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Introduction to the Gospel of John

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Gospel of John

  1. Introduction about who Jesus is (1:1-18)
  2. Jesus is baptized, and he chooses twelve disciples (1:19-51)
  3. Jesus preaches, teaches, and heals people (2-11)
  4. The seven days before Jesus death (12-19)
    • Mary anoints the feet of Jesus (12:1-11)
    • Jesus rides a donkey into Jerusalem (12:12-19)
    • Some Greek men want to see Jesus (12:20-36)
    • The Jewish leaders reject Jesus (12:37-50)
    • Jesus teaches his disciples (13-17)
    • Jesus is arrested and undergoes trial (18:1-19:15)
    • Jesus is crucified and buried (19:16-42)
  5. Jesus rises from the dead (20:1-29)
  6. John says why he wrote his gospel (20:30-31)
  7. Jesus meets with the disciples (21)

What is the Gospel of John about?

The Gospel of John is one of four books in the New Testament that describe some of the life of Jesus Christ. The authors of the gospels wrote about different aspects of who Jesus was and what he did. John said that he wrote his gospel “so that people might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God” (20:31).

Johns Gospel is very different from the other three Gospels. John does not include some of the teachings and events that the other writers included in their gospels. Also, John wrote about some teachings and events that are not in the other gospels.

John wrote much about the signs Jesus did to prove that what Jesus said about himself was true. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sign]])

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Gospel of John” or “The Gospel According to John.” Or they may choose a title that may be clearer, such as, “The Good News About Jesus That John Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Who wrote the Gospel of John?

This book does not give the name of the author. However, since early Christian times, most Christians have thought that the Apostle John was the author.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Why does John write so much about the final week of Jesus life?

John wrote much about Jesus final week. He wanted his readers to think deeply about Jesus final week and his death on the cross. He wanted people to understand that Jesus willingly died on the cross so that God could forgive them for sinning against him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What do the words “remain,” “reside,” and “abide” mean in the Gospel of John?

John often used the words “remain,” “reside”, and “abide” as metaphors. John spoke of a believer becoming more faithful to Jesus and knowing Jesus better as if Jesus word “remained” in the believer. Also, John spoke of someone being spiritually joined to someone else as if the person “remained” in the other person. Christians are said to “remain” in Christ and in God. The Father is said to “remain” in the Son, and the Son is said to “remain” in the Father. The Son is said to “remain” in believers. The Holy Spirit is also said to “remain” in the believers.

Many translators will find it impossible to represent these ideas in their languages in exactly the same way. For example, Jesus intended to express the idea of the Christian being spiritually together with him when he said, “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him” (John 6:56). The UST uses the idea of “will be joined to me, and I will be joined to him.” But translators may have to find other ways of expressing the idea.

In the passage, “If my words remain in you” (John 15:7), the UST expresses this idea as, “If you live by my message.” Translators may find it possible to use this translation as a model.

What are the major issues in the text of the Gospel of John?

The following verses found in older versions of the Bible but are not included in most modern versions. Translators are advised not to translate these verses. However, if in the translators region, there are older versions of the Bible that include these verses, the translators can include them. If they are translated, they should be put inside square brackets ([]) to indicate that they were probably not original to Johns Gospel.

  • “waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel of the Lord occasionally went down into the pool and stirred the water and whoever went first after the stirring of the water, was made well from the disease they had.” (5:3-4)
  • “going through the midst of them, and so passed by” (8:59)

The following passage is included in most older and modern versions of the Bible. But it is not in the earliest copies of the Bible. Translators are advised to translate this passage. It should be put inside of square brackets ([]) to indicate that it may not have been original to Johns Gospel.

  • The story of the adulterous woman (7:53-8:11)

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

3JHN1introk29b0

John 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:23, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

“The Word”

John uses the phrase “the Word” to refer to Jesus (John 1:1, 14). John is saying that Gods most important message to all people is actually Jesus, a person with a physical body. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wordofgod]])

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

“Children of God”

When people believes in Jesus, they go from being “children of wrath” to “children of God.” They are adopted into the “family of God.”They are adopted into the “family of God.” This is an important image that will be unfolded in the New Testament. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/adoption]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphors

John uses the metaphors of light and darkness and of the Word to tell the reader that he will be writing more about good and evil and about what God wants to tell people through Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“In the beginning”

Some languages and cultures speak of the world as if it has always existed, as if it had no beginning. But “very long ago” is different from “in the beginning,” and you need to be sure that your translation communicates correctly.

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (John 1:51). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

4JHN11er9gἐν ἀρχῇ1In the beginning

This refers to the very earliest time before God created the heavens and the earth.

5JHN11z59qὁ λόγος1the Word

This refers to Jesus. Translate as the Word if possible. If “word” is feminine in your language, it could be translated as “the one who is called the Word.”

6JHN13gm5gfigs-activepassiveπάντα δι’ αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο1All things were made through him

You can translate this with an active verb. Alternate translation: “God made all things through him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7JHN13aqs1figs-doublenegativesχωρὶς αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο οὐδὲ ἕν ὃ γέγονεν1without him there was not one thing made that has been made

If your language does not permit double negatives, these words should communicate that the opposite of “all things were made through him” is false. Alternate translation: “with him there was every thing made that has been made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

8JHN13v4ykfigs-activepassiveχωρὶς αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο οὐδὲ ἕν ὃ γέγονεν1

You can translate this with an active verb. Alternate translation: “God did not make anything without him” or “God made with him every thing that God has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

9JHN14pz5cfigs-metonymyἐν αὐτῷ ζωὴ ἦν1In him was life, and the life was the light of men

In him was life is a metonym for causing everything to live. Alternate translation: “He is the one who caused everything to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10JHN14dpebfigs-metaphorἡ ζωὴ ἦν τὸ φῶς τῶν ἀνθρώπων1

Here, light here is a metaphor for “truth.” Alternate translation: “he revealed to people what is true about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

11JHN14dv2fἐν αὐτῷ1In him

Here, him refers to the one who is called the Word.

12JHN14wxn4ζωὴ1life

Here use a general term for life. If you must be more specific, translate as “spiritual life.”

13JHN15y5ryfigs-metaphorτὸ φῶς ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ φαίνει, καὶ ἡ σκοτία αὐτὸ οὐ κατέλαβεν1The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it

Here, light is a metaphor for what is true and good. Here, darkness is a metaphor what is false and evil. Alternate translation: “the truth is like a light shining into a dark place, and no one in the dark place could put out the light” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

14JHN17mht8figs-metaphorμαρτυρήσῃ περὶ τοῦ φωτός1testify about the light

Here, light is a metaphor for the revelation of God in Jesus. Alternate translation: “he might show how Jesus is like the true light of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

15JHN19xe1zfigs-metaphorτὸ φῶς τὸ ἀληθινὸν1The true light

Here light is a metaphor that represents Jesus as the one who both reveals the truth about God and is himself that truth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

16JHN110b93eἐν τῷ κόσμῳ ἦν, καὶ ὁ κόσμος δι’ αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο, καὶ ὁ κόσμος αὐτὸν οὐκ ἔγνω1He was in the world, and the world was made through him, and the world did not know him

“Even though he was in this world, and God created everything through him, people still did not recognize him”

17JHN110ke5sfigs-metonymyὁ κόσμος αὐτὸν οὐκ ἔγνω1the world did not know him

Here, the world is a metonym that stands for all the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “the people did not know who he really was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

18JHN111jr6dεἰς τὰ ἴδια ἦλθεν, καὶ οἱ ἴδιοι αὐτὸν οὐ παρέλαβον1He came to his own, and his own did not receive him

“He came to his own fellow countrymen, and his own fellow countrymen did not accept him either”

19JHN111va1wαὐτὸν οὐ παρέλαβον1receive him

“did not accept him.” To receive someone is to welcome him and treat him with honor in hopes of building a relationship with him.

20JHN112jp3yfigs-metonymyπιστεύουσιν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ1believed in his name

Here, name is a metonym that stands for Jesus identity and everything about him. Alternate translation: “believed in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

21JHN112x4f9ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ἐξουσίαν1he gave the right

“he gave them the authority” or “he made it possible for them”

22JHN112uc6efigs-metaphorτέκνα Θεοῦ1children of God

The word children is a metaphor that represents our relationship to God, which is like children to a father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

23JHN114ft2lὁ λόγος1The Word

This refers to Jesus. Translate as the Word if possible. If “word” is feminine in your language, it could be translated as “the one who is called the Word.” See how you translated this in John 1:1.

24JHN114x1aefigs-synecdocheσὰρξ ἐγένετο1became flesh

Here, flesh represents “a person” or “a human being.” Alternate translation: “became human” or “became a human being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

25JHN114wa23μονογενοῦς παρὰ πατρός1the one and only who came from the Father

The phrase the only begotten means that he is unique, that no one else is like him. The phrase from the Father means that he is the Fathers child. Alternate translation: “the unique Son of the Father” or “the only Son of the Father”

26JHN114b5t5guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesπατρός1Father

This is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

27JHN114tg4mπλήρης χάριτος1full of grace

“full of kind acts towards us, acts we do not deserve”

28JHN115k7rmὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος1He who comes after me

John is speaking about Jesus. The phrase is coming after me means that Johns ministry has already started and Jesus ministry will start later.

29JHN115q75hἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν1is greater than I am

“is more important than I am” or “has more authority than I have”

30JHN115lrd7ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν1for he was before me

Be careful not to translate this in a way that suggests that Jesus is more important because he is older than John in human years. Jesus is greater and more important than John because he is God the Son, who has always been alive.

31JHN116p3zgτοῦ πληρώματος1fullness

Here, fullness refers to Gods grace that has no end.

32JHN116b9r1χάριν ἀντὶ χάριτος1grace after grace

“blessing after blessing”

33JHN118h5cqguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ Πατρὸς1Father

This is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

34JHN119e1dzfigs-synecdocheἀπέστειλαν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι ἐξ Ἱεροσολύμων1the Jews sent … to him from Jerusalem

The word Jews here represents the “Jewish leaders.” Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders sent … to him from Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

35JHN120b7zzὡμολόγησεν καὶ οὐκ ἠρνήσατο, καὶ ὡμολόγησεν1He confessed—he did not deny, but confessed

The phrase he did not deny says in negative terms the same thing that “He confessed” says in positive terms. This emphasizes that John was telling the truth and was strongly stating that he was not the Christ. Your language may have a different way of doing this.

36JHN121iv9dτί οὖν?1What are you then?

“What then is the case, if you are not the Messiah?” or “What then is going on?” or “What then are you doing?”

37JHN122t8ib0Connecting Statement:

John continues to speak with the priests and Levites.

38JHN122sa3tεἶπαν…αὐτῷ1they said to him

“the priests and Levites said to John”

39JHN122x8wzfigs-exclusiveδῶμεν…ἡμᾶς1we may give … us

Here, we and us refer to the priests and Levites, not to John. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

40JHN123a732ἔφη1He said

“John said”

41JHN123baa5figs-metonymyἐγὼ φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ1I am a voice, crying in the wilderness

John is saying that Isaiahs prophecy is about himself. The word voice here refers to the person who is crying out in the wilderness. Alternate translation: “I am the one calling out in the wilderness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

42JHN123iry1figs-metaphorεὐθύνατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου1Make the way of the Lord straight

Here the word way is used as a metaphor. Alternate translation: “Prepare yourselves for the Lords arrival the same way that people prepare the road for an important person to use” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

43JHN124bk96writing-backgroundκαὶ ἀπεσταλμένοι ἦσαν ἐκ τῶν Φαρισαίων1Now some from the Pharisees

This is background information about the people who questioned John. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

44JHN127x2kifigs-explicitὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος1who comes after me

You may need to make explicit what he will do when he has come. Alternate translation: “who will preach to you after I am gone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

45JHN127y7v5figs-metaphorμου…οὗ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐγὼ ἄξιος, ἵνα λύσω αὐτοῦ τὸν ἱμάντα τοῦ ὑποδήματος1me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie

Untying sandals was the work of a slave or servant. These words are a metaphor for the most unpleasant work of a servant. Alternate translation: “me, whom I am not worthy to serve in even the most unpleasant way” or “me. I am not even worthy to untie the strap of his sandal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

46JHN128r4tywriting-background0General Information:

Verse 28 tells us background information about the setting of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

47JHN129j397figs-metaphorἈμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Lamb of God

This is a metaphor that represents Gods perfect sacrifice. Jesus is called the Lamb of God because he was sacrificed to pay for peoples sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

48JHN129rg4nfigs-metonymyκόσμου1world

The word world is a metonym and refers to all the people in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

49JHN130x393ὀπίσω μου ἔρχεται ἀνὴρ, ὃς ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν, ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν.1The one who comes after me is more than me, for he was before me

See how you translated this in John 1:15.

50JHN132mcc7καταβαῖνον1descending

coming down from above

51JHN132xyr3figs-simileὡς περιστερὰν1like a dove

This phrase is a simile. The “Spirit” comes down just like a dove lands on a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

52JHN132uji2οὐρανοῦ1heaven

Here, heaven refers to the “sky.”

53JHN134ea3ytranslate-textvariantsὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1the Son of God

Some copies of this text say Son of God; others say “chosen one of God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

54JHN134naf2guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

55JHN135i3lgτῇ ἐπαύριον πάλιν1Again, the next day

This is another day. It is the second day that John sees Jesus.

56JHN136ap5mfigs-metaphorἈμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Lamb of God

This is a metaphor that represents Gods perfect sacrifice. Jesus is called the Lamb of God because he was sacrificed to pay for peoples sins. See how you translated this same phrase in John 1:29. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

57JHN139tb9jὥρα…δεκάτη1tenth hour

“hour 10.” This phrase indicates a time in the afternoon, before dark, at which it would be too late to start traveling to another town, possibly around 4 p.m.

58JHN140x8g80General Information:

These verses give us information about Andrew and how he brought his brother Peter to Jesus. This happened before they went and saw where Jesus was staying in John 1:39.

59JHN142k2dxυἱὸς Ἰωάννου1son of John

This is not John the Baptist. John was a very common name.

60JHN144i5bmwriting-backgroundἦν δὲ ὁ Φίλιππος ἀπὸ Βηθσαϊδά, ἐκ τῆς πόλεως Ἀνδρέου καὶ Πέτρου1Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter

This is background information about Philip. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

61JHN146s2kgεἶπεν αὐτῷ Ναθαναήλ1Nathaniel said to him

“Nathaniel said to Philip”

62JHN146i4wpfigs-rquestionἐκ Ναζαρὲτ δύναταί τι ἀγαθὸν εἶναι?1Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?

This remark appears in the form of a question in order to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “No good thing can come out of Nazareth!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

63JHN147ys8dfigs-litotesἐν ᾧ δόλος οὐκ ἔστιν1in whom is no deceit

You can state this in a positive way. Alternate translation: “a completely truthful man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

64JHN149l666guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

65JHN150p3mafigs-rquestionὅτι εἶπόν σοι, ὅτι εἶδόν σε ὑποκάτω τῆς συκῆς, πιστεύεις?1Because I said to you … do you believe?

This remark appears in the form of a question to provide emphasis. Alternate translation: “You believe because I said, I saw you underneath the fig tree!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

66JHN151ga44ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true.

67JHN2introjav20

John 2 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Wine

The Jews drank wine at many meals and especially when they were celebrating special events. They did not believe that it was a sin to drink wine.

Driving out the money changers

Jesus drove the money changers out of the temple to show that he had authority over the temple and over all of Israel.

“He knew what was in man”

Jesus knew what other people were thinking only because he was and is the Son of Man and the Son of God.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“His disciples remembered”

John used this phrase to stop telling the main history and to tell about something that happened much later. It was right after he scolded the pigeon sellers (John 2:16) that the Jewish authorities spoke to him. It was after Jesus became alive again that his disciples remembered what the prophet had written long before and that Jesus was talking about the temple of his body (John 2:17 and John 2:22).

68JHN21rl16writing-background0General Information:

Jesus and his disciples are invited to a wedding. These verse give background information about the setting of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

69JHN21vw9eτῇ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ τρίτῃ1Three days later

Most interpreters read this as on the third day after Jesus called Philip and Nathaniel to follow him. The first day occurs in John 1:35 and the second in John 1:43.

70JHN22xm3rfigs-activepassiveἐκλήθη…καὶ ὁ Ἰησοῦς καὶ οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὸν γάμον1Jesus and his disciples were invited to the wedding

You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “someone invited Jesus and his disciples to the wedding” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

71JHN24a2jiγύναι1Woman

Woman here refers to Mary. If it is impolite for a son to call his mother “woman” in your language, use another word that is polite, or leave it out.

72JHN24jc75figs-rquestionτί ἐμοὶ καὶ σοί, γύναι?1why do you come to me?

This question is asked to provide emphasis. Alternate translation: “Woman, this has nothing to do with me.” or “Woman, you should not tell me what to do.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

73JHN24v5x5figs-metonymyοὔπω ἥκει ἡ ὥρα μου1My time has not yet come

The word hour is a metonym that represents the right occasion for Jesus to show that he is the Messiah by working miracles. Alternate translation: “It is not yet the right time for me to perform a mighty act” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

74JHN26y7p3translate-bvolumeμετρητὰς δύο ἢ τρεῖς1two to three metretes

You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “75 to 115 liters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

75JHN27vt75ἕως ἄνω1to the brim

This means “to the very top” or “completely full.”

76JHN28h9grτῷ ἀρχιτρικλίνῳ1the head waiter

This refers to the person in charge of the food and drink.

77JHN29yg44writing-backgroundοἱ δὲ διάκονοι ᾔδεισαν, οἱ ἠντληκότες τὸ ὕδωρ1but the servants who had drawn the water knew

This is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

78JHN210mh3sμεθυσθῶσιν1drunk

unable to tell the difference between cheap wine and expensive wine because of drinking too much alcohol

79JHN211sq53writing-newevent0Connecting Statement:

This verse is not part of the main story line, but rather it gives a comment about the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

80JHN211r5kbtranslate-namesΚανὰ1Cana

This is a place name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

81JHN211z3tkἐφανέρωσεν τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ1revealed his glory

Here, his glory refers to the mighty power of Jesus. Alternate translation: “showed his power”

82JHN212h9tuκατέβη1went down

This indicates that they went from a higher place to a lower place. Capernaum is northeast of Cana and is at a lower elevation.

83JHN212x3f7οἱ ἀδελφοὶ1his brothers

The word brothers includes both brothers and sisters. All Jesus brothers and sisters were younger than he was.

84JHN213bh230General Information:

Jesus and his disciples go up to Jerusalem to the temple.

85JHN213xr29ἀνέβη εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα1went up to Jerusalem

This indicates that he went from a lower place to a higher place. Jerusalem is built on a hill.

86JHN214i8lvκαθημένους1were sitting there

The next verse makes it clear that these people are in the temple courtyard. That area was intended for worship and not for commerce.

87JHN214sa75τοὺς πωλοῦντας βόας καὶ πρόβατα καὶ περιστερὰς1sellers of oxen and sheep and pigeons

People are buying animals in the temple courtyard to sacrifice them to God.

88JHN214qu9kκερματιστὰς1money changers

Jewish authorities required people who wanted to buy animals for sacrifices to exchange their money for special money from the money changers.

89JHN215x6etκαὶ1So

This word marks an event that happens because of something else that has happened first. In this case, Jesus has seen the money changers sitting in the temple.

90JHN216r16mμὴ ποιεῖτε τὸν οἶκον τοῦ πατρός μου οἶκον ἐμπορίου1Stop making the house of my Father a marketplace

“Stop buying and selling things in my Fathers house”

91JHN216h6qyτὸν οἶκον τοῦ πατρός μου1the house of my Father

This is a phrase Jesus uses to refer to the temple.

92JHN216grg3guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ πατρός μου1my Father

Father is an important title that Jesus uses for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

93JHN217c2pufigs-activepassiveγεγραμμένον ἐστίν1it was written

You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “someone had written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

94JHN217ua3vτοῦ οἴκου σου1your house

This term refers to the temple, Gods house.

95JHN217gg1wfigs-metaphorκαταφάγεταί1consume

The word consume points to the metaphor of “fire.” Jesus love for the temple is like a fire that burns within him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

96JHN218qtx1σημεῖον1sign

This refers to an event that proves something is true.

97JHN218r5rwταῦτα1these things

This refers to Jesus actions against the money changers in the temple.

98JHN219mp6ifigs-hypoλύσατε τὸν ναὸν τοῦτον, καὶ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερῶ αὐτόν1Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up

Jesus is stating a hypothetical situation in which something would certainly happen if something else that is not true were true. In this case, he would certainly raise the temple up if the Jewish authorities were to destroy it. He is not commanding the Jewish authorities to tear down the actual temple building. Alternate translation: “If you destroy this temple, I will certainly raise it up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

99JHN219of4ufigs-metaphorλύσατε τὸν ναὸν τοῦτον, καὶ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερῶ αὐτόν1

You can translate the words Destroy and raise using the usual words for tearing down and rebuilding a building. Alternate translation: “You can be certain that if you were to destroy this temple, I would raise it up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

100JHN219k2pzἐγερῶ αὐτόν1raise it up

“I will cause it to stand”

101JHN220g6jxwriting-endofstory0General Information:

Verses 21 and 22 are not part of the main story line, but instead they comment on the story and tell about something that happens later. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

102JHN220rn6xtranslate-numbersτεσσεράκοντα…ἓξ ἔτεσιν…τρισὶν ἡμέραις1forty-six years … three days

“46 years … 3 days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

103JHN220xbx3figs-idiomσὺ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερεῖς αὐτόν?1you will raise it up in three days?

Here, raise is an idiom for “establish.” Alternate translation: “you will establish it in three days?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

104JHN220qb4xfigs-rquestionσὺ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερεῖς αὐτόν?1

This remark appears in the form of a question to show that the Jewish authorities understand that Jesus wants to tear down the temple and build it again in three days. Alternate translation: “you cannot possibly rebuild it in three days!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

105JHN222gq2wἐπίστευσαν1believed

Here, believed means to accept something or trust that it is true.

106JHN222ewi1τῷ λόγῳ1this statement

This refers back to Jesus statement in John 2:19.

107JHN223kvn6ὡς δὲ ἦν ἐν τοῖς Ἱεροσολύμοις1Now when he was in Jerusalem

The word Now introduces us to a new event in the story.

108JHN223w3qvfigs-metonymyἐπίστευσαν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ1believed in his name

Here, name is a metonym that represents the person of Jesus. Alternate translation: “believed in him” or “trusted in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

109JHN223u65nτὰ σημεῖα ἃ ἐποίει1the signs that he did

Miracles can also be called signs because they are used as evidence that God is the all-powerful one who has complete authority over the universe.

110JHN225et23figs-gendernotationsπερὶ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου…γὰρ ἐγίνωσκεν τί ἦν ἐν τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ1about man, for he knew what was in man

Here the word man represents people in general. Alternate translation: “about people, for he knew what was in people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

111JHN3introi7a70

John 3 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (John 3:13). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

112JHN31yl6f0General Information:

Nicodemus comes to see Jesus.

113JHN31s9p9writing-participantsδὲ1Now

Now is used here to mark a new part of the story and to introduce Nicodemus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

114JHN32skq8οἴδαμεν1we know

Here, we is exclusive, referring only to Nicodemus and the other members of the Jewish council.

115JHN33b9u10Connecting Statement:

Jesus and Nicodemus continue talking.

116JHN33nz18ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

117JHN33t8ptγεννηθῇ ἄνωθεν1born again

“born from above” or “born of God”

118JHN33ikj9figs-metaphorΒασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1kingdom of God

The word kingdom is a metaphor for the rule of God. Alternate translation: “place where God rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

119JHN34wa1pfigs-rquestionπῶς δύναται ἄνθρωπος γεννηθῆναι, γέρων ὤν?1How can a man be born when he is old?

Nicodemus uses this question to emphasize that this cannot happen. Alternate translation: “A man certainly cannot be born again when he is old!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

120JHN34yk9dfigs-rquestionμὴ δύναται εἰς τὴν κοιλίαν τῆς μητρὸς αὐτοῦ δεύτερον εἰσελθεῖν καὶ γεννηθῆναι?1He cannot enter a second time into his mothers womb and be born, can he?

Nicodemus also uses this question to emphasize his belief that a second birth is impossible. “Certainly, he cannot enter a second time into his mothers womb!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

121JHN34z64bδεύτερον1a second time

“again” or “twice”

122JHN34ppr8τὴν κοιλίαν1womb

the part of a womans body where a baby grows

123JHN35il52ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

You can translate this in the same way you did in John 3:3.

124JHN35n6d7figs-metaphorγεννηθῇ ἐξ ὕδατος καὶ Πνεύματος1born of water and the Spirit

This could mean: (1) “would be baptized in water and in the Spirit.” (2) “would be born physically and spiritually.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

125JHN35m37gfigs-metaphorεἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1enter into the kingdom of God

The word kingdom is a metaphor for the rule of God in ones life. Alternate translation: “to experience the rule of God in his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

126JHN37t2sl0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to Nicodemus.

127JHN37lpj4δεῖ ὑμᾶς γεννηθῆναι ἄνωθεν1You must be born again

“You must be born from above”

128JHN38p87yfigs-personificationτὸ πνεῦμα ὅπου θέλει, πνεῖ1The wind blows wherever it wishes

In the source language, wind and Spirit are the same word. The speaker here refers to the wind as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit is like a wind that blows wherever it wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

129JHN39g4jifigs-rquestionπῶς δύναται ταῦτα γενέσθαι?1How can these things be?

This question adds emphasis to the statement. Alternate translation: “This cannot be!” or “This is not able to happen!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

130JHN310gw2hfigs-rquestionσὺ εἶ ὁ διδάσκαλος τοῦ Ἰσραὴλ, καὶ ταῦτα οὐ γινώσκεις?1Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?

Jesus knows that Nicodemus is a teacher. He is not looking for information. Alternate translation: “You are a teacher of Israel, so I am surprised you do not understand these things!” or “You are a teacher of Israel, so you should understand these things!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

131JHN310gbu5σὺ εἶ ὁ διδάσκαλος τοῦ Ἰσραὴλ, καὶ ταῦτα οὐ γινώσκεις1Are you a teacher … yet you do not understand

The word you is singular and refers to Nicodemus. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you)

132JHN311j1k1οὐ λαμβάνετε1you do not accept

The word you is plural and refers to Jews in general. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you)

133JHN311jt1fἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true. See how you translated this in John 1:51.

134JHN311upi7figs-exclusiveλαλοῦμεν1we speak

When Jesus said we, he was not including Nicodemus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

135JHN312y4e90Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues responding to Nicodemus.

136JHN312pt4xfigs-youεἶπον ὑμῖν…οὐ πιστεύετε, πῶς ἐὰν εἴπω ὑμῖν…πιστεύσετε1I told you … you do not believe … how will you believe if I tell you

In all three places, you is plural and refers to Jews in general. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

137JHN312c6iafigs-rquestionπῶς ἐὰν εἴπω ὑμῖν τὰ ἐπουράνια, πιστεύσετε?1how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things?

This question emphasizes the disbelief of Nicodemus and the Jews. Alternate translation: “you certainly will not believe if I tell you about heavenly things!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

138JHN314tb3sfigs-simileκαθὼς Μωϋσῆς ὕψωσεν τὸν ὄφιν ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, οὕτως ὑψωθῆναι δεῖ τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up

This figure of speech is called a simile. Some people will “lift up” Jesus just as Moses lifted up the bronze serpent in the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

139JHN314f9yiἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ1in the wilderness

The wilderness is a dry, desert place, but here it refers specifically to the place where Moses and the Israelites walked around for forty years.

140JHN316uxc2figs-metonymyοὕτως…ἠγάπησεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸν κόσμον1God so loved the world

Here, world is a metonym that refers to everyone in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

141JHN316jen2ἠγάπησεν1loved

This is the kind of love that comes from God and is focused on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. God himself is love and is the source of true love.

142JHN317b7vffigs-parallelismοὐ γὰρ ἀπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸν Υἱὸν εἰς τὸν κόσμον, ἵνα κρίνῃ τὸν κόσμον, ἀλλ’ ἵνα σωθῇ ὁ κόσμος δι’ αὐτοῦ1For God did not send the Son into the world in order to condemn the world, but in order to save the world through him

These two clauses mean nearly the same thing, said twice for emphasis, first in the negative and then in the positive. Some languages may indicate emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: “Gods real reason for sending his Son into the world was to save it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

143JHN317rv45ἵνα κρίνῃ1to condemn

“to punish.” Usually “punish” implies that the person who has been punished is then accepted by God. When a person is condemned, he is punished but never accepted by God.

144JHN318eb54guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

145JHN319z9d20Connecting Statement:

Jesus finishes responding to Nicodemus.

146JHN319t9z5figs-metaphorτὸ φῶς ἐλήλυθεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον1The light has come into the world

The word light is a metaphor for Gods truth that is revealed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “the one who is like a light has come into the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

147JHN319s1z2figs-metonymyτὸ φῶς ἐλήλυθεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον1

The world is a metonym for all of the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “the one who is like a light has revealed Gods truth to all people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

148JHN319gh4ifigs-123personτὸ φῶς ἐλήλυθεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον1

If your language does not allow people to speak of themselves in the third person, you may need to specify who the light is. Alternate translation: “the one who is like a light has revealed Gods truth to all people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

149JHN319h4nkfigs-metaphorἠγάπησαν οἱ ἄνθρωποι…τὸ σκότος1men loved the darkness

Here, darkness is a metaphor for evil. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

150JHN320u25pfigs-activepassiveἵνα μὴ ἐλεγχθῇ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ1so that his deeds will not be exposed

You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so that the light will not show the things he does” or “so that the light does not make clear his deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

151JHN321l7axfigs-activepassiveφανερωθῇ αὐτοῦ τὰ ἔργα1plainly seen that his deeds

You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “people may clearly see his deeds” or “everyone may clearly see the things he does” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

152JHN322uy4jμετὰ ταῦτα1After this

This refers to after Jesus had spoken with Nicodemus. See how you translated this in John 2:12.

153JHN323x1getranslate-namesΑἰνὼν1Aenon

This word means “springs,” as of water. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

154JHN323e5v2translate-namesτοῦ Σαλείμ1Salim

a village or town next to the Jordan River (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

155JHN323jh2wὅτι ὕδατα πολλὰ ἦν ἐκεῖ1because there was much water there

“because there were many springs in that place”

156JHN323ukz2figs-activepassiveἐβαπτίζοντο1were being baptized

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “John was baptizing them” or “he was baptizing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

157JHN325ft8rfigs-activepassiveἐγένετο οὖν ζήτησις ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν Ἰωάννου μετὰ Ἰουδαίου1Then there arose a dispute between some of Johns disciples and a Jew

You can state this in an active form for clarity. Alternate translation: “Then Johns disciples and a Jew began to argue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

158JHN325fuq2ζήτησις1a dispute

a fight using words

159JHN326jr28σὺ μεμαρτύρηκας, ἴδε, οὗτος βαπτίζει1you have testified, look, he is baptizing,

In this phrase, behold is a command meaning “pay attention!” Alternate translation: “you have testified, Look! He is baptizing,’” or “you have testified. Look at that! He is baptizing,’” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)

160JHN327kl21οὐ δύναται ἄνθρωπος λαμβάνειν, οὐδὲ ἓν ἐὰν μὴ1A man cannot receive anything unless

“Nobody has any power unless”

161JHN327hap4figs-metonymyᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1it has been given to him from heaven

Here, heaven is used as a metonym to refer to God. Alternate translation: “it has been given to him by God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

162JHN327f818figs-activepassiveᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1

You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “God has given it to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

163JHN328l9ytfigs-youαὐτοὶ ὑμεῖς1You yourselves

You is plural and refers to all the people John is talking to. Alternate translation: “You all” or “All of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

164JHN328nf9lfigs-activepassiveἀπεσταλμένος εἰμὶ ἔμπροσθεν ἐκείνου1I have been sent before him

You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “God sent me to arrive before him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

165JHN329k5xq0Connecting Statement:

John the Baptist continues speaking.

166JHN329p569figs-metaphorὁ ἔχων τὴν νύμφην, νυμφίος ἐστίν1The bride belongs to the bridegroom

Here the bride and bridegroom are metaphors. Jesus is like the “bridegroom” and John is like the friend of the “bridegroom.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

167JHN329wkb8figs-activepassiveαὕτη οὖν ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμὴ πεπλήρωται1This, then, is my joy made complete

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “So then I rejoice greatly” or “So I rejoice much” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

168JHN329hnw2ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμὴ1my joy

The word my refers to John the Baptist, the one who is speaking.

169JHN330kn9sἐκεῖνον δεῖ αὐξάνειν1He must increase

Here, that one refers to the bridegroom, Jesus, who will continue to grow in importance.

170JHN331qd7tὁ ἄνωθεν ἐρχόμενος, ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν1He who comes from above is above all

“He who comes from heaven is more important than anyone else”

171JHN331mhk9figs-metonymyὁ ὢν ἐκ τῆς γῆς, ἐκ τῆς γῆς ἐστιν, καὶ ἐκ τῆς γῆς λαλεῖ1He who is from the earth is from the earth and speaks about the earth

John means that Jesus is greater than he is since Jesus is from heaven, and John was born on the earth. Alternate translation: “He who is born in this world is like everyone else who lives in the world and he speaks about what happens in this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

172JHN331qrg7ὁ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἐρχόμενος, ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν1He who comes from heaven is above all

This means the same thing as the first sentence. John repeats this for emphasis.

173JHN332c5ytὃ ἑώρακεν καὶ ἤκουσεν, τοῦτο μαρτυρεῖ1He testifies about what he has seen and heard

John is speaking about Jesus. Alternate translation: “The one from heaven tells about what he has seen and heard in heaven”

174JHN332kqi1figs-hyperboleτὴν μαρτυρίαν αὐτοῦ, οὐδεὶς λαμβάνει1no one accepts his testimony

Here John exaggerates to emphasize that only a few people believe Jesus. Alternate translation: “very few people believe him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

175JHN333k36dὁ λαβὼν αὐτοῦ τὴν μαρτυρίαν1He who has received his testimony

“Anyone who believes what Jesus says”

176JHN333g5x4ἐσφράγισεν1has confirmed

“proves” or “agrees”

177JHN334db8m0Connecting Statement:

John the Baptist finishes speaking.

178JHN334rr83ὃν γὰρ ἀπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς1For the one whom God has sent

“This Jesus, whom God has sent to represent him”

179JHN334bnx8οὐ γὰρ ἐκ μέτρου δίδωσιν τὸ Πνεῦμα1For he does not give the Spirit by measure

“For he is the one to whom God gave all the power of his Spirit”

180JHN335hmk4guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ…Υἱόν1Father … Son

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

181JHN335ha4efigs-idiomδέδωκεν ἐν τῇ χειρὶ αὐτοῦ1given … into his hand

This means to be put in his power or control. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

182JHN336u1ksὁ πιστεύων1He who believes

“A person who believes” or “Anyone who believes”

183JHN336zy7uἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ μένει ἐπ’ αὐτόν1the wrath of God stays on him

The abstract noun wrath can be translated with the verb “punish.” Alternate translation: “God will continue to punish him” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)

184JHN4introj1hv0

John 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

John 4:4-38 forms one story centered on the teaching of Jesus as the “living water” who gives eternal life to all who believe in him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])

Special concepts in this chapter

“It was necessary for him to pass through Samaria”

Jews avoided traveling through the region of Samaria because the Samaritans were descendants of ungodly people. So Jesus had to do what most Jews did not want to do. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/names/kingdomofisrael]])

“The hour is coming”

Jesus used these words to begin prophecies about times that could be shorter or longer than sixty minutes. “The hour” in which true worshipers will worship in spirit and truth is longer than sixty minutes.

The proper place of worship

Long before Jesus lived, the Samaritan people had broken the law of Moses by setting up a false temple in their land (John 4:20). Jesus explained to the woman that it was no longer important where people worshiped (John 4:21-24).

Harvest

Harvest is when people go out to get the food they have planted so they can bring it to their houses and eat it. Jesus used this as a metaphor to teach his followers that they need to go and tell other people about Jesus so those people can be part of Gods kingdom. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

“The Samaritan woman”

John probably told this story to show the difference between the Samaritan woman, who believed, and the Jews, who did not believe and later killed Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“In spirit and truth”

The people who truly know who God is and enjoy worshiping him and love him for who he is are the ones who truly please him. Where they worship is not important.

185JHN41jum6writing-background0General Information:

John 4:1-6 gives the background to the next event, Jesus conversation with a Samaritan woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

186JHN41ci4n0Connecting Statement:

A long sentence begins here.

