John

John front

Introduction to the Gospel of John

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Gospel of John

Introduction about who Jesus is (1:1–18)
John the Baptizer baptizes Jesus, and Jesus chooses 12 disciples (1:19–51)
Jesus preaches, teaches, and heals people (2–11)
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 (13–16)
Jesus prays for himself and his disciples (17)
Jesus is arrested and undergoes trial (18:1–19:15)
Jesus is crucified and buried (19:16–42)
Jesus rises from the dead (20:1–29)
John says why he wrote his Gospel (20:30–31)
Jesus meets with the disciples (21)

More detailed outlines are in the General Notes for each chapter.

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 and teachings of Jesus Christ. These books are called “Gospels,” which means “good news.” Their authors 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). John’s Gospel repeatedly emphasizes that Jesus is God in human form.

John’s 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 miraculous signs Jesus did to prove that what Jesus said about himself was true. (See: sign, proof, reminder)

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: How to 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. Further evidence that the apostle John wrote this Gospel is the fact that his name does not occur once within the book. Instead, this Gospel contains the phrases “the disciple whom Jesus loved” or “the other disciple” in places where the other Gospels indicate that John was present (13:23–25; 19:26–27; 20:2–8; 21:7, 20–24). The apostle John most likely referred to himself in this manner because he wanted to humbly say that he had a very close relationship with Jesus. He was part of Jesus’ inner circle of disciples who became the “pillars” of the early church (Galatians 2:9).

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: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Why does Jesus refer to himself as the “Son of Man”?

In the Gospels, Jesus calls himself the “Son of Man.” This is a reference to Daniel 7:13–14. In that passage, there is a person who is described as like a “son of man.” That means that the person was someone who looked like a human being. God gave authority to this “son of man” to rule over the nations forever. All people will worship him forever.

Jews of Jesus’ time did not use “Son of Man” as a title for anyone. But Jesus used it for himself to help them understand who he truly was. (See: Son of Man, son of man)

Translating the title “Son of Man” can be difficult in many languages. Readers may misunderstand a literal translation. Translators can consider alternatives, such as “The Human One.” It may also be helpful to include a footnote to explain the title.

What does the word “sign” mean in the Gospel of John?

While other New Testament writers use terms like “mighty works” or “wonders” to refer to the miracles that Jesus did, John prefers to use the term “sign.” The miracles John calls “signs” were significant displays of divine power. John called them signs to emphasize that an important purpose of Jesus’ miracles was to prove that Jesus was God and that what Jesus said about himself was true. John said that in his Gospel he only wrote about some of the signs that Jesus did. John said, “these have been written so that you would believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so that believing, you would have life in his name” (20:30–31).

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. John also 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” (6:56). The UST uses the idea of “will be united with me, and I will be united with them,” but translators may have to find other ways of expressing the idea.

In the passage, “my words remain in you” (15:7), the UST expresses this idea as “obey what I have taught you.” Translators may find it possible to use this translation as a model.

What is double meaning in the Gospel of John?

John occasionally used words or phrases that could have two meanings (double entendre) in the language in which he originally wrote this Gospel. For example, the phrase translated “born again” in the ULT could also mean “born from above” (3:3, 7). In such cases, you may want to choose one meaning and put the other meaning in a footnote.

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

The following verses are 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 there are older versions of the Bible in the translators’ region that include these verses, then the translators can include them. If they are translated, they should be put inside square brackets (\[\]) to indicate that they were probably not originally in John’s Gospel.

“waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel of the Lord went down into the pool and stirred up the water at certain times, and whoever then first stepped in after the water was stirred was healed from whatever disease he suffered from.” (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 John’s Gospel.

The story of the adulterous woman (7:53–8:11) (See: Textual Variants)

John 1

John 1 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus is God (1:1–5)
John the Baptist was Jesus’ witness (1:6–8)
Summary of Jesus’ ministry on earth (1:9–13)
Jesus is God in the flesh (1:14–18)
John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus (1:19–34)
Jesus meets Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathaniel (1:35–51)

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 (1:1, 14). This title does not refer to a word that is spoken by someone. By using this title for Jesus, John is saying that Jesus is God’s most important message to all people. Jesus is the one who reveals who God is. As John explains, Jesus is a person who has always existed, who is God, who was active in creation, and who became a man with a physical body. In your translation of this title, try to make it clear that this is the title of a person whose role it is to communicate a message. Something like “The Message” or “The Revealer” might be appropriate, or you might prefer to use the title that is used in an accepted translation in your area. (See: word of God, word of Yahweh, word of the Lord, word of truth, scripture)

