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Luke 20:22

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

So here's the deal, are we supposed to pay taxes to Caesar or not?

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

They're trying to trap Jesus with a loaded political question about taxes.

📚 Historical Context

In the first century AD, the Jewish people in Judea were under Roman occupation and were required to pay taxes to Caesar, which many viewed as a symbol of oppression and a conflict with their devotion to God. The religious leaders, including Pharisees and Herodians, posed this question to Jesus as a trap to force Him into a political corner, either accusing Him of rebellion against Rome or treason against Jewish law. This event took place during Jesus' final week in Jerusalem, amid growing tensions as He taught in the temple.

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