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Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/luke/10-42.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/luke/10-42.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/luke/">Luke</a> > <a href="/luke/10.htm">Chapter 10</a> > Verse 42</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/luke/10-41.htm" title="Luke 10:41">◄</a> Luke 10:42 <a href="/luke/11-1.htm" title="Luke 11:1">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/luke/10.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/luke/10.htm">New International Version</a> but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/luke/10.htm">New Living Translation</a> There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/esv/luke/10.htm">English Standard Version</a> but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/bsb/luke/10.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/blb/luke/10.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> but one thing is necessary, only one; for Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her." <a href="/kjv/luke/10.htm">King James Bible</a> But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. <a href="/nkjv/luke/10.htm">New King James Version</a> But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/nasb_/luke/10.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> but only one thing is necessary; for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” <a href="/nasb/luke/10.htm">NASB 1995</a> but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/luke/10.htm">NASB 1977 </a> but only a few things are necessary, really only one, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” <a href="/lsb/luke/10.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” <a href="/amp/luke/10.htm">Amplified Bible</a> but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part [that which is to her advantage], which will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/csb/luke/10.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> but one thing is necessary. Mary has made the right choice, and it will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/hcsb/luke/10.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> but one thing is necessary. Mary has made the right choice, and it will not be taken away from her.&#8221 <a href="/asv/luke/10.htm">American Standard Version</a> but one thing is needful: for Mary hath chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her. <a href="/cev/luke/10.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen what is best, and it will not be taken away from her." <a href="/erv/luke/10.htm">English Revised Version</a> but one thing is needful: for Mary hath chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her. <a href="/gwt/luke/10.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> There's only one thing you need [worth worrying about]. Mary has made the right choice, and that one thing will not be taken away from her." <a href="/gnt/luke/10.htm">Good News Translation</a> but just one is needed. Mary has chosen the right thing, and it will not be taken away from her." <a href="/isv/luke/10.htm">International Standard Version</a> But there's only one thing you need. Mary has chosen what is better, and it is not to be taken away from her." <a href="/msb/luke/10.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.? <a href="/net/luke/10.htm">NET Bible</a> but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the best part; it will not be taken away from her." <a href="/nheb/luke/10.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her." <a href="/wbt/luke/10.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. <a href="/wey/luke/10.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> and yet only one thing is really necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion and she shall not be deprived of it." <a href="/web/luke/10.htm">World English Bible</a> but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/luke/10.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> but of one thing there is need, and Mary chose the good part; that will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/blb/luke/10.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> but one thing is necessary, only one; for Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her." <a href="/ylt/luke/10.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> but of one thing there is need, and Mary the good part did choose, that shall not be taken away from her.' <a href="/slt/luke/10.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And of one thing there is need: and Mary has chosen the good part which shall not be taken away from her.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/luke/10.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But one thing is necessary. Mary hath chosen the best part, which shall not be taken away from her. <a href="/cpdv/luke/10.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And yet only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the best portion, and it shall not be taken away from her.” <a href="/nabre/luke/10.htm">New American Bible</a> There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.” <a href="/nrsvce/luke/10.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/luke/10.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But one thing is more necessary; and Mary has chosen the good portion for herself, which shall not be taken away from her. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/luke/10.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> “But one thing is necessary; Maryam has chosen that good part for herself which will not be taken away from her.” <div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/luke/10.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> one thing is needful; and Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken from her. <a href="/godbey/luke/10.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>but there is need of one thing: for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken from her.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/luke/10.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But of one thing there is need: and Mary hath made her election of that good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.<CM> <a href="/mace/luke/10.htm">Mace New Testament</a> but the best and the most necessary concern is, what Mary has pitch'd upon, of which she shall never be deprived. <a href="/wey/luke/10.