7 unique characters found in the Gospel of Luke

Lazarus

This is not the brother of Martha and Mary, but of this poor man “covered with ulcers” mentioned by Jesus in one of his parables.

Lazarus dies in front of the door of an indifferent rich man. But the Gospel has not retained the name of the latter. (Luke 16:20-25)

Naim’s widow

It is a moving scene, this meeting of Jesus with a widow living in the town of Nain and mourning the death of her son. Taken with compassion, Jesus calls the young man back to life. (Luke 7:11-15)

The disciples of Emmaus

Two disciples of Jesus meet the Risen One on the road which leads to the inn of Emmaus (Lk 24:13-31). One of the two is called Cleophas, says the text.

The other remained anonymous. What if it was a woman?

Zechariah and Elizabeth

In the first chapter of the Gospel, an angel announces to this Jewish priest from the Temple in Jerusalem that he and his wife, both very old, are going to become parents.

An announcement like that made to Mary and Joseph.

While Zacharias loses his speech until the birth of the child, Elizabeth sings with Mary of the greatness of God’s love. (Luke 1:5-23)

Zacchaeus

Met in Jericho, this small tax collector was also, says the text, a rich man. Rich and curious, since he invites Jesus to his table.

A meal during which he converted to the good news of Jesus.

(Luke 19:1-9)

The Good Samaritan

This character, famous despite his anonymity, has become the figure of the “neighbor” who takes care of the injured man, abandoned by the side of the road.

(Luke 10:30-37)

The bent woman

For eighteen years, this woman had suffered from an infirmity which prevented her from standing upright. Without waiting, Jesus healed her. And too bad for the prohibitions of the Sabbath. (Luke 13:10-17)