ἔλεγεν/said imperfect tense

[tonychanyt]

ESV Luke 23:

34 And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.

said
ἔλεγεν (elegen)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular

Berean Literal Bible:

And Jesus was saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." And they cast lots, dividing His garments.

At Biblehub, 25 versions used "said"; 7 "was saying".

ἔλεγεν (elegen) — 71 Occurrences

NIV Luke 23:

42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

New American Standard Bible:

And he was saying, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!”

I prefer the "was saying".