view earthly relationships and circumstances in light of eternity. The temporary nature of life and relationships should direct our hope toward the eternal reality of life with God.

Reflection

Consider how this verse challenges us to live with an eternal perspective. The woman’s death, like all earthly endings, points beyond itself to the resurrection hope that Jesus affirms. How does the certainty of resurrection shape the way we face loss and look forward to the age to come?