187JHN41b1vcὡς οὖν ἔγνω ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὅτι ἤκουσαν οἱ Φαρισαῖοι, ὅτι Ἰησοῦς πλείονας μαθητὰς ποιεῖ καὶ βαπτίζει ἢ Ἰωάννης1Now when Jesus knew that the Pharisees had heard that he was making and baptizing more disciples than John

“Now Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John. When he knew that the Pharisees had heard that he was doing this.”

188JHN41h6ekὡς οὖν ἔγνω ὁ Ἰησοῦς1Now when Jesus knew

The word Then is used here to mark a break in the main events. Here John starts to tell a new part of the narrative.

189JHN42d4ngfigs-rpronounsἸησοῦς αὐτὸς οὐκ ἐβάπτιζεν1Jesus himself was not baptizing

The reflexive pronoun himself adds emphasis that it was not Jesus who was **baptizing, but his disciples. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

190JHN43dm2tἀφῆκεν τὴν Ἰουδαίαν καὶ ἀπῆλθεν πάλιν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν1he left Judea and went back again to Galilee

You may need to reorder the entire sentence that begins with the words “Now when Jesus” in verse 1. “Now Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John (although Jesus himself was not baptizing, but his disciples were). The Pharisees heard that Jesus was doing this. When Jesus knew that the Pharisees learned what he was doing, he left Judea and went back again to Galilee”

191JHN47g82dδός μοι πεῖν1Give me some water

This is a polite request, not a command.

192JHN48u29cοἱ γὰρ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ ἀπεληλύθεισαν1For his disciples had gone

He did not ask his disciples to draw water for him because they had gone.

193JHN49l2qhλέγει οὖν αὐτῷ ἡ γυνὴ ἡ Σαμαρεῖτις1Then the Samaritan woman said to him

The word him refers to Jesus.

194JHN49xdw7figs-rquestionπῶς σὺ Ἰουδαῖος ὢν, παρ’ ἐμοῦ πεῖν αἰτεῖς γυναικὸς Σαμαρείτιδος οὔσης?1How is it that you, being a Jew, are asking … for something to drink?

This remark appears in the form of a question to express the Samaritan womans surprise that Jesus asked her for a drink. Alternate translation: “I cannot believe that you, being a Jew, are asking a Samaritan woman for a drink!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

195JHN49px8wοὐ…συνχρῶνται1have no dealings with

“do not associate with”

196JHN410zub5figs-metaphorὕδωρ ζῶν1living water

Jesus uses the metaphor living water to refer to the Holy Spirit who works in a person to transform and bring new life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

197JHN412di9qfigs-rquestionμὴ σὺ μείζων εἶ τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἰακώβ, ὃς ἔδωκεν ἡμῖν τὸ φρέαρ, καὶ αὐτὸς ἐξ αὐτοῦ ἔπιεν, καὶ οἱ υἱοὶ αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὰ θρέμματα αὐτοῦ?1You are not greater, are you, than our father Jacob … cattle?

This remark occurs in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “You are not greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, and his sons and his cattle!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

198JHN412knw5τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἰακώβ1our father Jacob

“our ancestor Jacob”

199JHN412sj7nἐξ αὐτοῦ ἔπιεν1drank from it

“drank water that came from this well”

200JHN413leu7διψήσει πάλιν1will be thirsty again

“will need to drink water again”

201JHN414g598figs-metaphorτὸ ὕδωρ ὃ δώσω αὐτῷ γενήσεται ἐν αὐτῷ πηγὴ ὕδατος1the water that I will give him will become a fountain of water in him

Here the word fountain of water is a metaphor for life-giving water. Alternate translation: “the water that I will give him will become like a spring of water in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

202JHN414fha9ζωὴν αἰώνιον1eternal life

Here, life refers to the “spiritual life” that only God can give.

203JHN415iz1pκύριε1Sir

The Samaritan woman is addressing Jesus as Sir as a term of respect or politeness.

204JHN415hd9fἀντλεῖν1draw water

“get water” or “pull water up from the well” using a container and rope

205JHN418zpl1τοῦτο ἀληθὲς εἴρηκας1What you have said is true

Jesus says these words to emphasize his words to emphasize the words “You are right in saying, I have no husband” in verse 17. He wants the woman to know that he knows she is telling the truth.

206JHN419kfs1κύριε1Sir

The Samaritan woman is addressing Jesus as Sir as a term of respect or politeness.

207JHN419za2wθεωρῶ ὅτι προφήτης εἶ σύ1I see that you are a prophet

“I can understand that you are a prophet”

208JHN420hp3mοἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν1Our fathers

“Our forefathers” or “Our ancestors”

209JHN421klz9πίστευέ μοι1Believe me

To believe someone is to acknowledge what the person has said is true.

210JHN421nu5mπροσκυνήσετε τῷ Πατρί1you will worship the Father

A time will come when everyone will worship only God the Father, who is Yahweh, the God of the Jews.

211JHN421ff27guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρί1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

212JHN422guu4ὑμεῖς προσκυνεῖτε ὃ οὐκ οἴδατε, ἡμεῖς προσκυνοῦμεν ὃ οἴδαμεν1You worship what you do not know. We worship what we know

Jesus means that God revealed himself and his commands to the Jewish people, not to the Samaritans. Through the Scriptures the Jewish people know who God is better than the Samaritans.

213JHN422i2dfὅτι ἡ σωτηρία ἐκ τῶν Ἰουδαίων ἐστίν1for salvation is from the Jews

This means that God has chosen the Jews as his special people who will tell all other people about his salvation. It does not mean the Jewish people will save others from their sins. Alternate translation: “for all people will know about Gods salvation because of the Jews”

214JHN422yj1yἡ σωτηρία ἐκ τῶν Ἰουδαίων ἐστίν1salvation is from the Jews

Eternal salvation from sin comes from God the Father, who is Yahweh, the God of the Jews.

215JHN423bs1p0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Samaritan woman.

216JHN423atm4ἀλλὰ ἔρχεται ὥρα καὶ νῦν ἐστιν, ὅτε οἱ ἀληθινοὶ προσκυνηταὶ προσκυνήσουσιν1However, the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will

“However, it is now the right time for true worshipers to worship”

217JHN423k1gfguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτῷ Πατρὶ1the Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

218JHN423fb51ἐν πνεύματι καὶ ἀληθείᾳ1in spirit and truth

Here, spirit could refer to: (1) the inner person, the mind and heart, what a person thinks and what he loves, different from where he goes to worship and what ceremonies he performs. (2) the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “in the Spirit and in truth” or “with the Spirits help and in truth”

219JHN423utt7ἐν…ἀληθείᾳ1in … truth

thinking correctly of what is true about God

220JHN425lp44οἶδα ὅτι Μεσσίας ἔρχεται, ὁ λεγόμενος Χριστός1I know that the Messiah … Christ

Both Messiah and Christ mean “Gods promised king.”

221JHN425u8nbfigs-explicitἐκεῖνος, ἀναγγελεῖ ἡμῖν ἅπαντα1he will explain everything to us

The words declare everything imply all that the people need to know. Alternate translation: “he will tell us everything we need to know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

222JHN427vk5jἐπὶ τούτῳ ἦλθον οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ1At that moment his disciples returned

“just as Jesus was saying this, his disciples returned from town”

223JHN427p39jκαὶ ἐθαύμαζον ὅτι μετὰ γυναικὸς ἐλάλει1Now they were wondering why he was speaking with a woman

It was very unusual for a Jew to speak with a woman he did not know, especially if that woman was a Samaritan.

224JHN427cbc9οὐδεὶς μέντοι εἶπεν, τί ζητεῖς? ἢ, τί λαλεῖς μετ’ αὐτῆς?1no one said, “What … want?” or “Why … her?”

This could mean: (1) the disciples asked both questions to Jesus. (2) no one asked the woman, “What do you want?” or asked Jesus, “Why are you speaking with her?”

225JHN429hb5hfigs-hyperboleδεῦτε, ἴδετε ἄνθρωπον ὃς εἶπέ μοι πάντα ὅσα ἐποίησα1Come, see a man who told me everything that I have ever done

The Samaritan woman exaggerates to show that she is impressed by how much Jesus knows about her. Alternate translation: “Come see a man who knows very much about me, even though I have never met him before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

226JHN429dl18μήτι οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ Χριστός1This could not be the Christ, could it?

The woman is not sure that Jesus is the Christ, so she asks a question that expects “no” for an answer, but she also asks a question instead of making a statement because she wants the people to decide for themselves.

227JHN431t6hyἐν τῷ μεταξὺ1In the meantime

“While the woman was going into town”

228JHN431d4fuἠρώτων αὐτὸν οἱ μαθηταὶ1the disciples were urging him

“the disciples were telling Jesus” or “the disciples were encouraging Jesus”

229JHN432j8h2ἐγὼ βρῶσιν ἔχω φαγεῖν, ἣν ὑμεῖς οὐκ οἴδατε1I have food to eat that you do not know about

Here Jesus is not talking about literal food, but is preparing his disciples for a spiritual lesson in John 4:34.

230JHN433w451figs-rquestionμή τις ἤνεγκεν αὐτῷ φαγεῖν?1No one has brought him anything to eat, have they?

The disciples think Jesus is literally talking about something to eat. They begin asking each other this question, expecting a “no” response. Alternate translation: “Surely no one brought him any food while we were in town!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

231JHN434tvp1figs-metaphorἐμὸν βρῶμά ἐστιν ἵνα ποιήσω τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πέμψαντός με, καὶ τελειώσω αὐτοῦ τὸ ἔργον1My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work

Here, food is a metaphor that represents “obeying Gods will.” Alternate translation: “Just as food satisfies a hungry person, obeying Gods will is what satisfies me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

232JHN435u5d6οὐχ ὑμεῖς λέγετε1Do you not say

“Is this not one of your popular sayings”

233JHN435tyw3figs-metaphorἐπάρατε τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ὑμῶν καὶ θεάσασθε τὰς χώρας, ὅτι λευκαί εἰσιν πρὸς θερισμόν ἤδη1look up and see the fields, for they are already ripe for harvest

The words fields and white for harvest are metaphors. The fields represent people. The words white for harvest mean that people are ready to receive the message of Jesus, like fields that are ready to be harvested. Alternate translation: “look up and see the the people! They are ready to believe my message, like crops in the fields that are ready for people to harvest them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

234JHN436qc31figs-metaphorκαὶ συνάγει καρπὸν εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον1and gathers fruit for everlasting life

Here, fruit for eternal life is a metaphor that represents people who believe Christs message and receive eternal life. Alternate translation: “and the people who believe the message and receive eternal life are like the fruit that a harvester gathers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

235JHN437w4xn0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to his disciples.

236JHN437rqe7figs-metaphorἄλλος ἐστὶν ὁ σπείρων, καὶ ἄλλος ὁ θερίζων1One sows, and another harvests

The words sowing and harvesting are metaphors. The one who sows shares the message of Jesus. The one who harvests helps the people to receive the message of Jesus. Alternate translation: “One person plants the seeds, and another person harvests the crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

237JHN438slw4ὑμεῖς εἰς τὸν κόπον αὐτῶν εἰσεληλύθατε1you have entered into their labor

“you are now joining in their work”

238JHN439mc7pἐπίστευσαν εἰς αὐτὸν1believed in him

To “believe in” someone means to “trust in” that person. Here this also means that they believed he was the Son of God.

239JHN439qda3figs-hyperboleεἶπέν μοι πάντα ἃ ἐποίησα1He told me everything that I have done

This is an exaggeration. The woman was impressed by how much Jesus knew about her. Alternate translation: “He told me many things about my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

240JHN441qrj5figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ1his word

Here, word is a metonym that stands for the message that Jesus proclaimed. Alternate translation: “his message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

241JHN442k4czfigs-metonymyκόσμου1world

The world is a metonym for all the believers throughout the world. Alternate translation: “all the believers in the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

242JHN443n1mkwriting-background0General Information:

Jesus goes down to Galilee and heals a boy. Verse 44 gives us background information about something Jesus had said previously. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

243JHN443gj2fἐκεῖθεν1from there

from Judea

244JHN444t1lifigs-rpronounsαὐτὸς γὰρ Ἰησοῦς ἐμαρτύρησεν1For Jesus himself declared

The reflexive pronoun himself is added to emphasize that Jesus had testified or said this. You can translate this in your language in a way that will give emphasis to a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

245JHN444fx22προφήτης ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ πατρίδι, τιμὴν οὐκ ἔχει1a prophet has no honor in his own country

“people do not show respect or honor to a prophet of their own country” or “a prophet is not respected by the people in his own community”

246JHN445v9laἐν τῇ ἑορτῇ1at the festival

Here the festival is the Passover.

247JHN446ffm3οὖν1Now

Then is used here to mark a break in the main story line and to move to a new part of the story. If you have a way of doing this in your language, you may consider using it.

248JHN446bp3wβασιλικὸς1royal official

someone who is in the service of the king

249JHN448u73rfigs-doublenegativesἐὰν μὴ σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα ἴδητε, οὐ μὴ πιστεύσητε1Unless you see signs and wonders, you will not believe

This statement is a double negative. In some languages it is more natural to translate this statement in a positive form. Alternate translation: “Only if you see a miracle will you believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

250JHN450uwa3figs-metonymyἐπίστευσεν…τῷ λόγῳ1believed the word

Here, word is a metonym that refers to the message that Jesus spoke. Alternate translation: “believed the message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

251JHN451a5gwἤδη1While

The word while is used to mark two events that are happening at the same time. As the official was going home, his servants were coming to meet him on the road.

252JHN453jhg4καὶ ἐπίστευσεν αὐτὸς καὶ ἡ οἰκία αὐτοῦ ὅλη1So he himself and his whole household believed

The reflexive pronoun himself is used here to emphasize the word he. If you have a way of doing this in your language, you may consider using it.

253JHN454k5x6σημεῖον1sign

Miracles can also be called “signs” because they are used as indicators or evidence that God is the all-powerful one who has complete authority over the universe.

254JHN5introqe170

John 5 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Healing water

Many of the Jews believed that God would heal people who got into some of the pools in Jerusalem when the waters were “stirred up.”

Testimony

Testimony is what one person says about another person. What a person says about himself is not as important as what other people say about that person. Jesus told the Jews that God had told them who Jesus was, so he did not need to tell them who he was. This was because God had told the writers of the Old Testament what his Messiah would do, and Jesus had done everything they had written that he would do.

The resurrection of life and the resurrection of judgment

God will make some people alive again and because he gives them his grace, they will live with him forever. But he will make some people alive again and because he will treat them justly, they will live apart from him forever.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

The Son, the Son of God, and the Son of Man

Jesus refers to himself in this chapter as the “Son” (John 5:19), the “Son of God” (John 5:25), and the “Son of Man” (John 5:27). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

255JHN51urn9writing-background0General Information:

This is the next event in the story, in which Jesus goes up to Jerusalem and heals a man. These verses give background information about the setting of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

256JHN51ea65μετὰ ταῦτα1After this

After this refers to after Jesus healed the officials son. See how you translated this in John 3:22.

257JHN51b1pzἦν ἑορτὴ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1there was a Jewish festival

“the Jews were celebrating a festival”

258JHN51z4thἀνέβη…εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα1went up to Jerusalem

Jerusalem is located on the top of a hill. Roads to Jerusalem went up. If your language has a different word for going up a hill than for walking on level ground, you may use it here.

259JHN52h3w5κολυμβήθρα1pool

This was a hole in the ground that people filled with water. Sometimes they lined the pools with tiles or other stonework.

260JHN52dt12translate-namesΒηθζαθά1Bethesda

a place name (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

261JHN52luz3στοὰς1roofed porches

roofed structures with at least one wall missing and attached to buildings

262JHN53ytj4πλῆθος τῶν ἀσθενούντων1A large number of the people who were sick

“many people who were sick”

263JHN55r1gtwriting-participants0General Information:

Verse 5 introduces the man lying beside the pool to the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

264JHN55bez8ἦν…ἐκεῖ1was there

“was at the Bethesda pool” (John 5:1)

265JHN56c7efγνοὺς1he realized

“after he understood” or “when he found out”

266JHN56w97qλέγει αὐτῷ1he said to him

“Jesus said to the paralyzed man”

267JHN57aeu3κύριε1Sir, I do not have

Here the word Sir is a polite form of address.

268JHN57ny5ffigs-activepassiveὅταν ταραχθῇ τὸ ὕδωρ1when the water is stirred up

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “when the angel moves the water” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

269JHN57kul6εἰς τὴν κολυμβήθραν1into the pool

This was a hole in the ground that people filled with water. Sometimes they lined the pools with tiles or other stonework. See how you translated “pool” in John 5:2.

270JHN57u93gἄλλος πρὸ ἐμοῦ καταβαίνει1another steps down before me

“someone else always goes down the steps into the water before me”

271JHN58eqe4ἔγειρε1Get up

“Stand up!”

272JHN58ft81ἆρον τὸν κράβαττόν σου, καὶ περιπάτει1take up your bed, and walk

“pick up your sleeping mat, and walk!”

273JHN59z33xἐγένετο ὑγιὴς ὁ ἄνθρωπος1the man was healed

“the man became healthy again”

274JHN59i4tkwriting-backgroundδὲ…ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1Now that day

The writer uses the word Now to show that the words that follow are background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

275JHN510ja3xἔλεγον οὖν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι τῷ τεθεραπευμένῳ1So the Jews said to him who was healed

The Jews (especially the leaders of the Jews) became angry when they saw the man carrying his mat on the Sabbath.

276JHN510xd9bΣάββατόν ἐστιν1It is the Sabbath

“It is Gods Day of Rest”

277JHN511en3vὁ ποιήσας με ὑγιῆ1He who made me healthy

“The man who made me well”

278JHN512r7nxἠρώτησαν αὐτόν1They asked him

“The Jewish leaders asked the man who was healed”

279JHN514h1riεὑρίσκει αὐτὸν ὁ Ἰησοῦς1Jesus found him

“Jesus found the man he had healed”

280JHN514h39zἴδε1See

Behold is used here to draw attention to the words that follow.

281JHN516efg2writing-backgroundκαὶ1Now

The writer uses the word And to show that the words that follow are background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

282JHN516kup5figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche which represent the “Jewish leaders.” Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

283JHN517ijd8ἐργάζεται1is working

This refers to doing labor, including anything that is done to serve other people.

284JHN517lq1vguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ μου1My Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

285JHN518n8bhἴσον ἑαυτὸν ποιῶν τῷ Θεῷ1making himself equal to God

“saying that he was like God” or “saying that he had as much authority as God”

286JHN519f2qp0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Jewish leaders.

287JHN519rr9qἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true. See how you translated this in John 1:51.

288JHN519x9slguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesἃ γὰρ ἂν ἐκεῖνος ποιῇ, ταῦτα καὶ ὁ Υἱὸς…ποιεῖ1whatever the Father is doing, the Son does these things also.

Jesus, as the Son of God, followed and obeyed his Fathers leadership on earth, because Jesus knew the Father loved him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

289JHN519iuc7guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς…Πατέρα1Son … Father

Son and Father are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

290JHN520zlr7ὑμεῖς θαυμάζητε1you will be amazed

“you will be surprised” or “you will be shocked”

291JHN520t3b4guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ γὰρ Πατὴρ φιλεῖ τὸν Υἱὸν1For the Father loves the Son

Jesus, as the Son of God, followed and obeyed his Fathers leadership on earth, because Jesus knew the Father loved him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

292JHN520x8acφιλεῖ1loves

The kind of love that comes from God is focused on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. God himself is love and is the source of true love.

293JHN521s6teguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ…Υἱὸς1Father … Son

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

294JHN521xzu4ζῳοποιεῖ1life

This refers to “spiritual life.”

295JHN522b2l6guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesοὐδὲ γὰρ ὁ Πατὴρ κρίνει οὐδένα, ἀλλὰ τὴν κρίσιν πᾶσαν δέδωκεν τῷ Υἱῷ1For the Father judges no one, but he has given all judgment to the Son

The word For marks a comparison. The Son of God carries out judgment for God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

296JHN523p2kjguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτιμῶσι τὸν Υἱὸν, καθὼς τιμῶσι τὸν Πατέρα. ὁ μὴ τιμῶν τὸν Υἱὸν, οὐ τιμᾷ τὸν Πατέρα1honor the Son just as … the Father. The one who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father

God the Son must be honored and worshiped just like God the Father. If we fail to honor God the Son, then we also fail to honor God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

297JHN524w6wuἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

298JHN524eg5hfigs-metonymyὁ τὸν λόγον μου ἀκούων1he who hears my word

Here, word is a metonym that represents the message of Jesus. Alternate translation: “anyone who hears my message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

299JHN524ql7qfigs-doublenegativesεἰς κρίσιν οὐκ ἔρχεται1will not be condemned

You can state this positively. Alternate translation: “will be judged to be innocent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

300JHN525gtu6ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true. See how you translated this in John 1:51.

301JHN525s23dguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesοἱ νεκροὶ ἀκούσουσιν τῆς φωνῆς τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ οἱ ἀκούσαντες ζήσουσιν1the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live

The voice of Jesus, the Son of God, will raise dead people from the grave. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

302JHN525d81yguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

303JHN526p6ubguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὥσπερ γὰρ ὁ Πατὴρ ἔχει ζωὴν ἐν ἑαυτῷ, οὕτως καὶ τῷ Υἱῷ ἔδωκεν ζωὴν, ἔχειν ἐν ἑαυτῷ1For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has also given to the Son so that he has life in himself

The word For marks a comparison. The Son of God has the power to give life, just as the Father does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

304JHN526x136guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ…Υἱῷ1Father … Son

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

305JHN526f5vqζωὴν1life

This refers to spiritual life.

306JHN527g58fguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς Ἀνθρώπου1Son of Man

This is an important title that describe the relationship between Jesus and mankind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

307JHN527pr1cἐξουσίαν ἔδωκεν αὐτῷ κρίσιν ποιεῖν1the Father has given the Son authority to carry out judgment

The Son of God has the authority of God the Father to judge.

308JHN528sr8jμὴ θαυμάζετε τοῦτο1Do not be amazed at this

The word this refers to the fact that Jesus, as the Son of Man, has the power to give eternal life and to carry out judgment.

309JHN528h9l7ἀκούσουσιν τῆς φωνῆς αὐτοῦ1hear his voice

“will hear my voice”

310JHN530ayn1τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πέμψαντός με1the will of him who sent me

Here, the one who sent me refers to God the Father.

311JHN532yt31ἄλλος ἐστὶν ὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ ἐμοῦ1There is another who testifies about me

“There is someone else who tells people about me”

312JHN532nr3lἄλλος1another

This refers to God.

313JHN532uxh5ἀληθής ἐστιν ἡ μαρτυρία ἣν μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ1the testimony that he gives about me is true

“what he tells people about me is true”

314JHN534rvc5ἐγὼ…οὐ παρὰ ἀνθρώπου τὴν μαρτυρίαν λαμβάνω1the testimony that I receive is not from man

“I do not need peoples testimony”

315JHN534a4jefigs-activepassiveἵνα ὑμεῖς σωθῆτε1that you might be saved

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so God can save you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

316JHN535w4w3figs-metaphorἐκεῖνος ἦν ὁ λύχνος ὁ καιόμενος καὶ φαίνων; ὑμεῖς δὲ ἠθελήσατε ἀγαλλιαθῆναι πρὸς ὥραν ἐν τῷ φωτὶ αὐτοῦ1John was a lamp that was burning and shining, and you were willing to rejoice in his light for a while

Here, lamp and light are metaphors. John taught the people about God and this was like a lamp shining its light into the dark. Alternate translation: “John taught you about God and this was like a lamp shining its light. And for a while what John said made you happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

317JHN536rt6jτὰ…ἔργα ἃ δέδωκέν μοι ὁ Πατὴρ, ἵνα τελειώσω αὐτά, αὐτὰ τὰ ἔργα ἃ ποιῶ, μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ, ὅτι ὁ Πατήρ με ἀπέσταλκεν1the works that the Father has given me to accomplish … that the Father has sent me

God the Father has sent God the Son, Jesus, to earth. Jesus completes what the Father gives him to do.

318JHN536dvr9guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

319JHN536yz3ufigs-personificationαὐτὰ τὰ ἔργα ἃ ποιῶ, μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ1the very works that I do, testify about me

Here Jesus says that the miracles testify or “tell the people” about him. Alternate translation: “what I do shows the people that God has sent me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

320JHN537p157figs-rpronounsὁ πέμψας με Πατὴρ, ἐκεῖνος μεμαρτύρηκεν1The Father who sent me has himself testified

The reflexive pronoun himself emphasizes that it is the Father, not someone less important, who has testified. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

321JHN538lxm4τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἔχετε ἐν ὑμῖν μένοντα, ὅτι ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος, τούτῳ ὑμεῖς οὐ πιστεύετε1You do not have his word remaining in you, for you are not believing in the one whom he has sent

“you do not believe in the one he has sent. That is how I know that you do not have his word remaining in you”

322JHN538dfn1figs-metaphorτὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἔχετε ἐν ὑμῖν μένοντα1You do not have his word remaining in you

Jesus speaks of people living according to Gods word as if they were houses and Gods word were a person that lived in houses. Alternate translation: “you do not live according to his word” or “you do not obey his word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

323JHN538rc2nτὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ1his word

“the message he spoke to you”

324JHN539xi22ἐν αὐταῖς ζωὴν αἰώνιον ἔχειν1in them you have eternal life

“you will find eternal life if you read them” or “the scriptures will tell you how you can have eternal life”

325JHN540dzm2οὐ θέλετε ἐλθεῖν πρός με1you are not willing to come to me

“you refuse to believe my message”

326JHN541c1rxοὐ λαμβάνω1receive

“I do not accept”

327JHN542b1j4τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐκ ἔχετε ἐν ἑαυτοῖς1you do not have the love of God in yourselves

This could mean: (1) they really did not love God. (2) they had not really received Gods love.

328JHN543zw65figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Πατρός μου1in my Fathers name

Here the word name is a metonym that symbolizes Gods power and authority. Alternate translation: “with my Fathers authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

329JHN543rtb9guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ Πατρός1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

330JHN543ue9fοὐ λαμβάνετέ με1receive

you do not welcome me as a friend

331JHN543p7jgfigs-metonymyἐὰν ἄλλος ἔλθῃ ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τῷ ἰδίῳ1If another should come in his own name

The word name is a metonym that represents authority. Alternate translation: “If another should come in his own authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

332JHN544e999figs-rquestionπῶς δύνασθε ὑμεῖς πιστεῦσαι, δόξαν παρὰ ἀλλήλων λαμβάνοντες, καὶ τὴν δόξαν τὴν παρὰ τοῦ μόνου Θεοῦ, οὐ ζητεῖτε?1How can you believe, you who accept praise … God?

This remark appears in the form of a question in order to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “There is no way you can believe because you accept praise from one another, and are not seeking the glory that is from the only God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

333JHN544g7qdπιστεῦσαι1believe

This means to trust in Jesus.

334JHN545kk5qfigs-metonymyἔστιν ὁ κατηγορῶν ὑμῶν Μωϋσῆς, εἰς ὃν ὑμεῖς ἠλπίκατε1The one who accuses you is Moses, in whom you have put your hope

Moses here is a metonym here that stands for the law itself. Alternate translation: “Moses accuses you in the Law, the very Law in which you have put your hopes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

335JHN547b8ddfigs-rquestionεἰ…τοῖς ἐκείνου γράμμασιν οὐ πιστεύετε, πῶς τοῖς ἐμοῖς ῥήμασιν πιστεύσετε?1If you do not believe his writings, how are you going to believe my words?

This remark appears in the form of a question to provide emphasis. Alternate translation: “you do not believe his writings, so you will never believe my words!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

336JHN547x7h9τοῖς ἐμοῖς ῥήμασιν1my words

“what I say”

337JHN6introxe4t0

John 6 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

King

The king of any nation was the richest and most powerful person in that nation. The people wanted Jesus to be their king because he gave them food and so they thought he would make the Jews into the richest and most powerful nation in the world. They did not understand that Jesus came to die so God could forgive his peoples sins and that the world would persecute his people.

Important metaphors in this chapter

Bread

Bread was the most common and important food in Jesus day, and so the word “bread” was their general word for “food.” It is often difficult to translate the word “bread” into the languages of people who do not eat bread because the general word for food in some languages refers to food that did not exist in Jesus culture. Jesus used the word “bread” to refer to himself. He wanted them to understand that they need him so they can have eternal life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

Eating the flesh and drinking the blood

When Jesus said, “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you will not have life in yourselves,” he knew that before he died he would tell his followers to do this by eating bread and drinking wine. In the event this chapter describes, he expected that his hearers would understand that he was using a metaphor but would not understand what the metaphor referred to. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/blood]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Parenthetical Ideas

Several times in this passage, John explains something or gives the reader some context to better understand the story. These explanation are intended to give the reader some additional knowledge without interrupting the flow of the narrative. The information is placed inside parentheses.

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (John 6:26). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

338JHN61qhj7writing-background0General Information:

Jesus has traveled from Jerusalem to Galilee. A crowd has followed him up a mountainside. These verses tell the setting of this part of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

339JHN61el4lμετὰ ταῦτα1After these things

The phrase these things refers to the events in John 5:1-46 and introduces the event that follows.

340JHN61z345figs-explicitἀπῆλθεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς1Jesus went away

It is implied in the text that Jesus traveled by boat and took his disciples with him. Alternate translation: “Jesus departed by boat with his disciples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

341JHN62qxs7ὄχλος πολύς1A great crowd

“a large number of people”

342JHN62g6zmσημεῖα1signs

This refers to the miracles that are used as evidence that God is the all-powerful one who has complete authority over everything.

343JHN64kct20General Information:

The action in the story begins in verse 5.

344JHN64ri55writing-backgroundἦν δὲ ἐγγὺς τὸ Πάσχα, ἡ ἑορτὴ τῶν Ἰουδαίων1Now the Passover, the Jewish festival, was near

John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about when the events happened. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

345JHN66cj58writing-backgroundτοῦτο δὲ ἔλεγεν πειράζων αὐτόν; αὐτὸς γὰρ ᾔδει τί ἔμελλεν ποιεῖν1But Jesus said this to test Philip, for he himself knew what he was going to do

John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to explain why Jesus asked Philip where to buy bread. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

346JHN66uk6tfigs-rpronounsαὐτὸς γὰρ ᾔδει1for he himself knew

The reflexive pronoun himself makes it clear that the word he refers to Jesus. Jesus knew what he would do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

347JHN67z3gjtranslate-bmoneyδιακοσίων δηναρίων ἄρτοι1Two hundred denarii worth of bread

The word denarii is the plural of “denarius.” Alternate translation: “The amount of bread that cost two hundred days wages” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

348JHN69k3k6πέντε ἄρτους κριθίνους1five bread loaves of barley

“five loaves of barley bread.” Barley was a common grain.

349JHN69fjx1ἄρτους1loaves

A loaf of bread is a lump of dough that is shaped and baked. These were probably small dense, round loaves.

350JHN69xwu8figs-rquestionταῦτα τί ἐστιν εἰς τοσούτους?1what are these among so many?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that they do not have enough food to feed everyone. Alternate translation: “these few loaves and fishes are not enough to feed so many people!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

351JHN610n9ftἀναπεσεῖν1sit down

“lie down”

352JHN610pf33writing-backgroundἦν δὲ χόρτος πολὺς ἐν τῷ τόπῳ1Now there was a lot of grass in the place

John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about the place where this event happens. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

353JHN610iz32ἀνέπεσαν οὖν οἱ ἄνδρες, τὸν ἀριθμὸν ὡς πεντακισχίλιοι1So the men sat down, about five thousand in number

While the crowd probably included women and children (John 6:4-5), here John is counting only the men.

354JHN611mnw3εὐχαριστήσας1giving thanks

Jesus prayed to God the Father and thanked him for the fish and the loaves.

355JHN611wi9dfigs-synecdocheδιέδωκεν1he gave it

Here, he represents “Jesus and his disciples.” Alternate translation: “Jesus and his disciples gave it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

356JHN613y3zz0General Information:

Jesus withdraws from the crowd. This is the end of the part of the story about Jesus feeding the crowd on the mountain.

357JHN613hqx9συνήγαγον1they gathered

“the disciples gathered up”

358JHN613h64zἃ ἐπερίσσευσαν1left over

the food that no one had eaten

359JHN614nlw1ὃ…σημεῖον1this sign

The sign was Jesus feeding the 5,000 people with only five barley loaves and two fish.

360JHN614g8zbὁ προφήτης1the prophet

the special prophet who Moses said would come into the world

361JHN616qb230Connecting Statement:

This is the next event in the story. Jesus disciples go out onto the lake in a boat.

362JHN617fkj2writing-backgroundσκοτία ἤδη ἐγεγόνει, καὶ οὔπω ἐληλύθει πρὸς αὐτοὺς ὁ Ἰησοῦς1It was dark by this time, and Jesus had not yet come to them

Use your languages way of showing that this is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

363JHN619xx7dἐληλακότες1they had rowed

Boats usually had two, four, or six people rowing with rowers on each side working together. Your culture may have different ways of making a boat go across a large body of water.

364JHN619sgf4translate-bdistanceὡς σταδίους εἴκοσι πέντε ἢ τριάκοντα1about twenty-five or thirty stadia

A “stadium” is 185 meters. Alternate translation: “about five or six kilometers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

365JHN620d6wvμὴ φοβεῖσθε1Do not be afraid

“Stop being afraid!”

366JHN621qtw5figs-explicitἤθελον…λαβεῖν αὐτὸν εἰς τὸ πλοῖον1they were willing to receive him into the boat

It is implied that Jesus gets into the boat. Alternate translation: “they gladly received him into the boat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

367JHN622yy7cτῆς θαλάσσης1the sea

“the Sea of Galilee”

368JHN623z5b4writing-backgroundἄλλα ἦλθεν πλοῖα ἐκ Τιβεριάδος, ἐγγὺς τοῦ τόπου ὅπου ἔφαγον τὸν ἄρτον, εὐχαριστήσαντος τοῦ Κυρίου1However, there were … the Lord had given thanks

Use your languages way of showing that this is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

369JHN623w7quwriting-backgroundἦλθεν πλοῖα ἐκ Τιβεριάδος1boats that came from Tiberias

Here, John provides more background information. The next day, after Jesus fed the people, some boats with people from Tiberius came to see Jesus. However, Jesus and his disciples had left the night before. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

370JHN624cql60General Information:

The people go to Capernaum to find Jesus. When they see him, they start asking him questions.

371JHN626f8j4ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

372JHN627czb3ζωὴν αἰώνιον, ἣν ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ὑμῖν δώσει; τοῦτον γὰρ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐσφράγισεν ὁ Θεός1eternal life which the Son of Man will give you, for God the Father has set his seal on him

God the Father has given his approval to Jesus, the Son of Man, to give eternal life to those who believe in him.

373JHN627b94wguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου…ὁ Πατὴρ…ὁ Θεός1Son of Man … God the Father

** Son of Man** and God the Father are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

374JHN627gf9qfigs-metaphorτοῦτον…ἐσφράγισεν1has set his seal on him

To “set a seal” on something means to place a mark on it to show to whom it belongs. This means that the Son belongs to the Father and that the Father approves of him in every way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

375JHN631gye7οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν1Our fathers

“Our forefathers” or “Our ancestors”

376JHN631jz9pτοῦ οὐρανοῦ1heaven

This refers to the place where God lives.

377JHN632e6s1ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

378JHN632ega4figs-metaphorὁ Πατήρ μου δίδωσιν ὑμῖν τὸν ἄρτον ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ τὸν ἀληθινόν1it is my Father who is giving you the true bread from heaven

The true bread is a metaphor for Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Father gives to you the Son as the true bread from heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

379JHN632c73lguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ μου1my Father

Father an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

380JHN633rrf5ζωὴν διδοὺς τῷ κόσμῳ1gives life to the world

“giving spiritual life to the world”

381JHN633k897figs-metonymyτῷ κόσμῳ1the world

Here the world is a metonym for all of the people in the world who trust in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

382JHN635cr2mfigs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος τῆς ζωῆς1I am the bread of life

Through metaphor, Jesus compares himself with bread. Just as bread is necessary for our physical life, Jesus is necessary for our spiritual life. Alternate translation: “Just as food keeps you alive physically, I can give you spiritual life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

383JHN635w1spὁ πιστεύων εἰς1believes in

This means to believe that Jesus is the Son of God, to trust him as Savior, and to live in a way that honors him.

