Luke 11:53-54

Vers. 53 and 54: Historical Conclusion.

These verses describe a scene of violence, perhaps unique, in the life of Jesus. Numerous variations prove the very early alteration of the text. According to the reading of the principal Alex., And when He had gone thence, this scene must have taken place after Jesus had left the Pharisee's house; but this reading seems designed to establish a closer connection with what follows (Luke 12:1 et seq.), and produces the impression of a gloss. On the other hand, the omission of the words, and seeking, and that they might accuse Him, in B. L. (Luke 11:54), renders the turn of expression more simple and lively. The reading ἀποστομίζειν (to blunt) has no meaning. We must read ἀποστοματίζειν, to utter, and then to cause to utter.