Who are the four traditionally ascribed authors of the canonical gospels?

The four traditionally ascribed authors of the canonical gospels are known as the Four Evangelists. These individuals are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Luke the Evangelist is specifically identified as one of these four.

What profession is Luke the Evangelist believed to have held, based on New Testament mentions?

According to the New Testament, specifically the Epistle to the Colossians, Luke is referred to as a physician. This suggests his profession was in the field of healing, and he is thought to have been a disciple of Paul the Apostle.

How is Luke the Evangelist venerated in various Christian denominations?

Luke the Evangelist is venerated as a saint in most Christian churches that venerate saints. He is also recognized as a martyr, though some traditions differ on the specifics of his death. His feast day is commonly observed on October 18th.

What are some of the key attributes associated with Saint Luke in traditional depictions?

In traditional depictions, Saint Luke is often shown as an Evangelist, a physician, and is frequently accompanied by a winged ox or calf. He is also commonly depicted holding a book or pen, painting an icon of the Virgin Mary, or carrying a brush or palette.

Which professions and groups consider Saint Luke their patron saint?

Saint Luke is considered the patron saint of various professions and groups, including artists, physicians, notaries, bachelors, goldsmiths, butchers, brewers, and glass workers. His patronage reflects the diverse traditions and skills associated with him.

Where do scholars generally believe Luke the Evangelist was born, and what was his likely ethnic background?

Many scholars believe Luke the Evangelist was born in Antioch, a Hellenistic city in Ancient Syria, and that he came from a Greek family. However, some scholars and theologians propose he might have been a Hellenic Jew.

What does the quality of Greek language and literary allusions in Luke-Acts suggest about the author?

The sophisticated use of Greek and the author's references to classical Greek authors like Homer and Plato indicate a high level of education. This familiarity with Greek literature likely stemmed from the comprehensive Hellenistic educational curriculum common in the eastern Mediterranean.

In which New Testament epistles is Luke the Evangelist mentioned?

Luke the Evangelist is mentioned in the New Testament epistles of Philemon (chapter 1, verse 24), Colossians (chapter 4, verse 14), and 2 Timothy (chapter 4, verse 11). These epistles are traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle.

What distinction is made in the Epistle to the Colossians regarding Luke and his colleagues?

The Epistle to the Colossians differentiates between Luke and his colleagues by referring to the latter as being "of the circumcision." This has led to the traditional conclusion that Luke was Gentile, making him potentially the only non-Jewish author in the New Testament, although some scholars suggest he could have been a Hellenized Jew.

What evidence suggests Luke was present with Paul in Rome near the end of Paul's life?

The second epistle to Timothy states, "Only Luke is with me," indicating Luke's presence with Paul in Rome. Furthermore, the final chapter of the Book of Acts, widely attributed to Luke, includes first-person accounts like "And when we came to Rome..." which affirm Luke's presence in the city.

According to tradition, when and where did Luke the Evangelist die?

According to a widespread tradition, Luke the Evangelist died at the age of 84 in Thebes, Boeotia, which is located in modern-day Greece. His tomb was later said to be in Thebes, with his relics transferred to Constantinople in 357 AD.

What is the 'Luke-Acts' designation used by scholars?

The 'Luke-Acts' designation refers to the two-volume work comprising the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Together, these books account for approximately 27.5% of the New Testament, making Luke the single most prolific author in the New Testament.

What do the earliest manuscripts and Church Fathers say about the authorship of the Gospel of Luke?

The earliest manuscript of the Gospel of Luke, Papyrus 75 (circa AD 200), ascribes the work to Luke. Early Church figures like Irenaeus (circa AD 180) and the Muratorian fragment also support Luke's authorship, although scholarly debate continues due to a lack of definitive proof.

In what tradition is the writing of Luke-Acts understood by most scholars?

Most scholars understand the writings of Luke-Acts within the tradition of Greek historiography. The opening verses of the Gospel of Luke (1:1-4) explicitly state that the author conducted thorough investigations, identifying the work as belonging to the genre of history.

What differing views exist among scholars regarding the historical accuracy of Luke's writings?

There are differing views on Luke's historical accuracy. Some scholars, like William Mitchell Ramsay and E.M. Blaiklock, consider him a historian of the highest rank, citing archaeological evidence for his accuracy. Others adopt a more critical approach, questioning his intent and the reliability of certain details.

How does methodological naturalism influence the modern historical assessment of Luke's writings?