384JHN637n6bkguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesπᾶν ὃ δίδωσίν μοι ὁ Πατὴρ, πρὸς ἐμὲ ἥξει1Everyone whom the Father gives me will come to me

God the Father and God the Son will save forever those who believe in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

385JHN637vpz8guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

386JHN637i92sfigs-litotesτὸν ἐρχόμενον πρός ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ ἐκβάλω ἔξω1he who comes to me I will certainly not throw out

This sentence states the opposite of what it means for emphasis. Alternate translation: “I will keep everyone who comes to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

387JHN638z84i0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the crowd.

388JHN638cpi9τοῦ πέμψαντός με1him who sent me

“my Father, who sent me”

389JHN639x5c1figs-litotesπᾶν ὃ…μὴ ἀπολέσω ἐξ αὐτοῦ1I would lose not one of all those

Here litotes is used to emphasize that Jesus will keep everyone that God gives to him. Alternate translation: “I should keep all of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

390JHN639j7q6figs-idiomἀναστήσω αὐτὸ1will raise them up

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “will cause them to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

391JHN641t91b0Connecting Statement:

The Jewish leaders interrupt Jesus as he is speaking to the crowd.

392JHN641jl8lἐγόγγυζον1grumbled

talked unhappily

393JHN641wwa5figs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος1I am the bread

Just as bread is necessary for our physical life, Jesus is necessary for our spiritual life. See how you translated this in John 6:35. Alternate translation: “I am the one who is like true bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

394JHN642bm3wfigs-rquestionοὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν Ἰησοῦς ὁ υἱὸς Ἰωσήφ, οὗ ἡμεῖς οἴδαμεν τὸν πατέρα καὶ τὴν μητέρα?1Is not this Jesus … whose father and mother we know?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that the Jewish leaders believe that Jesus is no one special. Alternate translation: “This is just Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

395JHN642i81rfigs-rquestionπῶς νῦν λέγει, ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καταβέβηκα?1How then does he now say, I have come down from heaven?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that the Jewish leaders do not believe that Jesus came from heaven. Alternate translation: “He is lying when he says that he came from heaven!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

396JHN643pk4s0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the crowd and now also to the Jewish leaders.

397JHN644s6b5figs-idiomἀναστήσω αὐτὸν1raise him up

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “cause him to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

398JHN644rr2mἑλκύσῃ1draws

“pulls” or “attracts”

399JHN644jb73guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

400JHN645j1affigs-activepassiveἔστιν γεγραμμένον ἐν τοῖς προφήταις1It is written in the prophets

This is a passive statement that can be translated in an active form. Alternate translation: “The prophets wrote” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

401JHN646lcz80Connecting Statement:

Jesus now continues speaking to the crowd and the Jewish leaders.

402JHN646i9mpguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

403JHN647de5yἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

404JHN647t8lkὁ πιστεύων ἔχει ζωὴν αἰώνιον1he who believes has eternal life

God gives eternal life to those who trust in Jesus, the Son of God.

405JHN648iih2figs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος τῆς ζωῆς1I am the bread of life

Just as bread is necessary for our physical life, Jesus is necessary for our spiritual life. See how you translated this in John 6:35. Alternate translation: “Just like food that keeps you alive physically, I can give you spiritual life that lasts forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

406JHN649uh76οἱ πατέρες ὑμῶν1Your fathers

“Your forefathers” or “Your ancestors”

407JHN649mr3uἀπέθανον1died

This refers to physical death.

408JHN650sa53figs-metaphorοὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ἄρτος1This is the bread

Here, bread is a metaphor that points to Jesus who is the one who gives spiritual life just as bread sustains physical life. Alternate translation: “I am like the true bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

409JHN650v212μὴ ἀποθάνῃ1not die

“live forever.” Here the word die refers to spiritual death.

410JHN651px99ἄρτος ὁ ζῶν1living bread

This means “the bread that causes people to live” (John 6:35).

411JHN651nb41figs-metonymyὑπὲρ τῆς τοῦ κόσμου ζωῆς1for the life of the world

Here, the world is a metonym that represents the lives of all the people in the world. Alternate translation: “that will give life to all the people in the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

412JHN652v6g70Connecting Statement:

Some Jews who are present begin to argue among themselves and Jesus responds to their question.

413JHN652fj5pfigs-rquestionπῶς δύναται οὗτος ἡμῖν δοῦναι τὴν σάρκα φαγεῖν?1How can this man give us his flesh to eat?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that the Jewish leaders are reacting negatively to what Jesus has said about his flesh. Alternate translation: “There is no way that this man can give us his flesh to eat!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

414JHN653q8jlἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

415JHN653r7hhfigs-metaphorφάγητε τὴν σάρκα τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, καὶ πίητε αὐτοῦ τὸ αἷμα1eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood

Here the phrases eat the flesh and drink his blood are a metaphor that shows how trusting in Jesus, the Son of Man, is like receiving spiritual food and drink. However, the Jews did not understand this. Do not make the meaning of this metaphor more clear than Jesus did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

416JHN653j1gaοὐκ ἔχετε ζωὴν ἐν ἑαυτοῖς1you will not have life in yourselves

“you will not receive eternal life”

417JHN654t3xn0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to all those listening to him.

418JHN654hc5dfigs-metaphorὁ τρώγων μου τὴν σάρκα, καὶ πίνων μου τὸ αἷμα, ἔχει ζωὴν αἰώνιον1Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has everlasting life

The phrases “eating my flesh” and “drinking my blood” are a metaphor for trusting Jesus. Just as people need food and drink in order to live, people need to trust Jesus in order to have eternal life. However, the Jews did not understand this. Do not make the meaning of this metaphor more clear than Jesus did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

419JHN654ym6wfigs-idiomἀναστήσω αὐτὸν1raise him up

Here to raise him up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “will cause him to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

420JHN654qia5τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ1at the last day

“on the day when God judges everyone”

421JHN655cik2figs-metaphorἡ…σάρξ μου ἀληθής ἐστι βρῶσις, καὶ τὸ αἷμά μου ἀληθής ἐστι πόσις1my flesh is true food … my blood is true drink

The phrases true food and true drink are metaphors that means Jesus gives life to those who trust in him. However, the Jews did not understand this. Do not make the meaning of these metaphors more clear than Jesus did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

422JHN656u3w4ἐν ἐμοὶ μένει, κἀγὼ ἐν αὐτῷ1remains in me, and I in him

“has a close relationship with me”

423JHN657dba2καὶ ὁ τρώγων με1so he who eats me

The phrase eating me is a metaphor for trusting Jesus. However, the Jews did not understand this. Do not make the meaning of this metaphor more clear than Jesus did. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)

424JHN657nfz4ζῶν Πατὴρ1living Father

This could refer to: (1) the Father who gives life. (2) the Father who is alive.

425JHN657m1l5guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

426JHN658m2nzοὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ἄρτος ὁ ἐξ οὐρανοῦ καταβάς1This is the bread that has come down from heaven

Jesus was speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I am the bread that has come down from heaven” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person)

427JHN658kv16figs-metaphorοὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ἄρτος ὁ ἐξ οὐρανοῦ καταβάς1This is the bread that has come down from heaven

Here, bread is a metaphor for what gives life. However, the Jews did not understand this. Do not make the meaning of this metaphor more clear than Jesus did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

428JHN658j2hxὁ τρώγων τοῦτον τὸν ἄρτον1He who eats this bread

Jesus spoke about himself as this bread. Alternate translation: “He who eats me, the bread” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person)

429JHN658jv4cὁ τρώγων τοῦτον τὸν ἄρτον1He who eats this bread

Here, eating this bread is a metaphor for trusting Jesus. However, the Jews did not understand this. Do not make the meaning of this metaphor more clear than Jesus did. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)

430JHN658i9ihοἱ πατέρες1the fathers

“the forefathers” or “the ancestors”

431JHN659ph39writing-backgroundταῦτα εἶπεν ἐν συναγωγῇ, διδάσκων ἐν Καφαρναούμ1Jesus said these things in the synagogue … in Capernaum

Here John gives background information about when this event happened. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

432JHN660t1me0Connecting Statement:

Some of the disciples ask a question and Jesus responds, as he continues speaking to the crowd.

433JHN660cp3kfigs-rquestionτίς δύναται αὐτοῦ ἀκούειν?1who can accept it?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that the disciples have difficulty understanding what Jesus has said. Alternate translation: “no one can accept it!” or “it is too hard to understand!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

434JHN661rn8iτοῦτο ὑμᾶς σκανδαλίζει?1Does this offend you?

“Does this shock you?” or “Does this upset you?”

435JHN662r33rfigs-rquestionἐὰν οὖν θεωρῆτε τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, ἀναβαίνοντα ὅπου ἦν τὸ πρότερον?1Then what if you should see the Son of Man going up to where he was before?

Jesus offers this remark in the form of a question to emphasize that his disciples will see other things that are also hard to understand. Alternate translation: “Then you will not know what to think when you see me, the Son of Man, going up into heaven!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

436JHN663y558ὠφελεῖ1profits

The word profit means to cause good things to happen.

437JHN663fy9pfigs-metonymyῥήματα1words

This could refer to: (1) Jesus words in John 6:32-58. (2) everything Jesus teaches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

438JHN663plw8τὰ ῥήματα ἃ ἐγὼ λελάληκα ὑμῖν1The words that I have spoken to you

“What I have told you”

439JHN663gb29πνεῦμά ἐστιν καὶ ζωή ἐστιν1are spirit, and they are life

This could mean: (1) these things are about the Spirit and eternal life. (2) these things are from the Spirit and give eternal life. (3) these things are about spiritual things and life.

440JHN664k7ir0Connecting Statement:

Jesus finishes speaking to the crowd.

441JHN664ey1ewriting-backgroundᾔδει γὰρ ἐξ ἀρχῆς ὁ Ἰησοῦς, τίνες εἰσὶν οἱ μὴ πιστεύοντες, καὶ τίς ἐστιν ὁ παραδώσων αὐτόν1For Jesus knew from the beginning who were the ones … who it was who would betray him

Here John gives background information about what Jesus knew would happen. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

442JHN665c3clοὐδεὶς δύναται ἐλθεῖν πρός με, ἐὰν μὴ ᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ ἐκ τοῦ Πατρός1no one can come to me unless it is granted to him by the Father

Whoever wants to believe must come to God through the Son. Only God the Father allows people to come to Jesus.

443JHN665g4zaguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρός1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

444JHN665f7l1ἐλθεῖν πρός με1come to me

“to follow me and receive eternal life”

445JHN666h8j9figs-metaphorοὐκέτι μετ’ αὐτοῦ περιεπάτουν1no longer walked with him

Jesus went from one place to another by walking, so it is literally true that they did not walk where and when he walked, but the reader should also be able to understand that this metaphor indicates that they no longer wanted to hear what he had to say. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

446JHN666v7gqτῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ1his disciples

Here, his disciples refers to the general group of people who followed Jesus.

447JHN667bg2ffigs-ellipsisτοῖς δώδεκα1the twelve

This is an ellipsis for “the twelve disciples,” a specific group of twelve men who followed Jesus for his entire ministry. Alternate translation: “the twelve disciples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

448JHN668g9l4figs-rquestionΚύριε, πρὸς τίνα ἀπελευσόμεθα?1Lord, to whom shall we go?

Simon Peter gives this remark in the form of a question to emphasize that he desires to follow only Jesus. Alternate translation: “Lord, we could never follow anyone but you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

449JHN670m9ysfigs-rquestionοὐκ ἐγὼ ὑμᾶς τοὺς δώδεκα ἐξελεξάμην, καὶ ἐξ ὑμῶν εἷς διάβολός ἐστιν?1Did not I choose you, the twelve, and one of you is a devil?

Jesus gives this remark in the form of a question to draw attention to the fact that one of the disciples will betray him. Alternate translation: “I chose you all myself, yet one of you is a servant of Satan!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

450JHN671z9ycwriting-background0General Information:

Verse 71 is not part of the main story line as John comments on what Jesus said. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

451JHN7introl7120

John 7 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This whole chapter concerns the concept of believing Jesus to be the Messiah. Some people believed this to be true while others rejected it. Some were willing to recognize his power and even the possibility that he was a prophet, but most were unwilling to believe that he was the Messiah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])

Translators may wish to include a note at verse 53 to explain to the reader why they have chosen or chosen not to translate verses 7:53-8:11.

Special concepts in this chapter

“My time has not yet come”

This phrase and “his hour had not yet come” are used in this chapter to indicate that Jesus is in control of the events unfolding in his life.

“Living water”

This is an important image used in the New Testament. It is a metaphor. Because this metaphor is given in a desert environment, it probably emphasizes that Jesus is able to give life sustaining nourishment. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Prophecy

Jesus gives a prophecy about his life without an explicit statement in John John 7:33-34.

Irony

Nicodemus explains to the other Pharisees that the Law requires him to hear directly from a person before making a judgment about them. The Pharisees in turn made a judgment about Jesus without speaking to Jesus.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Did not believe in him”

Jesus brothers did not believe Jesus was the Messiah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])

“The Jews”

This term is used in two different ways in this passage. It is used specifically in reference to the opposition of the Jewish leaders who were trying to kill him (John 7:1). It is also used in reference to the people of Judea in general who had a positive opinion of Jesus (John 7:13). The translator may wish to use the terms “Jewish leaders” and “Jewish people” or “Jews (leaders)” and “Jews (in general).”

452JHN71gg4vwriting-background0General Information:

Jesus is in Galilee speaking to his brothers. These verses tell about when this event occurred. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

453JHN71b99mμετὰ ταῦτα1After these things

The words after these things tell the reader that the writer will begin talking about a new event. “After he finished speaking with the disciples” (John 6:66-71) or “Some time later”

454JHN71k5yvπεριεπάτει1traveled

The reader should understand that Jesus probably walked rather than riding an animal or in a vehicle.

455JHN71r94gfigs-synecdocheἐζήτουν αὐτὸν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι ἀποκτεῖναι1the Jews were seeking to kill him

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for “the Jewish leaders.” Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders were making plans to kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

456JHN72m4chἦν δὲ ἐγγὺς ἡ ἑορτὴ τῶν Ἰουδαίων ἡ σκηνοπηγία1Now the Jewish Festival of Shelters was near

“Now the time for the festival of the Jews was near” or “Now it was almost time for the Jewish festival of Shelters”

457JHN73x8ceοἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ1brothers

This refers to the actual younger brothers of Jesus, the sons of Mary and Joseph.

458JHN73id2zσοῦ τὰ ἔργα ἃ ποιεῖς1the works that you do

The word works refers to the miracles that Jesus had performed.

459JHN74by1hfigs-rpronounsζητεῖ αὐτὸς1he himself wants

The word himself is a reflexive pronoun that emphasizes that he wants to promote himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

460JHN74f33jfigs-metonymyτῷ κόσμῳ1the world

Here, the world is a metonym for all of the people in the world. Alternate translation: “all people” or “everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

461JHN75mz2bwriting-backgroundοὐδὲ γὰρ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ ἐπίστευον εἰς αὐτὸν1For even his brothers did not believe in him

This sentence is a break from the main story line as John tells us some background information about the brothers of Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

462JHN75bs7fοἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ1his brothers

“his younger brothers”

463JHN76n5bjfigs-metonymyὁ καιρὸς ὁ ἐμὸς οὔπω πάρεστιν1My time has not yet come

The word time is a metonym. Jesus is implying that it is not the right time for him to bring his ministry to a close. Alternate translation: “It is not the right time for me to end my work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

464JHN76shs9ὁ…καιρὸς ὁ ὑμέτερος πάντοτέ ἐστιν ἕτοιμος4your time is always ready

“any time is good for you”

465JHN77h7kvfigs-metonymyοὐ δύναται ὁ κόσμος μισεῖν ὑμᾶς1The world cannot hate you

Here the world is a metonym for the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “All the people in the world cannot hate you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

466JHN77e5hqἐγὼ μαρτυρῶ περὶ αὐτοῦ, ὅτι τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ πονηρά ἐστιν1I testify about it that its works are evil

“I tell them that what they are doing is evil”

467JHN78pt7f0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to his brothers.

468JHN78evk6figs-explicitὁ ἐμὸς καιρὸς οὔπω πεπλήρωται1my time has not yet been fulfilled

Here Jesus is implying that if he goes to Jerusalem, he will bring his work to an end. Alternate translation: “It is not the right time for me to go to Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

469JHN710xw520General Information:

The setting of the story has changed, Jesus and his brothers are now at the festival.

470JHN710jz6lοἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ1when his brothers had gone up to the festival

These brothers were the younger brothers of Jesus.

471JHN710z4ymκαὶ αὐτὸς ἀνέβη1he also went up

Jerusalem is at a higher elevation than Galilee where Jesus and his brothers were previously.

472JHN710rw5vfigs-doubletοὐ φανερῶς, ἀλλὰ ὡς ἐν κρυπτῷ1not publicly but in secret

These two phrases mean the same thing. The idea is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: “very secretly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

473JHN711i6clfigs-synecdocheοἱ…Ἰουδαῖοι ἐζήτουν αὐτὸν1The Jews were looking for him

Here the word Jewsis a synecdoche for “the Jewish leaders.” The word him refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “The Jewish leaders were looking for Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

474JHN712c27afigs-metaphorπλανᾷ τὸν ὄχλον1he leads the crowds astray

Here, leads … astray is a metaphor for persuading someone to believe something that is not true. Alternate translation: “he deceives the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

475JHN713n8bbfigs-synecdocheτῶν Ἰουδαίων1the Jews

The word Jews is a synecdoche for the leaders of the Jews who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

476JHN714yut80General Information:

Jesus is now teaching the Jews in the temple.

477JHN715e7vefigs-rquestionπῶς οὗτος γράμματα οἶδεν, μὴ μεμαθηκώς?1How does this man know so much?

The remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize the Jewish leaders surprise that Jesus has so much knowledge. Alternate translation: “He cannot possibly know so much about the scriptures!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

478JHN716h7mrἀλλὰ τοῦ πέμψαντός με1but is of him who sent me

“but comes from God, the one who sent me”

479JHN717srx30Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Jews.

480JHN718xf9jὁ δὲ ζητῶν τὴν δόξαν τοῦ πέμψαντος αὐτὸν, οὗτος ἀληθής ἐστιν, καὶ ἀδικία ἐν αὐτῷ οὐκ ἔστιν1but whoever seeks the glory of him who sent him, that person is true, and there is no unrighteousness in him

“but when a person only seeks to honor the one who sent him, that person is speaking the truth. He does not lie”

481JHN719pib50Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Jews.

482JHN719c7xqfigs-rquestionοὐ Μωϋσῆς δέδωκεν ὑμῖν τὸν νόμον, καὶ οὐδεὶς ἐξ ὑμῶν ποιεῖ τὸν νόμον?1Did not Moses give you the law?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “It was Moses who gave you the law, but none of you obeys the law!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

483JHN719iwv8ποιεῖ τὸν νόμον1keeps the law

“obeys the law”

484JHN719bfd2figs-rquestionτί με ζητεῖτε ἀποκτεῖναι?1Why do you seek to kill me?

Jesus questions the motives of the Jewish leaders who want to kill him for breaking the law of Moses. He implies that the leaders themselves do not keep that same Law. Alternate translation: “You break the Law yourselves and yet you want to kill me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

485JHN720r9wifigs-rquestionτίς σε ζητεῖ ἀποκτεῖναι?1Who seeks to kill you?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “No one is trying to kill you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

486JHN720l1rqδαιμόνιον ἔχεις1You have a demon

“This shows that you are crazy, or maybe a demon is controlling you!”

487JHN721b63zἓν ἔργον1one work

“one miracle” or “one sign”

488JHN721l1zfπάντες θαυμάζετε1you all marvel

“you all are shocked”

489JHN722d8swwriting-backgroundοὐχ ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ Μωϋσέως ἐστὶν, ἀλλ’ ἐκ τῶν πατέρων1not that it is from Moses, but from the ancestors

Here John provides additional information about circumcision. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

490JHN722cs9zfigs-explicitἐν Σαββάτῳ περιτέμνετε ἄνθρωπον1on the Sabbath you circumcise a man

Jesus implies that the act of circumcision also involves work. Alternate translation: “you circumcise a male baby on the Sabbath. That is working too” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

491JHN722dl6zἐν Σαββάτῳ1on the Sabbath

“on the Jewish Day of Rest”

492JHN723t21uεἰ περιτομὴν λαμβάνει ἄνθρωπος ἐν Σαββάτῳ, ἵνα μὴ λυθῇ ὁ νόμος Μωϋσέως1If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses is not broken

“If you circumcise a male baby on the Sabbath so that you do not break the law of Moses”

493JHN723w9wnfigs-rquestionἐμοὶ χολᾶτε ὅτι ὅλον ἄνθρωπον ὑγιῆ ἐποίησα ἐν Σαββάτῳ?1why are you angry with me because I made a man completely healthy on the Sabbath?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “you should not be angry with me because I made a man completely well on the Sabbath!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

494JHN723f437ἐν Σαββάτῳ-1on the Sabbath

“on the Jewish Day of Rest”

495JHN724x4flfigs-explicitμὴ κρίνετε κατ’ ὄψιν, ἀλλὰ τὴν δικαίαν κρίσιν κρίνετε1Do not judge according to appearance, but judge righteously

Jesus implies that the people should not decide what is right, based only on what they can see. Behind the action is a motive that cannot be seen. Alternate translation: “Stop judging people according to what you see! Be more concerned with what is right according to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

496JHN725ts7dfigs-rquestionοὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν ὃν ζητοῦσιν ἀποκτεῖναι?1Is not this the one they seek to kill?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “This is Jesus whom they are seeking to kill!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

497JHN726n5pifigs-explicitοὐδὲν αὐτῷ λέγουσιν1they say nothing to him

This implies that the Jewish leaders are not opposing Jesus. Alternate translation: “they say nothing to oppose him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

498JHN726s2unfigs-rquestionμήποτε ἀληθῶς ἔγνωσαν οἱ ἄρχοντες, ὅτι οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ Χριστός?1It cannot be that the rulers indeed know that this is the Christ, can it?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “Maybe they have decided that he is truly the Messiah!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

499JHN728zxh7ἔκραξεν1cried out

“spoke in a loud voice”

500JHN728ah7ufigs-explicitἐν τῷ ἱερῷ1in the temple

Jesus and the people were actually in the courtyard of the temple. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

501JHN728rq9tfigs-ironyκἀμὲ οἴδατε, καὶ οἴδατε πόθεν εἰμί1You both know me and know where I come from

John uses irony in this statement. The people believe that Jesus is from Nazareth. They do not know that God sent him from heaven and that he was born in Bethlehem. Alternate translation: “You all know me and you think you know where I come from” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

502JHN728w35kἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ1of myself

“on my own authority.” See how you translated “from himself” in John 5:19.

503JHN728a2h9ἔστιν ἀληθινὸς ὁ πέμψας με1he who sent me is true

“God is the one who sent me and he is true”

504JHN730pxr4figs-metonymyοὔπω ἐληλύθει ἡ ὥρα αὐτοῦ1his hour had not yet come

The word hour is a metonym that represents the right time for Jesus to be arrested, according to Gods plan. Alternate translation: “it was not the right time to arrest him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

505JHN731y5m8figs-rquestionὁ Χριστὸς, ὅταν ἔλθῃ, μὴ πλείονα σημεῖα ποιήσει ὧν οὗτος ἐποίησεν?1When the Christ comes, will he do more signs than what this one has done?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “When the Christ comes, surely he will not be able to do more signs than this man has done!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

506JHN731x8e4σημεῖα1signs

This refers to the miracles that prove that Jesus is the Christ.

507JHN733xm7pἔτι χρόνον μικρὸν μεθ’ ὑμῶν εἰμι1I am still with you for a short amount of time

“I will remain with you for only a short period of time”

508JHN733b4m8καὶ ὑπάγω πρὸς τὸν πέμψαντά με1then I go to him who sent me

Here, the one who sent me refers to God the Father, who sent Jesus.

509JHN734p7w6ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ ὑμεῖς, οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν1where I go, you will not be able to come

“you will not be able to come to the place where I will go”

510JHN735zn29figs-synecdocheεἶπον οὖν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι πρὸς ἑαυτούς1The Jews therefore said among themselves

Here, Jews is a synecdoche that represents the leaders of the Jews who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “The Jewish leaders said among themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

511JHN735ef1yτὴν διασπορὰν1the dispersion

This refers to the Jews that were spread all across the Greek world, outside of Palestine.

512JHN736ib6pfigs-metonymyτίς ἐστιν ὁ λόγος οὗτος ὃν εἶπε1What is this word that he said

Here, word is a metonym which stands for the meaning of the message that Jesus had shared, which the Jewish leaders had failed to understand. Alternate translation: “What is he talking about when he said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

513JHN737elc60General Information:

Some time has passed. It is now the last day of the festival and Jesus speaks to the crowd.

514JHN737fg95ἡμέρᾳ…μεγάλῃ1great day

It is great because it is the last, or most important, day of the festival.

515JHN737iy9efigs-metaphorἐάν τις διψᾷ1If anyone is thirsty

Here the word thirst is a metaphor that means ones great desire for the things of God, just as one “thirsts” for water. Alternate translation: “Those who desire the things of God like a thirty man desires water” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

516JHN737ayn6figs-metaphorἐρχέσθω πρός με καὶ πινέτω1let him come to me and drink

The word drink is a metaphor that means to receive the spiritual life that Jesus provides. Alternate translation: “let him come to me and quench his spiritual thirst” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

517JHN738u9cxὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ, καθὼς εἶπεν ἡ Γραφή1He who believes in me, just as the scripture says

“As the scripture says about anyone who believes in me”

518JHN738uw2qfigs-metaphorποταμοὶ…ῥεύσουσιν ὕδατος ζῶντος1rivers of living water will flow

Here, rivers of living water is a metaphor that represents the life that Jesus provides for those who are spiritually “thirsty.” Alternate translation: “spiritual life will flow like rivers of water” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

519JHN738yt75figs-metaphorὕδατος ζῶντος1living water

This could refer to: (1) water that gives life. (2) water that causes people to live. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

520JHN738cx1qfigs-metonymyἐκ τῆς κοιλίας αὐτοῦ1from his stomach

Here the stomach represents the inside of a person, specifically the non-physical part of a person. Alternate translation: “from inside of him” or “from his heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

521JHN739i8wxwriting-background0General Information:

In this verse the author gives information to clarify what Jesus is talking about. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

522JHN739syp9δὲ εἶπεν1But he said

Here, he refers to Jesus.

523JHN739qbr1figs-explicitοὔπω…ἦν Πνεῦμα1the Spirit had not yet been given

John implies that the Spirit would later come to live in those who trusted Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Spirit had not yet come to live in the believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

524JHN739n599ὅτι Ἰησοῦς οὐδέπω ἐδοξάσθη1because Jesus was not yet glorified

Here the word glorified refers to the time when God would honor the Son after his death and resurrection.

525JHN740shq8figs-explicitοὗτός ἐστιν ἀληθῶς ὁ προφήτης1This is indeed the prophet

By saying this, the people are indicating that they believe Jesus is the prophet like Moses that God had promised to send. Alternate translation: “This is indeed the prophet who is like Moses that we have been waiting for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

526JHN741alq3figs-rquestionμὴ γὰρ ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας ὁ Χριστὸς ἔρχεται1Does the Christ come from Galilee?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “The Christ cannot come from Galilee!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

527JHN742n8nbfigs-rquestionοὐχ ἡ Γραφὴ εἶπεν, ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ σπέρματος Δαυεὶδ, καὶ ἀπὸ Βηθλέεμ, τῆς κώμης ὅπου ἦν Δαυεὶδ, ἔρχεται ὁ Χριστός?1Have the scriptures not said that the Christ will come from the descendants of David and from Bethlehem, the village where David was?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “The scriptures teach that Christ will come from the line of David and from Bethlehem, the village where David was!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

528JHN742ep4zfigs-personificationοὐχ ἡ Γραφὴ εἶπεν1Have the scriptures not said

The scriptures are referred to as if they were actually speaking as a person speaks. Alternate translation: “The prophets wrote in the scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

529JHN742zjh5ὅπου ἦν Δαυεὶδ1where David was

“where David lived”

530JHN743lf5rσχίσμα οὖν ἐγένετο ἐν τῷ ὄχλῳ δι’ αὐτόν1So there arose a division in the crowds because of him

The crowds could not agree about who or what Jesus was.

531JHN744rc64figs-idiomἀλλ’ οὐδεὶς ἐπέβαλεν ἐπ’ αὐτὸν τὰς χεῖρας1but no one laid hands on him

To lay hands on someone is an idiom which means to grab him or to hold onto him. Alternate translation: “but no one grabbed him to arrest him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

532JHN745m3rfοἱ ὑπηρέται1the officers

“the temple guards”

533JHN746qwv3figs-hyperboleοὐδέποτε ἐλάλησεν οὕτως ἄνθρωπος1Never has anyone spoken like this

The officers exaggerate to show how impressed they are by what Jesus said. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

534JHN746wp9hfigs-explicitοὐδέποτε ἐλάλησεν οὕτως ἄνθρωπος1

You may need to make explicit that the officers were not claiming to know everything that every person in all times and places had ever said. “We have never heard anyone say such amazing things as this man!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

535JHN747d4xyοὖν…οἱ Φαρισαῖοι1So the Pharisees

“Because they said that, the Pharisees”

536JHN747t91pἀπεκρίθησαν…αὐτοῖς1answered them

“answered the officers”

537JHN747z95zfigs-rquestionμὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς πεπλάνησθε?1Have you also been deceived?

The remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. The Pharisees are shocked at the response of the officers. Alternate translation: “You have been deceived too!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

538JHN748e8vufigs-rquestionτις ἐκ τῶν ἀρχόντων ἐπίστευσεν εἰς αὐτὸν, ἢ ἐκ τῶν Φαρισαίων?1Have any of the rulers believed in him, or any of the Pharisees?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “None of the rulers or Pharisees have believed in him!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

539JHN749fe7dἀλλὰ ὁ ὄχλος οὗτος, ὁ μὴ γινώσκων τὸν νόμον, ἐπάρατοί εἰσιν1But this crowd that does not know the law, they are cursed

“As for this crowd that does not know the law, God will cause them to perish!”

540JHN750u5hawriting-backgroundὁ ἐλθὼν πρὸς αὐτὸν πρότερον, εἷς ὢν ἐξ αὐτῶν1one of the Pharisees, who came to him earlier

John provides this information to remind us of who Nicodemus is. Your language may have a special way to mark background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

541JHN751ia3jfigs-rquestionμὴ ὁ νόμος ἡμῶν κρίνει τὸν ἄνθρωπον, ἐὰν μὴ ἀκούσῃ πρῶτον παρ’ αὐτοῦ, καὶ γνῷ τί ποιεῖ?1Does our law judge a man … what he does?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. You can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: “Our Jewish law does not allow us to judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he does!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

542JHN751y8dffigs-personificationμὴ ὁ νόμος ἡμῶν κρίνει τὸν ἄνθρωπον1Does our law judge a man

Here Nicodemus speaks of the law as if it were a person. If this is not natural in your language, you may translate it with a personal subject. Alternate translation: “Do we judge a man” or “We do not judge a man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

543JHN752pt91figs-rquestionμὴ καὶ σὺ ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας εἶ?1Are you also from Galilee?

The Jewish leaders know that Nicodemus is not from Galilee. They ask this question as a way of scoffing at him. Alternate translation: “You must also be one of those inferior persons from Galilee!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

544JHN752k6pgfigs-ellipsisἐραύνησον καὶ ἴδε1Search and see

This is an ellipsis. You may wish to include the information that does not appear. Alternate translation: “Search carefully and read what is written in the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

545JHN752jm59προφήτης ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας οὐκ ἐγείρεται1no prophet comes from Galilee

This probably refers to the belief that Jesus was born in Galilee.

546JHN753s5fitranslate-textvariants0General Information:

The best early texts do not have 7:538:11. The ULT has set them apart in square brackets ([ ]) to show that John probably did not include them in his original text. Translators are encouraged to translate them, to set them apart with square brackets, and to include a footnote like the one written on John 7:53. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

547JHN8introe6670

John 8 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Translators may wish to include a note at verse 1 to explain to the reader why they have chosen to translate or to not translate verses 8:1-11.

Special concepts in this chapter

A light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. Here it is all Gentiles (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

I AM

John records Jesus as saying these words four times in this book, three times in this chapter. They stand alone as a complete sentence, and they literally translate the Hebrew word for “I AM,” by which Yahweh identified himself to Moses. For these reasons, many people believe that when Jesus said these words he was claiming to be Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/yahweh]]).

The Scribes and Pharisees trap

The Scribes and Pharisees wanted to trick Jesus. They wanted him to say either that they should keep the law of Moses by killing a woman whom they had found committing adultery or that they should disobey the law of Moses and forgive her sin. Jesus knew that they were trying to trick him and that they did not really want to keep the law of Moses. He knew this because the law said that both the woman and the man should die, but they did not bring the man to Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/adultery]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (John 8:28). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

548JHN81mkz20General Information:

While some texts have 7:538:11, the best and earliest texts do not include them.

549JHN812m4mawriting-newevent0General Information:

Jesus is speaking to a crowd near the treasury in the temple after either the events of John 7:1-52 or the events of John 7:53-8:11. The author does not mark the beginning of this new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

550JHN812k5ibfigs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι τὸ φῶς τοῦ κόσμου1I am the light of the world

Here the light is a metaphor for the revelation that comes from God. Alternate translation: “I am the one who gives light to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

551JHN812yc5pfigs-metonymyτοῦ κόσμου1the world

Here, world is a metonym for the people. Alternate translation: “the people of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

552JHN812zf41figs-idiomὁ ἀκολουθῶν ἐμοὶ1he who follows me

This is an idiom that means “everyone who does what I teach” or “everyone who obeys me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

553JHN812tse3figs-metaphorοὐ μὴ περιπατήσῃ ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ1will not walk in the darkness

To walk in the darkness is a metaphor for living a sinful life. Alternate translation: “will not live as if he were in the darkness of sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

554JHN812vw7rfigs-metaphorφῶς τῆς ζωῆς1light of life

Here, light of life is a metaphor for the truth from God that gives spiritual life. Alternate translation: “truth that brings eternal life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

555JHN813ih9hσὺ περὶ σεαυτοῦ μαρτυρεῖς1You bear witness about yourself

“You are just saying these things about yourself”

556JHN813mrj6figs-explicitἡ μαρτυρία σου οὐκ ἔστιν ἀληθής1your witness is not true

The Pharisees are implying that the witness of only one person is not true because it cannot be verified. Alternate translation: “you cannot be your own witness” or “what you say about yourself may not be true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

557JHN814x9rfκἂν ἐγὼ μαρτυρῶ περὶ ἐμαυτοῦ1Even if I bear witness about myself

“Even if I say these things about myself”

558JHN815k92sτὴν σάρκα1the flesh

“human standards and the laws of men”

559JHN815j79iἐγὼ οὐ κρίνω οὐδένα1I judge no one

This could mean: (1) Jesus is not judging anyone yet. (2) Jesus is not judging anyone at that time.

560JHN816xnn5ἐὰν κρίνω…ἐγώ1if I judge

This could mean: (1) “if I judge people.” (2) “whenever I judge people.”

561JHN816jb2fἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ ἀληθινή ἐστιν1my judgment is true

“my judgment is right.”

562JHN816ev1rfigs-explicitμόνος οὐκ εἰμί1I am not alone

The implied information is that Jesus is not alone in his judgment. Alternate translation: “I am not alone in how I judge” or “I do not judge alone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

563JHN816f6nuἐγὼ καὶ ὁ…Πατήρ1I am with the Father

The Father and the Son judge together. Alternate translation: “the Father also judges with me” or “the Father judges as I do”

564JHN816r7dxguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ…Πατήρ1the Father

Father is an important title for God. If your language must state whose Father this is, you could say “my Father” since Jesus switches to that in the following verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

565JHN817uvc60Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Pharisees and other people about himself.

