Luke 12:35

“Let your loins be girded about, etc.] With the girdle of truth, (<490614>Ephesians 6:14) keeping close to the doctrines of the Gospel, abiding faithfully by them, even unto death: the allusion is either to the eating of the first passover, (<021211>Exodus 12:11) or rather to servants, who, in these eastern countries, wore long garments; and therefore, when in business, used to gather them up, and gird them about them, that they might perform their service with greater strength, more ease, quicker dispatch, and less hinderance: the phrase denotes readiness for business: and your lights burning. The Vulgate Latin version adds, “in your hands”; meaning torches that were held in the hand: and…”

“loins . . . girded--to fasten up the long outer garment, always done before travel and work (Kg2 4:29; Act 12:8). The meaning is, Be in readiness. lights, &c.--(See on Mat 25:1).”

“Let your loins ... - This alludes to the ancient manner of dress. They wore a long flowing robe as their outer garment. See the notes at Matthew 5:38-41. When they labored, or walked, or ran, it was necessary to “gird” or tie this up by a “sash” or girdle about the body, that it might not impede their progress. Hence, to gird up the loins means to be “ready,” to be active, to be diligent. Compare 2 Kings 4:29; 2 Kings 9:1; Jeremiah 1:17; Acts 12:8. Your lights burning - This expresses the same meaning. Be ready at all times to leave the world and enter into rest, when your Lord shall call you. Let every obstacle be out of the way; let every earthly care be removed, and be prepared to follow…”

“Let your loins be girt - An allusion to the long garments, worn by the eastern nations, which they girded or tucked up about their loins, when they journeyed or were employed in any labour: as also to the lights that servants used to carry at weddings, which were generally in the night. Luke 12:37”

“12:35-48 Jesus compared his faithful followers to servants in a master’s household who were always prepared for his return and faithfully managed the resources he had left with them. 12:35 keep your lamps burning: This is a picture of readiness and vigilance (Exod 27:20-21; Lev 24:2; Ps 18:28; Matt 25:1-13).”

“your loins: Kg1 18:46; Pro 31:17; Isa 5:27, Isa 11:5; Eph 6:14; Pe1 1:13 your lights: Mat 5:16, Mat 25:1, Mat 25:4-10; Phi 2:15 Luke 12:36”