Bible Strands
Luke 9:8
others that Elijah had appeared, and still others that a prophet of old had arisen.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Herod the tetrarch hears circulating reports about Jesus while perplexed by rumors of John the Baptist’s resurrection. The verse records the specific alternative explanations being offered to him by his court or the public.
The words — The Greek phrase Ἠλίας ἐφάνη (ēlias ephanē) literally means "Elijah had appeared." The text also records ἄλλων δὲ ὅτι προφήτης τις ἀνέστη (allōn de hoti prophētēs tis anestē), translating to "others that a certain prophet had arisen."
The thread — These same identification rumors appear in Luke 9:19, John 1:21, and Matthew 17:10, where the Elijah and returning prophet motifs consistently surface in discussions about John and Jesus.
Why it lands — The verse demands recognition that public speculation about divine figures often fragments into competing theories rather than clear understanding. It requires the reader to examine how rumors form and where they lead when confronted with authoritative claims.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.
Cross-references
- Luke 9:19 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, that a prophet of old has arisen.”
- John 1:21 “Then who are you?” they inquired. “Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”
- Matthew 17:10 The disciples asked Him, “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”
- Mark 6:15 Others were saying, “He is Elijah,” and still others, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.”
- Mark 8:28 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”