566JHN817r2r8figs-activepassiveγέγραπται1it is written

This is a passive phrase. You may translate it in an active form with a personal subject. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

567JHN817l6lnfigs-explicitδύο ἀνθρώπων ἡ μαρτυρία ἀληθής ἐστιν1the testimony of two men is true

The logic implied here is that one person can verify the words of another. Alternate translation: “if two men say the same thing, then people know it is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

568JHN818ff2pἐγώ εἰμι ὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ ἐμαυτοῦ1I am he who bears witness about myself

Jesus bears witness about himself. Alternate translation: “I give evidence to you about myself”

569JHN818gfd3figs-explicitμαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ ὁ πέμψας με Πατήρ1the Father who sent me bears witness about me

The Father also bears witness about Jesus. You could make it explicit that this means Jesus testimony is true. Alternate translation: “my Father who sent me also brings evidence about me. So you should believe that what we tell you is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

570JHN818ycc8guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ…Πατήρ2the Father

Father is an important title for God. If your language must state whose Father this is, you could say “my Father” since Jesus switches to that in the following verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

571JHN819s37nwriting-background0General Information:

In verse 20 there is a break in Jesus speaking where the author give us background information regarding where Jesus had been teaching. Some languages may require the information about the setting to be placed at the beginning of this part of the story in John 8:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

572JHN819b26zguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα μου1my Father

This is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

573JHN820b11jfigs-metonymyοὔπω ἐληλύθει ἡ ὥρα αὐτοῦ1his hour had not yet come

The word hour is a metonym for the time for Jesus to die. Alternate translation: “it was not yet the right time for Jesus to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

574JHN821xv3g0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the crowd.

575JHN821gg46ἐν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ ὑμῶν ἀποθανεῖσθε1die in your sin

Here the word die refers to spiritual death. Alternate translation: “will die while you are still sinful” or “you will die while you are sinning”

576JHN822a4p4figs-synecdocheἔλεγον…οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1The Jews said

Here, Jews is a synecdoche for “the Jewish leaders.” Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders said” or “the Jewish authorities said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

577JHN823zug9ὑμεῖς ἐκ τῶν κάτω ἐστέ1You are from below

“You were born in this world”

578JHN823a7nyἐγὼ ἐκ τῶν ἄνω εἰμί1I am from above

“I came from heaven”

579JHN823svn1ὑμεῖς ἐκ τούτου τοῦ κόσμου ἐστέ1You are of this world

“You belong to this world”

580JHN823w9jlἐγὼ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου1I am not of this world

“I do not belong to this world”

581JHN824jgw4ἀποθανεῖσθε ἐν ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν1you will die in your sins

“you will die without Gods forgiving your sins”

582JHN824he1kὅτι ἐγώ εἰμι1that I AM

This could mean: (1) Jesus is identifying himself as Yahweh, who identified himself to Moses as “I AM.” (2) Jesus expects the people to understand that he is referring to what he already has already said about himself: “I am from above.”

583JHN825t7tvἔλεγον1They said

Here, they refers to the Jewish leaders (John 8:22).

584JHN826lsc7figs-metonymyταῦτα λαλῶ εἰς τὸν κόσμον1these things I say to the world

Here the world is a metonym for the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “these things I say to all the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

585JHN827hh1sguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα1the Father

Father is a special title for God. Some languages may require the use of a possessive before the noun. Alternate translation: “his Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

586JHN828x6caὅταν ὑψώσητε1When you have lifted up

This refers to placing Jesus on the cross to kill him.

587JHN828er3sΥἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1Son of Man

Jesus used the title Son of Man to refer to himself.

588JHN828tcs5ἐγώ εἰμι1I AM

This could mean: (1) Jesus is identifying himself as Yahweh, who identified himself to Moses as “I AM.” (2) Jesus is saying, “I am the one I claim to be.”

589JHN828vq9kguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesκαθὼς ἐδίδαξέν με ὁ Πατὴρ, ταῦτα λαλῶ1As the Father taught me, I speak these things

“I am only saying what my Father taught me to say.” The word Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

590JHN829w9clὁ πέμψας με1He who sent me

Here, the one who sent me refers to God.

591JHN830ld9xταῦτα αὐτοῦ λαλοῦντος1As Jesus was saying these things

“As Jesus spoke these words”

592JHN830uj29πολλοὶ ἐπίστευσαν εἰς αὐτὸν1many believed in him

“many people trusted him”

593JHN831g752figs-idiomμείνητε ἐν τῷ λόγῳ τῷ ἐμῷ1remain in my word

This is an idiom that means “to obey Jesus.” Alternate translation: “obey what I have said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

594JHN831iq3zμαθηταί μού1my disciples

“my followers”

595JHN832esz8figs-personificationἡ ἀλήθεια ἐλευθερώσει ὑμᾶς1the truth will set you free

This is personification. Jesus speaks of he truth as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “if you obey the truth, God will set you free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

596JHN832xf9mτὴν ἀλήθειαν1the truth

This refers to what Jesus reveals about God. Alternate translation: “what is true about God”

597JHN833n34nfigs-rquestionπῶς σὺ λέγεις, ὅτι ἐλεύθεροι γενήσεσθε1how can you say, You will be set free?

This remark appears in the form of a question to express the Jewish leaders shock at what Jesus has said. Alternate translation: “We do not need to be set free!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

598JHN834i2pnἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

599JHN834jg3zfigs-metaphorδοῦλός ἐστιν τῆς ἁμαρτίας1is the slave of sin

Here the word slave is a metaphor. This implies that sin is like a master for the one who sins. Alternate translation: “is like a slave to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

600JHN835sg4afigs-metonymyἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ1in the house

Here, house is a metonym for “family.” Alternate translation: “as a permanent member of a family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

601JHN835j73tfigs-ellipsisὁ Υἱὸς μένει εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα1the son remains forever

This is an ellipsis. You may translate it by including the implied words. Alternate translation: “the son is a member of the family forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

602JHN836n6fpfigs-explicitἐὰν…ὁ Υἱὸς ὑμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ, ὄντως ἐλεύθεροι ἔσεσθε1if the Son sets you free, you will be truly free

It is implied that Jesus is talking about freedom from sin. Alternate translation: “if the Son sets you free from sin, you will truly be free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

603JHN836mapufigs-metaphorἐὰν…ὁ Υἱὸς ὑμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ, ὄντως ἐλεύθεροι ἔσεσθε1

Here, being free is a metaphor for being able not to sin. Alternate translation: “if the Son sets you free, you will truly be able to refrain from sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

604JHN836w3q1figs-123personἐὰν…ὁ Υἱὸς ὑμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ1if the Son sets you free

Jesus was speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “if I, the Son, set you free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

605JHN836nqcrguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Υἱὸς1

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

606JHN837p4xm0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Jews.

607JHN837ph1qfigs-metonymyὁ λόγος ὁ ἐμὸς οὐ χωρεῖ ἐν ὑμῖν1my word has no place in you

Here, word is a metonym for the “teachings” or “message” of Jesus, which the Jewish leaders do not accept. Alternate translation: “you do not accept my teachings” or “you do not allow my message to change your life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

608JHN838m62yἃ ἐγὼ ἑώρακα παρὰ τῷ Πατρὶ, λαλῶ1I say what I have seen with my Father

“I am telling you about the things I saw when I was with my Father”

609JHN838f9yuκαὶ ὑμεῖς…ἃ ἠκούσατε παρὰ τοῦ πατρὸς, ποιεῖτε1you also do what you heard from your father

The Jewish leaders do not understand that by your father Jesus is referring to the devil. Alternate translation: “you also continue doing what your father has told you to do”

610JHN839qp2rὁ πατὴρ1father

forefather

611JHN840s615τοῦτο Ἀβραὰμ οὐκ ἐποίησεν1Abraham did not do this

“Abraham never tried to kill anyone who told him the true revelation from God”

612JHN841i87rfigs-explicitὑμεῖς ποιεῖτε τὰ ἔργα τοῦ πατρὸς ὑμῶν1You do the works of your father

Jesus implies that their father is the devil. Alternate translation: “No! You are doing the things that your real father did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

613JHN841y82efigs-explicitἡμεῖς ἐκ πορνείας οὐ γεγεννήμεθα1We were not born in sexual immorality

Here the Jewish leaders imply that Jesus does not know who his real father is. Alternate translation: “We do not know about you, but we are not illegitimate children” or “We were all born from proper marriages” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

614JHN841iz3hguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesἕνα Πατέρα ἔχομεν, τὸν Θεόν1we have one Father: God

Here the Jewish leaders claim God as their spiritual Father. Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

615JHN842nh4mἠγαπᾶτε1love

This is the kind of love that comes from God and is focused on the good of others (including those who are our enemies), even when it does not benefit oneself.

616JHN843ig11figs-rquestionδιὰ τί τὴν λαλιὰν τὴν ἐμὴν οὐ γινώσκετε?1Why do you not understand my words?

Jesus is using this question mainly to rebuke the Jewish leaders for not listening to him. Alternate translation: “I will tell you why you do not understand what I say!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

617JHN843cf8vfigs-metonymyὅτι οὐ δύνασθε ἀκούειν τὸν λόγον τὸν ἐμόν1It is because you cannot hear my words

Here, words is a metonym for the “teachings” of Jesus. Alternate translation: “It is because you will not accept my teachings.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

618JHN844vgy1ὑμεῖς ἐκ τοῦ πατρὸς τοῦ διαβόλου ἐστὲ1You are of your father, the devil

“You belong to your father, Satan”

619JHN844x11ifigs-explicitὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ1
620JHN844k1qufigs-metaphorὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ1the father of lies

Here, father is a metaphor for the one who originates the act of lying. Alternate translation: “he is the one who created lying in the beginning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

621JHN845g1q90Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the Jews.

622JHN845e55rἐγὼ…ὅτι τὴν ἀλήθειαν λέγω1because I speak the truth

“because I tell you true things about God”

623JHN846y3gzfigs-rquestionτίς ἐξ ὑμῶν ἐλέγχει με περὶ ἁμαρτίας?1Which one of you convicts me of sin?

Jesus uses this question to emphasize that he has never sinned. Alternate translation: “None of you can show that I have ever sinned!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

624JHN846kh6aεἰ ἀλήθειαν λέγω1If I speak the truth

“If I say things that are true”

625JHN846ibp1figs-rquestionδιὰ τί ὑμεῖς οὐ πιστεύετέ μοι?1why do you not believe me?

Jesus uses this question to scold the Jewish leaders for their unbelief. Alternate translation: “you have no reason for not believing in me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

626JHN847l7gyfigs-metonymyτὰ ῥήματα τοῦ Θεοῦ1the words of God

Here, words is a metonym for the “message” of God. Alternate translation: “the message of God” or “the truth that comes from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

627JHN848vu1hfigs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1The Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche that represents the “Jewish leaders” who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “The Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

628JHN848cic5figs-rquestionοὐ καλῶς λέγομεν ἡμεῖς ὅτι Σαμαρείτης εἶ σὺ, καὶ δαιμόνιον ἔχεις?1Do we not truly say that you are a Samaritan and have a demon?

The Jewish leaders use this question to accuse Jesus and to dishonor him. Alternate translation: “We are certainly right in saying that you are a Samaritan and that a demon lives in you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

629JHN850m4rl0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues answering the Jews.

630JHN850fg43ἔστιν ὁ ζητῶν καὶ κρίνων1there is one seeking and judging

This refers to God.

631JHN851fb52ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

632JHN851m46rfigs-metonymyτὸν ἐμὸν λόγον τηρήσῃ1keeps my word

Here, word is a metonym for the “teachings” of Jesus. Alternate translation: “obeys my teachings” or “does what I say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

633JHN851gx7lfigs-idiomθάνατον οὐ μὴ θεωρήσῃ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα1see death

Here, see death is an idiom that means to experience death. Here Jesus is referring to spiritual death. Alternate translation: “he will certainly not ever die spiritually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

634JHN852e9xzfigs-synecdocheἸουδαῖοι1Jews

Here, Jews is a metonym for the “Jewish leaders” who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

635JHN852zah1ἐάν τις τὸν λόγον μου τηρήσῃ1If anyone keeps my word

“If anyone obeys my teaching”

636JHN852a1lsfigs-idiomοὐ μὴ γεύσηται θανάτου εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα1taste death

Here, taste death is an idiom that means to experience death. The Jewish leaders mistakenly assume that Jesus is speaking only about physical death. Alternate translation: “he will certainly never die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

637JHN853shp3figs-rquestionμὴ σὺ μείζων εἶ τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ, ὅστις ἀπέθανεν?1You are not greater than our father Abraham who died, are you?

The Jewish leaders use this question to emphasize that Jesus is not greater than Abraham. Alternate translation: “You are certainly not greater than our father Abraham who indeed died!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

638JHN853p38sτοῦ πατρὸς1father

forefather

639JHN853cei7figs-rquestionτίνα σεαυτὸν ποιεῖς?1Who do you make yourself out to be?

The Jews use this question to rebuke Jesus for thinking that he is more important than Abraham. Alternate translation: “You should not think that you are so important!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

640JHN854ab13guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesἔστιν ὁ Πατήρ μου ὁ δοξάζων με, ὃν ὑμεῖς λέγετε, ὅτι Θεὸς ἡμῶν ἐστιν1it is my Father who glorifies me—about whom you say that he is your God

The word Father is an important title for God. No one knows God the Father like Jesus, the Son of God. Alternate translation: “it is my Father who honors me, and you say that he is your God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

641JHN855c3bmfigs-metonymyτὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ τηρῶ1keep his word

Here, word is a metonym for what God says. Alternate translation: “I obey what he says to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

642JHN856tyu5figs-metonymyτὴν ἡμέραν τὴν ἐμήν1my day

Here, my day is a metonym for what Jesus would accomplish during his life. Alternate translation: “what I would do during my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

643JHN856hv5gεἶδεν καὶ ἐχάρη1he saw it and was glad

“he foresaw my coming through Gods revelation and he rejoiced”

644JHN857erp50Connecting Statement:

This is the end of the part of the story about Jesus speaking with the Jews in the temple, which began in John 8:12.

645JHN857yzf9figs-synecdocheεἶπον…οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι πρὸς αὐτόν1The Jews said to him

Here the Jews is a synecdoche for the “Jewish leaders” who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders said to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

646JHN857r1ekfigs-rquestionπεντήκοντα ἔτη οὔπω ἔχεις, καὶ Ἀβραὰμ ἑώρακας?1You are not yet fifty years old, and you have seen Abraham?

The Jewish leaders use this question to express their shock that Jesus claims to have seen Abraham. Alternate translation: “You are less than fifty years old. You could not have seen Abraham!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

647JHN858rnw4ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

648JHN858k4tpἐγὼ εἰμί1I AM

This could mean: (1) Jesus is identifying himself as Yahweh, who identified himself to Moses as “I AM.” (2) Jesus is saying, “before Abraham existed, I existed.”

649JHN859bxs5figs-explicitἦραν οὖν λίθους, ἵνα βάλωσιν ἐπ’ αὐτόν1Then they picked up stones to throw at him

The Jewish leaders are outraged at what Jesus has said. Here it is implied that they wanted to kill him because he had made himself equal to God. Alternate translation: “Then they picked up stones to kill him because he claimed to be equal with God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

650JHN9introhq310

John 9 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“Who sinned?”

Many of the Jews of Jesus time believed that if a person was blind or deaf or crippled, it was because he or his parents or someone in his family had sinned. This was not the teaching of the law of Moses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

“He does not keep the Sabbath”

The Pharisees thought that Jesus was working, and so breaking the Sabbath, by making mud. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sabbath]])

Important metaphors in this chapter

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

Seeing and being blind

Jesus calls the Pharisees blind because they see that Jesus is able to heal blind people but they still do not believe that God sent him (John 9:39-40). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (John 9:35). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

651JHN91fa5a0General Information:

As Jesus and his disciples are walking along, they come across a blind man.

652JHN91un4hwriting-neweventκαὶ1Now

This word shows that the author is about to describe a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

653JHN92w44cfigs-explicitτίς ἥμαρτεν, οὗτος ἢ οἱ γονεῖς αὐτοῦ, ἵνα τυφλὸς γεννηθῇ?1who sinned, this man or his parents … blind?

This question reflects the ancient Jewish belief that sin caused all illnesses and other deformities. The rabbis also taught that it was possible for a baby to sin while still in the womb. Alternate translation: “Teacher, we know that sin causes a person to be blind. Whose sin caused this man to be born blind? did this man himself sin, or was it his parents who sinned?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

654JHN94h231figs-exclusiveἡμᾶς1We

Here, us includes both Jesus and the disciples he is talking to. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

655JHN94g92dfigs-metaphorἡμέρα…νὺξ1day … Night

Here, day and Night are metaphors. Jesus is comparing the time when people can do Gods work to daytime, the time when people normally work, and nighttime to when they cannot do Gods work. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

656JHN95f2xufigs-metonymyἐν τῷ κόσμῳ1in the world

Here the world is a metonym for the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “living among the people of this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

657JHN95dd8kfigs-metaphorφῶς…τοῦ κόσμου1light of the world

Here, light is a metaphor for the true revelation of God. Alternate translation: “the one who shows what is true just as light allows people to see what is in the darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

658JHN96y3s4figs-explicitἐποίησεν πηλὸν ἐκ τοῦ πτύσματος1made mud with the saliva

Jesus used his fingers to mix the dirt and saliva. Alternate translation: “used his fingers to mix the dirt and saliva to make mud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

659JHN97ily8figs-explicitνίψαι…ἐνίψατο1wash … washed

You may need to make explicit that Jesus wanted him to wash the mud off of his eyes in the pool and that that is what the man did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

660JHN97ri9hwriting-backgroundὃ ἑρμηνεύεται, ἀπεσταλμένος1which is translated “Sent”

A brief break occurs here in the story line so John can explain to his readers what “Siloam” means. Alternate translation: “which means Sent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

661JHN98r79xfigs-rquestionοὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ καθήμενος καὶ προσαιτῶν?1Is not this the man that used to sit and beg?

This remark appears in the form of a question to express the surprise of the people. Alternate translation: “This man is the one who used to sit and beg!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

662JHN910p7vj0Connecting Statement:

The neighbors of the man who had been blind continue to speak to him.

663JHN910m97nπῶς ἠνεῴχθησάν σου οἱ ὀφθαλμοί?1Then how were your eyes opened?

“Then what caused you to be able to see?” or “How is it that you can see now?”

664JHN911a42yἐπέχρισέν μου τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς1smeared it on my eyes

“used his fingers to cover my eyes with mud.” See how you translated a similar phrase in John 9:6.

665JHN913cu14ἄγουσιν αὐτὸν πρὸς τοὺς Φαρισαίους, τόν ποτε τυφλόν1They brought the man who used to be blind to the Pharisees

The people insisted that the man go with them to the Pharisees. They did not physically force him to go.

666JHN914dl48writing-background0General Information:

Verse 14 tells background information about when Jesus healed the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

667JHN914qxy9Σάββατον ἐν ᾗ ἡμέρᾳ1Sabbath day

“Jewish Day of Rest”

668JHN915d6xdπάλιν οὖν ἠρώτων αὐτὸν καὶ οἱ Φαρισαῖοι1Then again the Pharisees asked him

“So the Pharisees also asked him”

669JHN916hdh9τὸ Σάββατον οὐ τηρεῖ1he does not keep the Sabbath

This means Jesus does not obey the law about doing no work on the Jewish Day of Rest.

670JHN916k4syfigs-rquestionπῶς δύναται ἄνθρωπος ἁμαρτωλὸς τοιαῦτα σημεῖα ποιεῖν?1How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that Jesus signs prove he is not a sinner. Alternate translation: “A sinner can not do such signs!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

671JHN916qn73σημεῖα1signs

Here, signs is another word for miracles. They give evidence that God is the all-powerful one who has complete authority over the universe.

672JHN917lcb3προφήτης ἐστίν1He is a prophet

“I think he is a prophet”

673JHN918y3wnwriting-background0General Information:

In verse 18 there is a break from the main story line as John provides background information about the Jews disbelief. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

674JHN918awp6figs-synecdocheοὐκ ἐπίστευσαν οὖν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1Now the Jews still did not believe

Here, Jews is a synecdoche for the “Jewish leaders” who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “Now the Jewish leaders still did not believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

675JHN919npf9ἠρώτησαν αὐτοὺς1They asked the parents

Here, they refers to the Jewish leaders.

676JHN922yq73writing-background0General Information:

In verse 22 there is a break from the main story line as John provides background information about the mans parents being afraid of the Jews. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

677JHN922k2iwfigs-synecdocheἐφοβοῦντο τοὺς Ἰουδαίους1they were afraid of the Jews

Here, Jews is a synecdoche for the “Jewish leaders” who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “they were afraid of what the Jewish leaders might do to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

678JHN922dgp7αὐτὸν ὁμολογήσῃ Χριστόν1would confess him to be the Christ

“would say that Jesus is the Christ”

679JHN922yjv9figs-metaphorἀποσυνάγωγος γένηται1he would be thrown out of the synagogue

Here, put out of the synagogue is a metaphor for no longer being allowed to go into the synagogue and no longer belonging to the group of people who attend services at the synagogue. Alternate translation: “he would not be allowed to go into the synagogue” or “he would no longer belong to the synagogue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

680JHN924h1tlἐφώνησαν…τὸν ἄνθρωπον1they called the man

Here, they refers to the Jews. (John 9:18)

681JHN924bkx6figs-idiomδὸς δόξαν τῷ Θεῷ1Give glory to God

This is an idiom that people used when taking an oath. Alternate translation: “In the presence of God, tell the truth” or “Speak the truth before God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

682JHN924ww3tοὗτος ὁ ἄνθρωπος1this man

The man is referring to Jesus.

683JHN925sr93ἐκεῖνος1that man

This refers to the man who had been blind.

684JHN926z2l20Connecting Statement:

The Jews continue to speak to the man who had been blind.

685JHN927cf2dfigs-rquestionτί πάλιν θέλετε ἀκούειν?1Why do you want to hear it again?

This remark appears in the form of a question to express the mans amazement that the Jewish leaders have asked him to tell them again what happened. Alternate translation: “I am surprised that you want to hear again what happened to me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

686JHN927kpt6figs-rquestionμὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς θέλετε αὐτοῦ μαθηταὶ γενέσθαι?1You do not want to become his disciples too, do you?

You can state this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I know that you do not want to become his disciples.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

687JHN927rpavfigs-ironyμὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς θέλετε αὐτοῦ μαθηταὶ γενέσθαι?1

The man states this as a question to add irony to his statement. He knows that the Jewish leaders do not want to follow Jesus. Here he ridicules them. Alternate translation: “It sounds like you also want to become his disciples!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

688JHN928h7hyσὺ μαθητὴς εἶ ἐκείνου1You are his disciple

“You are following Jesus!”

689JHN928z2tnfigs-exclusiveἡμεῖς δὲ τοῦ Μωϋσέως ἐσμὲν μαθηταί1but we are disciples of Moses

The pronoun we is exclusive. The Jewish leaders are speaking only of themselves. Alternate translation: “but we are following Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

690JHN929vv43figs-explicitτοῦτον…οὐκ οἴδαμεν πόθεν ἐστίν1we do not know where this one is from

Here the Jewish leaders refer to Jesus as this one, possibly in an effort not to speak his name. They imply that he has no authority to call disciples. Alternate translation: “we do not know where he comes from or where he gets his authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

691JHN930i3gmfigs-explicitὅτι ὑμεῖς οὐκ οἴδατε πόθεν ἐστίν1that you do not know where he is from

The man is surprised that the Jewish leaders question Jesus authority when they know he has the power to heal. Alternate translation: “that you do not know where he gets his authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

692JHN931e7ecἁμαρτωλῶν…οὐκ ἀκούει…τούτου ἀκούει1does not listen to sinners … listens to him

“does not answer the prayers of sinners … God answers his prayers”

693JHN932e89t0Connecting Statement:

The man who had been blind continues speaking to the Jews.

694JHN932b2xtfigs-activepassiveοὐκ ἠκούσθη, ὅτι ἠνέῳξέν τις ὀφθαλμοὺς τυφλοῦ γεγεννημένου1it has never been heard that anyone opened

This is a passive statement. You can translate it in an active form. Alternate translation: “no one has ever heard of anyone who healed a man who was blind from birth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

695JHN933tt5efigs-doublenegativesεἰ μὴ ἦν οὗτος παρὰ Θεοῦ, οὐκ ἠδύνατο ποιεῖν οὐδέν1If this man were not from God, he could do nothing

This sentence uses a double negative pattern to emphasize the positive fact that Jesus must be from God. Alternate translation: “Only a man from God could do something like that!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

696JHN934da3zfigs-rquestionἐν ἁμαρτίαις σὺ ἐγεννήθης ὅλος, καὶ σὺ διδάσκεις ἡμᾶς?1You were completely born in sins, and you are teaching us?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. It also implies that the man was born blind because of the sins of his parents. Alternate translation: “You were born as a result of your parents sins. You are not qualified to teach us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

697JHN934kl2xἐξέβαλον αὐτὸν ἔξω1they threw him out

“they threw him out of the synagogue”

698JHN935z6r90General Information:

Jesus finds the man whom he healed (John 9:1-7) and begins to speak to him and the crowd.

699JHN935rpb5σὺ πιστεύεις εἰς τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1believe in

This means to believe in Jesus as the Son of Man.

700JHN935tw58τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1the Son of Man

Here the reader needs to understand that Jesus was speaking as if the Son of Man were another person. The man who had been born blind did not realize that Jesus was speaking of himself when he spoke of “the Son of Man.” You should translate so that the man does not learn that Jesus is the Son of Man until verse 37.

701JHN939azp3figs-metonymyεἰς τὸν κόσμον τοῦτον ἦλθον1came into this world

Here, the world is a metonym for “the people who live in the world.” Alternate translation: “came to live among the people of this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

702JHN939te5yfigs-metaphorἵνα οἱ μὴ βλέποντες, βλέπωσιν; καὶ οἱ βλέποντες, τυφλοὶ γένωνται1so that those who do not see may see and so that those who see may become blind

Here, seeing and becoming blind are metaphors. Jesus distinguishes between people who are spiritually blind and physically blind. Alternate translation: “so that those who are blind spiritually, but who want to see God, can see him, and those who already falsely think they can see God will remain in their blindness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

703JHN940d8mmμὴ καὶ ἡμεῖς τυφλοί ἐσμεν1Are we also blind?

“Do you think we are spiritually blind?”

704JHN941rh3lfigs-metaphorεἰ τυφλοὶ ἦτε, οὐκ ἂν εἴχετε ἁμαρτίαν1If you were blind, you would have no sin

Here to be blind is a metaphor for not knowing Gods truth. Alternate translation: “If you did not know Gods truth, you would not be guilty of sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

705JHN941jmq7figs-metaphorνῦν δὲ λέγετε, ὅτι βλέπομεν, ἡ ἁμαρτία ὑμῶν μένει1but now you say, We see, so your sin remains

Here, to see is a metaphor for knowing Gods truth. Alternate translation: “Since you falsely think that you already know Gods truth, you will remain blind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

706JHN10introe8mb0

John 10 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Blasphemy

When a person claims that he is God or that God has told him to speak when God has not told him to speak, this is called blasphemy. The law of Moses commanded the Israelites to kill blasphemers by stoning them to death. When Jesus said, “I and the Father are one,” the Jews thought he was blaspheming, so they took up stones to kill him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/blasphemy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Important metaphors in this chapter

Sheep

Jesus spoke of people as sheep because sheep do not see well, they do not think well, they often walk away from those who care for them, and they cannot defend themselves when other animals attack them. Gods people also rebel against him and do not know when they are doing wrong.

Sheep pen

A sheep pen was a space with a stone wall around it in which shepherds would keep their sheep. Once they were inside the sheep pen, the sheep could not run away, and animals and thieves could not easily get inside to kill or steal them.

Laying down and taking up life

Jesus speaks of his life as if it were a physical object that he could lay down on the ground, a metaphor for dying, or pick up again, a metaphor for becoming alive again.

707JHN101gzd8figs-parables0General Information:

Jesus begins to speak in parables. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parables]])

708JHN101ab9x0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues to speak to the Pharisees. This is the same part of the story which began in John 9:35.

709JHN101i3tjἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

710JHN101xq1fαὐλὴν τῶν προβάτων1sheep pen

This is a fenced area where a shepherd keeps his sheep.

711JHN101zz7xfigs-doubletκλέπτης…καὶ λῃστής1a thief and a robber

This is the use of two terms with similar meanings to add emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

712JHN103uy2vτούτῳ ὁ θυρωρὸς ἀνοίγει1The gatekeeper opens for him

“The gatekeeper opens the gate for the shepherd”

713JHN103iac4ὁ θυρωρὸς1The gatekeeper

The gatekeeper is a hired man who watches the gate of the sheep pen at night while the shepherd is away.

714JHN103db3cτὰ πρόβατα τῆς φωνῆς αὐτοῦ ἀκούει1The sheep hear his voice

“the sheep recognize the shepherds voice”

715JHN104n1taἔμπροσθεν αὐτῶν πορεύεται1he goes ahead of them

“he walks in front of them”

716JHN104z8dmὅτι οἴδασιν τὴν φωνὴν αὐτοῦ1for they know his voice

“because they recognize his voice”

717JHN106x5ylἐκεῖνοι…οὐκ ἔγνωσαν1they did not understand

This could mean: (1) “the disciples did not understand.” (2) “the crowd did not understand.”

718JHN106u3nwfigs-metaphorταύτην τὴν παροιμίαν1this parable

This is an illustration from the work of shepherds, using metaphors. The “shepherd” is a metaphor for Jesus. The “sheep” represent those who follow Jesus, and the “strangers” are the Jewish leaders, including the Pharisees, who try to deceive the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

719JHN107q3na0Connecting Statement:

Jesus begins to explain the meaning of the parables he had spoken.

720JHN107q4hsἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

721JHN107nj4kfigs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ἡ θύρα τῶν προβάτων1I am the gate of the sheep

Here, gate is a metaphor that means Jesus provides access into the sheepfold where Gods people dwell in his presence. Alternate translation: “I am like the gate that the sheep use to enter into the sheepfold” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

722JHN108k4z6figs-explicitπάντες ὅσοι ἦλθον πρὸ ἐμοῦ1Everyone who came before me

This refers to other teachers who have taught the people, including the Pharisees and other Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “All of the teachers who came without my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

723JHN108hqq3figs-metaphorκλέπται…καὶ λῃσταί1a thief and a robber

These terms are metaphors. Jesus calls every one of those teachers a thief and a robber because their teachings were false, and they were trying to lead Gods people while not understanding the truth. As a result, they deceived the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

724JHN109yp3gfigs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ἡ θύρα1I am the gate

Here, gate is a metaphor. By referring to himself as “the gate,” Jesus is showing that he offers a true way to enter the kingdom of God. Alternate translation: “I myself am like that gate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

725JHN109in9pνομὴν1pasture

The word pasture means a grassy area where sheep eat.

726JHN1010h2gffigs-doublenegativesοὐκ ἔρχεται εἰ μὴ ἵνα κλέψῃ1does not come if he would not steal

This is a double negative. In some languages it is more natural to use a positive statement. Alternate translation: “comes only to steal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

727JHN1010h56cfigs-metaphorκλέψῃ, καὶ θύσῃ, καὶ ἀπολέσῃ1steal and kill and destroy

Here the implied metaphor is “sheep,” which represents Gods people. Alternate translation: “he might steal and kill and destroy the sheep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

728JHN1010j2k6ἵνα ζωὴν ἔχωσιν1so that they will have life

The word they refers to the sheep, and life refers to eternal life. Alternate translation: “so that they will really live, lacking nothing”

729JHN1011x1960Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues his parable about the good shepherd.

730JHN1011xs4mfigs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός1I am the good shepherd

Here, good shepherd is a metaphor that represents Jesus. Alternate translation: “I am like a good shepherd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

731JHN1011llr4figs-euphemismτὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ τίθησιν1lays down his life

To “lay down” something means to give up control of it. It is a mild way to refer to dying. Alternate translation: “dies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

732JHN1012ym8wfigs-metaphorὁ μισθωτὸς1The hired servant

The hired servant is a metaphor that represents the Jewish leaders and teachers. Alternate translation: “the one who is like a hired servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

733JHN1012ue4mfigs-metaphorἀφίησιν τὰ πρόβατα1abandons the sheep

Here the word sheep is a metaphor that represents Gods people. Like a hired servant who abandons the sheep, Jesus says that the Jewish leaders and teachers do not care for Gods people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

734JHN1013szr8figs-metaphorοὐ μέλει αὐτῷ περὶ τῶν προβάτων1does not care for the sheep

Here the word sheep is a metaphor that represents Gods people. Like a hired servant who abandons the sheep, Jesus says that the Jewish leaders and teachers do not care for Gods people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

735JHN1014fg93figs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός1I am the good shepherd

Here the good shepherd is a metaphor for Jesus. Alternate translation: “I am like a good shepherd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

736JHN1015qr9gguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesγινώσκει με ὁ Πατὴρ, κἀγὼ γινώσκω τὸν Πατέρα1The Father knows me, and I know the Father

God the Father and God the Son know each other unlike anyone else knows them. Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

737JHN1015pn9wfigs-euphemismτὴν ψυχήν μου τίθημι ὑπὲρ τῶν προβάτων1I lay down my life for the sheep

This is a mild way for Jesus to say that he will die to protect his sheep. Alternate translation: “I die for the sheep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

738JHN1016y3g7figs-metaphorἄλλα πρόβατα ἔχω1I have other sheep

Here, other sheep is a metaphor for followers of Jesus who are not Jews. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

739JHN1016w86nfigs-metaphorμία ποίμνη, εἷς ποιμήν1one flock and one shepherd

Here, flock and shepherd are metaphors. All of Jesuss followers, Jews and non-Jews, will be like one flock of sheep. He will be like a shepherd who cares for all of them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

740JHN1017kd160Connecting Statement:

Jesus finishes speaking to the crowd.

741JHN1017i59jδιὰ τοῦτό, με ὁ Πατὴρ ἀγαπᾷ, ὅτι ἐγὼ τίθημι τὴν ψυχήν μου1This is why the Father loves me: I lay down my life

Gods eternal plan was for God the Son to give his life to pay for the sins of humanity. Jesus death on the cross reveals the intense love of the Son for the Father and of the Father for the Son.

742JHN1017kpr5guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

743JHN1017px17ἀγαπᾷ1loves

This kind of love comes from God and is focused on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

744JHN1017wc4lfigs-euphemismἐγὼ τίθημι τὴν ψυχήν μου, ἵνα πάλιν λάβω αὐτήν1I lay down my life so that I may take it again

This is a mild way for Jesus to say he will die and then will become alive again. Alternate translation: “I allow myself to die in order that I may bring myself back to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

745JHN1018j945figs-rpronounsἐγὼ τίθημι αὐτὴν ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ1I lay it down of myself

The reflexive pronoun myself is used here to emphasize that Jesus voluntarily lays down his own life. No one takes it from him. Alternate translation: “I myself lay it down” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

746JHN1018s13nguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesταύτην τὴν ἐντολὴν ἔλαβον παρὰ τοῦ Πατρός μου1I have received this command from my Father

“This is what my Father has commanded me to do.” The word Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

747JHN1019wft10Connecting Statement:

These verses tell how the Jews responded to what Jesus had said.

748JHN1020gm3rfigs-rquestionτί αὐτοῦ ἀκούετε?1Why do you listen to him?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize the point that the people should not listen to Jesus. Alternate translation: “Do not listen to him!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

749JHN1021mj2bfigs-rquestionμὴ δαιμόνιον δύναται τυφλῶν ὀφθαλμοὺς ἀνοῖξαι?1Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “Certainly a demon cannot cause a blind man to see!” or “Certainly a demon cannot give sight to blind people!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

750JHN1022f9cmwriting-background0General Information:

During the Festival of Dedication, some Jews begin to question Jesus. Verses 22 and 23 give background information about the setting of the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

751JHN1022w25fἐνκαίνια1Festival of the Dedication

This is an eight-day, winter holiday Jews use to remember a miracle where God made a small amount of oil remain lit in a lampstand for eight days. They lit the lampstand to dedicate the Jewish temple to God. To dedicate something is to promise to use it for a special purpose.

752JHN1023v6wnfigs-explicitπεριεπάτει ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ1Jesus was walking in the temple

The area where Jesus was walking was actually a courtyard that was outside the temple building. Alternate translation: “Jesus was walking in the temple courtyard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

753JHN1023cs2bστοᾷ1porch

A porch is a structure attached to the entrance of a building; it has a roof and it may or may not have walls.

754JHN1024m8jafigs-synecdocheἐκύκλωσαν οὖν αὐτὸν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1Then the Jews surrounded him

Here, Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “Then the Jewish leaders surrounded him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

755JHN1024nk9tfigs-idiomτὴν ψυχὴν ἡμῶν αἴρεις1hold us doubting

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “keep us wondering” or “keep us from knowing for sure?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

756JHN1025cb950Connecting Statement:

Jesus begins to respond to the Jews.

