LUKE 14:1–6
HEALING THE MAN WITH DROPSY ON THE SABBATH
Text – Luke 14:1–6
1 On a sabbath he went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully.
2 In front of him there was a man suffering from dropsy.
3 Jesus spoke to the scholars of the law and Pharisees in reply, asking, “Is it lawful to cure on the sabbath or not?”
4 But they kept silent; so he took the man and, after he had healed him, dismissed him.
5 Then he said to them, “Who among you, if your son or ox falls into a cistern, would not immediately pull him out on the sabbath day?”
6 But they were unable to answer his question.
Historical and Jewish Context
Dining with a leading Pharisee on the Sabbath suggests a setting of social and religious significance, where prominent teachers often discussed matters of law. Dropsy, a condition involving severe swelling, was associated with suffering and sometimes moral stigma. The Pharisees and scholars of the law closely observed Jesus, anticipating how He would act on the Sabbath. Healing on the Sabbath was a debated issue: some rabbis permitted only life-saving interventions; others allowed more compassionate actions. Jesus roots His teaching in common-sense mercy—rescuing a child or even an animal from danger was widely accepted even on the Sabbath.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus clarifies the true spirit of the Sabbath: it is a day for life, mercy, and restoration. Catholic theology emphasizes that Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath, fulfilling its meaning by bringing healing and salvation. His question exposes the heart of the law—love of God and neighbor. The silence of the Pharisees reflects an inability to refute His logic without contradicting compassion itself. Healing the man and then dismissing him respectfully shows Jesus’ dignity and pastoral sensitivity. This event demonstrates that charity is the highest expression of religious observance and that God’s mercy outweighs rigid legalism.
Parallels in Scripture
Ex 20:8–11 – The commandment to keep the Sabbath holy.
Is 58:6–7 – The true observance of God’s law includes acts of mercy.
Lk 6:6–11 – Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath.
Mt 12:11–12 – Sheep rescued from a pit on the Sabbath.
Acts 10:38 – Jesus healing all oppressed by the devil.
Key Terms
Dropsy – A debilitating illness symbolizing suffering and marginalization.
Lawful – What is consistent with God’s intention behind the law.
Sabbath – A day for worship, rest, and acts of mercy.
Silent – Reflects an unwillingness to oppose mercy or admit error.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage appears in weekday Masses and supports catechesis on the rightful understanding of God’s commandments. It is frequently used to teach the primacy of charity, the dignity of human life, and the compassionate ministry of Jesus. The Church applies this text pastorally when encouraging works of mercy and the healing ministries within the Body of Christ.
Conclusion
Jesus reveals the Sabbath as a time for life-giving mercy. His healing of the man with dropsy demonstrates that compassion fulfills the law. True obedience to God embraces both truth and love.
Reflection
Do I sometimes allow rules or routines to overshadow compassion? In what ways is Jesus inviting me to act with greater mercy—especially toward the suffering?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me to love as You love. Make my heart attentive to those in need and give me the wisdom to act with compassion. Help me honor You not only with observance but with mercy that reflects Your heart. Amen.