Luke 6:31 Text
King James Version (KJV)
And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.
World English Bible (WEB)
“As you would like people to do to you, do exactly so to them.
What Luke 6:31 Means
This is often called the Golden Rule, though that label comes from later readers, not from the text. Jesus gives a simple test for behavior: picture yourself on the receiving end and treat others the way you would hope to be treated. The KJV says 'men' where the WEB says 'people', and the Greek word covers everyone, not only males. Notice that it is a positive instruction. It asks you to act, rather than only avoid harming anyone. It also does not mean giving people whatever they demand; it sets your own wishes for fair, kind treatment as a measuring stick for how you treat them. Many traditions have a similar saying, but in Luke it sits inside a call to love enemies, which makes it more demanding than a rule of polite fairness.
Context of Luke 6:31
Luke, a physician and companion of Paul according to early tradition, wrote this Gospel and likely its sequel, Acts. The verse is part of the Sermon on the Plain, Luke's shorter counterpart to the Sermon on the Mount. It falls in the middle of Jesus' teaching on loving enemies, blessing those who curse you, and giving without expecting repayment. It is followed by a call to be merciful as the Father is merciful. To read the whole book, see random verse from Luke.
How to Apply Luke 6:31
Before a hard conversation, an email, or a decision that affects someone else, ask what you would want if you were in their place. Then act on the answer, even when the other person has not earned it. You will not do this perfectly, so start with one small, ordinary situation today.
Related Verses
- Matthew 7:12 – Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
- Leviticus 19:18 – Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD .
- Romans 13:10 – Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
- Luke 6:36 – Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Looking for more verses on this theme? Browse Bible Verses About Love, each with a short note on its context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Golden Rule in the Bible?
It is Jesus' teaching in Luke 6:31, and a similar line in Matthew 7:12, to treat others the way you would want to be treated. The name 'Golden Rule' was added later; the Bible itself does not use it.
Does Luke 6:31 mean I must let people take advantage of me?
No. The verse asks you to measure your actions by what you would reasonably hope for from others, not to ignore your own wellbeing. Fair and kind treatment of others can still include honest limits and saying no.
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