757JHN1025e7zhfigs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Πατρός μου1in the name of my Father

Here, name is a metonym for the power of God. Jesus performed miracles through his Fathers power and authority. Alternate translation: “through my Fathers power” or “with my Fathers power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

758JHN1025bqz1guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ Πατρός μου1

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

759JHN1025n34xfigs-personificationταῦτα μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ1these testify concerning me

His miracles offer proof about him like a person who testifies would offer proof in a court of law. Alternate translation: “offer proof concerning me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

760JHN1026als6figs-metaphorοὐκ…ἐκ τῶν προβάτων τῶν ἐμῶν1not my sheep

The word sheep is a metaphor for the followers of Jesus. Alternate translation: “not my followers” or “not my disciples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

761JHN1027rdw7figs-metaphorτὰ πρόβατα τὰ ἐμὰ τῆς φωνῆς μου ἀκούουσιν1My sheep hear my voice

The word sheep is a metaphor for the followers of Jesus. The metaphor of Jesus as the “shepherd” is also implied. Alternate translation: “Just as sheep obey the voice of their true shepherd, my followers heed my voice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

762JHN1028bpx3figs-metonymyοὐχ ἁρπάσει τις αὐτὰ ἐκ τῆς χειρός μου1no one will snatch them out of my hand

Here the word hand is a metonym that represents the protective care of Jesus. Alternate translation: “no one will steal any of them away from me” or “they all will remain secure forever in my care” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

763JHN1029g82aguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ μου ὃς δέδωκέν μοι1My Father, who has given them to me

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

764JHN1029k1yafigs-metonymyἐκ τῆς χειρὸς τοῦ Πατρός1the hand of the Father

Here, hand is a metonym that refers to Gods possession and protective care. Alternate translation: “from my Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

765JHN1030rs4jguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesἐγὼ καὶ ὁ Πατὴρ ἕν ἐσμεν1I and the Father are one

Jesus, God the Son, and God the Father are one. The word Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

766JHN1031fl8ifigs-synecdocheἐβάστασαν πάλιν λίθους οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1Then the Jews took up stones

The word Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “Then the Jewish leaders started picking up stones again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

767JHN1032t5q8guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesἀπεκρίθη αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς, πολλὰ ἔργα καλὰ ἔδειξα ὑμῖν ἐκ τοῦ Πατρός1Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father

Jesus performed the miracles by the power of God. The word Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

768JHN1032tx8hfigs-ironyδιὰ ποῖον αὐτῶν ἔργον, ἐμὲ λιθάζετε1For which of those works are you stoning me?

This question uses irony. Jesus knows the Jewish leaders do not want to stone him because he has done good works. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

769JHN1033bq1lfigs-synecdocheἀπεκρίθησαν αὐτῷ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1The Jews answered him

The word Jews is a synecdoche that represents the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “The Jewish opponents replied” or “The Jewish leaders answered him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

770JHN1033h4kpποιεῖς σεαυτὸν Θεόν1making yourself God

“claiming to be God”

771JHN1034qi82figs-rquestionοὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένον ἐν τῷ νόμῳ ὑμῶν, ὅτι ἐγὼ εἶπα, θεοί ἐστε?1Is it not written … gods”?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “You should already know that it is written in your law that I said, you are gods.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

772JHN1034b3gpθεοί ἐστε1You are gods

Here Jesus quotes a scripture where God calls his followers gods, perhaps because he has chosen them to represent him on earth.

773JHN1035m8jifigs-metaphorὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐγένετο1the word of God came

Jesus speaks of Gods message as though it were a person who moved toward those who heard it. Alternate translation: “God spoke his message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

774JHN1035u9j2οὐ δύναται λυθῆναι ἡ Γραφή1the scripture cannot be broken

This could mean: (1) no one can change the scripture. (2) the scripture will always be true.

775JHN1036dvp5figs-rquestionὃν ὁ Πατὴρ ἡγίασεν καὶ ἀπέστειλεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον, ὑμεῖς λέγετε, ὅτι βλασφημεῖς, ὅτι εἶπον, Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ εἰμι?1do you say to him whom the Father set apart and sent into the world, You are blaspheming, because I said, I am the Son of God?

Jesus used this question to rebuke his opponents for saying that he was blaspheming when he called himself “the Son of God.” Alternate translation: “you should not say to the very one whom the Father set apart to send into the world, You are blaspheming, when I say that I am the Son of God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

776JHN1036fj9fβλασφημεῖς1You are blaspheming

“You are insulting God.” Jesus opponents understood that when said that he is the Son of God, he was implying that he is equal with God.

777JHN1036rax1guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ…Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Father … Son of God

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

778JHN1037wyd20Connecting Statement:

Jesus finishes responding to the Jews.

779JHN1037us7vguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρός1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

780JHN1037vk1vμὴ πιστεύετέ μοι1believe me

Here the word believe means to accept or trust what Jesus said is true.

781JHN1038k2zfτοῖς ἔργοις πιστεύετε1believe in the works

Here, believe in is to acknowledge that the works Jesus does are from the Father.

782JHN1038t8uffigs-idiomἐν ἐμοὶ ὁ Πατὴρ, κἀγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρί1the Father is in me and that I am in the Father

These are idioms that express the close personal relationship between God and Jesus. Alternate translation: “my Father and I are completely joined together as one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

783JHN1039eqh1figs-metonymyἐξῆλθεν ἐκ τῆς χειρὸς αὐτῶν1went away out of their hand

The word hand is a metonym that represents the custody or possession of the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “he got away from them again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

784JHN1040b41sfigs-explicitπέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου1beyond the Jordan

Jesus had been on the west side of the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “to the east side of the Jordan River” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

785JHN1040f5dxfigs-explicitἔμεινεν ἐκεῖ1he stayed there

Jesus remained on the east side of Jordan for a short period of time. Alternate translation: “Jesus stayed there for several days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

786JHN1041m1plἸωάννης μὲν σημεῖον ἐποίησεν οὐδέν; πάντα δὲ ὅσα εἶπεν Ἰωάννης περὶ τούτου ἀληθῆ ἦν1John indeed did no signs, but all the things that John has said about this man are true

“It is true that John did no signs, but he certainly did speak the truth about this man, who does signs.”

787JHN1042ieh5ἐπίστευσαν εἰς1believed in

Here, believed in means accepted or trusted what Jesus said was true.

788JHN11introtks50

John 11 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

Passover

After Jesus made Lazarus become alive again, the Jewish leaders were trying hard to kill him, so he started traveling from place to place in secret. Now the Pharisees knew that he would probably come to Jerusalem for the Passover because God had commanded all Jewish men to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem, so they planned to catch him and kill him then. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/passover]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

“One man dies for the people”

The law of Moses commanded the priests to kill animals so that God would forgive the peoples sins. The high priest Caiaphas said, “It is better for you that one man dies for the people than that the whole nation perishes” (John 11:50). He said this because he loved his “place” and “nation” (John 11:48) more than he loved the God who had made Lazarus become alive again. He wanted Jesus to die so that the Romans would not destroy the temple and Jerusalem, but God wanted Jesus to die so that he could forgive all of his peoples sins.

Hypothetical situation

When Martha said, “If you had been here, my brother would not have died,” she was speaking of a situation that could have happened but did not happen. Jesus had not come, and her brother had died.

789JHN111fsf7writing-participants0General Information:

These verses introduce the story of Lazarus and give background information about him and his sister Mary. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

790JHN112c6r9writing-backgroundἦν δὲ Μαρία ἡ ἀλείψασα τὸν Κύριον μύρῳ, καὶ ἐκμάξασα τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ ταῖς θριξὶν αὐτῆς1It was Mary who anointed the Lord … her hair

As John introduces Mary, the sister of Martha, he also shares information concerning what would later happen in the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

791JHN113i2arἀπέστειλαν…πρὸς αὐτὸν1sent for Jesus

“asked Jesus to come”

792JHN113czm1φιλεῖς1love

Here, love refers to brotherly love, a natural, human love between friends or relatives.

793JHN114nk3gfigs-explicitαὕτη ἡ ἀσθένεια οὐκ ἔστιν πρὸς θάνατον1This sickness is not to death

Jesus implies that he knows what will happen related to Lazarus and his sickness. Alternate translation: “Death will not be the final result of this sickness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

794JHN114k8d3θάνατον1death

This refers to physical death.

795JHN114q343figs-explicitἀλλ’ ὑπὲρ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ δι’ αὐτῆς1instead it is for the glory of God so that the Son of God may be glorified by it

Jesus implies that he knows what the outcome will be. Alternate translation: “but the purpose is that the people might see how great God is because of what his power will allow me to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

796JHN114ad99guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

797JHN115j6r4writing-backgroundἠγάπα δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς τὴν Μάρθαν, καὶ τὴν ἀδελφὴν αὐτῆς, καὶ τὸν Λάζαρον1Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus

This is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

798JHN118y4jmfigs-rquestionῬαββεί, νῦν ἐζήτουν σε λιθάσαι οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι, καὶ πάλιν ὑπάγεις ἐκεῖ?1Rabbi, right now the Jews are trying to stone you, and you are going back there again?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize that the disciples do not want Jesus to go to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Teacher, you surely do not want to go back there! The Jews were trying to stone you the last time you were there!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

799JHN118p4x9figs-synecdocheοἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

800JHN119uv34figs-rquestionοὐχὶ δώδεκα ὧραί εἰσιν τῆς ἡμέρας?1Are there not twelve hours of light in a day?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “You know that the day has twelve hours of light!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

801JHN119ln4rfigs-metaphorἐάν τις περιπατῇ ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ, οὐ προσκόπτει, ὅτι τὸ φῶς τοῦ κόσμου τούτου βλέπει1If someone walks in the daytime, he will not stumble, because he sees by the light of this world

People who walk in the light of the day can see well and do not stumble. Here, light is a metaphor for “truth.” Jesus is implying that people who live according to truth will be able to successfully do the things that God wants them to do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

802JHN1110hel40Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to his disciples.

803JHN1110vm6hfigs-metaphorἐὰν…τις περιπατῇ ἐν τῇ νυκτί1if he walks at night

Here, night is a metaphor that refers to ones walking without Gods light. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

804JHN1110c3imτὸ φῶς οὐκ ἔστιν ἐν αὐτῷ1the light is not in him

This could mean: (1) he cannot see. (2) he does not have Gods light.

805JHN1111bev5figs-idiomΛάζαρος ὁ φίλος ἡμῶν κεκοίμηται1Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep

Here, fallen asleep is an idiom that means Lazarus has died. If you have a way of saying this in your language, you may use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

806JHN1111ze1zfigs-idiomἀλλὰ πορεύομαι ἵνα ἐξυπνίσω αὐτόν1but I am going so that I may wake him out of sleep

The phrase wake him out of sleep is an idiom. Jesus is revealing his plan to bring Lazurus back to life. If you have an idiom for this in your language, you may use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

807JHN1112e5k2writing-background0General Information:

In verse 13 there is a break in the story line as John comments on the disciples misunderstanding about what Jesus meant when he said Lazarus was asleep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

808JHN1112hn2jεἰ κεκοίμηται1if he has fallen asleep

The disciples misunderstand Jesus to mean that Lazarus is resting and will recover.

809JHN1114azy3τότε…εἶπεν αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς παρρησίᾳ1Then Jesus said to them plainly

“Jesus told them in words that they could understand”

810JHN1115c2wh0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to his disciples.

811JHN1115c4wjδι’ ὑμᾶς1for your sakes

“for your benefit”

812JHN1115ar2jἵνα πιστεύσητε, ὅτι οὐκ ἤμην ἐκεῖ1that I was not there so that you may believe

“that I was not there. Because of this you will learn to trust me more.”

813JHN1116dzc3figs-activepassiveὁ λεγόμενος Δίδυμος1who was called Didymus

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “whom they called Didymus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

814JHN1116ymy6translate-namesΔίδυμος1Didymus

This is a male name that means “twin.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

815JHN1117p5yawriting-background0General Information:

Jesus is now in Bethany. These verses give background information about the setting and about what has happened before Jesus arrived. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

816JHN1117we1kfigs-activepassiveεὗρεν αὐτὸν, τέσσαρας ἤδη ἡμέρας ἔχοντα ἐν τῷ μνημείῳ1he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “he learned that people had put Lazarus in a tomb four days before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

817JHN1118d35vtranslate-bdistanceἀπὸ σταδίων δεκαπέντε1fifteen stadia away

“about three kilometers away.” A “stadium” is 185 meters. The plural form of “stadium” is stadia. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

818JHN1119m26vfigs-explicitπερὶ τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ1about their brother

Lazarus was their brother. Alternate translation: “about their brother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

819JHN1121ef5hfigs-explicitοὐκ ἂν ἀπέθανεν ὁ ἀδελφός μου1my brother would not have died

Lazarus was the brother. Alternate translation: “my brother would still be alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

820JHN1123j8p2figs-explicitἀναστήσεται ὁ ἀδελφός σου1Your brother will rise again

Lazarus was the brother. Alternate translation: “Your brother will become alive again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

821JHN1124z7elἀναστήσεται1he will rise again

“he will become alive again”

822JHN1125chs2κἂν ἀποθάνῃ1even if he dies

Here, dies refers to physical death.

823JHN1125ef7aζήσεται1will live

Here, will live refers to spiritual life.

824JHN1126a6gsπᾶς ὁ ζῶν καὶ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ ἀποθάνῃ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα1whoever lives and believes in me will never die

“those who live and trust in me will never be separated eternally from God” or “those who live and trust in me will be spiritually alive with God forever”

825JHN1126fue3οὐ μὴ ἀποθάνῃ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα1will never die

Here, die refers to spiritual death.

826JHN1127mk4eλέγει αὐτῷ1She said to him

“Martha said to Jesus”

827JHN1127zd3nναί, Κύριε; ἐγὼ πεπίστευκα ὅτι σὺ εἶ ὁ Χριστὸς, ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὁ εἰς τὸν κόσμον ἐρχόμενος1Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God … coming into the world

Martha believes that Jesus is Lord, the Christ (the Messiah), the Son of God.

828JHN1127y83qguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

829JHN1128yd61figs-explicitἀπῆλθεν, καὶ ἐφώνησεν Μαριὰμ, τὴν ἀδελφὴν αὐτῆς1she went away and called her sister Mary

Mary is the younger sister of Martha. Alternate translation: “she went away and called her younger sister Mary” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

830JHN1128zs2tδιδάσκαλος1Teacher

Teacher is a title referring to Jesus.

831JHN1128fv8fφωνεῖ σε1is calling for you

“is asking that you come”

832JHN1130k5hywriting-backgroundοὔπω δὲ ἐληλύθει ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἰς τὴν κώμην1Now Jesus had not yet come into the village

Here John provides a brief break in the story to give background information regarding the location of Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

833JHN1132zmp7ἔπεσεν αὐτοῦ πρὸς τοὺς πόδας1fell down at his feet

Mary bowed down or knelt at the feet of Jesus to show respect.

834JHN1132j2wrfigs-explicitοὐκ ἄν μου ἀπέθανεν ὁ ἀδελφός1my brother would not have died

Lazarus was Marys brother. See how you translated this in John 11:21. Alternate translation: “my brother would still be alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

835JHN1133qef6figs-doubletἐνεβριμήσατο τῷ πνεύματι καὶ ἐτάραξεν ἑαυτόν1he was deeply moved in his spirit and was troubled

John combines these phrases that have similar meanings to express the intense emotional distress and possible anger that Jesus experienced. Alternate translation: “he was greatly upset” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

836JHN1134xl9pfigs-euphemismποῦ τεθείκατε αὐτόν1Where have you laid him

This is a milder way of asking, “Where have you buried him?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

837JHN1135bj6bἐδάκρυσεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς1Jesus wept

“Jesus began to cry” or “Jesus started crying”

838JHN1136b6eeἐφίλει1loved

This refers to brotherly love or human love for a friend or family member.

839JHN1137b3atfigs-rquestionοὐκ ἐδύνατο οὗτος, ὁ ἀνοίξας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς τοῦ τυφλοῦ, ποιῆσαι ἵνα καὶ οὗτος μὴ ἀποθάνῃ?1Could not this man, who opened the eyes of a blind man, also have made this man not die?

This remark appears in the form of a question to express the Jews surprise that Jesus did not heal Lazarus. Alternate translation: “He could heal a man who was blind, so he should have been able to heal this man so he would not have died!” or “Since he did not keep this man from dying, maybe he did not really heal the man who was born blind, as they say he did!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

840JHN1137a76ufigs-idiomὁ ἀνοίξας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς1opened the eyes

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “who healed the eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

841JHN1138xu7kwriting-backgroundἦν δὲ σπήλαιον, καὶ λίθος ἐπέκειτο ἐπ’ αὐτῷ1Now it was a cave, and a stone lay against it

John pauses the story briefly to describe the tomb where the people had buried Lazarus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

842JHN1139l2pdfigs-explicitἡ ἀδελφὴ τοῦ τετελευτηκότος Μάρθα1Martha, the sister of Lazarus

Martha and Mary were sisters of Lazarus. Alternate translation: “Martha, the sister of Lazarus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

843JHN1139lt1dἤδη ὄζει1by this time the body will be decaying

“by this time there will be a bad smell” or “the body is already stinking”

844JHN1140q5mwfigs-rquestionοὐκ εἶπόν σοι, ὅτι ἐὰν πιστεύσῃς, ὄψῃ τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ?1Did I not say to you that, if you believed, you would see the glory of God?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis to the point that God is about to do something wonderful. Alternate translation: “I told you that if you trusted me, you would see what God can do!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

845JHN1141lj5jfigs-idiomἸησοῦς ἦρεν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ἄνω1Jesus lifted up his eyes

This is an idiom that means to look up. Alternate translation: “Jesus looked up toward heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

846JHN1141s2dhΠάτερ, εὐχαριστῶ σοι ὅτι ἤκουσάς μου1Father, I thank you that you listened to me

Jesus prays directly to the Father so that others around him will hear his prayer. Alternate translation: “Father, I thank you that you have heard me” or “Father, I thank you that you have heard my prayer”

847JHN1141j54bguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

848JHN1143ev4zταῦτα εἰπὼν1After he had said this

“after Jesus had prayed”

849JHN1143cz9fφωνῇ μεγάλῃ ἐκραύγασεν1he cried out with a loud voice

“he shouted”

850JHN1144x4cbfigs-activepassiveδεδεμένος τοὺς πόδας καὶ τὰς χεῖρας κειρίαις, καὶ ἡ ὄψις αὐτοῦ σουδαρίῳ περιεδέδετο1his feet and hands were bound with cloths, and his face was bound about with a cloth

A burial custom of this time was to wrap the dead body with long strips of linen cloth. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “someone having wrapped strips of cloth around his hands and feet. They had also tied a cloth around his face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

851JHN1144d8xfλέγει αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς1Jesus said to them

The word them refers to the people who were there and saw the miracle.

852JHN1145rlf4writing-background0General Information:

These verses tell us what happened after Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

853JHN1147ib610General Information:

Because so many people have told them that Lazarus is alive again, the chief priests and Pharisees gather the Jewish council for a meeting.

854JHN1147gz8cοὖν1Then

The author uses this word to tell the reader that the events that begin in this verse are a result of the events of John 11:45-46.

855JHN1147nhw4οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς1Then the chief priests

“the leaders among the priests”

856JHN1147z5e9figs-explicitτί ποιοῦμεν1What will we do?

It is implied here that the council members are talking about Jesus. Alternate translation: “What are we going to do about Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

857JHN1148kq4zfigs-explicitπάντες πιστεύσουσιν εἰς αὐτὸν1all will believe in him

The Jewish leaders were afraid that the people would try to make Jesus their king. Alternate translation: “everyone will trust in him and rebel against Rome” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

858JHN1148hr3pfigs-synecdocheἐλεύσονται οἱ Ῥωμαῖοι1the Romans will come

Here, the Romans is a synecdoche for the Roman army. Alternate translation: “the Roman army will come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

859JHN1148ah4rἀροῦσιν ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν τόπον καὶ τὸ ἔθνος1take away both our place and our nation

“will destroy both our temple and our nation”

860JHN1149efq8writing-participantsεἷς…τις ἐξ αὐτῶν1a certain man among them

This is a way to introduce Caiaphas as a new character to the story. If you have a way to do this in your language, you can use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

861JHN1149lj6bfigs-hyperboleὑμεῖς οὐκ οἴδατε οὐδέν1You know nothing

This is an exaggeration that Caiaphas uses to insult his hearers. Alternate translation: “You do not understand what is happening” or “You speak as though you know nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

862JHN1150zh9nfigs-synecdocheκαὶ μὴ ὅλον τὸ ἔθνος ἀπόληται1than that the whole nation perishes

The word nation here is a synecdoche that represents all of the Jewish people. Alternate translation: “than that all the people of our nation would perish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

863JHN1150fvryfigs-explicitκαὶ μὴ ὅλον τὸ ἔθνος ἀπόληται1

Caiaphas implies that the Roman army would kill all of the people of the Jewish nation if Jesus is allowed to live and cause a rebellion. Alternate translation: “than that the Romans kill all the people of our nation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

864JHN1151qww5writing-background0General Information:

In verses 51 and 52 John explains that Caiaphus was prophesying even though he did not realize it at the time. This is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

865JHN1151eh17figs-synecdocheἀποθνῄσκειν ὑπὲρ τοῦ ἔθνους1die for the nation

The word nation is a synecdoche and refers to the people of the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

866JHN1152d85pfigs-ellipsisσυναγάγῃ εἰς ἕν1would be gathered together into one

This is an ellipsis. The word people is implied by the context. Alternate translation: “would be gathered into one people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

867JHN1152mle1τέκνα τοῦ Θεοῦ1children of God

This refers to people who belong to God through faith in Jesus and are spiritually Gods children.

868JHN1154gp4h0General Information:

Jesus leaves Bethany and goes to Ephraim. In verse 55 the story shifts to telling about what many of the Jews are doing now that Passover is near.

869JHN1154bnd8figs-synecdocheπαρρησίᾳ περιεπάτει ἐν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1walk openly among the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “walk openly among the Jewish leaders who opposed him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

870JHN1154s9kmfigs-metaphorπαρρησίᾳ περιεπάτει ἐν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1

Here, walked openly is a metaphor for “lived where everyone could see him.” Alternate translation: “lived where all the Jews could see him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

871JHN1154cg66τὴν χώραν1the country

the rural area outside cities where fewer people live

872JHN1154h5jkfigs-explicitκἀκεῖ ἔμεινεν μετὰ τῶν μαθητῶν1There he stayed with the disciples

Jesus and his disciples stayed in Ephraim for a while. Alternate translation: “He stayed with his disciples for a short period of time in Ephraim” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

873JHN1155qd5yἀνέβησαν…εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα1went up to Jerusalem

The phrase went up is used here because Jerusalem is higher in elevation than the surrounding areas.

874JHN1156a5ktfigs-events0General Information:

The content of verse 57 occurs before that of verse 56. If this order might confuse your readers, you can combine these verses and put the text of verse 57 before the text of verse 56. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])

875JHN1156kc75ἐζήτουν…τὸν Ἰησοῦν1They were looking for Jesus

The word they refers to the Jewish people who had traveled to Jerusalem.

876JHN1156p2wzfigs-rquestionτί δοκεῖ ὑμῖν? ὅτι οὐ μὴ ἔλθῃ εἰς τὴν ἑορτήν?1What do you think? That he will not come to the festival?

These are rhetorical questions that express a strong element of doubt that Jesus will come to the Passover Festival. The speakers here were wondering if Jesus would come to the festival since there was the danger of his being arrested. Alternate translation: “Jesus will probably not come to the festival. He might be afraid of getting arrested!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

877JHN1156x6imfigs-ellipsisὅτι οὐ μὴ ἔλθῃ εἰς τὴν ἑορτήν?1

This question is an ellipsis that leaves out the words “do you think.” Alternate translation: “Do you think that he will come to the festival?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

878JHN1157glb6writing-backgroundδὲ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς1Now the chief priests

This is background information that explains why the Jewish worshipers were wondering if Jesus would come to the festival or not. If your language has a way to mark background information, use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

879JHN12introqzv40

John 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 12:38 and 40, which are words from the Old Testament.

Verse 16 is a commentary on these events. It is possible to put this entire verse in parentheses in order to set it apart from the narrative of the story.

Special concepts in this chapter

Mary anointed Jesus feet

The Jews would put oil on a persons head to make that person feel welcome and comfortable. They would also put oil on a persons body after the person had died but before they buried the body. But they would never think to put oil on a persons feet, because they thought that feet were dirty.

The donkey and the colt

Jesus rode into Jerusalem on an animal. In this way he was like a king who came into a city after he had won an important battle. Also, the kings of Israel in the Old Testament rode on a donkeys. Other kings rode on horses. So Jesus was showing that he was the king of Israel and that he was not like other kings.

Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all wrote about this event. Matthew and Mark wrote that the disciples brought Jesus a donkey. John wrote that Jesus found a donkey. Luke wrote that they brought him a colt. Only Matthew wrote that there were both a donkey had a colt. No one knows for sure whether Jesus rode the donkey or the colt. It is best to translate each of these accounts as it appears in the ULT without trying to make them all say exactly the same thing. (See: Matthew 21:1-7 and Mark 11:1-7 and Luke 19:29-36 and John 12:14-15)

Glory

Scripture often speaks of Gods glory as a great, brilliant light. When people see this light, they are afraid. In this chapter John says that the glory of Jesus is his resurrection (John 12:16).

Important figures of speech in this chapter

The metaphors of light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. A paradox occurs in 12:25: “He who loves his life will lose it; but he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” But in 12:26 Jesus explains what it means to keep ones life for eternal life. (John 12:25-26).

880JHN121elj40General Information:

Jesus is at dinner in Bethany when Mary anoints his feet with oil.

881JHN121s1v2writing-neweventπρὸ ἓξ ἡμερῶν τοῦ Πάσχα1Six days before the Passover

The author uses these words to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

882JHN121z1jpfigs-idiomἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν1had raised from the dead

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “had made alive again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

883JHN123c8kftranslate-bweightλίτραν μύρου1a litra of perfume

You may convert this to a modern measure. A “litra” is about one third of a kilogram. Or you may refer to a container that could hold that amount. Alternate translation: “a third of a kilogram of perfume” or “a bottle of perfume” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

884JHN123ki9dμύρου1perfume

This is a good-smelling liquid made by using the oils of pleasant smelling plants and flowers.

885JHN123b3satranslate-unknownνάρδου1nard

This is a perfume made from a pink, bell-shaped flower in the mountains of Nepal, China, and India. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

886JHN123pq7cfigs-activepassiveἡ…οἰκία ἐπληρώθη ἐκ τῆς ὀσμῆς τοῦ μύρου2The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the scent of her perfume filled the house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

887JHN124e1xjὁ μέλλων αὐτὸν παραδιδόναι1the one who would betray him

“the one who later enabled Jesus enemies to seize him”

888JHN125e8d7figs-rquestionδιὰ τί τοῦτο τὸ μύρον οὐκ ἐπράθη τριακοσίων δηναρίων, καὶ ἐδόθη πτωχοῖς?1Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?

This is a rhetorical question. You can translate it as a strong statement. Alternate translation: “This perfume could have been sold for three hundred denarii and the money could have been given to the poor!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

889JHN125dx9etranslate-bmoneyδηναρίων1denarii

A denarius was the amount of silver that a common laborer could earn in one day of work. The plural of denarius is denarii. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

890JHN126ri5lwriting-backgroundεἶπεν δὲ τοῦτο, οὐχ ὅτι περὶ τῶν πτωχῶν ἔμελεν αὐτῷ, ἀλλ’ ὅτι κλέπτης ἦν, καὶ τὸ γλωσσόκομον ἔχων τὰ βαλλόμενα ἐβάσταζεν1Now he said this … would steal from what was put in it

John explains why Judas asked the question about the poor. If your language has a way of indicating background information, you can use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

891JHN126sl8uεἶπεν…τοῦτο, οὐχ ὅτι περὶ τῶν πτωχῶν ἔμελεν αὐτῷ, ἀλλ’ ὅτι κλέπτης ἦν1he said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief

“he said this because he was a thief. He did not care about the poor”

892JHN127dcn3figs-explicitἄφες αὐτήν, ἵνα εἰς τὴν ἡμέραν τοῦ ἐνταφιασμοῦ μου, τηρήσῃ αὐτό1Allow her to keep what she has for the day of my burial

Jesus implies that the womans actions can be understood as anticipating his death and burial. Alternate translation: “Allow her to show how much she appreciates me! In this way she has prepared my body for burial” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

893JHN128r82pfigs-explicitτοὺς πτωχοὺς…πάντοτε ἔχετε μεθ’ ἑαυτῶν1You will always have the poor with you

Jesus implies that there will always be opportunities to help the poor people. Alternate translation: “there will always be poor people among you, and you can help them whenever you want” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

894JHN128kn28figs-explicitἐμὲ δὲ οὐ πάντοτε ἔχετε1But you will not always have me

In this way, Jesus implies that he will die. Alternate translation: “but I will not always be here with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

895JHN129qm36writing-backgroundοὖν1Now

Then is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here John tells about a new group of people that has come to Bethany from Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

896JHN1211kjk7δι’ αὐτὸν1because of him

The fact that Lazarus was alive again caused many Jews to believe in Jesus.

897JHN1211f6mgfigs-explicitἐπίστευον εἰς τὸν Ἰησοῦν1believed in Jesus

This implies that many of the Jewish people were trusting in Jesus as the Son of God. Alternate translation: “were putting their trust in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

898JHN1212f1im0General Information:

Jesus enters Jerusalem and the people honor him as a king.

899JHN1212w1c2writing-neweventτῇ ἐπαύριον1On the next day

The author uses these words to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

900JHN1212sy8hὁ ὄχλος πολὺς1a great crowd

“a great crowd of people”

901JHN1213lzn9ὡσαννά1Hosanna

This means “May God save us now!”

902JHN1213i5ulεὐλογημένος1Blessed

This expresses a desire for God to cause good things to happen to a person.

903JHN1213w7tyfigs-metonymyἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου1comes in the name of the Lord

Here the word name is a metonym for the persons authority and power. Alternate translation: “as the representative of the Lord” or “in the power of the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

904JHN1214dbc5writing-backgroundεὑρὼν…ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὀνάριον, ἐκάθισεν ἐπ’ αὐτό1Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it

Here John gives background information that Jesus secures a donkey. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

905JHN1214b9ryfigs-explicitεὑρὼν…ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὀνάριον, ἐκάθισεν ἐπ’ αὐτό1

John implies that Jesus will ride the donkey into Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “he found a young donkey and sat on it, riding it into the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

906JHN1214h6xzfigs-activepassiveκαθώς ἐστιν γεγραμμένον1as it was written

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “as the prophets wrote in the Scripture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

907JHN1215vra1figs-metonymyθυγάτηρ Σιών1daughter of Zion

Here, daughter of Zion here is a metonym that refers to the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “you people of Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

908JHN1216a74dwriting-background0General Information:

John, the writer, interrupts here to give the reader some background information about what the disciples later understood. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

909JHN1216rq52ταῦτα οὐκ ἔγνωσαν αὐτοῦ οἱ μαθηταὶ1His disciples did not understand these things

Here the words these things refer to the words that the prophet had written about Jesus.

910JHN1216xdm7figs-activepassiveὅτε ἐδοξάσθη Ἰησοῦς1when Jesus was glorified

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “when God glorified Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

911JHN1216lvz1ταῦτα ἐποίησαν αὐτῷ1they had done these things to him

The words these things refer to what the people did when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey (praising him and waving the palm branches).

912JHN1217i6agwriting-backgroundοὖν1Now

The word Then is used here to mark a break in the main narrative. Here John explains that many of the people came to meet Jesus because they heard others say that he had raised Lazarus from the dead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

913JHN1218eel6ἤκουσαν τοῦτο αὐτὸν πεποιηκέναι τὸ σημεῖον1they heard that he had done this sign

“they heard others say that he had done this sign”

914JHN1218v2nxτοῦτο…τὸ σημεῖον2this sign

A sign is an event or occurrence that proves something is true. In this case, the “sign” of raising Lazarus proves that Jesus is the Messiah.

915JHN1219c43jfigs-explicitθεωρεῖτε ὅτι οὐκ ὠφελεῖτε οὐδέν1Look, you can do nothing

The Pharisees imply here that it might be impossible to stop Jesus. Alternate translation: “It seems like we can do nothing to stop him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

916JHN1219i5uqfigs-hyperboleἴδε, ὁ κόσμος ὀπίσω αὐτοῦ ἀπῆλθεν1see, the world has gone after him

The Pharisees use this exaggeration to express their shock that so many people have come out to meet Jesus. Alternate translation: “it looks like everyone is becoming his disciple” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

917JHN1219ev6efigs-metonymyὁ κόσμος1the world

Here, the world is a metonym that represents (in exaggeration) all of the people in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

918JHN1219orajfigs-explicitὁ κόσμος1

You may need to make explicit that the hearers would have understood that the Pharisees were speaking only of the people in Judea. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

919JHN1220k8v2writing-participantsδὲ Ἕλληνές τινες1Now certain Greeks

This phrase marks the introduction of the Greeks as new characters to the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

920JHN1220i6ndfigs-explicitἵνα προσκυνήσωσιν ἐν τῇ ἑορτῇ1to worship at the festival

John implies that these “Greeks” were going to worship God during the Passover. Alternate translation: “to worship God at the Passover festival” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

921JHN1221lr8cΒηθσαϊδὰ1Bethsaida

This was a town in the province of Galilee.

922JHN1222b9refigs-ellipsisλέγουσιν τῷ Ἰησοῦ1they told Jesus

Philip and Andrew tell Jesus about the Greeks request to see him. You can translate this by adding the implied words. Alternate translation: “tell Jesus what the Greeks had said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

923JHN1223p96d0General Information:

Jesus begins to respond to Philip and Andrew.

924JHN1223jl9ufigs-explicitἐλήλυθεν ἡ ὥρα ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified

Jesus implies that it is now the right time for God to honor the Son of Man through his upcoming suffering, death and resurrection. Alternate translation: “God will soon honor me when I die and rise again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

925JHN1224m255ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν1Truly, truly, I say to you

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true. See how you translated “Truly, truly” in John 1:51.

926JHN1224gq2yfigs-metaphorἐὰν μὴ ὁ κόκκος τοῦ σίτου πεσὼν εἰς τὴν γῆν ἀποθάνῃ, αὐτὸς μόνος μένει; ἐὰν δὲ ἀποθάνῃ, πολὺν καρπὸν φέρει1unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies … it will bear much fruit

Here, a grain of wheat or “seed” is a metaphor for Jesus death, burial and resurrection. Just as a seed is planted and grows again into a plant that will bear much fruit, so will many people trust in Jesus after he is killed, buried, and raised back to life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

927JHN1225sk6efigs-explicitὁ φιλῶν τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ, ἀπολλύει αὐτήν1He who loves his life will lose it

Here, loving his life means considering ones own physical life to be more valuable than the lives of others. Alternate translation: “Whoever values his own life more than others will not receive eternal life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

928JHN1225mp7bfigs-explicitὁ μισῶν τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ τούτῳ, εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον φυλάξει αὐτήν1he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life

Here the one who hating his life refers to one who loves his own life less than he loves the lives of others. Alternate translation: “whoever considers the lives of others as more important than his own life will live with God forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

929JHN1226i8kyfigs-explicitὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ, ἐκεῖ καὶ ὁ διάκονος ὁ ἐμὸς ἔσται1where I am, there will my servant also be

Jesus implies that those who serve him will be with him in heaven. Alternate translation: “when I am in heaven, my servant will also be there with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

930JHN1226wx3mguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ1the Father will honor him

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

931JHN1227ytv9figs-rquestionτί εἴπω, Πάτερ, σῶσόν με ἐκ τῆς ὥρας ταύτης?1what should I say? Father, save me from this hour?

This remark appears in the form of a rhetorical question. Although Jesus desires to avoid crucifixion, he chooses to be obedient to God and to be killed. Alternate translation: “I will not pray, Father, save me from this hour!’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

932JHN1227bx1jguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

933JHN1227hmv9figs-metonymyτῆς ὥρας ταύτης1this hour

Here, this hour is a metonym that represents when Jesus would suffer and die on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

934JHN1228v2fkfigs-metonymyδόξασόν σου τὸ ὄνομα1glorify your name

Here the word name is a metonym that refers to God. Alternate translation: “make your glory known” or “reveal your glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

935JHN1228r6qkfigs-metonymyἦλθεν…φωνὴ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1a voice came from heaven

This represents God speaking. Alternate translation: “God spoke from the heavens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

936JHN1228i2mvfigs-euphemismἦλθεν…φωνὴ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ1

Sometimes people avoid referring directly to God because they respect him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

937JHN1230kd860General Information:

Jesus explains why the voice spoke from heaven.

