Published: 2024-09-06

“I say to you, ‘Truly today you will be with me in paradise’” (Luke 23:43)

Is the Translation of Jesus’ Words Correct and Appropriate?

Andrzej Piwowar
Collectanea Theologica
Section: Articles
https://doi.org/10.21697/ct.2024.94.3.02

Abstract

The Greek words spoken by Jesus on the cross to the good villain, contained in Luke 23:43, can be translated in two different ways, depending on which verb form the adverb of time σήμερον (“today”) is referred to. In the vast majority of translations into modern languages, these words have been rendered in what can be described as a traditional manner: “I say to you, ‘Truly today you will be with me in paradise.’” They can also be translated in another way, which has a serious bearing on the theological overtone of Jesus’ words: “I say to you today: ‘Truly you will be with me in paradise’” (alternative translation). The first part of the article analyzes the use of the adverb σήμερον in the Septuagint, the New Testament, and Luke’s text. The second part of the article attempts to resolve the problem based on theological premises. Although both ways of analysis do not offer a conclusive solution, the alternative one better corresponds to the teaching of the Church concerning salvation, which will be finally accomplished at the end of times.

Keywords:

New Testament, Gospel according to Luke, salvation, Luke 23:43, σήμερον, adverb “today”

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Citation rules

Piwowar, A. (2024). “I say to you, ‘Truly today you will be with me in paradise’” (Luke 23:43): Is the Translation of Jesus’ Words Correct and Appropriate?. Collectanea Theologica, 94(3), 37–67. https://doi.org/10.21697/ct.2024.94.3.02

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