Modern historians, working with methodological naturalism, tend to view narratives containing supernatural events (like angels or demons) as problematic historical sources. This perspective can lead to questioning Luke's competence as a historian if his intent is seen solely as proclamation or persuasion rather than objective record-keeping.

What are some specific examples of potential chronological or statistical difficulties cited in Luke-Acts?

Scholars have pointed to potential chronological difficulties, such as the order of Theudas and Judas in Gamaliel's speech (Acts 5:36-37), and statistical improbabilities, like the large crowd mentioned in Acts 4:4. The census of Quirinius has also been a subject of debate regarding its historical accuracy as presented in Luke's Gospel.

What tradition states that Luke was the first icon painter?

Christian tradition, beginning in the 8th century, holds that Luke the Evangelist was the first icon painter. He is said to have created images of the Virgin Mary and Child, as well as icons of Saints Peter and Paul.

What is the symbolic representation of Saint Luke, and what is its origin?

In traditional art, Saint Luke is often depicted with a winged ox or bull. This symbol is derived from biblical passages in Ezekiel 1:10 and Revelation 4:7, and it is interpreted to represent Luke's Gospel, which emphasizes Christ's sacrificial ministry and begins with Zechariah performing priestly duties.

What are the main feast days for Saint Luke the Evangelist in the Eastern Orthodox Church?

The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Luke the Evangelist on several feast days. These include January 4th (Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles), April 22nd and September 10th (Feast of Apostles Nathaniel, Luke, Clement, and Apelles), June 20th (Translation of relics), and October 18th (Feast of Apostle and Evangelist Luke).

When does the Roman Catholic Church commemorate Saint Luke the Evangelist?

The Roman Catholic Church commemorates Saint Luke the Evangelist on October 18th each year.

What is the traditional location of Saint Luke's relics?

The body of Saint Luke the Evangelist is traditionally believed to be housed in the Abbey of Santa Giustina in Padua, Italy. His skull is said to be in St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, and a rib is venerated at his tomb in Thebes, Greece.

What scientific investigations have been conducted on the relics attributed to Saint Luke in Padua?

In 1992, scientific investigations, including archaeological analysis of the tomb and reliquary, anatomical studies, carbon-14 dating, and comparison with other purported relics, were conducted on the remains in Padua. These studies confirmed the relics belonged to an individual of Syrian descent who died between AD 72 and AD 416.

What is the significance of the 'we' passages in the Book of Acts regarding Luke's authorship?

The passages in Acts where the author uses 'we' (often called 'we-passages') indicate that the author was personally present during those events described. This usage supports the tradition that Luke accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys, as he is believed to be the author of Acts.

What is the traditional explanation for Luke's symbol being an ox or bull?

The ox or bull is traditionally associated with Saint Luke because his Gospel emphasizes Christ's sacrificial ministry and begins with the story of Zechariah performing priestly duties, which involved animal sacrifice. The ox is seen as a symbol of sacrifice.

What role did the Guilds of Saint Luke play in Europe?

The Guilds of Saint Luke were organizations that gathered and supported painters in various European cities, particularly in Flanders. These guilds played a role in the development and protection of artists during the late medieval period and beyond.

What is the relationship between the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles?

The Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles are considered a two-volume work by scholars, often referred to as 'Luke-Acts.' They are closely linked in theme, purpose, and authorship, with Acts continuing the narrative begun in Luke's Gospel.

What does the phrase 'Luke the physician' imply about his background and relationship with Paul?

The description of Luke as a physician implies he was educated and likely had a background in medicine. His association with Paul, as mentioned in the New Testament, suggests he was a close companion and possibly a convert through Paul's ministry.

What is the traditional view on whether Luke the Evangelist was a martyr?

It is traditionally believed that Luke the Evangelist was a martyr, with some accounts suggesting he was hanged from an olive tree. However, the text notes that some sources hold a different view on whether he actually died a martyr's death.

What is the significance of the 'enkyklios paideia' in relation to Luke's education?

The term 'enkyklios paideia' refers to the comprehensive liberal arts education common in the Hellenistic period. Luke's familiarity with classical Greek authors suggests he received this type of education, which was standard for educated individuals in the eastern Mediterranean.

What is the traditional attribution for the Hodegetria image?

Christian tradition states that Luke the Evangelist painted the Hodegetria image of the Virgin Mary and Child in Constantinople. Although this specific image is now lost, it is one of several icons attributed to his hand.

What does the text suggest about the potential origin of Luke's relics based on DNA testing?

