14:7 Then 1 when Jesus 2 noticed how the guests 3 chose the places of honor, 4 he told them a parable. He said to them, 14:8 “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, 5 do not take 6 the place of honor, because a person more distinguished than you may have been invited by your host. 7
1 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
2 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
3 tn Grk “those who were invited.”
4 tn Or “the best places.” The “places of honor” at the meal would be those closest to the host.
5 tn Or “banquet.” This may not refer only to a wedding feast, because this term can have broader sense (note the usage in Esth 2:18; 9:22 LXX). However, this difference does not affect the point of the parable.
6 tn Grk “do not recline in the place of honor.” 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.
7 tn Grk “by him”; the referent (the host) has been specified in the translation for clarity.