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> and yet only one thing is really necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion and she shall not be deprived of it." <a href="/worrell/luke/10.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>but of one thing there is need; for Mary chose the good part, which, indeed, shall not be taken away from her."<Fr> <a href="/worsley/luke/10.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> <FR>And Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.<Fr> <a href="/parallel/luke/10-42.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3-5_0Jtd9Lc?start=4446" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/luke/10.htm">Martha and Mary</a> …41“Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things. 42<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">only</a> <a href="/greek/1520.htm" title="1520: henos (Adj-GNS) -- One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one.">one</a> <a href="/greek/3641.htm" title="3641: oligōn (Adj-GNS) -- Puny; especially neuter somewhat.">thing</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/5532.htm" title="5532: chreia (N-NFS) -- From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.">necessary.</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/3137.htm" title="3137: Mariam (N-NFS) -- Or Mariam of Hebrew origin; Maria or Mariam, the name of six Christian females.">Mary</a> <a href="/greek/1586.htm" title="1586: exelexato (V-AIM-3S) -- To pick out for myself, choose, elect, select. Middle voice from ek and lego; to select.">has chosen</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/18.htm" title="18: agathēn (Adj-AFS) -- A primary word; good.">good</a> <a href="/greek/3310.htm" title="3310: merida (N-AFS) -- Feminine of meros; a portion, i.e. Province, share or participation.">portion,</a> <a href="/greek/3748.htm" title="3748: hētis (RelPro-NFS) -- Whosoever, whichsoever, whatsoever. ">and it</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/851.htm" title="851: aphairethēsetai (V-FIP-3S) -- To take away, smite off. From apo and haireomai; to remove.">will not be taken away from</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autēs (PPro-GF3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">her.” </a> <div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/6-33.htm">Matthew 6:33</a> But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. <a href="/psalms/27-4.htm">Psalm 27:4</a> One thing I have asked of the LORD; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in His temple. <a href="/philippians/3-8.htm">Philippians 3:8</a> More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ <a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Matthew 13:44-46</a> The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and in his joy he went and sold all he had and bought that field. / Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. / When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold all he had and bought it. <a href="/psalms/73-25.htm">Psalm 73:25-26</a> Whom have I in heaven but You? And on earth I desire no one besides You. / My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. <a href="/john/6-27.htm">John 6:27</a> Do not work for food that perishes, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on Him God the Father has placed His seal of approval.” <a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7</a> Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding. <a href="/colossians/3-2.htm">Colossians 3:2</a> Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. <a href="/isaiah/55-2.htm">Isaiah 55:2-3</a> Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods. / Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, so that your soul may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant—My loving devotion promised to David. <a href="/1_timothy/6-17.htm">1 Timothy 6:17-19</a> Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides all things for us to enjoy. / Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share, / treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life. <a href="/john/12-3.htm">John 12:3-8</a> Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. / But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was going to betray Him, asked, / “Why wasn’t this perfume sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” ... <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13</a> When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man. <a href="/hebrews/12-2.htm">Hebrews 12:2</a> Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. <a href="/psalms/16-5.htm">Psalm 16:5-6</a> The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; You have made my lot secure. / The lines of my boundary have fallen in pleasant places; surely my inheritance is delightful. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-2.htm">1 Corinthians 2:2</a> For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But one thing is needful: and Mary has chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.one.<a href="/luke/18-22.htm">Luke 18:22</a> Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.<a href="/psalms/27-4.htm">Psalm 27:4</a> One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.<a href="/psalms/73-25.htm">Psalm 73:25</a> Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.chosen.<a href="/deuteronomy/30-19.htm">Deuteronomy 30:19</a> I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:<a href="/joshua/24-15.htm">Joshua 24:15,22</a> And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD… <a href="/psalms/17-15.htm">Psalm 17:15</a> As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.good.<a href="/psalms/16-5.htm">Psalm 16:5,6</a> The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot… <a href="/psalms/142-5.htm">Psalm 142:5</a> I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living.which.<a href="/luke/8-18.htm">Luke 8:18</a> Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.