DNA testing on the relics attributed to Saint Luke suggests they are of Syrian descent. This finding is compatible with the hypothesis that the body originated from Syria, but also allows for the possibility of its replacement in Constantinople.

What is the primary purpose of the 'See also' and 'External links' sections in the article?

The 'See also' section provides links to related topics and figures, helping readers explore connections within the subject matter. The 'External links' section offers pointers to external resources like Wikiquote, Wikimedia Commons, and other websites for further information.

What is the significance of the mention of 'Luke' in the Epistle to Philemon?

The mention of Luke in the Epistle to Philemon is significant as it is considered Luke's earliest mention in the New Testament. It places him alongside other companions of Paul, reinforcing his association with the Apostle.

How do scholars interpret Luke's Gospel and Acts in relation to ancient Greek literary texts?

Scholars note that Luke's writings show familiarity with actual Greek literary texts, including works by authors like Homer and Plato. This familiarity is attributed to his education within the standard Hellenistic curriculum of the eastern Mediterranean.

What is the traditional date for the feast day of Saint Luke the Evangelist?

The traditional feast day for Saint Luke the Evangelist is October 18th. This date is observed by various Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England.

What does the 'Gallery' section of the article contain?

The 'Gallery' section of the article contains various artistic depictions of Luke the Evangelist. These images showcase how he has been represented in art throughout history, often showing him writing or painting.

What is the primary argument presented by Mark Allan Powell regarding Luke's intent as a historian?

Mark Allan Powell argues that it is doubtful Luke's primary intent was to write history. Powell suggests Luke wrote to proclaim, persuade, and interpret, rather than solely to preserve records for posterity, which challenges Luke's role as a historian for some.

What connection is made between Saint Luke and the Guilds of Saint Luke?

The Guilds of Saint Luke, which gathered and protected painters in Europe, are named in honor of Saint Luke. This tradition stems from the belief that Luke was the first icon painter, making him a patron saint of artists.

What does the text suggest about the possibility of Luke contributing to the authorship of the Epistle to the Hebrews?

According to some accounts mentioned in the text, Luke may have contributed to the authorship of the Epistle to the Hebrews. This is presented as a possibility alongside his widely accepted authorship of the Gospel of Luke and Acts.

What is the significance of the 'More citations needed' notice in the 'Veneration' section?

The 'More citations needed' notice indicates that the information presented in the 'Veneration' section requires additional supporting evidence from reliable sources. This is a standard Wikipedia practice to ensure the accuracy and verifiability of the content.

What does the Oriental Orthodoxy commemorate regarding Luke the Evangelist?

The Coptic Orthodox Church commemorates the martyrdom of Luke the Evangelist on Paopi 22nd, which corresponds to a specific date in their calendar. This highlights the veneration of Luke within different branches of Orthodoxy.

What is the traditional narrative regarding the relics of Saint Luke and their movement?

Tradition holds that the relics of Saint Luke were purchased by George of Serbia from the Ottoman Sultan Murad II. Later, his granddaughter, Mary, Queen of Bosnia, sold the relics to the Venetian Republic after the Ottoman conquest of Bosnia.

What was the outcome of the 1992 request for a fragment of Saint Luke's relics?

In 1992, a request was made by Metropolitan Ieronymos of Thebes and Livadeia for a fragment of Saint Luke's relics. This led to scientific investigations of the relics in Padua, which confirmed their Syrian origin and a death date between AD 72 and AD 416. A rib fragment was subsequently delivered to Metropolitan Ieronymos for his tomb in Thebes.

What does the article state about the 'Luke-Acts' work in terms of its contribution to the New Testament?

The 'Luke-Acts' work, comprising the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, represents the largest contribution by a single author to the New Testament, accounting for approximately 27.5% of its content.

What is the significance of the 'See also' section in relation to Luke the Evangelist?

The 'See also' section lists related figures and concepts, such as John, Mark, and Matthew the Evangelists, and the Church of St. Luke the Evangelist in Zagreb. These links help readers explore connections to other important figures and places associated with the early Christian period.

What does the 'Authority control' section at the end of the article provide?

The 'Authority control' section provides links to various databases (like ISNI, VIAF, LoC, GND) that catalog information about Luke the Evangelist. These databases help identify and organize information about him across different systems and collections.

What specific biblical events are detailed in the Gospel of Luke, as indicated by the navbox?