938JHN1231fc6rfigs-metonymyνῦν κρίσις ἐστὶν τοῦ κόσμου τούτου1Now is the judgment of this world

Here, this world is a metonym that refers to all the people in the world. Alternate translation: “Now is the time for God to judge all of the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

939JHN1231pv51figs-activepassiveνῦν ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου ἐκβληθήσεται ἔξω1Now will the ruler of this world be thrown out

Here, ruler refers to Satan. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “Now is the time when I will destroy the power of Satan who rules this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

940JHN1232b1zuwriting-background0General Information:

In verse 33 John tells us background information about what Jesus said about being “lifted up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

941JHN1232a7tcfigs-activepassiveκἀγὼ ἐὰν ὑψωθῶ ἐκ τῆς γῆς1When I am lifted up from the earth

Here Jesus refers to his crucifixion. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “When people raise me high on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

942JHN1232n7i6πάντας ἑλκύσω πρὸς ἐμαυτόν1will draw everyone to myself

Through his crucifixion, Jesus will provide a way for everyone to trust in him.

943JHN1233v7f3writing-backgroundτοῦτο…ἔλεγεν, σημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ ἤμελλεν ἀποθνῄσκειν1He said this to indicate what kind of death he would die

John interprets Jesus words to mean that people will crucify him. Alternate translation: “he said this to let the people know how he would die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

944JHN1234mx1kfigs-ellipsisδεῖ ὑψωθῆναι τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1The Son of Man must be lifted up

The phrase lifted up means crucified. You may translate this in a way that includes the implied words “on a cross.” Alternate translation: “The Son of Man must be lifted up on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

945JHN1234t386τίς ἐστιν οὗτος ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου1Who is this Son of Man?

This could mean: (1) they are asking, “What is the identity of this Son of Man?” (2) they are asking, “What kind of Son of Man are you talking about?”

946JHN1235l2w4figs-metaphorεἶπεν οὖν αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἔτι μικρὸν χρόνον, τὸ φῶς ἐν ὑμῖν ἐστιν. περιπατεῖτε ὡς τὸ φῶς ἔχετε, ἵνα μὴ σκοτία ὑμᾶς καταλάβῃ; καὶ ὁ περιπατῶν ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ, οὐκ οἶδεν ποῦ ὑπάγει1The light will still be with you for a short amount of time. Walk while you have the light, so that darkness does not overtake you. He who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going

Here, light is a metaphor for Jesus teachings which reveal the truth of God, and walking in darkness is a metaphor that means to live without Gods truth. Alternate translation: “Jesus said to them My words are like a light to you, to help you understand how to live as God wants you to. I will not be with you much longer. You need to follow my instructions while I am still with you. If you reject my words, it will be like walking in darkness and you cannot see where you are going” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

947JHN1236j1rsfigs-metaphorὡς τὸ φῶς ἔχετε, πιστεύετε εἰς τὸ φῶς, ἵνα υἱοὶ φωτὸς γένησθε1While you have the light, believe in the light so that you may be sons of light

Here, light is a metaphor for the teachings of Jesus which reveal the truth of God, and sons of light is a metaphor for those who accept the message of Jesus and live according to Gods truth. Alternate translation: “While I am with you, believe what I teach so that Gods truth will be in you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

948JHN1237s1wh0General Information:

This is a break in the main story line as the John begins to explain about the fulfillment of prophesies that had been spoken by the prophet Isaiah.

949JHN1238k15efigs-activepassiveἵνα ὁ λόγος Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου πληρωθῇ1so that the word of Isaiah the prophet would be fulfilled

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “in order to fulfill the message of Isaiah the prophet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

950JHN1238gx5xfigs-rquestionΚύριε, τίς ἐπίστευσεν τῇ ἀκοῇ ἡμῶν? καὶ ὁ βραχίων Κυρίου τίνι ἀπεκαλύφθη?1Lord, who has believed our report, and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?

This appears in the form of two rhetorical questions to express the prophets dismay that the people do not believe his message. You can state these as a single rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “Lord, hardly anyone has believed our message, even though they have seen that you are powerfully able to save them!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

951JHN1238dh6sfigs-metonymyὁ βραχίων Κυρίου1the arm of the Lord

This is a metonym that refers to the Lords ability to rescue with power. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

952JHN1240z323figs-metonymyἐπώρωσεν αὐτῶν τὴν καρδίαν…νοήσωσιν τῇ καρδίᾳ1he has hardened their hearts … understand with their hearts

Here, hearts is a metonym for a persons mind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

953JHN1240wac6figs-metaphorἐπώρωσεν αὐτῶν τὴν καρδίαν…νοήσωσιν τῇ καρδίᾳ1

The phrase hardened their hearts is a metaphor for making someone become stubborn. Also, to understand with their hearts means to “truly understand.” Alternate translation: “he has made them stubborn … truly understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

954JHN1240h99afigs-metaphorκαὶ στραφῶσιν1and turn

Here, turn is a metaphor for “repent.” Alternate translation: “and they would repent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

955JHN1242hdh1figs-activepassiveἵνα μὴ ἀποσυνάγωγοι γένωνται1so that they would not be banned from the synagogue

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so people would not stop them from going to the synagogue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

956JHN1243fx72ἠγάπησαν…τὴν δόξαν τῶν ἀνθρώπων μᾶλλον ἤπερ τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ1They loved the praise that comes from people more than the praise that comes from God

“they wanted people to praise them more than they wanted God to praise them”

957JHN1244t7cq0General Information:

Now John returns to the main story line. This is another time when Jesus begins to speak to the crowd.

958JHN1244d27wfigs-explicitἸησοῦς…ἔκραξεν καὶ εἶπεν1Jesus cried out and said

Here John implies that a crowd of people had gathered to hear Jesus speak. Alternate translation: “Jesus shouted out to the crowd that had gathered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

959JHN1245s6xxὁ θεωρῶν ἐμὲ, θεωρεῖ τὸν πέμψαντά με1the one who sees me sees him who sent me

Here the phrase the one having sent refers to God. Alternate translation: “the one who sees me sees God, who sent me”

960JHN1246db760Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to the crowd.

961JHN1246wib3figs-metaphorἐγὼ φῶς…ἐλήλυθα1I have come as a light

Here the light is a metaphor for Jesus example. Alternate translation: “I have come to show the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

962JHN1246i31gfigs-metaphorἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ μὴ μείνῃ1may not remain in the darkness

Here, darkness is a metaphor for living in ignorance of Gods truth. Alternate translation: “may not continue to be spiritually blind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

963JHN1246uxb8figs-metonymyτὸν κόσμον1the world

Here, the world is a metonym that represents all of the people in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

964JHN1247xvq6figs-explicitκαὶ ἐάν τίς μου ἀκούσῃ τῶν ῥημάτων, καὶ μὴ φυλάξῃ, ἐγὼ οὐ κρίνω αὐτόν, οὐ γὰρ ἦλθον, ἵνα κρίνω τὸν κόσμον, ἀλλ’ ἵνα σώσω τὸν κόσμον1If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I have not come to judge the world, but to save the world

Here, judge the world implies condemnation. Jesus did not come to condemn people. Alternate translation: “And if anyone hears my teaching and rejects it, I do not condemn him. I have not come to condemn people. Instead, I have come to save those who trust in me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

965JHN1248b1dsἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ1on the last day

“at the time when God judges peoples sins”

966JHN1249ybm5guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

967JHN1250tar2οἶδα, ὅτι ἡ ἐντολὴ αὐτοῦ ζωὴ αἰώνιός ἐστιν1I know that his command is eternal life

“I know that the words that he commanded me to speak are the words that give life forever”

968JHN13introzk680

John 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The events of this chapter are commonly referred to as the last supper or the Lords supper. This Passover feast in many ways parallels Jesus sacrifice as the lamb of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/passover]])

Special concepts in this chapter

The washing of feet

People in the ancient Near East thought that feet were very dirty. Only servants would wash peoples feet. The disciples did not want Jesus to wash their feet because they considered him their master and themselves his servants, but he wanted to show them that they needed to serve each other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

I AM

John records Jesus as saying these words four times in this book, once in this chapter. They stand alone as a complete sentence, and they literally translate the Hebrew word for “I AM,” by which Yahweh identified himself to Moses. For these reasons, many people believe that when Jesus said these words he was claiming to be Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/yahweh]]).

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (John 13:31). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

969JHN131wk2kwriting-background0General Information:

It is not yet Passover and Jesus is together with his disciples for supper. These verses explain the setting of the story and give background information about Jesus and Judas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

970JHN131w7w3guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

971JHN131a1w4ἀγαπήσας1loved

This is the kind of love that comes from God, which is focused on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

972JHN132xn6rfigs-idiomτοῦ διαβόλου ἤδη βεβληκότος εἰς τὴν καρδίαν, ἵνα παραδοῖ αὐτὸν Ἰούδας, Σίμωνος Ἰσκαριώτης1the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot son of Simon, to betray Jesus

The phrase put into the heart is an idiom that means to cause someone to think about something. Alternate translation: “the devil had already caused Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to think about betraying Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

973JHN133u3vnwriting-background0Connecting Statement:

Verse 3 continues to tell us background information about what Jesus knew. The action in the story begins in verse 4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

974JHN133fd2tguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

975JHN133x8hcfigs-metonymyπάντα δέδωκεν αὐτῷ…εἰς τὰς χεῖρας1had given everything over into his hands

Here, his hands is a metonym for power and authority. Alternate translation: “had given him complete power and authority over everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

976JHN133a6qjἀπὸ Θεοῦ ἐξῆλθεν καὶ πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ὑπάγει1he had come from God and was going back to God

Jesus had always been with the Father, and would return there after his work on earth was finished.

977JHN134t7cuἐγείρεται ἐκ τοῦ δείπνου καὶ τίθησιν τὰ ἱμάτια1He got up from dinner and took off his outer clothing

Because the region was very dusty, it was customary for the host of a dinner to provide a servant to wash the feet of the guests. Jesus took off his outer clothing so he would look like a servant.

978JHN135s1pcἤρξατο νίπτειν τοὺς πόδας τῶν μαθητῶν1began to wash the feet of the disciples

Because the region was very dusty, it was customary for the host of a dinner to provide a servant to wash the feet of the guests. Jesus did the work of the servant by washing the disciples feet.

979JHN136bz27figs-rquestionΚύριε, σύ μου νίπτεις τοὺς πόδας?1Lord, are you going to wash my feet?

Peters question shows that he is not willing for Jesus to wash his feet. Alternate translation: “Lord, it is not right for you to wash the feet of me, a sinner!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

980JHN138f6dgfigs-doublenegativesἐὰν μὴ νίψω σε, οὐκ ἔχεις μέρος μετ’ ἐμοῦ1If I do not wash you, you have no share with me

Jesus states two negatives to convince Peter to allow him to wash his feet. Alternate translation: “I must wash your feet so that you can have fellowship with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

981JHN138m90pfigs-explicitἐὰν μὴ νίψω σε, οὐκ ἔχεις μέρος μετ’ ἐμοῦ1

Jesus implies that Peter must let him wash his feet if he wants to continue being a disciple. Alternate translation: “If I wash you, you will always belong with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

982JHN1310tv570General Information:

Jesus uses the word you to refer to all of his disciples.

983JHN1310m7vj0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues to speak to Simon Peter.

984JHN1310is57figs-metaphorὁ λελουμένος οὐκ ἔχει χρείαν, εἰ μὴ τοὺς πόδας νίψασθαι1He who is bathed has no need, except to wash his feet

Here, been washed is a metaphor that means that God has cleansed a person spiritually. Alternate translation: “If anyone has already received Gods forgiveness, he now only needs to receive cleansing from his daily sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

985JHN1311ccz4figs-explicitοὐχὶ πάντες καθαροί ἐστε1Not all of you are clean

Jesus implies that the one who will betray him, Judas, has not trusted in him. Therefore God has not forgiven him of his sins. Alternate translation: “Not all of you have received Gods forgiveness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

986JHN1312p45lfigs-rquestionγινώσκετε τί πεποίηκα ὑμῖν?1Do you know what I have done for you?

This remark appears in the form of a question so Jesus can emphasize the importance of what he is teaching his disciples. Alternate translation: “You need to understand what I have done for you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

987JHN1313m9z8figs-explicitὑμεῖς φωνεῖτέ με ὁ Διδάσκαλος καὶ, ὁ Κύριος1You call me teacher and Lord,

Here Jesus implies that his disciples have great respect for him. Alternate translation: “You show me great respect when you call me teacher and Lord.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

988JHN1315pk3lfigs-explicitκαθὼς ἐγὼ ἐποίησα ὑμῖν, καὶ ὑμεῖς ποιῆτε1you should also do just as I did for you

Jesus implies that his disciples should be willing to follow his example and serve one another. Alternate translation: “you should also humbly serve each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

989JHN1316n5cb0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues to speak to his disciples.

990JHN1316h6gtἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

991JHN1316tpl8μείζων1greater

one who is more important or more powerful, or one who should have an easier life or a more pleasant life

992JHN1317an8ufigs-activepassiveμακάριοί ἐστε1you are blessed

Here, are blessed means good, beneficial things will happen to them. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

993JHN1318u5flfigs-activepassiveἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ1this so that the scripture will be fulfilled

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “this is in order to fulfill the scripture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

994JHN1318v5pvfigs-idiomὁ τρώγων μετ’ ἐμοῦ τὸν ἄρτον, ἐπῆρεν ἐπ’ ἐμὲ τὴν πτέρναν αὐτοῦ1He who eats my bread lifted up his heel against me

Here the phrase eating bread with me is an idiom for someone who pretends to be a friend. The phrase lifted up his heel is also an idiom, which means someone who has become an enemy. If you have idioms in your language that carry these meanings, you can use them here. Alternate translation: “The one who has pretended to be my friend has turned out to be an enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

995JHN1319qd39ἀπ’ ἄρτι λέγω ὑμῖν πρὸ τοῦ γενέσθαι1I tell you this now before it happens

“I am telling you now what is going to happen before it happens”

996JHN1319gg19ἐγώ εἰμι1I AM

This could mean: (1) Jesus is identifying himself as Yahweh, who identified himself to Moses as “I AM.” (2) Jesus is saying, “I am the one I claim to be.”

997JHN1320di3tἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

998JHN1321bq84ἐταράχθη1troubled

was concerned, upset

999JHN1321j7x1ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

1000JHN1322dhs3ἔβλεπον εἰς ἀλλήλους οἱ μαθηταὶ, ἀπορούμενοι περὶ τίνος λέγει1The disciples looked at each other, wondering of whom he was speaking

The disciples looked at each other and wondered: “Who will betray Jesus?”

1001JHN1323xvi8εἷς ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ…ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς1One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved

This refers to John.

1002JHN1323z8zefigs-explicitἀνακείμενος1lying down at the table

During the time of Christ, Jews would often dine together in the Greek style, in which they lay on their sides on low couches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1003JHN1323p2eeτῷ κόλπῳ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ1Jesus side

Lying with ones head against the side of another diner in the Greek style was considered to be the place of greatest friendship with him.

1004JHN1323a58jἠγάπα1loved

This kind of love comes from God and focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1005JHN1326qpj8writing-backgroundἸσκαριώτη1Iscariot

This may indicate that Judas was from the village of Kerioth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1006JHN1327r8lkfigs-ellipsisκαὶ μετὰ τὸ ψωμίον1Then after the bread

The words “Judas took” are understood from the context. Alternate translation: “Then after Judas took the bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1007JHN1327xk39figs-idiomτότε εἰσῆλθεν εἰς ἐκεῖνον ὁ Σατανᾶς1Satan entered into him

This is an idiom that means Satan took complete control of Judas. Alternate translation: “Satan then took control of him” or “Satan then started to command Judas” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1008JHN1327rz21λέγει οὖν αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς1so Jesus said to him

Here Jesus is speaking to Judas.

1009JHN1327agd7ὃ ποιεῖς, ποίησον τάχειον1What you are doing, do it quickly

“Do quickly what you are planning to do!”

1010JHN1329rv4zτοῖς πτωχοῖς ἵνα τι δῷ1that he should give something to the poor

You can translate this as a direct quote: “Go and give some money to the poor.”

1011JHN1330dw7mwriting-backgroundἐκεῖνος ἐξῆλθεν εὐθύς; ἦν δὲ νύξ1he went out immediately. It was night

John seems to draw attention here to the fact that Judas will do his evil or “dark” deed in the darkness of the night. Alternate translation: “he went out immediately into the dark night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1012JHN1331d6l8figs-activepassiveνῦν ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, καὶ ὁ Θεὸς ἐδοξάσθη ἐν αὐτῷ1Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in him

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “Now people are about to see how the Son of Man will receive honor and how God will receive honor through what the Son of Man is doing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1013JHN1332uaj7figs-rpronounsὁ Θεὸς δοξάσει αὐτὸν ἐν αὐτῷ, καὶ εὐθὺς δοξάσει αὐτόν1God will glorify him in himself, and he will glorify him immediately

The word him refers to the Son of Man. The word himself is a reflexive pronoun that refers to God. Alternate translation: “God himself will immediately give honor to the Son of Man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

1014JHN1333zki6τεκνία1Little children

Jesus uses the term Little children to communicate that he loves the disciples as though they were his children.

1015JHN1333lp65figs-synecdocheκαθὼς εἶπον τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1as I said to the Jews

Here, Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “just as I said to the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1016JHN1334fkc70Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to his disciples.

1017JHN1334nmf5ἀγαπᾶτε1love

This is the kind of love that comes from God and focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1018JHN1335kyd9figs-hyperboleπάντες1everyone

You may need to make explicit that this exaggeration refers only to those people who see how the disciples love each other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1019JHN1337ye6mτὴν ψυχήν μου…θήσω1lay down my life

“I will give up my life” or “I will die”

1020JHN1338qp88figs-rquestionτὴν ψυχήν σου ὑπὲρ ἐμοῦ θήσεις?1Will you lay down your life for me?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis to Jesus statement. Alternate translation: “You say that you will die for me, but the truth is that you will not!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1021JHN1338sp7pοὐ μὴ ἀλέκτωρ φωνήσῃ, ἕως οὗ ἀρνήσῃ με τρίς1the rooster will not crow before you have denied me three times

“you will say that you do not know me three times before the rooster crows”

1022JHN14introkv6m0

John 14 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“My Fathers house”

Jesus used these words to speak of heaven, where God lives, not of the temple. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]])

The Holy Spirit

Jesus told his disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit to them. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter (John 14:16) who is always with Gods people to help them and to speak to God for them, He is also the Spirit of truth (John 14:17) who tells Gods people what is true about God so they know him better and serve him well. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])

1023JHN141a2xv0Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Jesus reclines at the table with his disciples and continues to speak to them.

1024JHN141w3dnfigs-metonymyμὴ ταρασσέσθω ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία1Do not let your heart be troubled

Here, heart is a metonym for a persons inner being. Alternate translation: “Stop being so anxious and worried” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1025JHN142cp9zἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ τοῦ Πατρός μου, μοναὶ πολλαί εἰσιν1In my Fathers house are many rooms

“There are many places to live in my Fathers house”

1026JHN142eca3ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ τοῦ Πατρός μου1In my Fathers house

This refers to heaven, where God lives.

1027JHN142v9pxguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρός1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1028JHN142fp9rμοναὶ πολλαί1many rooms

Here, rooms can refer to single rooms, or to larger dwellings.

1029JHN142xb2yfigs-youπορεύομαι ἑτοιμάσαι τόπον ὑμῖν1I am going to prepare a place for you

Jesus is going to prepare a place in heaven for every person who trusts in him. The you is plural and refers to all his disciples. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1030JHN144ir1dfigs-metaphorτὴν ὁδόν1the way

This could be: (1) a metaphor that refers to “the way to God.” (2) a metaphor that refers to “the one who takes people to God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1031JHN145e1dlπῶς δυνάμεθα τὴν ὁδὸν εἰδέναι1how can we know the way?

“how can we know how to get there?”

1032JHN146i8lefigs-metaphorἡ ἀλήθεια1the truth

This could be: (1) a metaphor that means “the true person.” (2) a metaphor that means “the one who speaks true words about God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1033JHN146z9trfigs-metaphorἡ ζωή1the life

This is a metaphor that means Jesus can give life to people. Alternate translation: “the one who can make people alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1034JHN146g5hnfigs-explicitοὐδεὶς ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα, εἰ μὴ δι’ ἐμοῦ1no one comes to the Father except through me

People can come to God and live with him only by trusting Jesus. Alternate translation: “No one can come to the Father and live with him unless he comes through me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1035JHN146f95qguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1036JHN148kum1guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΚύριε, δεῖξον ἡμῖν τὸν Πατέρα1Lord, show us the Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1037JHN149mr1afigs-rquestionτοσοῦτον χρόνον μεθ’ ὑμῶν εἰμι, καὶ οὐκ ἔγνωκάς με, Φίλιππε?1I have been with you for so long and you still do not know me, Philip?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis to Jesus words. Alternate translation: “Philip, I have been with you disciples already for a very long time. You should know me by now!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1038JHN149l3s8guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ ἑωρακὼς ἐμὲ, ἑώρακεν τὸν Πατέρα1Whoever has seen me has seen the Father

To see Jesus, who is God the Son, is to see God the Father. Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1039JHN149x1uhfigs-rquestionπῶς σὺ λέγεις, δεῖξον ἡμῖν τὸν Πατέρα?1How can you say, Show us the Father?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize Jesus words to Philip. Alternate translation: “So you really should not be saying, Show us the Father!’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1040JHN1410v2jb0Connecting Statement:

Jesus asks Philip a question and then he continues to speak to all of his disciples.

1041JHN1410hc1zfigs-rquestionοὐ πιστεύεις ὅτι ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρὶ, καὶ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί ἐστιν?1Do you not believe … in me?

This remark appears in the form of a question to emphasize Jesus words to Philip. Alternate translation: “You really should believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1042JHN1410e4seguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρὶ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1043JHN1410pgk6τὰ ῥήματα ἃ ἐγὼ λαλῶ ὑμῖν, ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐ λαλῶ1The words that I say to you I do not speak from my own authority

“What I am telling you is not from me” or “The words I tell you are not from me”

1044JHN1410wh9wτὰ ῥήματα ἃ ἐγὼ λαλῶ ὑμῖν1The words that I say to you

Here, you is plural. Jesus is now speaking to all of his disciples.

1045JHN1411ew6gfigs-idiomἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρὶ, καὶ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί1I am in the Father, and the Father is in me

This is an idiom that means God the Father and Jesus have a unique relationship. Alternate translation: “I am one with the Father, and the Father is one with me” or “my Father and I are just as though we were one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1046JHN1412gh64ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

1047JHN1412h2rhὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ1believes in me

This means to believe that Jesus is the Son of God.

1048JHN1412cn14guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title that describes the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1049JHN1413n2idfigs-metonymyὅ τι ἂν αἰτήσητε ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου1Whatever you ask in my name

Here, name is a metonym that represents the authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “Whatever you ask, using my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1050JHN1413i138figs-activepassiveἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν τῷ Υἱῷ1so that the Father will be glorified in the Son

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so I can show everyone how great my Father is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1051JHN1413j6nhguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ…Υἱῷ1Father … Son

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1052JHN1414sgk6figs-metonymyἐάν τι αἰτήσητέ με ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου, ἐγὼ ποιήσω1If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it

Here, name is a metonym that represents the authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “If you ask me anything as one of my followers, I will do it” or “Whatever you ask of me, I will do it because you belong to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1053JHN1416tu1eΠαράκλητον1Comforter

This refers to the Holy Spirit.

1054JHN1417sc6rΠνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας1Spirit of truth

This refers to the Holy Spirit who teaches people what is true about God.

1055JHN1417i2v7figs-metonymyὃ ὁ κόσμος οὐ δύναται λαβεῖν1The world cannot receive him

Here the world is a metonym that refers to the people who oppose God. Alternate translation: “whom the unbelieving people in this world will never welcome” or “whom those who oppose God will not accept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1056JHN1418hy8vfigs-explicitοὐκ ἀφήσω ὑμᾶς ὀρφανούς1leave you alone

Here Jesus implies that he will not leave his disciples with no one to care for them. Alternate translation: “I will not leave you with no one to care for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1057JHN1419r5q8figs-metonymyὁ κόσμος1the world

Here the world is a metonym that represents the people who do not belong to God. Alternate translation: “the unbelievers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1058JHN1420b87jγνώσεσθε ὑμεῖς ὅτι ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρί μου1you will know that I am in my Father

God the Father and Jesus live as one person. Alternate translation: “you will know that my Father and I are just like one person”

1059JHN1420he2aguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρί μου1my Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1060JHN1420ht8zὑμεῖς ἐν ἐμοὶ, κἀγὼ ἐν ὑμῖν1you are in me, and that I am in you

“you and I are just like one person”

1061JHN1421rw8nἀγαπῶν1loves

This kind of love comes from God and focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1062JHN1421gjl8figs-activepassiveὁ…ἀγαπῶν με, ἀγαπηθήσεται ὑπὸ τοῦ Πατρός μου3he who loves me will be loved by my Father

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “my Father will love everyone who loves me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1063JHN1421qsu7guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρός μου1my Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1064JHN1422r22btranslate-namesἸούδας, οὐχ ὁ Ἰσκαριώτης1Judas (not Iscariot)

This refers to another disciple whose name was Judas, not to the disciple who was from the village of Kerioth who betrayed Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1065JHN1422a7aaτί γέγονεν, ὅτι ἡμῖν μέλλεις ἐμφανίζειν σεαυτὸν1why is it that you will show yourself to us

Here the word show refers to revealing how wonderful Jesus is. Alternate translation: “why will you reveal yourself only to us” or “why will you only let us see how wonderful you are”

1066JHN1422gv3afigs-metonymyοὐχὶ τῷ κόσμῳ1not to the world

Here, world is a metonym that represents the people who oppose God. Alternate translation: “not to those who do not belong to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1067JHN1423a9av0Connecting Statement:

Jesus responds to Judas (not Iscariot).

1068JHN1423xez7ἐάν τις ἀγαπᾷ με, τὸν λόγον μου τηρήσει1If anyone loves me, he will keep my word

“The one who loves me will do what I have told him to do”

1069JHN1423ai8yἀγαπᾷ1loves

This kind of love comes from God and focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1070JHN1423xk31guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ μου1My Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1071JHN1423h9tlfigs-explicitπρὸς αὐτὸν ἐλευσόμεθα, καὶ μονὴν παρ’ αὐτῷ ποιησόμεθα1we will come to him and we will make our home with him

The Father and the Son will share life with those who obey what Jesus commands. Alternate translation: “we will come to live with him, and will have a personal relationship with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1072JHN1424b7diὁ λόγος ὃν ἀκούετε, οὐκ ἔστιν ἐμὸς, ἀλλὰ τοῦ πέμψαντός με Πατρός1The word that you hear is not from me but from the Father who sent me

“the things I have told you are not things that I have decided to say on my own”

1073JHN1424c3juὁ λόγος1The word

“the message”

1074JHN1424d7ayὃν ἀκούετε1that you hear

Here when Jesus says you he is speaking to all of his disciples.

1075JHN1426hk8nguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1076JHN1427nx8afigs-metonymyκόσμος1world

Here, the world is a metonym that represents those people who do not love God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1077JHN1427m6qqfigs-metonymyμὴ ταρασσέσθω ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία, μηδὲ δειλιάτω1Do not let your heart be troubled, and do not be afraid

Here, heart is a metonym for a persons inner being. Alternate translation: “So stop being anxious, and do not be afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1078JHN1428s8bxἠγαπᾶτέ1loved

This kind of love comes from God and desires the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1079JHN1428s3t3figs-explicitπορεύομαι πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα1I am going to the Father

Here Jesus implies that he will return to his Father. Alternate translation: “I am going back to the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1080JHN1428gtk5figs-explicitὁ Πατὴρ μείζων μού ἐστιν1the Father is greater than I

Here Jesus implies that the Father has greater authority than the Son while the Son is on the earth. Alternate translation: “the Father has greater authority than I have here” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1081JHN1428ymq4guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1082JHN1430ah3sτοῦ κόσμου ἄρχων1ruler of this world

Here, the ruler refers to Satan. See how you translated this in John 12:31. Alternate translation: “Satan who rules this world”

1083JHN1430ea6mfigs-explicitἔρχεται…ὁ τοῦ κόσμου ἄρχων1ruler … is coming

Here Jesus implies that Satan is coming to attack him. Alternate translation: “Satan is coming to attack me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1084JHN1431jhq1figs-metonymyἵνα γνῷ ὁ κόσμος1in order that the world will know

Here the world is a metonym for the people who do not belong to God. Alternate translation: “in order that the ones who do not belong to God may know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1085JHN1431r9ubguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα1the Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1086JHN15introk9jd0

John 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

Vine

Jesus used the vine as a metaphor for himself. This is because the vine of the grape plant is what takes water and minerals from the ground to the leaves and grapes. Without the vine, the grapes and leaves die. He wanted his followers to know that unless they loved and obeyed him, they would be unable to do anything that pleased God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1087JHN151aws20Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Jesus reclines at the table with his disciples and continues to speak to them.

1088JHN151fen5figs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ἄμπελος ἡ ἀληθινή1I am the true vine

Here the true vine is a metaphor. Jesus compares himself to a vine or a vine stem. He is the source of life that causes people to live in a way that pleases God. Alternate translation: “I am like a vine that produces good fruit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1089JHN151w2d4figs-metaphorὁ Πατήρ μου ὁ γεωργός ἐστιν1my Father is the gardener

Here, the gardener is a metaphor. A “gardener” is a person who takes care of the vine to ensure it is as fruitful as possible. Alternate translation: “my Father is like a gardener” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1090JHN151hqj7guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ μου1my Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1091JHN152p311figs-metaphorπᾶν κλῆμα ἐν ἐμοὶ μὴ φέρον καρπὸν, αἴρει1He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit

Here, Every branch represents people, and bearing fruit represents living in a way that pleases God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1092JHN152wt8wαἴρει αὐτό1takes away

“he cuts it off and takes it away”

1093JHN152xej7πᾶν τὸ καρπὸν φέρον, καθαίρει αὐτὸ1prunes every branch

“he trims every branch that bears fruit”

1094JHN153xn3jfigs-metaphorἤδη ὑμεῖς καθαροί ἐστε, διὰ τὸν λόγον ὃν λελάληκα ὑμῖν1You are already clean because of the message that I have spoken to you

The implied metaphor here is the clean branches that have already been “pruned.” Alternate translation: “It is as if you have already been pruned and are clean branches because you have obeyed what I have taught you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1095JHN153l5zzfigs-youὑμεῖς…ὑμῖν1you

The words You and *you in this verse are plural and refer to the disciples of Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1096JHN154qvv9μείνατε ἐν ἐμοί, κἀγὼ ἐν ὑμῖν1Remain in me, and I in you

“If you remain joined to me, I will remain joined to you” or “Remain joined to me, and I will remain joined to you”

1097JHN154hn7qἐὰν μὴ ἐν ἐμοὶ μένητε1unless you remain in me

By remaining in Christ, those who belong to him depend on him for everything. Alternate translation: “unless you stay joined to me and depend upon me for everything”

1098JHN155mw4tfigs-metaphorἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ἄμπελος; ὑμεῖς τὰ κλήματα1I am the vine, you are the branches

Here, the vine is a metaphor that represents Jesus, and the branches is a metaphor that represent those who trust in Jesus and belong to him. Alternate translation: “I am like a vine, and you are like branches that are attached to the vine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1099JHN155r4difigs-explicitὁ μένων ἐν ἐμοὶ κἀγὼ ἐν αὐτῷ1He who remains in me and I in him

Here Jesus implies that his followers are joined to him as he is joined to God. Alternate translation: “The person who stays joined to me, as I stay joined to my Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1100JHN155hzh4figs-metaphorοὗτος φέρει καρπὸν πολύν1he bears much fruit

The implied metaphor here is the fruitful branch that represents the believer who pleases God. Just as a branch that is attached to the vine will bear much fruit, those who stay joined to Jesus will do many things that please God. Alternate translation: “that person will bear much fruit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1101JHN156k1tmfigs-metaphorἐβλήθη ἔξω ὡς τὸ κλῆμα καὶ ἐξηράνθη1he is thrown away like a branch and dries up

Here the implied metaphor is the unfruitful branch that represents those who do not stay joined to Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1102JHN156h6cufigs-activepassiveἐβλήθη ἔξω ὡς τὸ κλῆμα καὶ ἐξηράνθη1

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the vinedresser throws him away like a branch and he dries up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1103JHN156e789figs-activepassiveκαίεται1they are burned up

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the fire burns them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1104JHN157m38ffigs-explicitὃ ἐὰν θέλητε, αἰτήσασθε1ask whatever you wish

Jesus implies that believers must ask God to answer their prayers. Alternate translation: “ask God whatever you wish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1105JHN157mcz5figs-activepassiveγενήσεται ὑμῖν1it will be done for you

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “he will do it for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1106JHN158yq67figs-activepassiveἐν τούτῳ ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Πατήρ μου1My Father is glorified in this

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “It causes people to honor my Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1107JHN158z1wwguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατήρ μου1My Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1108JHN158wpa6figs-metaphorἵνα καρπὸν πολὺν φέρητε1that you bear much fruit

Here, fruit is a metaphor for living to please God. Alternate translation: “that you live in a way that pleases him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1109JHN158vtg5γένησθε ἐμοὶ μαθηταί1are my disciples

“show you are my disciples” or “demonstrate you are my disciples”

1110JHN159nf5vguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesκαθὼς ἠγάπησέν με ὁ Πατήρ, κἀγὼ ὑμᾶς ἠγάπησα1As the Father has loved me, I have also loved you

Jesus shares the love that God the Father has for him with those who trust in him. Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1111JHN159d32zμείνατε ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐμῇ1Remain in my love

“Continue to accept my love”

1112JHN1510cu4efigs-explicitἐὰν τὰς ἐντολάς μου τηρήσητε, μενεῖτε ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ μου, καθὼς ἐγὼ τοῦ Πατρός τὰς ἐντολὰς τετήρηκα, καὶ μένω αὐτοῦ ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ1If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, as I have kept the commandments of my Father and remain in his love

When Jesus followers obey him, they show their love for him. Alternate translation: “When you do the things I have told you to do, you are living in my love, just as I obey my Father and live in his love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1113JHN1510k1nmguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ Πατρός1my Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1114JHN1511rcv8ταῦτα λελάληκα ὑμῖν, ἵνα ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμὴ ἐν ὑμῖν ᾖ1I have spoken these things to you so that my joy will be in you

“I have told you these things so that you will have the same kind of joy that I have”

1115JHN1511r1p1figs-activepassiveκαὶ ἡ χαρὰ ὑμῶν πληρωθῇ1so that your joy will be complete

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so that you will be completely joyful” or “so that your joy may have nothing missing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1116JHN1513bu8jτὴν ψυχὴν1life

This refers to physical life.

1117JHN1515h2wvπάντα ἃ ἤκουσα παρὰ τοῦ Πατρός μου, ἐγνώρισα ὑμῖν1everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you

“I have told you everything my Father told me”

1118JHN1515b56fguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ Πατρός μου1my Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1119JHN1516yu3efigs-explicitοὐχ ὑμεῖς με ἐξελέξασθε1You did not choose me

Jesus implies that his followers did not decide on their own to become his disciples. Alternate translation: “You did not decide to become my disciples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1120JHN1516qj98figs-metaphorὑπάγητε καὶ καρπὸν φέρητε1go and bear fruit

Here, fruit is a metaphor that represents a life that is pleasing to God. Alternate translation: “live lives that please God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1121JHN1516v3jeκαὶ ὁ καρπὸς ὑμῶν μένῃ1that your fruit should remain

“that the results of what you do should last forever”

1122JHN1516z431figs-metonymyὅ τι ἂν αἰτήσητε τὸν Πατέρα ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου, δῷ ὑμῖν1whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you

Here, name is a metonym that represents the authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “because you ask with my authority, whatever you ask of the Father, he will give it to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1123JHN1516bcy1guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα1the Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1124JHN1518d5fffigs-metonymyὁ κόσμος1the world

Here, the world refers to the people who do not belong to God and are opposed to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1125JHN1519x6q8figs-metonymyτοῦ κόσμου1the world

Here, the world refers to the people who do not belong to God and are opposed to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1126JHN1519xas7ἐφίλει1love

This refers to human, brotherly love or love for a friend or family member.