<a href="/luke/12-20.htm">Luke 12:20,33</a> But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? … <a href="/luke/16-2.htm">Luke 16:2,25</a> And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/luke/10-14.htm">Better</a> <a href="/luke/10-22.htm">Choose</a> <a href="/luke/9-35.htm">Chosen</a> <a href="/micah/7-16.htm">Deprived</a> <a href="/luke/9-62.htm">Good</a> <a href="/luke/10-21.htm">Little</a> <a href="/luke/10-39.htm">Mary</a> <a href="/luke/2-22.htm">Necessary</a> <a href="/luke/9-11.htm">Need</a> <a href="/luke/10-35.htm">Needed</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-8.htm">Needful</a> <a href="/luke/8-8.htm">Part</a> <a href="/matthew/24-51.htm">Portion</a> <a href="/luke/7-40.htm">Really</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/luke/12-24.htm">Better</a> <a href="/john/6-70.htm">Choose</a> <a href="/luke/12-32.htm">Chosen</a> <a href="/acts/8-33.htm">Deprived</a> <a href="/luke/11-13.htm">Good</a> <a href="/luke/12-28.htm">Little</a> <a href="/luke/24-10.htm">Mary</a> <a href="/luke/14-18.htm">Necessary</a> <a href="/luke/11-8.htm">Need</a> <a href="/luke/11-3.htm">Needed</a> <a href="/john/3-7.htm">Needful</a> <a href="/luke/11-36.htm">Part</a> <a href="/luke/12-42.htm">Portion</a> <a href="/luke/11-18.htm">Really</a><div class="vheading2">Luke 10</div>1. <a href="/luke/10-1.htm">Jesus sends out at once seventy disciples to work miracles, and to preach;</a> 13. <a href="/luke/10-13.htm">pronounces a woe against certain cities.</a> 17. <a href="/luke/10-17.htm">The seventy return with joy; </a> 18. <a href="/luke/10-18.htm">he shows them wherein to rejoice, </a> 21. <a href="/luke/10-21.htm">and thanks his Father for his grace;</a> 23. <a href="/luke/10-23.htm">magnifies the happy estate of his church;</a> 25. <a href="/luke/10-25.htm">teaches the lawyer how to attain eternal life, </a> 30. <a href="/luke/10-30.htm">and tells the parable of the good Samaritan;</a> 38. <a href="/luke/10-38.htm">reprimands Martha, and commends Mary her sister.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/luke/10.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/luke/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/luke/10.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But only one thing is necessary. This phrase emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly concerns. In the context of the story, Jesus is speaking to Martha, who is distracted by her many tasks. The "one thing" refers to the necessity of focusing on Jesus and His teachings. This echoes <a href="/psalms/27-4.htm">Psalm 27:4</a>, where David expresses a desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and seek Him. The cultural context of the time placed a high value on hospitality, but Jesus redirects the focus to spiritual nourishment.Mary has chosen the good portion, Mary's choice to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His words is described as the "good portion." This phrase can be connected to the Old Testament, where the "portion" often refers to one's inheritance or share, as seen in <a href="/psalms/16-5.htm">Psalm 16:5</a>. In choosing to listen to Jesus, Mary is selecting an eternal inheritance over temporary concerns. This choice reflects the wisdom found in <a href="/proverbs/8-10.htm">Proverbs 8:10-11</a>, where wisdom is valued above silver and gold.and it will not be taken away from her.” This assurance from Jesus highlights the permanence of spiritual blessings. Unlike material possessions, which can be lost or taken away, the spiritual insight and relationship with Christ that Mary gains are eternal. This promise aligns with the teachings in <a href="/john/10-28.htm">John 10:28</a>, where Jesus speaks of giving eternal life to His followers, and no one can snatch them away. It underscores the security and lasting nature of choosing to follow Christ and His teachings.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The central figure in this passage, Jesus is teaching in the home of Martha and Mary. His presence and words are the focal point of the account. 2. <a href="/topical/m/mary.htm">Mary</a> Sister of Martha, she is depicted as sitting at Jesus' feet, listening to His teaching. Her choice to prioritize spiritual learning over household duties is commended by Jesus. 3. <a href="/topical/m/martha.htm">Martha</a> Sister of Mary, she is busy with the preparations and serving, and she becomes frustrated with Mary for not helping her. Martha's concern for hospitality is contrasted with Mary's focus on Jesus' words. 4. <a href="/topical/b/bethany.htm">Bethany</a> The village where Martha and Mary live, and where this event takes place. It is located near Jerusalem and is a place where Jesus often visited. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_event.htm">The Event</a> The account describes a visit by Jesus to the home of Martha and Mary, highlighting the tension between worldly concerns and spiritual devotion.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/p/prioritizing_spiritual_growth.htm">Prioritizing Spiritual Growth</a> Mary chose "the good part," which was to focus on Jesus' teachings. In our lives, we should prioritize spiritual growth and time with God over worldly distractions. <a href="/topical/b/balancing_service_and_devotion.htm">Balancing Service and Devotion</a> While service is important, it should not overshadow our devotion to Christ. Like Martha, we can become distracted by our duties and miss the opportunity for spiritual nourishment. <a href="/topical/f/finding_peace_in_christ.htm">Finding Peace in Christ</a> Jesus' response to Martha highlights the peace that comes from focusing on Him. In a world full of distractions, finding peace in Christ is essential. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_listening.htm">The Importance of Listening</a> Mary's example teaches us the importance of listening to Jesus. In our daily lives, we should make time to listen to God's Word and apply it. <a href="/topical/c/choosing_the_eternal.htm">Choosing the Eternal</a> Jesus commends Mary for choosing what is eternal. We are reminded to focus on eternal values rather than temporary concerns.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/luke/10.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(42) But one thing is needful.--Some of the better MSS. present a singular various-reading, There is need of few things, or of one only. It is obvious that this might be taken either literally or spiritually. They might mean (1) that He who spoke, and the others who were coming, needed not the many things about which Martha was troubled, but a few only, or even but a single dish, to supply their wants; or (2) that the true life of men needed but a few things, such as faith, obedience, the fear of God, or even but one only, the devout and intent love which Mary was then showing. The latter interpretation is clearly most in harmony with our Lord's usual teaching, though the former has something like a parallel in the teaching of <a href="/luke/10-7.htm" title="And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.">Luke 10:7</a> of this very chapter. It is not improbable that our Lord designedly used words which had an outer and an inner meaning, the latter intended chiefly for those who "had ears to hear." There is a singular coincidence between the words here spoken to Martha and those addressed to the young ruler ("one thing thou lackest"), whom we have seen reason to identify with her brother. (See Note on <a href="/matthew/19-16.htm" title="And, behold, one came and said to him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?">Matthew 19:16</a>.) The omission of "few things" in the received text, may have originated in the wish to give an exclusive prominence to the higher meaning.Mary hath chosen that good part.