The navbox for the Gospel of Luke lists numerous events, including the Annunciation to Mary and Elizabeth, the Nativity of Jesus, the Presentation at the Temple, the Finding in the Temple, the Baptism and Temptation of Jesus, the Sermon on the Plain, calming the storm, feeding the multitude, the Transfiguration, the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, Burial, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus.

What are some of the key phrases or teachings attributed to Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, as noted in the navbox?

Key phrases and teachings attributed to Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, as listed in the navbox, include the Benedictus (Song of Zechariah), 'Fishers of men,' the Magnificat, 'New Wine into Old Wineskins,' the Nunc dimittis (Song of Simeon), the Parable of the Unjust Steward, the Rich Man and Lazarus, and the four woes of Jesus.

Which individuals are listed in the 'People' section of the Acts of the Apostles navbox?

The 'People' section of the Acts of the Apostles navbox lists numerous individuals, including Aeneas, Agabus, Agrippa, Barnabas, Cornelius, Dorcas, Felix, Festus, Gallio, Gamaliel, James the Just, John Mark, Lydia, Paul the Apostle, Philip the Evangelist, Priscilla, Silas, Simeon Niger, Simon Magus, Timothy, Titus, and Tychicus, among others.

Luke The Evangelist Wiki: Luke the Evangelist: A Scholarly Exploration of His Life and Legacy

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The Life of Luke

Origins and Early Life

Scholarly consensus suggests Luke was a physician residing in Antioch, a prominent Hellenistic city in Roman Syria. His background is debated, with some proposing he was of Greek descent, while others posit he was a Hellenized Jew. The linguistic sophistication of his writings, particularly the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, indicates a thorough education within the standard Greco-Roman curriculum (enkyklios paideia), suggesting familiarity with classical literature.

Lifespan and Death

Tradition holds that Luke was born between 1 AD and 16 AD in Antioch. He is believed to have died between 84 AD and 100 AD, traditionally at the age of 84. His death is commonly placed in Thebes, Boeotia, within the Roman Empire, though some traditions suggest alternative circumstances.

Association with Paul

Luke is identified in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle to the Colossians, as a physician and a companion of the Apostle Paul. His presence alongside Paul during certain missionary journeys is inferred from the use of first-person plural ("we") in the latter part of the Acts of the Apostles, suggesting he was an eyewitness to these events.

Authorship of Luke-Acts

Traditional Attribution

Early Christian authorities, including figures like Jerome and Eusebius, consistently ascribed the authorship of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles to Luke the Evangelist. These works constitute a significant portion of the New Testament, often referred to collectively as Luke-Acts.

Scholarly Discussion

While tradition strongly supports Luke's authorship, the absence of explicit naming within the Gospel itself has led to scholarly debate. Some scholars note that the works were not penned by direct eyewitnesses to Jesus' ministry, unlike the beginning of Acts. However, the earliest manuscript evidence and early Christian writings generally support the traditional attribution.

Linguistic Evidence

The sophisticated use of Koine Greek and the author's evident familiarity with classical literary traditions suggest a highly educated individual. The text contains allusions to ancient Greek authors, reinforcing the image of Luke as a learned scholar, regardless of whether his primary background was Gentile or Jewish.

Luke as a Historian

Historiographical Tradition

Luke's works are generally understood within the framework of ancient Greek historiography. The introductory verses of the Gospel of Luke explicitly state the author's intent to provide an orderly, investigated account. This suggests Luke aimed for historical accuracy, aligning with the standards of contemporary historians.

Debates on Accuracy

The historical reliability of Luke's writings is a subject of ongoing scholarly discussion. Archaeologists like Sir William Mitchell Ramsay have lauded Luke as a "historian of the first rank," citing his accurate details regarding places, titles, and customs. Conversely, some scholars, employing methodological naturalism, question the historicity of supernatural events described in Acts. Others argue Luke's primary intent was theological persuasion rather than pure historical record-keeping.

Specific points of discussion include:

Chronological Discrepancies: Debates exist regarding the ordering of events, such as Gamaliel's reference to Theudas and Judas of Galilee in Acts 5:36.
Statistical Improbabilities: Some scholars point to potentially inflated numbers of participants in certain events described in Acts.
Purpose of Writing: The extent to which Luke's narrative serves apologetic or theological aims, potentially influencing his presentation of historical events, is also considered.

Luke as an Artist

Tradition of Icon Painting

Beginning in the 8th century, Christian tradition posits Luke as the first icon painter. He is credited with creating images of the Virgin Mary and Child, including the famed Hodegetria icon. Numerous painted icons, such as the Black Madonna of Częstochowa and Our Lady of Vladimir, have been venerated as his autograph works.

