Luke 23:34 is studied here as a Biblical passage first: in its immediate King James context, through its recurring metaphysical themes, and through source-grounded readings preserved in Neville Goddard's lectures and books.
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
Read the Passage in Context
- Luke 23:33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
- Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
- Luke 23:35 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.
Open Luke 23:34 in the YHWSA Bible workspace for the complete chapter, word tools, notes, and comparisons.
Key Metaphysical Themes
- Forgiveness
- Divine Understanding
- Fatherhood
- Sabbath Completion
- Ignorance
- States Of Consciousness
- Instruments
- Cause And Effect
- Imagination
- Responsibility
- Author Vs. Actor
- Divine Drama
Neville’s Reading in All That Is Divine
This statement, made by Jesus, is the ultimate expression of understanding and forgiveness that one reaches upon the fulfillment of the divine journey and the revelation of Fatherhood. It signifies the realization that all actions, even cruel ones, are part of a larger, unconscious divine play.
so in the end you will say, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Source: All That Is Divine
Neville’s Reading in Blake On Religion
Neville connects this verse to Blake's teaching on forgiveness, emphasizing that true forgiveness comes from understanding that people are merely occupants of states and do not know the true nature of their actions or the states they embody.
And you stand in his presence and you hear these words ring out: “Forgive them; for they know not what they do.”
Source: Blake On Religion
Neville’s Reading in Brazen Impudence
This verse applies to those who act as instruments for our desires, even if their actions are socially condemned, because they are unknowingly fulfilling our imaginal acts. We should forgive them because they are compelled by our own consciousness.
When you realize this, you forgive everyone for everything they have ever done, because you may have been the one who was the cause of their action. ... so in the end you will say: "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Source: Brazen Impudence
Neville’s Reading in God Given Talent
People who act negatively are often compelled by the vivid imagination of others, who are the true 'authors' of the events. Therefore, forgiveness should be extended to the 'actors' because they are often unaware of the imaginal forces influencing them.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” for some vivid imagination has compelled them to act as they act.
Source: God Given Talent
Neville’s Reading in Gods Plan Of Redemption 1970
This statement reflects the ultimate understanding that all humanity, regardless of their actions, are playing parts in God's drama, unaware of their true divine identity. Upon awakening, there is only forgiveness.
But each will come out, having played all the parts, and then he will be confronted with one being, a youth named David, and David will call him “Father”; and then the drama is over and he knows Who-He-Is. He is God the Father! Forgive them. They know not what they do.
Source: Gods Plan Of Redemption 1970
Neville’s Reading in Grace Vs Law
Having played all parts in the divine drama, one eventually reaches a state of universal forgiveness, understanding that all actions were part of God's purpose.
Therefore, in the end you can say: “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.”
Source: Grace Vs Law
Practical Reflection
- Cultivates forgiveness and understanding that others are merely actors in our own imaginal drama.
- Understand that others' actions can be influenced by imagination, fostering forgiveness and responsibility for one's own imaginal acts.
- Cultivating compassion and forgiveness, recognizing that all individuals are God playing various roles, and their actions stem from a state of unawareness.
- When faced with perceived wrongs from others, forgive them by recognizing that they are acting from a state of spiritual sleep, unaware of the true creative power of their own consciousness. This allows you to release judgment and continue to teach the truth.
Authoritative Neville Sources
YHWSA provides the Biblical workspace. MyNevilleGoddard.com preserves the complete source works behind the Neville-specific readings.
- All That Is Divine (lecture)
- Blake On Religion (lecture)
- Brazen Impudence (lecture)
- God Given Talent (lecture)
- Gods Plan Of Redemption 1970 (lecture)
- Grace Vs Law (lecture)
Questions about Luke 23:34
What is the metaphysical meaning of Luke 23:34?
YHWSA reads Luke 23:34 in its Biblical context while examining the states of consciousness and spiritual themes expressed by the passage.
Where can I read Luke 23:34 in context?
Open the linked YHWSA Bible workspace to read the complete chapter and use its language, note, and comparison tools.
Where did Neville Goddard discuss Luke 23:34?
The source list links to the complete lectures and books on MyNevilleGoddard.com rather than reproducing those works as a competing article.