--The Greek noun is very nearly the same as that which the younger son, in <a href="/luke/15-12.htm" title="And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me. And he divided to them his living.">Luke 15:12</a>, uses for "the portion of goods," the good part or portion here being nothing less than the eternal life which is the gift of God. Here too we may trace something approaching to a half-playful mingling of the higher and lower meanings of the word which was used in the Greek version of the Old Testament at once for Benjamin's mess, i.e., portion of food (<a href="/genesis/43-34.htm" title="And he took and sent messes to them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.">Genesis 43:34</a>), and for God as the "portion" of His people (<a href="/psalms/73-26.htm" title="My flesh and my heart fails: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.">Psalm 73:26</a>). Even on the assumption that our Lord spoke in Aramaic, and not in Greek, a like play upon the word would have been equally possible. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/luke/10.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 42. - But one thing is needful. Jesus had been saying to this kindly but over-fussy friend, "Are you not too anxious about these household cares of yours?" and then he adds, "See, only one thing is really needful." Now, what is the exact meaning of these last words? Some expositors have taken the expression to mean "a single dish is sufficient" for my entertainment; so much careful, anxious thought is thrown away. A curious variation in the reading occurs here in some, though not in all the oldest, authorities. It seems as though some of the early copyists of the text of the Gospel were wishful to make the words, which they possibly understood as a lesson of the Master's on simplicity of food, clearer and more emphatic. This other reading is, "There is need of few things, or of one only." In other words, "Few things are enough for me and my friends to sit down to, or even one dish only." The teaching contained in ver. 7 gives a little colour to this quaint interpretation of the Master's words here, which sees in them a general warning against taking thought for the pleasures of the table. But, on the whole, the old reading contained in the received text is preferable, and the old interpretation, too, viz. that the true life of man needs but one thing, or, if the other reading be adopted, needs but few things. If we must specify the one, we would call it" love," or "charity." So John, we know, in his old days, summed up all man's duties in this "love." If, on the other hand, we are asked to name the few, then we would add to love, faith and hope. The parable of the "good Samaritan," that practical lesson of the love or charity the Master was alluding to, had just been spoken; it was Still, we may reverently assume, fresh in the Divine Teacher's mind. And Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. And Mary, his dear Bethany friend, had made her happy choice of the one thing, that love or charity which never fails; or, perchance, had made her choice of the few things needful (if we prefer the longer reading of those old manuscripts we have spoken of) - the few things would then mean that faith, hope, and charity which abide both now and in the ages of ages yet to come! <a href="/commentaries/luke/10-42.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But δέ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. only ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. one ἑνός (henos) Adjective - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1520.htm">Strong's 1520: </a> One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one. thing ὀλίγων (oligōn) Adjective - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3641.htm">Strong's 3641: </a> Puny; especially neuter somewhat. is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. necessary. χρεία (chreia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5532.htm">Strong's 5532: </a> From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution. Mary Μαριὰμ (Mariam) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3137.htm">Strong's 3137: </a> Or Mariam of Hebrew origin; Maria or Mariam, the name of six Christian females. has chosen ἐξελέξατο (exelexato) Verb - Aorist Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1586.htm">Strong's 1586: </a> To pick out for myself, choose, elect, select. Middle voice from ek and lego; to select. the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. good ἀγαθὴν (agathēn) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_18.htm">Strong's 18: </a> A primary word; 'good'. portion, μερίδα (merida) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3310.htm">Strong's 3310: </a> Feminine of meros; a portion, i.e. Province, share or participation. [and it] ἥτις (hētis) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3748.htm">Strong's 3748: </a> Whosoever, whichsoever, whatsoever. will not be taken away from ἀφαιρεθήσεται (aphairethēsetai) Verb - Future Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_851.htm">Strong's 851: </a> To take away, smite off. From apo and haireomai; to remove. her.” αὐτῆς (autēs) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Feminine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/luke/10-42.htm">NT Gospels: Luke 10:42 But one thing is needed (Luke Lu Lk) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/luke/10-41.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Luke 10:41"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Luke 10:41" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/luke/11-1.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Luke 11:1"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Luke 11:1" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>