1127JHN1520v53sfigs-metonymyμνημονεύετε τοῦ λόγου οὗ ἐγὼ εἶπον ὑμῖν1Remember the word that I said to you

Here, word is a metonym for the message of Jesus. Alternate translation: “Remember the message that I spoke to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1128JHN1521z35mfigs-metonymyδιὰ τὸ ὄνομά μου1because of my name

Here, because of my name is a metonym that represents Jesus. People will make his followers suffer because they belong to him. Alternate translation: “because you belong to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1129JHN1522m75hfigs-explicitεἰ μὴ ἦλθον καὶ ἐλάλησα αὐτοῖς, ἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν; νῦν δὲ πρόφασιν οὐκ ἔχουσιν περὶ τῆς ἁμαρτίας αὐτῶν1If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin

Jesus implies here that he has shared Gods message with those who do not trust him. Alternate translation: “Because I have come and told them Gods message, they have no excuse when God judges them for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1130JHN1523sw4lὁ ἐμὲ μισῶν, καὶ τὸν Πατέρα μου μισεῖ1He who hates me also hates my Father

To hate God the Son is to hate God the Father.

1131JHN1523u9u7guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1132JHN1524bd47figs-doublenegativesεἰ τὰ ἔργα μὴ ἐποίησα ἐν αὐτοῖς ἃ οὐδεὶς ἄλλος ἐποίησεν, ἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν…δὲ1If I had not done the works that no one else did among them, they would have no sin, but

You can translate this double negative in a positive form. Alternate translation: “Because I have done among them the works that no one else did, they have had sin, and” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1133JHN1524v23sἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν1they would have no sin

“they would not have any sin.” See how you translated this in John 15:22.

1134JHN1524v6ptκαὶ ἑωράκασιν καὶ μεμισήκασιν, καὶ ἐμὲ καὶ τὸν Πατέρα μου1they have seen and hated both me and my Father

To hate God the Son is to hate God the Father.

1135JHN1525x7g9figs-metonymyἵνα πληρωθῇ ὁ λόγος ὁ ἐν τῷ νόμῳ αὐτῶν γεγραμμένος1to fulfill the word that is written in their law

Here, word is a metonym for the entire message of God. Alternate translation: “in order that the prophecy in their law might be fulfilled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1136JHN1525rod8figs-activepassiveἵνα πληρωθῇ ὁ λόγος ὁ ἐν τῷ νόμῳ αὐτῶν γεγραμμένος1

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “this happened in order to fulfill the prophecy in their law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1137JHN1525j2m2τῷ νόμῳ1law

Here, law refers generally to the entire Old Testament, which contained all of Gods instructions for his people.

1138JHN1526mwq6πέμψω ὑμῖν παρὰ τοῦ Πατρός, τὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας…ἐκεῖνος μαρτυρήσει περὶ ἐμοῦ1will send … from the Father … the Spirit of truth … he will testify about me

God the Father sent God the Spirit to show the world that Jesus is God the Son.

1139JHN1526tpw6guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρός1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1140JHN1526tzi9figs-explicitτὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας1the Spirit of truth

This is a title for the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “the Spirit who tells the truth about God and me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1141JHN1527r47ffigs-explicitκαὶ ὑμεῖς…μαρτυρεῖτε1You are also testifying

Here, testifying means they are telling others about Jesus. Alternate translation: “you also must tell everyone what you know about me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1142JHN1527ew2vfigs-metonymyἀρχῆς1the beginning

Here the beginning is a metonym that means the first days of Jesus ministry. Alternate translation: “the very first days when I began teaching the people and doing miracles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1143JHN16introwb8v0

John 16 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The Holy Spirit

Jesus told his disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit to them. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter (John 14:16) who is always with Gods people to help them and to speak to God for them, He is also the Spirit of truth (John 14:17) who tells Gods people what is true about God so they know him better and serve him well. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])

“The hour is coming”

Jesus used these words to begin prophecies about times that could be shorter or longer than sixty minutes. “The hour” in which people would persecute his followers (John 16:2) was days, weeks, and years long, but “the hour” in which his disciples would scatter and leave him alone (John 16:32) was less than sixty minutes long. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Simile

Jesus said that just as a woman is in pain as she gives birth to a baby and his followers would be sad when he died. But the woman is glad after the baby is born, and his followers would be happy when he became alive again. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1144JHN161pbc80Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Jesus reclines at the table with his disciples and continues to speak to them.

1145JHN161vui6figs-explicitμὴ σκανδαλισθῆτε1you will not fall away

Here the phrase fall away implies to stop putting ones trust in Jesus. Alternate translation: “you will not stop trusting in me because of the difficulties you must face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1146JHN162i79bἔρχεται ὥρα, ἵνα πᾶς ὁ ἀποκτείνας ὑμᾶς, δόξῃ λατρείαν προσφέρειν τῷ Θεῷ1the hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think that he is offering a service to God

“it will someday happen that a person will kill you and think he is doing something good for God.”

1147JHN163k4r6guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1148JHN164blb2figs-metonymyὅταν ἔλθῃ ἡ ὥρα αὐτῶν1when their hour comes

Here, hour is a metonym that refers to the time when people will persecute Jesus followers. Alternate translation: “when they cause you to suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1149JHN164dh5ifigs-metonymyἐξ ἀρχῆς1in the beginning

Here, the beginning is a metonym that refers to the first days of Jesus ministry. Alternate translation: “when you first started following me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1150JHN166kr4dfigs-metonymyἡ λύπη πεπλήρωκεν ὑμῶν τὴν καρδίαν1sadness has filled your heart

Here, heart is a metonym for a persons inner being. Alternate translation: “you are now very sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1151JHN167g3zefigs-doublenegativesἐὰν…μὴ ἀπέλθω, ὁ Παράκλητος οὐκ ἐλεύσεται πρὸς ὑμᾶς1if I do not go away, the Comforter will not come to you

You can translate this in a positive form. Alternate translation: “the Comforter will come to you only if I go away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1152JHN167d1zdΠαράκλητος1Comforter

This is a title for the Holy Spirit who will be with the disciples after Jesus goes away. See how you translated this in John 14:26.

1153JHN168e7diἐκεῖνος ἐλέγξει τὸν κόσμον περὶ ἁμαρτίας1the Comforter will prove the world to be wrong about sin

When the Holy Spirit came, he began to show people that they are sinners.

1154JHN168bpu5ἐκεῖνος1Comforter

This refers to the Holy Spirit. See how you translated this in John 14:16.

1155JHN168i78rfigs-metonymyκόσμον1world

This is a metonym that refers to the people in the world.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1156JHN169v4hkπερὶ ἁμαρτίας μέν, ὅτι οὐ πιστεύουσιν εἰς ἐμὲ1about sin, because they do not believe in me

“they are guilty of sin because they do not trust in me”

1157JHN1610t4qeπερὶ δικαιοσύνης…ὅτι πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα ὑπάγω, καὶ οὐκέτι θεωρεῖτέ με1about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, and you will no longer see me

“when I return to God, and they see me no more, they will know that I did the right things”

1158JHN1610r121guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1159JHN1611l71yπερὶ…κρίσεως, ὅτι ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου κέκριται1about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged

“God will hold them accountable and will punish them for their sins, just as he will punish Satan, the one who rules this world”

1160JHN1611x2z1ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου1the ruler of this world

Here, the ruler refers to Satan. See how you translated this in John 12:31. Alternate translation: “Satan who rules this world”

1161JHN1612g29nἔτι πολλὰ…ὑμῖν λέγειν1things to say to you

“additional messages for you” or “more words for you”

1162JHN1613j7grτὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας1the Spirit of Truth

This is a name for the Holy Spirit who will tell the people the truth about God.

1163JHN1613pau7figs-explicitὁδηγήσει ὑμᾶς ἐν τῇ ἀληθείᾳ πάσῃ1he will guide you into all the truth

Here, truth refers to spiritual truth. Alternate translation: “he will teach you all the spiritual truth you need to know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1164JHN1613v738figs-explicitὅσα ἀκούσει, λαλήσει1he will say whatever he hears

Jesus implies that God the Father will speak to the Spirit. Alternate translation: “he will say whatever God tells him to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1165JHN1614m9pbfigs-explicitἐκ τοῦ ἐμοῦ λήμψεται, καὶ ἀναγγελεῖ ὑμῖν1he will take from what is mine and he will tell it to you

Here, things of mine refers to Jesus teaching and mighty works. Alternate translation: “he will reveal to you that what I have said and done are indeed true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1166JHN1615s73eguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1167JHN1615rmq9figs-explicitἐκ τοῦ ἐμοῦ λαμβάνει, καὶ ἀναγγελεῖ ὑμῖν1the Spirit will take from what is mine and he will tell it to you

The Holy Spirit will tell people that the words and works of Jesus are true. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit will tell everyone that my words and works are true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1168JHN1616nq4gμικρὸν1In a short amount of time

“soon” or “before much time passes”

1169JHN1616en9bκαὶ πάλιν μικρὸν1after another short amount of time

“again, before much time passes”

1170JHN1617f2sj0General Information:

There is a break in Jesus speaking as his disciples ask each other about what Jesus meant.

1171JHN1617s9x3μικρὸν καὶ οὐ θεωρεῖτέ με1A short amount of time you will no longer see me

The disciples did not understand that this refers to Jesus death on the cross.

1172JHN1617zd1nπάλιν μικρὸν καὶ ὄψεσθέ με1after another short amount of time you will see me

This could refer to: (1) Jesus resurrection. (2) Jesus coming at the end of time.

1173JHN1617sz1vguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα1the Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1174JHN1619j7dv0Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues speaking to his disciples.

1175JHN1619j7wvfigs-rquestionπερὶ τούτου ζητεῖτε μετ’ ἀλλήλων, ὅτι εἶπον, μικρὸν καὶ οὐ θεωρεῖτέ με; καὶ πάλιν μικρὸν καὶ ὄψεσθέ με?1Are you seeking among yourselves concerning this because I said, A little while and you do not see me, and again a little while and you will see me?

Jesus uses this question so his disciples will focus on what he has just told them, so he can explain further. Alternate translation: “You are asking yourselves what I meant when I said, A little while and you do not see me, and again a little while and you will see me.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1176JHN1620jx6sἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν1Truly, truly, I say to you

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true. See how you translated this in John 1:51.

1177JHN1620p9x1figs-metonymyὁ δὲ κόσμος χαρήσεται1but the world will be glad

Here the world is a metonym for the people who oppose God. Alternate translation: “but the people who oppose God will be glad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1178JHN1620p6v5figs-activepassiveἀλλ’ ἡ λύπη ὑμῶν εἰς χαρὰν γενήσεται1but your sorrow will be turned into joy

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “but your sadness will become joy” or “but afterwards instead of being sad you will be very happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1179JHN1622j7gefigs-metonymyχαρήσεται ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία1your heart will be glad

Here, heart is a metonym for a persons inner being. Alternate translation: “you will be very happy” or “you will be very joyful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1180JHN1623g4qtἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν1Truly, truly, I say to you

Translate this the way your language emphasizes that what follows is important and true. See how you translated this in John 1:51.

1181JHN1623v91rfigs-metonymyἄν τι αἰτήσητε τὸν Πατέρα, δώσει ὑμῖν ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου1if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you

Here the word name is a metonym that refers to the person and authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “if you ask anything of the Father, he will give it to you because you belong to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1182JHN1623w5jjguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1183JHN1623q75vfigs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου1in my name

Here, name is a metonym that refers to the person and authority of Jesus. The Father will honor the requests of the believers because of their relationship with Jesus. Alternate translation: “because you are my followers” or “on my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1184JHN1624p83ufigs-activepassiveἡ χαρὰ ὑμῶν ᾖ πεπληρωμένη1your joy will be fulfilled

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “God will give you great joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1185JHN1625m4wcἐν παροιμίαις1in figures of speech

“in language that is not clear”

1186JHN1625n93qἔρχεται ὥρα1the hour is coming

“it will soon happen”

1187JHN1625r73lπαρρησίᾳ περὶ τοῦ Πατρὸς ἀπαγγελῶ ὑμῖν1tell you plainly about the Father

“I will tell you about the Father in a way that you will clearly understand.”

1188JHN1625bq3qguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατρὸς1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1189JHN1626vf63figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου αἰτήσεσθε1you will ask in my name

Here, name is a metonym for the person and authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “you will ask because you belong to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1190JHN1626cy76guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατέρα1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1191JHN1627scs2αὐτὸς…ὁ Πατὴρ φιλεῖ ὑμᾶς, ὅτι ὑμεῖς ἐμὲ πεφιλήκατε1the Father himself loves you because you have loved me

When a person loves Jesus, the Son, they also love the Father, because the Father and Son are one.

1192JHN1627b49qguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατὴρ1I came from the Father

Here, Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1193JHN1628xn2vἐξῆλθον παρὰ τοῦ Πατρὸς, καὶ ἐλήλυθα εἰς τὸν κόσμον; πάλιν ἀφίημι τὸν κόσμον, καὶ πορεύομαι πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα1I came from the Father … I am leaving the world and I am going to the Father

After his death and resurrection, Jesus will return to God the Father.

1194JHN1628wyz7guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ Πατρὸς…τὸν Πατέρα1I came from the Father … going to the Father

Here, Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1195JHN1628l3zbfigs-metonymyκόσμον1world

Here, world is a metonym that refers to the people who live in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1196JHN1631c8cufigs-rquestionἄρτι πιστεύετε?1Do you believe now?

This remarks appears in the form of a question to show that Jesus is puzzled that his disciples are only now ready to trust him. Alternate translation: “So, now you finally place your trust in me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1197JHN1632yza2figs-activepassiveσκορπισθῆτε1you will be scattered

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “others will scatter you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1198JHN1632k3brguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ Πατὴρ1the Father is with me

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1199JHN1633k6d6figs-explicitἵνα ἐν ἐμοὶ εἰρήνην ἔχητε1so that you will have peace in me

Here, peace refers to inner peace. Alternate translation: “so that you may have inner peace because of your relationship with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1200JHN1633z7wjfigs-metonymyἐγὼ νενίκηκα τὸν κόσμον1I have conquered the world

Here, the world refers to the troubles and persecution that believers will endure from those who oppose God. Alternate translation: “I have conquered the troubles of this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1201JHN17intronb2a0

John 17 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter forms one long prayer.

Special concepts in this chapter

Glory

Scripture often speaks of Gods glory as a great, brilliant light. When people see this light, they are afraid. In this chapter Jesus asks God to show his followers his true glory (John 17:1).

Jesus is eternal

Jesus existed before God created the world (John 17:5). John wrote about this in John 1:1.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Prayer

Jesus is Gods one and only Son (John 3:16), so he could pray differently from the way other people pray. He used many words that sounded like commands. Your translation should make Jesus sound like a son speaking with love and respect to his father and telling him what the father needs to do so that the father will be happy.

1202JHN171uf8z0Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Jesus had been speaking to his disciples, but now he begins to pray to God.

1203JHN171b4pjfigs-idiomἐπάρας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς αὐτοῦ εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν1he lifted up his eyes to the heavens

To “lift up the eyes” is an idiom that means to look upward. Alternate translation: “he looked up to the sky” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1204JHN171k7tbοὐρανὸν1heavens

This refers to the sky.

1205JHN171l8saguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ…Υἱὸς1Father … Son

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1206JHN171jup7figs-metonymyἐλήλυθεν ἡ ὥρα1the hour has come

Here the word hour is a metonym that refers to the time for Jesus to suffer and die. Alternate translation: “it is time for me to suffer and die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1207JHN172vbt4πάσης σαρκός1all flesh

This refers to all people.

1208JHN174h4hufigs-metonymyτὸ ἔργον…ὃ δέδωκάς μοι ἵνα ποιήσω1the work that you have given me to do

Here, work is a metonym that refers to Jesus entire earthly ministry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1209JHN175k9rafigs-explicitδόξασόν με σύ, Πάτερ, παρὰ σεαυτῷ, τῇ δόξῃ ᾗ εἶχον πρὸ τοῦ τὸν κόσμον, εἶναι παρὰ σοί1Father, glorify me … with the glory that I had with you before the world was made

Jesus had glory with God the Father “before the world was made” because Jesus is God the Son. Alternate translation: “Father, give me and you honor by bringing me into your presence as we were before we made the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1210JHN175g8atguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1211JHN176s4p30Connecting Statement:

Jesus begins to pray for his disciples.

1212JHN176vbn8figs-metonymyἐφανέρωσά σου τὸ ὄνομα1I revealed your name

Here, name is a metonym that refers to the person of God. Alternate translation: “I taught them who you really are and what you are like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1213JHN176hn8zfigs-metonymyἐκ τοῦ κόσμου1from the world

Here, world is a metonym that refers to the people of the world that oppose God. This means that God has separated the believers spiritually from the people who do not believe in him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1214JHN176u8lcfigs-idiomτὸν λόγον σου τετήρηκαν1kept your word

This is an idiom that means to obey. Alternate translation: “they have obeyed your teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1215JHN179ndb1figs-metonymyοὐ περὶ τοῦ κόσμου ἐρωτῶ1I do not pray for the world

Here, world is a metonym that refers to the people who oppose God. Alternate translation: “I am not praying for those who do not belong to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1216JHN1711bk2hfigs-metonymyἐν τῷ κόσμῳ1in the world

Here, world is a metonym that refers to being on earth and being among the people who oppose God. Alternate translation: “among the people who do not belong to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1217JHN1711a7unΠάτερ Ἅγιε, τήρησον αὐτοὺς…ἵνα ὦσιν ἓν, καθὼς ἡμεῖς1Holy Father, keep them … that they will be one … as we are one

Jesus asks the Father to keep those who trust in him so they can have a close relationship with God.

1218JHN1711kp1dguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1219JHN1711yq9zfigs-metonymyτήρησον αὐτοὺς ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου, ᾧ δέδωκάς μοι1keep them in your name that you have given me

Here, name is a metonym for Gods power and authority. Alternate translation: “keep them safe by your power and authority, which you have given me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1220JHN1712s5kwfigs-metonymyἐγὼ ἐτήρουν αὐτοὺς ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου1I kept them in your name

Here, name is a metonym that refers to the power and protection of God. Alternate translation: “I kept them with your protection” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1221JHN1712a4s8οὐδεὶς ἐξ αὐτῶν ἀπώλετο, εἰ μὴ ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας1not one of them was destroyed, except for the son of destruction

“the only one among them who was destroyed is the son of destruction”

1222JHN1712az2mfigs-explicitὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας1the son of destruction

This refers to Judas, who betrayed Jesus. Alternate translation: “the one whom you long ago decided you would destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1223JHN1712blz4figs-activepassiveἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ1so that the scriptures would be fulfilled

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “to fulfill the prophecy about him in the scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1224JHN1713p71qfigs-metonymyτῷ κόσμῳ1the world

Here, the world is a metonym for the people who live in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1225JHN1713jp4vfigs-activepassiveἵνα ἔχωσιν τὴν χαρὰν τὴν ἐμὴν, πεπληρωμένην ἐν ἑαυτοῖς1so that they will have my joy fulfilled in themselves

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so that you might give them great joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1226JHN1714bc1yἐγὼ δέδωκα αὐτοῖς τὸν λόγον σου1I have given them your word

“I have spoken your message to them”

1227JHN1714qf43figs-metonymyὁ κόσμος ἐμίσησεν αὐτούς, ὅτι οὐκ εἰσὶν ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου, καθὼς ἐγὼ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου1the world … because they are not of the world … I am not of the world

Here, the world is a metonym that refers to the people who oppose God. Alternate translation: “the people who oppose you have hated my followers because they do not belong to those who do not believe, just as I do not belong to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1228JHN1715hg22figs-metonymyτοῦ κόσμου1the world

Here, the world is a metonym for the people who oppose God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1229JHN1715s3vpfigs-explicitτηρήσῃς αὐτοὺς ἐκ τοῦ πονηροῦ1keep them from the evil one

Here, the evil one refers to Satan. Alternate translation: “you would protect them from Satan, the evil one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1230JHN1717y53efigs-explicitἁγίασον αὐτοὺς ἐν τῇ ἀληθείᾳ1Set them apart by the truth

You can state clearly the purpose for setting them apart. The phrase by the truth here represents by teaching the truth. Alternate translation: “Make them your own people by teaching them the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1231JHN1717y5qxὁ λόγος ὁ σὸς ἀλήθειά ἐστιν1Your word is truth

“Your message is true” or “What you say is true”

1232JHN1718bh1afigs-metonymyεἰς τὸν κόσμον1into the world

Here, the world is a metonym that means the people who live in the world. Alternate translation: “to the people of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1233JHN1719z4z8figs-activepassiveἵνα ὦσιν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἡγιασμένοι ἐν ἀληθείᾳ1so that they themselves may also be set apart in truth

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so that they may also set apart themselves truly to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1234JHN1720n7mpτῶν πιστευόντων διὰ τοῦ λόγου αὐτῶν εἰς ἐμὲ1those who will believe in me through their word

“those who will believe in me because they teach about me”

1235JHN1721s8a1πάντες ἓν ὦσιν, καθὼς σύ, Πάτερ, ἐν ἐμοὶ, κἀγὼ ἐν σοί, ἵνα καὶ αὐτοὶ ἐν ἡμῖν ὦσιν1they will all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I am in you. May they also be in us

Those who trust in Jesus become united with the Father and the Son when they believe.

1236JHN1721yt2wguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1237JHN1721nef9figs-metonymyὁ κόσμος1the world

Here, the world is a metonym that refers to the people who do not yet know God. Alternate translation: “the people who do not know God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1238JHN1722p4mjκἀγὼ τὴν, δόξαν ἣν δέδωκάς μοι, δέδωκα αὐτοῖς1The glory that you gave me, I have given to them

“I have honored my followers just as you have honored me”

1239JHN1722wwu9figs-activepassiveἵνα ὦσιν ἓν, καθὼς ἡμεῖς ἕν1so that they will be one, just as we are one

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “so that you can unite them just as you have united us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1240JHN1723fld5ἵνα ὦσιν τετελειωμένοι εἰς ἕν1that they may be brought to complete unity

“that they may be completely united”

1241JHN1723s7phfigs-metonymyἵνα γινώσκῃ ὁ κόσμος1that the world will know

Here, the world is a metonym that refers to the people who do not know God. Alternate translation: “that all the people will know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1242JHN1723rw4uἠγάπησας1loved

This kind of love comes from God and focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1243JHN1724da83guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1244JHN1724xh1afigs-explicitὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ1where I am

Here, where I am refers to heaven. Alternate translation: “with me in heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1245JHN1724hz83θεωρῶσιν τὴν δόξαν τὴν ἐμὴν1to see my glory

“to see my greatness”

1246JHN1724fiv7figs-explicitπρὸ καταβολῆς κόσμου1before the creation of the world

Here Jesus refers to the time before creation. Alternate translation: “before we created the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1247JHN1725cj690Connecting Statement:

Jesus finishes his prayer.

1248JHN1725ur9jguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠάτερ δίκαιε1Righteous Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1249JHN1725xpf5figs-metonymyὁ κόσμος σε οὐκ ἔγνω1the world did not know you

Here, the world is a metonym for the people who do not belong to God. Alternate translation: “those who do not belong to you do not know what you are like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1250JHN1726xpi3figs-metonymyἐγνώρισα αὐτοῖς τὸ ὄνομά σου1I made your name known to them

The word name refers to God. Alternate translation: “I have revealed to them what you are like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1251JHN1726gk2jἀγάπη…ἠγάπησάς1love … loved

This kind of love comes from God and focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1252JHN18introltl20

John 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Verse 14 says, “Now Caiaphas was the one who had given the advice to the Jews that it would be better that one man die for the people.” The author says this to help the reader understand why it was to Caiaphas that they took Jesus. You might want to put these words in parentheses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

Special concepts in this chapter

“It is not lawful for us to put any man to death”

The Roman government did not allow the Jews to kill criminals, so the Jews needed to ask Pilate, the governor, to kill him (John 18:31).

Jesus kingdom

No one knows for sure what Jesus meant when he told Pilate that his kingdom was not “of this world” (John 18:36). Some people think that Jesus means that his kingdom is only spiritual and that he has no visible kingdom on this earth, Other people think that Jesus meant that he would not build and rule his kingdom by force, the way other kings build theirs. It is possible to translate the words “is not of this world” as “is not from this place” or “comes from another place.”

King of the Jews

When Pilate asked if Jesus were the King of the Jews (John 18:33), he was asking if Jesus were claiming to be like King Herod, whom the Romans were permitting to rule Judea. When he asked the crowd if he should release the King of the Jews (John 18:39), he is mocking the Jews, because the Romans and Jews hated each other. He was also mocking Jesus, because he did not think that Jesus was a king at all. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

1253JHN181sq3twriting-background0General Information:

Verses 1-2 give background information for the events that follow. Verse 1 tells where they took place, and verse 2 gives background information about Judas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1254JHN181cxz8writing-neweventταῦτα εἰπὼν, Ἰησοῦς1After Jesus spoke these words

The author uses these words to mark the beginning of a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1255JHN181z9bwtranslate-namesΚεδρὼν1Kidron Valley

This is a valley in Jerusalem separating the Temple Mount from the Mount of Olives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1256JHN181w3zxfigs-explicitὅπου ἦν κῆπος1where there was a garden

This garden was a grove of olive trees. Alternate translation: “where there was a grove of olive trees” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1257JHN184k71q0General Information:

Jesus begins to speak with the soldiers, officers, and Pharisees.

1258JHN184sh2uἸησοῦς οὖν εἰδὼς πάντα τὰ ἐρχόμενα ἐπ’ αὐτὸν1Then Jesus, who knew all the things that were happening to him

“Then Jesus, who knew everything that was about to happen to him”

1259JHN185vg2dἸησοῦν τὸν Ναζωραῖον1Jesus of Nazareth

“Jesus, the man from Nazareth”

1260JHN185fd9yfigs-explicitἐγώ εἰμι1I am

The word he is implied in the text. Alternate translation: “I am he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1261JHN185g4hxὁ παραδιδοὺς αὐτὸν1who betrayed him

“the one who was going to hand him over”

1262JHN186b8tlfigs-explicitἐγώ εἰμι1I am

Here the word he is not present in the original text, but it is implied. Alternate translation: “I am he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1263JHN186w38nfigs-explicitἔπεσαν χαμαί1fell to the ground

The men fell to the ground because of Jesus power. Alternate translation: “fell down because of Jesus power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1264JHN187uf85Ἰησοῦν τὸν Ναζωραῖον1Jesus of Nazareth

“Jesus, the man from Nazareth”

1265JHN188l8aswriting-background0General Information:

In verse 9 there is a break from the main story line as John tells us background information about Jesus fulfilling Scripture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1266JHN188ui8zfigs-explicitἐγώ εἰμι1I am

Here the word he is not present in the original text, but it is implied. Alternate translation: “I am he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1267JHN189bjp9figs-explicitἵνα πληρωθῇ ὁ λόγος ὃν εἶπεν1This was in order to fulfill the word that he said

Here, the word refers to the words Jesus had prayed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1268JHN189zpbqfigs-activepassiveἵνα πληρωθῇ ὁ λόγος ὃν εἶπεν1

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “This happened in order to fulfill the words that he had said when he was praying to his Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1269JHN1810fe37translate-namesΜάλχος1Malchus

Malchus is a male servant of the high priest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1270JHN1811u2s9θήκην1sheath

the cover for a sharp knife or sword, so the knife will not cut the owner

1271JHN1811ghz6figs-rquestionτὸ ποτήριον ὃ δέδωκέν μοι ὁ Πατὴρ, οὐ μὴ πίω αὐτό?1Should I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis to Jesus statement. Alternate translation: “I must surely drink the cup that the Father has given to me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1272JHN1811m4f3figs-metaphorτὸ ποτήριον1the cup

Here, cup is a metaphor that refers to the suffering that Jesus must endure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1273JHN1811cjx7guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατὴρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1274JHN1812wxb6writing-background0General Information:

Verse 14 tells us background information about Caiaphas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1275JHN1812cl3ffigs-synecdocheτῶν Ἰουδαίων1the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1276JHN1812i6bzfigs-explicitσυνέλαβον τὸν Ἰησοῦν καὶ ἔδησαν αὐτὸν1seized Jesus and tied him up

The soldiers tied Jesus hands to prevent him from escaping. Alternate translation: “captured Jesus and tied him up to prevent him from escaping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1277JHN1815hch7figs-activepassiveὁ δὲ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος ἦν γνωστὸς τῷ ἀρχιερεῖ, καὶ συνεισῆλθεν τῷ Ἰησοῦ1Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and he entered with Jesus

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “Now the high priest knew that disciple so he was able to enter with Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1278JHN1816utf4figs-activepassiveοὖν ὁ μαθητὴς ὁ ἄλλος ὅς ἦν γνωστὸς τοῦ ἀρχιερέως1So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “So the other disciple, whom the high priest knew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1279JHN1817r82lfigs-rquestionμὴ καὶ σὺ ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν εἶ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τούτου?1Are you not also one of the disciples of this man?

This appears in the form of a question to enable the servant to express her remark somewhat cautiously. Alternate translation: “You are also one of the arrested mans disciples! Are you not?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1280JHN1818bbe9figs-explicitἵστήκεισαν δὲ οἱ δοῦλοι καὶ οἱ ὑπηρέται, ἀνθρακιὰν πεποιηκότες, ὅτι ψῦχος ἦν, καὶ ἐθερμαίνοντο1Now the servants and the officers were standing there, and they had made a charcoal fire, for it was cold, and they were warming themselves

These were the high priests servants and the temple guards. Alternate translation: “It was cold, so the high priests servants and temple guards made a charcoal fire and were standing and warming themselves around it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1281JHN1818hbw6writing-backgroundδὲ1Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line so John can add the information about the people who were warming themselves around the fire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1282JHN1819ppt20General Information:

Here the story line shifts back to Jesus.

1283JHN1819e8h3ὁ…ἀρχιερεὺς1The high priest

This was Caiphas (John 18:13).

1284JHN1819y6gnfigs-explicitπερὶ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ, καὶ περὶ τῆς διδαχῆς αὐτοῦ1about his disciples and his teaching

Here, his teaching refers to what Jesus had been teaching the people. Alternate translation: “about his disciples and what he had been teaching the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1285JHN1820h2kjfigs-metonymyἐγὼ παρρησίᾳ λελάληκα τῷ κόσμῳ1I have spoken openly to the world

Here, the world is a metonym for those people who had heard Jesus teach. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1286JHN1820ltlpfigs-hyperboleἐγὼ παρρησίᾳ λελάληκα τῷ κόσμῳ1

Here the exaggeration the world emphasizes that Jesus has spoken openly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1287JHN1820vcv3figs-hyperboleὅπου πάντες οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι συνέρχονται1where all the Jews come together

Here, all the Jews is an exaggeration that emphasizes that Jesus spoke where anyone who wanted to hear him could hear him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1288JHN1821dlu6figs-rquestionτί με ἐρωτᾷς?1Why did you ask me?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis to what Jesus is saying. Alternate translation: “You should not be asking me these questions!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1289JHN1822szv3figs-rquestionοὕτως ἀποκρίνῃ τῷ ἀρχιερεῖ?1Is that how you answer the high priest?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “That is not how you should answer the high priest!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1290JHN1823d76yμαρτύρησον περὶ τοῦ κακοῦ1testify about the wrong

“tell me what I said that was wrong”

1291JHN1823r8dyfigs-rquestionεἰ…καλῶς, τί με δέρεις?2if rightly, why do you hit me?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis to what Jesus is saying. Alternate translation: “if I said only what was right, you should not be hitting me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1292JHN1825jr1c0General Information:

Here the story line shifts back to Peter.

1293JHN1825ki76writing-backgroundδὲ1Now

This word is used to mark a break in the story line so John can provide information about Peter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1294JHN1825l2bjfigs-rquestionμὴ καὶ σὺ ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ εἶ?1Are you not also one of his disciples?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “You are also one of his disciples!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1295JHN1826oka8figs-rquestionοὐκ ἐγώ σε εἶδον ἐν τῷ κήπῳ μετ’ αὐτοῦ?1

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “I saw you in the olive tree grove with the man they arrested! Did I not?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1296JHN1826x6s3figs-explicitμετ’ αὐτοῦ1Did I not see you in the garden with him?

Here the word him refers to Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1297JHN1827msy6figs-explicitπάλιν οὖν ἠρνήσατο Πέτρος1Peter then denied again

Here it is implied that Peter denied knowing and being with Jesus. Alternate translation: “Peter then denied again that he knew Jesus or that he had been with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1298JHN1827jww8figs-explicitεὐθέως ἀλέκτωρ ἐφώνησεν1immediately the rooster crowed

Here it is assumed the reader will remember that Jesus had said Peter would deny him before the rooster crowed. Alternate translation: “immediately the rooster crowed, just as Jesus had said would happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1299JHN1828a6e7writing-background0General Information:

Here the story line shifts back to Jesus. The soldiers and Jesus accusers bring him to Caiaphas. Verse 28 gives us background information about why they did not enter the Praetorium. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1300JHN1828ija7figs-explicitἄγουσιν οὖν τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἀπὸ τοῦ Καϊάφα1Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas

Here it is implied that they are leading Jesus from Caiaphas house. Alternate translation: “Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1301JHN1828h3vxfigs-doublenegativesαὐτοὶ οὐκ εἰσῆλθον εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον, ἵνα μὴ μιανθῶσιν1they did not enter the government headquarters so that they would not be defiled

You can translate the double negative in a positive form. Alternate translation: “they themselves remained the governors palace to they would remain ceremonially clean” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1302JHN1828f47sfigs-explicitαὐτοὶ οὐκ εἰσῆλθον εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον, ἵνα μὴ μιανθῶσιν1

Pilate was not a Jew, so if the Jewish leaders entered his headquarters, they would be defiled. This would have prevented them from celebrating the Passover. Alternate translation: “they themselves remained outside Pilates headquarters because Pilate was a Gentile. They did not want to become defiled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1303JHN1830gj5sfigs-doublenegativesεἰ μὴ ἦν οὗτος κακὸν ποιῶν, οὐκ ἄν σοι παρεδώκαμεν αὐτόν1If this man was not an evildoer, we would not have given him over to you

You can translate this double negative in a positive form. Alternate translation: “This man is an evil doer, so we had to bring him to you for punishment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1304JHN1830j9w3παρεδώκαμεν αὐτόν1given him over

This phrase here means to hand over to an enemy.

1305JHN1831s3l4writing-background0General Information:

In verse 32 there is a break from the main story line as the author tells us background information about how Jesus predicted how he would die. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1306JHN1831ln9sfigs-synecdocheεἶπον αὐτῷ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1The Jews said to him

Here, Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus and arrested him. Alternate translation: “The Jewish leaders said to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1307JHN1831ph54figs-explicitἡμῖν οὐκ ἔξεστιν ἀποκτεῖναι οὐδένα1It is not lawful for us to put any man to death

According to Roman law, the Jews could not put a man to death. Alternate translation: “According to Roman law, we cannot put a person to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1308JHN1832ta7mfigs-activepassiveἵνα ὁ λόγος τοῦ Ἰησοῦ πληρωθῇ1so that the word of Jesus would be fulfilled

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “This happened in order to fulfill what Jesus had said earlier,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1309JHN1832tu3cσημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ ἤμελλεν ἀποθνῄσκειν1to indicate by what kind of death he would die

“regarding how he would die”

1310JHN1835kfq5figs-rquestionμήτι ἐγὼ Ἰουδαῖός εἰμι?1I am not a Jew, am I?

This remark appears in the form of a question so Pilate can emphasize his complete lack of interest in the cultural affairs of the Jewish people. Alternate translation: “Well I am certainly not a Jew, and I have no interest in these matters!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1311JHN1835en38τὸ ἔθνος τὸ σὸν1Your own people

“Your fellow Jews”

1312JHN1836gq19figs-metonymyἡ βασιλεία ἡ ἐμὴ οὐκ ἔστιν ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου1My kingdom is not of this world

Here, world is a metonym for the people who oppose Jesus. This could mean: (1) his kingdom is not part of this world. (2) he does not need this worlds permission to rule as their king. (3) it is not from this world that Jesus has authority to be king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1313JHN1836s2lqfigs-activepassiveἄν, ἵνα μὴ παραδοθῶ τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1so that I would not be given over to the Jews

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “would prevent the Jewish leaders from arresting me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1314JHN1836pu8jfigs-synecdocheτοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche that refers to the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1315JHN1837ug7ifigs-synecdocheἐλήλυθα εἰς τὸν κόσμον1I have come into the world

Here, the world is a synecdoche that refers to the people who live in the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1316JHN1837gl3kfigs-explicitμαρτυρήσω τῇ ἀληθείᾳ1bear witness to the truth

Here, the truth refers to the truth about God. Alternate translation: “I would tell people the truth about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1317JHN1837ltn9figs-idiomὁ ὢν ἐκ τῆς ἀληθείας1who belongs to the truth

This is an idiom that refers to anyone who loves the truth about God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1318JHN1837fa97figs-synecdocheμου τῆς φωνῆς1my voice

Here, voice is a synecdoche that refers to words Jesus says. Alternate translation: “to the things I say” or “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1319JHN1838zbm5figs-rquestionτί ἐστιν ἀλήθεια?1What is truth?

