Book of Luke - Chapter 6 - Verse 2

The verse "And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?" reflects a common theme in the New Testament where Jesus and his disciples are questioned and criticized for not adhering to the traditional Jewish laws and customs, specifically those surrounding the observance of the Sabbath. The Pharisees were a Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the laws and traditions of Judaism, including Sabbath observance. In this context, they are questioning the actions of Jesus and his disciples, who were accused of breaking the Sabbath by performing acts considered work, such as healing the sick or gathering food. Jesus often challenged the Pharisees' interpretation of the Sabbath laws, emphasizing compassion and mercy over strict adherence to rules. This verse serves as a reminder to readers to prioritize love and compassion in their actions, even if it means going against tradition or societal norms.

In this verse, the Pharisees question Jesus and his disciples for performing activities that they considered unlawful on the Sabbath. This raises the theological interpretation regarding the significance of the Sabbath in the Jewish religious practices. The Pharisees, known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic Law, were concerned with upholding the sanctity of the Sabbath day as a day of rest and worship. Their questioning reflects their commitment to following the commandments and traditions associated with observing the Sabbath. The word "lawful" in this context refers to the religious laws and regulations established by the Jewish authorities. By challenging Jesus and his disciples, the Pharisees highlight the tension between religious tradition and Jesus' teachings, which often emphasized compassion and forgiveness over strict adherence to legalistic interpretations of the law.