Guilds and Artistic Influence

The tradition of Luke as an artist influenced the formation of Guilds of Saint Luke across Europe, which supported painters. The Accademia di San Luca in Rome, established in the 16th century, is a notable example. This veneration is particularly strong in Eastern Orthodoxy, with some traditions claiming Luke painted icons brought to India by Saint Thomas.

The Symbol of Luke

The Winged Ox

In traditional iconography, Saint Luke is frequently depicted accompanied by a winged ox or calf. This symbol is derived from biblical passages in Ezekiel 1:10 and Revelation 4:7, which describe living creatures with four faces, including that of an ox. The ox symbolizes the sacrificial aspect of Christ's ministry, aligning with Luke's emphasis on Christ's suffering and priestly role, as highlighted in his Gospel.

Veneration Across Traditions

Christian Commemorations

Luke the Evangelist is venerated across major Christian denominations. The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates him on multiple feast days, including January 4th (Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles), April 22nd, June 20th (translation of relics), and October 18th/31st. The Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England also observe his feast day on October 18th. The Coptic Orthodox Church commemorates his martyrdom on Paopi 22nd.

Patronage

Saint Luke is recognized as the patron saint of various professions and groups, including artists, physicians, surgeons, butchers, brewers, goldsmiths, notaries, and bachelors. His patronage reflects his traditional roles as a healer, craftsman, and solitary figure.

Relics and Scientific Scrutiny

Historical Journey of Relics

The relics traditionally associated with Saint Luke have a complex history, involving transfers between Constantinople, Serbia, and Venice. In 1992, a significant fragment was transferred to Thebes, Greece, prompting scientific investigation. Analysis, including anatomical and carbon-14 dating, suggested the remains belonged to an individual of Syrian descent who died between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD, consistent with the traditional timeline.

Genetic and Archaeological Evidence

Further studies compared the remains with purported relics in Prague and other samples. While genetic analysis indicated Syrian ancestry, aligning with tradition, the precise provenance remains a subject of scholarly discussion. The current distribution of relics includes the body in Padua, Italy; the skull in Prague, Czech Republic; and a rib fragment in Thebes, Greece.

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References

Aherne 1910 notes that it is controversial whether he actually died a martyr's death

The basic study on the legends concerning Saint Luke as a painter is Bacci 1998

Colossians 4:14

Philemon 1:24

Colossians 4:14

2 Timothy 4:11

2 Corinthians 8:18

Acts 28:16

"The Symbols of the Evangelists", The Fitzwilliam Museum

A full list of references for this article are available at the Luke the Evangelist Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon scholarly and historical data. It is intended for educational and informational purposes, providing a structured overview of Luke the Evangelist based on available sources.

This content is not exhaustive and does not substitute professional historical or theological research. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, users are encouraged to consult primary sources and engage in critical analysis. The information presented here is for academic enrichment and should not be considered definitive or authoritative without independent verification.

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Luke the Evangelist

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The Life of Luke 👨‍⚕️

🌍 Origins and Early Life

⏳ Lifespan and Death

✝️ Association with Paul

Authorship of Luke-Acts ✍️

📜 Traditional Attribution

🤔 Scholarly Discussion

🗣️ Linguistic Evidence

Luke as a Historian 🏛️

🧐 Historiographical Tradition

⚖️ Debates on Accuracy

Luke as an Artist 🎨

🖼️ Tradition of Icon Painting

🤝 Guilds and Artistic Influence

The Symbol of Luke 🐂

🌟 The Winged Ox

Veneration Across Traditions 🙏

✝️ Christian Commemorations

👑 Patronage

Relics and Scientific Scrutiny ⚰️

🏺 Historical Journey of Relics

🔬 Genetic and Archaeological Evidence

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice for Learners

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Life of Luke

Origins and Early Life

Lifespan and Death

Association with Paul

Authorship of Luke-Acts

Traditional Attribution

Scholarly Discussion

Linguistic Evidence

Luke as a Historian

Historiographical Tradition

Debates on Accuracy

Luke as an Artist

Tradition of Icon Painting

Guilds and Artistic Influence

The Symbol of Luke

The Winged Ox

Veneration Across Traditions

Christian Commemorations

Patronage

Relics and Scientific Scrutiny

Historical Journey of Relics

Genetic and Archaeological Evidence

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice for Learners