This remark appears in the form of a question to reflect Pilates belief that no one really knows what truth is. Alternate translation: “No one can know what is true!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1320JHN1838rma7figs-synecdocheτοὺς Ἰουδαίους1the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche that refers to the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1321JHN1840a7plfigs-ellipsisμὴ τοῦτον, ἀλλὰ τὸν Βαραββᾶν1Not this man, but Barabbas

This is an ellipsis. You can add the implied words. Alternate translation: “No! Do not release this man! Release Barabbas instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1322JHN1840h11kwriting-backgroundἦν δὲ ὁ Βαραββᾶς λῃστής1Now Barabbas was a robber

Here John provides background information about Barabbas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1323JHN19introu96u0

John 19 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 19:24, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

“Purple garment”

Purple is a color like red or blue. The people were mocking Jesus, so they put him in a purple garment. This was because kings wore purple garments. They spoke and acted like they were giving honor to a king, but everyone knew that they were doing it because they hated Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

“You are not Caesars friend”

Pilate knew that Jesus was not a criminal, so he did not want to have his soldiers kill him. But the Jews told him that Jesus was claiming to be a king, and anyone who did that was breaking Caesars laws (John 19:12).

The tomb

The tomb in which Jesus was buried (John 19:41) was the kind of tomb in which wealthy Jewish families buried their dead. It was an actual room cut into a rock. It had a flat place on one side where they could place the body after they had put oil and spices on it and wrapped it in cloth. Then they would roll a large rock in front of the tomb so no one could see inside or enter.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Sarcasm

The soldiers were insulting Jesus when they said, “Hail, King of the Jews.” Pilate was insulting the Jews when he asked, “Should I crucify your king?” He was probably also insulting both Jesus and the Jews when he wrote, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Gabbatha, Golgotha

These are two Hebrew words. After translating the meanings of these words (“The Pavement” and “The Place of a Skull”), the author transliterates their sounds by writing them with Greek letters.

1324JHN191u3gi0Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Jesus is standing before Pilate as he is being accused by the Jews.

1325JHN191yay2figs-synecdocheτότε οὖν ἔλαβεν ὁ Πειλᾶτος τὸν Ἰησοῦν καὶ ἐμαστίγωσεν1Then Pilate took Jesus and whipped him

Pilate himself did not whip Jesus. Here, Pilate is a synecdoche for the soldiers that Pilate ordered to whip Jesus. Alternate translation: “Then Pilate ordered his soldiers to whip Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1326JHN193u4vwfigs-ironyχαῖρε, ὁ Βασιλεὺς τῶν Ἰουδαίων1Hail, King of the Jews

The greeting Hail with a raised hand was only used to greet Caesar. As the soldiers use the crown of thorns and the purple robe to mock Jesus, it is ironic that they do not recognize that he is indeed a king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

1327JHN194c6v2figs-explicitαἰτίαν ἐν αὐτῷ οὐχ εὑρίσκω1I find no guilt in him

Pilate states this twice to say he does not believe Jesus is not guilty of any crime. He does not want to punish him. Alternate translation: “I see no reason to punish him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1328JHN195t9wnτὸν ἀκάνθινον στέφανον καὶ τὸ πορφυροῦν ἱμάτιον1crown of thorns … purple garment

The crown and the purple robe are things only kings wear. The soldiers dressed Jesus in this manner to mock him. See John 19:2.

1329JHN197x7bgfigs-synecdocheἀπεκρίθησαν αὐτῷ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι1The Jews answered him

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “The Jewish leaders answered Pilate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1330JHN197vr7pὀφείλει ἀποθανεῖν, ὅτι Υἱὸν Θεοῦ ἑαυτὸν ἐποίησεν1he has to die because he claimed to be the Son of God

Jesus was condemned to death by crucifixion because he claimed he was “the Son of God.”

1331JHN197xt93guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸν Θεοῦ1Son of God

Son of God is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1332JHN1910wcm8figs-rquestionἐμοὶ οὐ λαλεῖς?1Are you not speaking to me?

This remark appears in the form of a question. Here Pilate expresses his surprise that Jesus does not take the opportunity to defend himself. Alternate translation: “I cannot believe you are refusing to speak to me!” or “Answer me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1333JHN1910iap3figs-rquestionοὐκ οἶδας ὅτι ἐξουσίαν ἔχω ἀπολῦσαί σε, καὶ ἐξουσίαν ἔχω σταυρῶσαί σε?1Do you not know that I have power to release you, and power to crucify you?

This remark appears in the form of a question to add emphasis. Alternate translation: “You should know that I am able to release you or to order my soldiers to crucify you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1334JHN1911x2asfigs-doublenegativesοὐκ εἶχες ἐξουσίαν κατ’ ἐμοῦ οὐδεμίαν, εἰ μὴ ἦν δεδομένον σοι ἄνωθεν1You do not have any power over me except for what has been given to you from above

You can translate this double negative in a positive form. Alternate translation: “You are able to act against me only because you have been given that authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1335JHN1911i7nufigs-activepassiveοὐκ εἶχες ἐξουσίαν κατ’ ἐμοῦ οὐδεμίαν, εἰ μὴ ἦν δεδομένον σοι ἄνωθεν1

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “You are able to act against me only because God has made you able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1336JHN1911arc9ἄνωθεν1from above

This is a respectful way of referring to God.

1337JHN1911vc79παραδούς μέ1gave me over

This phrase here means to hand over to an enemy.

1338JHN1912a39pfigs-explicitἐκ τούτου1At this answer

Here, at this refers to Jesus answer. Alternate translation: “When Pilate heard Jesus answer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1339JHN1912r8vafigs-explicitὁ Πειλᾶτος ἐζήτει ἀπολῦσαι αὐτόν1Pilate tried to release him

The form of “was seeking” in the original indicates that Pilate tried “hard” or “repeatedly” to release Jesus. Alternate translation: “he tried hard to release Jesus” or “he tried again and again to release Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1340JHN1912q1vqfigs-synecdocheοἱ δὲ Ἰουδαῖοι ἐκραύγασαν1but the Jews cried out

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche that refers to the Jewish leaders that opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “but the Jewish leaders cried out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1341JHN1912g9xjοὐκ εἶ φίλος τοῦ Καίσαρος1you are not a friend of Caesar

“you are opposing Caesar” or “you are opposing the emperor”

1342JHN1912bhl3βασιλέα ἑαυτὸν ποιῶν1makes himself a king

“who claims that he is a king”

1343JHN1913xr6bfigs-synecdocheὁ οὖν Πειλᾶτος, ἀκούσας τῶν λόγων τούτων, ἤγαγεν ἔξω τὸν Ἰησοῦν1he brought Jesus out

Here, Pilate is a synecdoche for his soldiers, who brought Jesus out. Alternate translation: “he ordered the soldiers to bring Jesus out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1344JHN1913fk5kἐκάθισεν1sat down

Important people like Pilate sat down when they performed an official duty, while people who were not so important stood up.

1345JHN1913qhu4ἐπὶ βήματος1in the judgment seat

The judgment seat was a special chair that an important person like Pilate sat in when he was making an official judgment. If your language has a special way to describe this action, you can use it here.

1346JHN1913g8h4figs-activepassiveεἰς τόπον λεγόμενον Λιθόστρωτον1in a place called “The Pavement,” but

The Pavement was a special stone platform in Jerusalem where only the important people were allowed to go. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “in a place the people called The Pavement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1347JHN1913ev3iἙβραϊστὶ1Hebrew

Hebrew was the language that the people of Israel spoke.

1348JHN1914cus10Connecting Statement:

Some time has passed and it is now the sixth hour, as Pilate orders his soldiers to crucify Jesus.

1349JHN1914t5qtwriting-backgroundδὲ1Now

Now marks a break in the story line so that John can provide information about the upcoming Passover and the time of day. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1350JHN1914en2iὥρα ἦν ὡς ἕκτη1the sixth hour

“It was about noon”

1351JHN1914lc5yfigs-synecdocheλέγει τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις1Pilate said to the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche that refers to the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “Pilate said to the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1352JHN1915tlj2figs-synecdocheτὸν βασιλέα ὑμῶν σταυρώσω1Should I crucify your King?

Here, I is a synecdoche that refers to Pilates soldiers who will actually perform the crucifixion. Alternate translation: “Do you really want me to tell my soldiers to nail your king to a cross?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1353JHN1916t3ybfigs-explicitτότε…παρέδωκεν αὐτὸν αὐτοῖς, ἵνα σταυρωθῇ1Then Pilate gave Jesus over to them to be crucified

Here, Pilate gives the order for his soldiers to crucify Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1354JHN1916dw2mfigs-activepassiveτότε…παρέδωκεν αὐτὸν αὐτοῖς, ἵνα σταυρωθῇ1

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “Pilate then ordered his soldiers to crucify Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1355JHN1917qv6jfigs-activepassiveεἰς τὸν λεγόμενον, Κρανίου Τόπον1to the place called “The Place of a Skull,”

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “to the place that the people called The Place of a Skull,’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1356JHN1917d88mὃ λέγεται Ἑβραϊστὶ, Γολγοθᾶ1which in Hebrew is called “Golgotha.”

Hebrew is the language of the people of Israel. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “which in Hebrew they call Golgotha.’”

1357JHN1918fb84figs-ellipsisμετ’ αὐτοῦ ἄλλους δύο1with him two other men

This is an ellipsis. You can translate this, adding the implied words. Alternate translation: “they also nailed two other criminals to their crosses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1358JHN1919cx5sfigs-synecdocheἔγραψεν…καὶ τίτλον ὁ Πειλᾶτος, καὶ ἔθηκεν ἐπὶ τοῦ σταυροῦ1Pilate also wrote a sign and put it on the cross

Here, Pilate is a synecdoche for the person who wrote on the sign. Here, on the cross refers to Jesus cross. Alternate translation: “Pilate also commanded someone to write on a sign and to attach it to Jesus cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1359JHN1919gk8efigs-activepassiveἦν…γεγραμμένον, Ἰησοῦς ὁ Ναζωραῖος, ὁ Βασιλεὺς τῶν Ἰουδαίων.1There it was written: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “that person wrote on it the words: Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1360JHN1920ke3tfigs-activepassiveὁ τόπος…ὅπου ἐσταυρώθη ὁ Ἰησοῦς1the place where Jesus was crucified

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the place where the soldiers crucified Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1361JHN1920mgb7figs-activepassiveκαὶ ἦν γεγραμμένον Ἑβραϊστί, Ῥωμαϊστί, Ἑλληνιστί1The sign was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “The one who prepared the sign wrote the words in three languages: Hebrew, Latin, and Greek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1362JHN1920w41eῬωμαϊστί1Latin

Latin was the language of the Roman government.

1363JHN1921qk7wfigs-explicitἔλεγον οὖν τῷ Πειλάτῳ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς τῶν Ἰουδαίων1Then the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate

The chief priests had to go back to Pilates headquarters to protest to him about the words on the sign. Alternate translation: “Then the chief priests went back to Pilate and said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1364JHN1922sus9figs-explicitὃ γέγραφα, γέγραφα1What I have written I have written

Pilate implies that he will not change the words on the sign. Alternate translation: “I have written what I wanted to write, and I will not change it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1365JHN1923lis8writing-background0General Information:

At the end of verse 24 there is a break from the main story line as the John tells us how this event fulfills Scriture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1366JHN1923s74cfigs-explicitκαὶ τὸν χιτῶνα1also the tunic

“and they also took his tunic.” The soldiers kept the tunic separate and did not divide it. Alternate translation: “they kept his tunic separate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1367JHN1924ks7mfigs-explicitλάχωμεν περὶ αὐτοῦ, τίνος ἔσται1let us cast lots for it to decide whose it will be

The soldiers will gamble and the winner will receive the shirt. Alternate translation: “let us gamble for the tunic and the winner will get to keep it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1368JHN1924j1f9ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ ἡ λέγουσα1so that the scripture would be fulfilled which said

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “This fulfilled the scripture that said” or “This happened to make the scripture come true which said”

1369JHN1926gkf1τὸν μαθητὴν…ὃν ἠγάπα1the disciple whom he loved

This refers to John, the writer of this Gospel.

1370JHN1926t7tcfigs-metaphorγύναι, ἰδοὺ, ὁ υἱός σου1Woman, see, your son

Here the word son is a metaphor. Jesus wants his disciple, John, to be like a son to his mother. Alternate translation: “Woman, here is the man who will act like a son to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1371JHN1927qc7dfigs-metaphorἴδε, ἡ μήτηρ σου1See, your mother

Here the word mother is a metaphor. Jesus wants his mother to be like a mother to his disciple, John. Alternate translation: “Think of this woman as if she were your own mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1372JHN1927q615ἀπ’ ἐκείνης τῆς ὥρας1From that hour

“from that very moment”

1373JHN1928crd3figs-activepassiveεἰδὼς…ὅτι ἤδη πάντα τετέλεσται1knowing that everything was now completed

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “he knew that he had done everything that God had sent him to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1374JHN1929x1cyfigs-activepassiveσκεῦος ἔκειτο ὄξους μεστόν1A container full of sour wine was placed there

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “Someone had placed there a full container of sour wine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1375JHN1929drr1προσήνεγκαν1they put

The Roman guards did this.

1376JHN1929y2egσπόγγον1a sponge

a small object that can soak up and hold much liquid

1377JHN1929mg3tὑσσώπῳ1on a hyssop staff

“a branch of a plant called hyssop”

1378JHN1930vz56figs-explicitκλίνας τὴν κεφαλὴν, παρέδωκεν τὸ πνεῦμα1He bowed his head and gave up his spirit

John implies here that Jesus gave his spirit back to God. Alternate translation: “he bowed his head and gave God his spirit” or “he bowed his head and died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1379JHN1931zuk9figs-synecdocheοἱ…Ἰουδαῖοι1the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1380JHN1931c49hπαρασκευὴ1day of preparation

This is the time before the Passover when people prepared food for the Passover.

1381JHN1931f96hfigs-activepassiveἵνα κατεαγῶσιν αὐτῶν τὰ σκέλη, καὶ ἀρθῶσιν1to break their legs and to remove them

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “to have someone break the legs of the executed men and take their bodies down from the crosses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1382JHN1932q2yqfigs-activepassiveτοῦ ἄλλου τοῦ συνσταυρωθέντος αὐτῷ1who had been crucified with Jesus

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “of the other man whom they had crucified near Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1383JHN1935p17bwriting-backgroundὁ ἑωρακὼς1The one who saw this

This sentence gives background information to the story. John is telling readers that he was there and that we can trust what he has written. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1384JHN1935fl82figs-explicitμεμαρτύρηκεν, καὶ ἀληθινὴ αὐτοῦ ἐστιν ἡ μαρτυρία1has testified, and his testimony is true

To “testify” means to tell about something that one has seen. Alternate translation: “has told the truth about what he has seen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1385JHN1935c9q7figs-explicitἵνα καὶ ὑμεῖς πιστεύητε1so that you would also believe

Here, believe means to put ones trust in Jesus. Alternate translation: “so that you will also put your trust in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1386JHN1936wid6writing-background0General Information:

In these verses there is a break from the main story line as John tells us about how these events have made Scripture come true. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1387JHN1936qwl5figs-activepassiveἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ1in order to fulfill scripture

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “to fulfill the words that someone wrote in the scripture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1388JHN1936b1kxfigs-activepassiveὀστοῦν οὐ συντριβήσεται αὐτοῦ1Not one of his bones will be broken

This is a quotation from Psalm 34. You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “No one will break any of his bones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1389JHN1937h4kqὄψονται εἰς ὃν ἐξεκέντησαν1They will look at him whom they pierced

This is a quotation from Zechariah 12.

1390JHN1938d3hztranslate-namesἸωσὴφ ὁ ἀπὸ Ἁριμαθαίας1Joseph of Arimathea

Arimathea was a small town in Judea. Alternate translation: “Joseph from the town of Arimathea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1391JHN1938h7rafigs-synecdocheδιὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων1for fear of the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus. Alternate translation: “for fear of the Jewish leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1392JHN1938t22gfigs-explicitἵνα ἄρῃ τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ1if he could take away the body of Jesus

John implies that Joseph of Arimathea wants to bury the body of Jesus. Alternate translation: “for permission to take the body of Jesus down from the cross to bury it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1393JHN1939mjy8Νικόδημος1Nicodemus

Nicodemus was one of the Pharisees who believed in Jesus. See how you translated this name in John 3:1.

1394JHN1939d3d2σμύρνης καὶ ἀλόης1myrrh and aloes

These are spices that people use to prepare a body for burial.

1395JHN1939xks9translate-bweightὡς λίτρας ἑκατόν1about one hundred litras in weight

You may convert this to a modern measure. A “litra” is about one third of a kilogram. Alternate translation: “about 33 kilograms in weight” or “weighing about thirty-three kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

1396JHN1941fb25writing-backgroundἦν δὲ ἐν τῷ τόπῳ ὅπου ἐσταυρώθη κῆπος, καὶ ἐν τῷ κήπῳ μνημεῖον καινόν, ἐν ᾧ οὐδέπω οὐδεὶς ἦν τεθειμένος1Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden … had yet been buried

Here John marks a break in the story line in order to provide background information about the location of the tomb where they would bury Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1397JHN1941uib1figs-activepassiveἦν δὲ ἐν τῷ τόπῳ ὅπου ἐσταυρώθη κῆπος1Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “Now in the place where they crucified Jesus there was a garden” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1398JHN1941qd1afigs-activepassiveἐν ᾧ οὐδέπω οὐδεὶς ἦν τεθειμένος1in which no person had yet been buried

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “in which people had not yet buried anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1399JHN1942nr4rfigs-explicitδιὰ τὴν παρασκευὴν τῶν Ἰουδαίων1Because it was the day of preparation for the Jews

According to Jewish law, no one could work after sundown on Friday. It was the beginning of the Sabbath and Passover. Alternate translation: “since the Passover was about to begin that evening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1400JHN20intronm1y0

John 20 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The tomb

The tomb in which Jesus was buried (John 20:1) was the kind of tomb in which wealthy Jewish families buried their dead. It was an actual room cut into a rock. It had a flat place on one side where they could place the body after they had put oil and spices on it and wrapped it in cloth. Then they would roll a large rock in front of the tomb so no one could see inside or enter.

“Receive the Holy Spirit”

If your language uses the same word for “breath” and “spirit,” be sure that the reader understands that Jesus was performing a symbolic action by breathing, and that what the disciples received was the Holy Spirit, not Jesus breath. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Rabboni

John used Greek letters to describe the sound of the word, and then he explained that it means “Teacher.” You should do the same, using the letters of your language.

Jesus resurrection body

No one is sure what Jesus body looked like after he became alive again. His disciples knew it was Jesus because they could see his face and touch the places where the soldiers had put the nails through his hands and feet, But he could also walk through solid walls and doors. It is best not to try to say more than what the ULT says.

Two angels in white

Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all wrote about angels in white clothing with the women at Jesus tomb. Two of the authors called them men, but that is only because the angels were in human form. Two of the authors wrote about two angels, but the other two authors wrote about only one of them. It is best to translate each of these passages as it appears in the ULT without trying to make the passages all say exactly the same thing. (See: Matthew 28:1-2 and Mark 16:5 and Luke 24:4 and John 20:12)

1401JHN201k5pq0General Information:

This is the third day after Jesus was buried.

1402JHN201a8vlτῇ…μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων1first day of the week

“on Sunday”

1403JHN201bdw5figs-activepassiveβλέπει τὸν λίθον ἠρμένον1she saw the stone rolled away

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “she saw that someone had rolled away the stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1404JHN202g2rnμαθητὴν ὃν ἐφίλει ὁ Ἰησοῦς1disciple whom Jesus loved

This phrase appears to be the way that John refers to himself throughout his book. Here the word “love” refers to brotherly love or love for a friend or family member.

1405JHN202xd3wfigs-explicitἦραν τὸν Κύριον ἐκ τοῦ μνημείου1They took away the Lord out from the tomb

Mary Magdalene thinks that someone has stolen the Lords body. Alternate translation: “Someone has taken the Lords body out of the tomb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1406JHN203d6g3ὁ ἄλλος μαθητής1the other disciple

John apparently shows his humility by referring to himself here as the other disciple, rather than including his name.

1407JHN205m9qnὀθόνια1linen cloths

These were the burial cloths that people had used to wrap the body of Jesus.

1408JHN206ys3bὀθόνια1linen cloths

These were the burial cloths that people had used to wrap the body of Jesus. See how you translated this in John 20:5.

1409JHN207qt5afigs-activepassiveτὸ σουδάριον, ὃ ἦν ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς αὐτοῦ1cloth that had been on his head

Here, his head refers to “Jesus head.” You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the cloth that someone had used to cover Jesus face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1410JHN207yc78figs-activepassiveἀλλὰ χωρὶς ἐντετυλιγμένον εἰς ἕνα τόπον1but was folded up in a place by itself

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “but someone had folded it and put it aside, separate from the linen cloths” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1411JHN208vl84ὁ ἄλλος μαθητὴς1the other disciple

John apparently expresses his humility by referring to himself as “the other disciple,” rather than including his name in this book.

1412JHN208ww3zfigs-explicitεἶδεν καὶ ἐπίστευσεν1he saw and believed

When John saw that the tomb was empty, he believed that Jesus had risen from the dead. Alternate translation: “he saw these things and began to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1413JHN209ms3sfigs-explicitοὐδέπω…ᾔδεισαν τὴν Γραφὴν1they still did not know the scripture

Here the word they refers to the disciples who did not understand the scripture that said Jesus would rise again. Alternate translation: “the disciples still did not understand the scripture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1414JHN209u5q9ἀναστῆναι1rise

become alive again

1415JHN209p651ἐκ νεκρῶν1from the dead

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld.

1416JHN2010p5umfigs-explicitἀπῆλθον…πάλιν πρὸς αὑτοὺς1went back home again

The disciples continued to stay in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “went back to where they were staying in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1417JHN2012p9awfigs-explicitθεωρεῖ δύο ἀγγέλους ἐν λευκοῖς1She saw two angels in white

The angels were wearing white clothing. Alternate translation: “she saw two angels dressed in white clothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1418JHN2013v5ujλέγουσιν αὐτῇ ἐκεῖνοι1They said to her

“they asked her”

1419JHN2013hmx8ὅτι ἦραν τὸν Κύριόν μου1Because they took away my Lord

“Because they took away the body of my Lord”

1420JHN2013aq3xοὐκ οἶδα ποῦ ἔθηκαν αὐτόν1I do not know where they have put him

“I do not know where they have put his body”

1421JHN2015le9xλέγει αὐτῇ Ἰησοῦς1Jesus said to her

“Jesus asked her”

1422JHN2015ml7cfigs-explicitκύριε, εἰ σὺ ἐβάστασας αὐτόν1Sir, if you have taken him away

Here the word him refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “if you have taken away the body of Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1423JHN2015z97iεἰπέ μοι ποῦ ἔθηκας αὐτόν1tell me where you have put him

“tell me where you have put his body”

1424JHN2015a5z2figs-explicitκἀγὼ αὐτὸν ἀρῶ1I will take him away

Mary Magdalene wants to get Jesus body and bury it again. Alternate translation: “I will get the body and bury it again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1425JHN2016k468Ραββουνεί1Rabboni

The word Rabboni means rabbi or teacher in Aramaic, the language that Jesus and his disciples spoke.

1426JHN2017whh9τοὺς ἀδελφούς1brothers

Jesus used the word brothers to refer to his disciples.

1427JHN2017xbr1figs-explicitἀναβαίνω πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα μου, καὶ Πατέρα ὑμῶν, καὶ Θεόν μου, καὶ Θεὸν ὑμῶν1I will go up to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God

Jesus rose from the dead and then predicted he would go up into heaven, back to his Father, who is God. Alternate translation: “I am about to return to heaven to be with my Father and your Father, to the one who is my God and your God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1428JHN2017q3x5guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Πατέρα μου, καὶ Πατέρα ὑμῶν1my Father and your Father

These are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God, and between believers and God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1429JHN2018m6xnfigs-explicitἔρχεται Μαριὰμ ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ ἀγγέλλουσα τοῖς μαθηταῖς1Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples

Mary Magdalene went to where the disciples were staying and told them what she had seen and heard. Alternate translation: “Mary Magdalene went to where the disciples were and told them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1430JHN2019m5nt0General Information:

It is now evening and Jesus appears to the disciples.

1431JHN2019qj6nἡμέρᾳ ἐκείνῃ τῇ μιᾷ σαββάτων1that day, the first day of the week

This refers to Sunday.

1432JHN2019e7cbfigs-activepassiveτῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων ὅπου ἦσαν οἱ μαθηταὶ1the doors of where the disciples were, were closed

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the disciples had locked the doors where they were” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1433JHN2019g8bufigs-explicitδιὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων1for fear of the Jews

Here, the Jews is a synecdoche for the Jewish leaders who might arrest the disciples. Alternate translation: “because they were afraid that the Jewish leaders might arrest them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1434JHN2019zj7jεἰρήνη ὑμῖν1Peace to you

This is a common greeting that means “May God give you peace.”

1435JHN2020bk9ffigs-explicitἔδειξεν τὰς χεῖρας καὶ τὴν πλευρὰν αὐτοῖς1he showed them his hands and his side

Jesus showed the disciples his wounds. Alternate translation: “he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1436JHN2021ylp8εἰρήνη ὑμῖν1Peace to you

This is a common greeting that means “May God give you peace.”

1437JHN2021env3guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΠατήρ1Father

Father is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1438JHN2023a9j7figs-activepassiveἀφέωνται αὐτοῖς1they are forgiven

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “God will forgive them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1439JHN2023lb7gἄν τινων κρατῆτε1whoevers sins you keep back

“if you do not forgive anothers sins”

1440JHN2023mw5sfigs-activepassiveκεκράτηνται1they are kept back

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “God will not forgive them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1441JHN2024x8jztranslate-namesΔίδυμος1Didymus

Didymus is a male name that means “twin.” See how this name is translated in John 11:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1442JHN2025n8vcἔλεγον…αὐτῷ οἱ ἄλλοι μαθηταί1disciples later said to him

The word him refers to Thomas.

1443JHN2025i7exfigs-doublenegativesἐὰν μὴ ἴδω ἐν ταῖς χερσὶν αὐτοῦ τὸν τύπον τῶν ἥλων, καὶ βάλω τὸν δάκτυλόν μου εἰς τὸν τύπον τῶν ἥλων, καὶ βάλω μου τὴν χεῖρα εἰς τὴν πλευρὰν αὐτοῦ, οὐ μὴ πιστεύσω1Unless I see … his side, I will not believe

You can translate this double negative in a positive form. Alternate translation: “I will believe only if I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and put my finger into the mark of the nails, and put my hand into his side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1444JHN2025ss17ἐν ταῖς χερσὶν αὐτοῦ…εἰς τὴν πλευρὰν αὐτοῦ1in his hands … into his side

The word his refers to Jesus.

1445JHN2026vzm5οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ1his disciples

The word his refers to Jesus.

1446JHN2026r3izfigs-activepassiveτῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων1while the doors were closed

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “when they had locked the doors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1447JHN2026m5tlεἰρήνη ὑμῖν1Peace to you

This is a common greeting that means “May God give you peace.”

1448JHN2027ncc3figs-doublenegativesμὴ γίνου ἄπιστος, ἀλλὰ πιστός1Do not be unbelieving, but believe

Jesus uses the double negative “Do not be unbelieving” to emphasize the words that follow, “but believe.” If your language does not allow double negatives or the reader would not understand that Jesus is emphasizing the words that follow, you can leave these words untranslated. Alternate translation: “this is what is most important for you to do: you must believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1449JHN2027n4pifigs-explicitπιστός1believe

Here, “believe” means to trust in Jesus. Alternate translation: “put your trust in me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1450JHN2029q81mfigs-explicitπεπίστευκας1you have believed

Thomas believes that Jesus is alive because he has seen him. Alternate translation: “you have believed that I am alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1451JHN2029zgv1μακάριοι οἱ1Blessed are those

This means “God gives great happiness to those.”

1452JHN2029q9fbfigs-explicitμὴ ἰδόντες1who have not seen

This means those who have not seen Jesus. Alternate translation: “who have not seen me alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1453JHN2030yd1jwriting-endofstory0General Information:

As the story is nearing the end, the author comments about the many things Jesus did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

1454JHN2030xz6jfigs-activepassiveἃ οὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένα ἐν τῷ βιβλίῳ τούτῳ1signs that have not been written in this book

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “signs that the author did not write about in this book” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1455JHN2031am9lfigs-activepassiveταῦτα δὲ γέγραπται1but these have been written

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “but the author wrote about these signs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1456JHN2031p5k4guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

Son of God is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

1457JHN2031uem2figs-metonymyζωὴν…ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ1life in his name

Here, life is a metonym that means Jesus gives life. Alternate translation: “you may have life because of Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1458JHN2031ip1iζωὴν1life

This here refers to spiritual life.

1459JHN21introe1bg0

John 21 General Notes

Important figures of speech in this chapter

The metaphor of sheep

Before Jesus died, he spoke of himself taking care of his people as if he were a good shepherd taking care of sheep (John 10:11). After he became alive again, he told Peter that Peter would be the one who took care of Jesus sheep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1460JHN211et5hwriting-background0General Information:

Jesus shows himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. Verses 2 and 3 tell us what happens in the story before Jesus appears. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1461JHN211yj6kμετὰ ταῦτα1After these things

“Some time later”

1462JHN212b421figs-activepassiveκαὶ Θωμᾶς ὁ λεγόμενος Δίδυμος1with Thomas called Didymus

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “with Thomas whom we called Didymus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1463JHN212m4gxtranslate-namesΔίδυμος1Didymus

Didymus is a male name that means “twin.” See how this name is translated in John 11:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1464JHN215wgd7παιδία1Young men

This is a term of endearment that means “My dear friends.”

1465JHN216l2jdfigs-explicitεὑρήσετε1you will find some

Here, some refers to fish. Alternate translation: “you will catch some fish in your net” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1466JHN216p8heαὐτὸ ἑλκύσαι1draw it in

“to pull the net in”

1467JHN217u5c3ἠγάπα1loved

This is love that comes from God and is focused on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1468JHN217h3p4τὸν ἐπενδύτην διεζώσατο1he tied up his outer garment

“he secured his outer garment around him” or “he put on his tunic”

1469JHN217eve2writing-backgroundἦν γὰρ γυμνός1for he was undressed

This is background information. Peter had taken off some of his clothes to make it easier to work, but now that he was about to greet the Lord, he wanted to wear more clothing. Alternate translation: “for he had taken off some of his clothes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1470JHN217ab4dfigs-explicitἔβαλεν ἑαυτὸν εἰς τὴν θάλασσαν1threw himself into the sea

Peter jumped into the water and swam to shore. Alternate translation: “jumped into the sea and swam to shore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1471JHN217k449figs-idiomἔβαλεν ἑαυτὸν1threw himself

This is a idiom that means Peter jumped into the water very quickly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1472JHN218wrd3writing-backgroundοὐ γὰρ ἦσαν μακρὰν ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς, ἀλλὰ ὡς ἀπὸ πηχῶν διακοσίων1for they were not far from the land, about two hundred cubits off

This is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1473JHN218c1j8translate-bdistanceπηχῶν διακοσίων1two hundred cubits

“90 meters.” A cubit was a little less than half a meter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1474JHN2111f7mifigs-explicitἀνέβη οὖν Σίμων Πέτρος1Simon Peter then went up

Here, went up means Simon Peter had to go back to the boat. Alternate translation: “So Simon Peter went back to the boat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1475JHN2114tp3itranslate-ordinalτρίτον1the third time

You can translate this ordinal term “third” as “time number 3.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1476JHN2115m1bh0General Information:

Jesus begins to have a conversation with Simon Peter.

1477JHN2115t1ujἀγαπᾷς με1do you love me

Here, love refers the type of love that comes from God, which focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself.

1478JHN2115l4h1σὺ οἶδας ὅτι φιλῶ σε1you know that I love you

When Peter answers, he uses the word for love that refers to brotherly love or love for a friend or family member.

1479JHN2115qja3figs-metaphorβόσκε τὰ ἀρνία μου1Feed my lambs

Here, lambs is a metaphor for those persons who love Jesus and follow him. Alternate translation: “Feed the people I care for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1480JHN2116szk8ἀγαπᾷς με1do you love me

Here, love refers the type of love that comes from God, which focuses on the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself.

1481JHN2116vk16figs-metaphorποίμαινε τὰ πρόβατά μου1Take care of my sheep

Here, sheep is a metaphor for those who love and follow Jesus. Alternate translation: “Care for the people I care for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1482JHN2117fj84translate-ordinalλέγει αὐτῷ τὸ τρίτον1He said to him a third time

The pronoun He refers to Jesus. Here, the third time means “time number 3.” Alternate translation: “Jesus said to him a third time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1483JHN2117kz3hφιλεῖς με1do you love me

This time when Jesus asks this question he uses the word for love that refers to brotherly love or love for a friend or family member.

1484JHN2117p8aafigs-metaphorβόσκε τὰ προβάτια μου1Feed my sheep

Here, sheep is a metaphor that represents those who belong to Jesus and follow him. Alternate translation: “Care for the people I care for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1485JHN2118sqb7ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν1Truly, truly

See how you translated this in John 1:51.

1486JHN2119ys3mwriting-backgroundδὲ1Now

John uses this word to show he is giving background information before he continues the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1487JHN2119hf2rfigs-explicitσημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ δοξάσει τὸν Θεόν1to indicate with what kind of death Peter would glorify God

Here John implies that Peter would die on a cross. Alternate translation: “to indicate that Peter would die on a cross to honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1488JHN2119k8z1figs-explicitἀκολούθει μοι1Follow me

Here the word Follow means “to be a disciple.” Alternate translation: “Keep on being my disciple” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1489JHN2120wzm9τὸν μαθητὴν ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς1the disciple whom Jesus loved

John refers to himself in this way throughout the book, rather than mentioning his name.

1490JHN2120ikd4ἠγάπα1loved

This is the kind of love that comes from God and always desires the good of others, even when it does not benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do.

1491JHN2120ys31ἐν τῷ δείπνῳ1at the dinner

This is a reference to the Last Supper (John 13).

1492JHN2121u5rrτοῦτον…ἰδὼν, ὁ Πέτρος1Peter saw him

Here, him refers to “the disciple whom Jesus loved.”

1493JHN2121cf5hfigs-explicitΚύριε, οὗτος δὲ τί1Lord, what will this man do?

Peter wants to know what will happen to John. Alternate translation: “Lord, what will happen to this man?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1494JHN2122yc52λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς1Jesus said to him

“Jesus said to Peter”

1495JHN2122e3xiἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν1If I want him to stay

Here, him refers to John, the “disciple whom Jesus loved” in John 21:20.

1496JHN2122tef8ἔρχομαι1I come

This refers to Jesus second coming, his return to earth from heaven.

1497JHN2122tf23figs-rquestionτί πρὸς σέ?1what is that to you?

This remark appears in the form of a question to express a mild rebuke. Alternate translation: “that is not your concern.” or “you should not be concerned about that.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1498JHN2123c2crεἰς τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς1among the brothers

Here, the brothers refers to all the followers of Jesus.

1499JHN2124s5bpwriting-endofstory0General Information:

This is the end of the Gospel of John. Here the author, the Apostle John, gives a closing comment about himself and what he has written in this book. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

1500JHN2124d6t5ὁ μαθητὴς1the disciple

“the disciple John”

1501JHN2124f7wwfigs-explicitὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ τούτων1who testifies about these things

Here, testifies means that he personally sees something. Alternate translation: “who has seen all these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1502JHN2124h5i9figs-explicitοἴδαμεν1we know

Here, we refers to those who trust in Jesus. Alternate translation: “we who trust in Jesus know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1503JHN2125l3hzfigs-activepassiveἐὰν γράφηται καθ’ ἕν1If each one were written down

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “if someone wrote down all of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1504JHN2125i9n8figs-hyperboleοὐδ’ αὐτὸν…τὸν κόσμον χωρήσειν τὰ…βιβλία1even the world itself could not contain the books

John exaggerates to emphasize that Jesus did many more miracles than what people could write about in many books. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1505JHN2125xn87figs-activepassiveτὰ γραφόμενα βιβλία1the books that would be written

You can translate this in an active form. Alternate translation: “the books that people could write about what he did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])