Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 14:9

"and he that bade thee and him shall come and say to thee, Give this man place; and then thou shalt begin with shame to take the lowest place." — Luke 14:9 (ASV)

Jesus continued to take the initiative (v.7). In his time the guests at a formal dinner reclined on couches, several on each one, leaning on their left elbows. The seating was according to status. The “head of the table” was the couch at one end with other couches extending from it and facing each other like the arms of a “U.” The important places were those nearest the head couch position. If an important guest came late, someone might have to be displaced to make room for him. Jesus’ practical advice illustrates the spiritual principle he stated in v.11 (cf. 18:9–14). In keeping with the Jewish custom of his day, Luke avoids direct reference to God by using the passive voice, though God is the one who does the humbling or exalting at the final judgment.