What is the meaning of Luke 6:2?

But

• The conjunction ties Luke 6:2 back to verse 1, where the disciples “were picking heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands, and eating them”.

• Luke signals a contrast: peaceful, ordinary hunger meets immediate confrontation.

• Similar narrative pivots appear in John 9:16, where healing produces instant dispute.

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some of the Pharisees

• Not every Pharisee present objected, but a critical faction stepped forward.

• Earlier, this group had already murmured over Jesus’ table fellowship (Luke 5:30); now their watchful scrutiny intensifies.

• Parallel accounts in Matthew 12:2 and Mark 2:24 show the same party policing Sabbath conduct.

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asked

• The question is framed as an investigation, yet the tone is accusatory.

• Luke frequently highlights inquisitions aimed at trapping Jesus (Luke 20:20).

• Their verbal approach prefigures later confrontations, such as the plot in John 7:32.

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“Why are you doing

• They target both Jesus and His disciples, assuming shared responsibility (compare John 5:18 where Jesus is held responsible for healing on the Sabbath).

• The challenge is not curiosity but a demand for justification.

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what is unlawful

• The Pharisees extend the Mosaic command beyond Scripture’s explicit wording.

• Scripture permits plucking grain to relieve hunger (Deuteronomy 23:25).

• Their oral traditions, however, classified rubbing grain as “work,” a man-made addition Jesus later exposes (Mark 7:8-9).

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on the Sabbath?

• The Sabbath command in Exodus 20:8-11 safeguards rest and worship, not ritual bondage.

• Isaiah 58:13-14 shows God’s heart: delight, not drudgery.

• Jesus will answer in verses 3-5 by citing David’s need (1 Samuel 21:3-6) and declaring Himself “Lord of the Sabbath,” underscoring the day’s purpose (cf. Colossians 2:16-17).

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summary

Luke 6:2 records a probing accusation that springs from human tradition, not divine command. The Pharisees’ selective zeal overlooks biblical allowances for mercy and necessity. By spotlighting their question, the verse sets the stage for Jesus to reaffirm that the Sabbath is a gift under His lordship, meant to serve life rather than restrict it.