LUKE 13:10–17
JESUS HEALS A BENT WOMAN ON THE SABBATH
Text – Luke 13:10–17
10 He was teaching in a synagogue on the sabbath.
11 And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect.
12 When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, “Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.”
13 He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God.
14 But the leader of the synagogue, indignant that Jesus had cured on the sabbath, said to the crowd, “There are six days when work should be done. Come on those days to be cured, not on the sabbath day.”
15 The Lord said to him in reply, “Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it out for watering?”
16 “This daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now—ought she not to have been set free on the sabbath day from this bondage?”
17 When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him.
Historical and Jewish Context
The Sabbath was central to Jewish identity, a sacred day commemorating God’s rest and Israel’s covenant. Strict interpretations of Sabbath law developed to protect its sanctity. Healing on the Sabbath was debated among rabbis: some allowed life-saving actions; others restricted even non-urgent healings. The woman’s condition—eighteen years bent over—symbolized suffering and exclusion. Jesus’ language, calling her a “daughter of Abraham,” restored her dignity within the covenant community. Comparing her healing to watering animals reflects common practices permitted on the Sabbath, exposing inconsistency in the leader’s indignation.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus reveals the true meaning of the Sabbath: not rigid restriction, but the celebration of God’s liberating work. Healing is an act of divine mercy, fully consistent with the Sabbath’s purpose. Catholic theology teaches that Christ, Lord of the Sabbath, fulfills the law by restoring creation and freeing humanity from bondage. The woman’s healing symbolizes spiritual liberation—raising the soul to stand upright before God. Her immediate praise of God shows the proper response to grace. Jesus’ reference to Satan emphasizes that suffering and oppression contradict God’s will, and that His mission is to overcome such bondage through divine power.
Parallels in Scripture
Is 58:6 – The true fast is to break the bonds of oppression.
Lk 4:18 – Jesus’ mission to liberate the oppressed.
Mt 12:9–13 – Jesus heals on the Sabbath and teaches mercy over legalism.
Job 2:7 – Satan afflicts the body, echoing bondage.
Acts 10:38 – Jesus healing all oppressed by the devil.
Key Terms
Sabbath – Day of rest, worship, and liberation.
Daughter of Abraham – Title affirming covenant dignity and belonging.
Bound – Symbol of both physical and spiritual oppression.
Set free – Jesus’ mission of healing, mercy, and restoration.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage appears in weekday liturgies, particularly in Ordinary Time. It supports catechesis on compassion, the dignity of every person, and the purpose of the Lord’s Day. The Church sees in this healing a sign of Christ’s power over evil and His desire to restore human wholeness through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Anointing of the Sick.
Conclusion
Jesus transforms the Sabbath into a moment of liberation. He restores the bent woman’s dignity, challenges narrow legalism, and reveals God’s mercy at work even in long-suffering lives. The crowd rejoices, recognizing the beauty of His deeds.
Reflection
Where do I experience bondage or spiritual heaviness? Do I allow Jesus to lift me up and restore me? Am I quick to rejoice in God’s mercy, or do I sometimes impose unnecessary burdens on others?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, healer and liberator, straighten what is bent in my life and free me from every bondage. Give me a heart of compassion and joy, ready to celebrate Your mercy. Help me honor the Lord’s Day by welcoming Your healing presence. Amen.