Light and Darkness

In 1:4–9, John uses an extended metaphor in which light represents what is true and good and darkness represents what is false and evil. John applies that light metaphor to Jesus in order to show that Jesus is God’s truth and goodness displayed in a human body. (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

“Children of God”

People are sometimes described as “children of God” because God created them. However, John uses this expression in a different sense in this chapter. He uses it to describe people who have entered into a father-child relationship with God by putting their faith and trust in Jesus. God indeed created all people, but people can only become children of God in this sense by believing in Jesus. “Children” in this usage does not refer to those who are young, but only to the relationship that people have to their father at any age. (See: believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)

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: 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 (1:51). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 1:1

In the beginning was

Quote: ἐν ἀρχῇ ἦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the very earliest time before God created the heavens and the earth. It does not refer to time in the distant past. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Before the beginning of the universe there was” or “Before the universe began there was”

the Word

Quote: ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Word refers to Jesus. It does not refer to a spoken word. The ULT capitalizes Word to indicate that this is a title for Jesus. Use whatever convention your language uses to indicate that this is a title. If “word” is feminine in your language, it could be translated as “the one who is called the Word.” See the discussion in the chapter introduction for more information. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who is the Word”

John 1:2

He

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He here refers to Jesus, whom John has called “the Word” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus” or “the Word”

in the beginning

Quote: ἐν ἀρχῇ (1)

Here this phrase refers to the very earliest time before God created the heavens and the earth. See how you translated this phrase in verse 1. Alternate translation: “before the beginning of the universe” or “before the universe began”

John 1:3

All things came into being through him

Quote: πάντα δι’ αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, John implies that God did it. Alternate translation: “God made all things through him”

him

Quote: αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Jesus, the one who is called “the Word.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus” or “the Word”

without him came into being not one thing that has come into being

Quote: χωρὶς αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο οὐδὲ ἕν ὃ γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “with him came into being everything that came into being”

without him came into being not one thing that has come into being

Quote: χωρὶς αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο οὐδὲ ἕν ὃ γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 1:4

life

Quote: ζωὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here it is best to use a general term for life. (See: INVALID bible/kt/life) If you must use a more specific word, consider that life here could refer to: (1) eternal life, which is the meaning John uses for this term throughout this Gospel. Alternate translation: “the means of receiving eternal life” (2) physical life, which would mean that this verse continues the discussion about the creation of the universe in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “the life of all living things” (3) both physical life and eternal life. Alternate translation: “the life of all living things and the source of eternal life”

and the life

Quote: καὶ ἡ ζωὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the life refers to the same life stated in the previous phrase. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and that life”

the light of men

Quote: τὸ φῶς τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses light to refer to God’s truth and goodness. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the true and good things God has for men”

the light of men

Quote: τὸ φῶς τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John uses of to indicate to whom the light is given. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the light given to men”

of men

Quote: τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, John is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “of people”

John 1:5

the light shines

Quote: τὸ φῶς & φαίνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John uses the light shines to refer to God’s truth and goodness being revealed as if it were a light shining. This truth and goodness was revealed to the world by Jesus. He is the embodiment of God’s truth and goodness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “God reveals his truth and goodness” or “God’s truth and goodness is like a light that shines”

in the darkness, and the darkness

Quote: ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ & καὶ ἡ σκοτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses darkness to refer to what is false and evil. It is the spiritual darkness of the people in the world who do not love Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “in the false and evil world, and that evil world” or “in the evil world that is like a dark place, and that dark place”

did not overcome it

Quote: αὐτὸ οὐ κατέλαβεν (1)

Here the word translated overcome could also be translated as “understand.” It could mean: (1) the evil forces in the world did not conquer God’s truth and goodness. Alternate translation: “did not conquer it” (2) the people in the world who don’t know God do not understand his truth and goodness. Alternate translation: “did not comprehend it” (3) the evil forces of this world neither conquered nor understood God’s truth and goodness. Alternate translation: “did not conquer or comprehend it”

did not overcome it

Quote: αὐτὸ οὐ κατέλαβεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to the light mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “did not overcome the light”

John 1:6

having been sent from God

Quote: ἀπεσταλμένος παρὰ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “whom God has sent”

was} John

Quote: Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John refers to Jesus’ cousin, often referred to as “John the Baptist.” (See: https://git.door43.org/unfoldingWord/en_tw/src/branch/master/bible/names/johnthebaptist.md) It does not refer to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist” or “John the Immerser”

John 1:7

He

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He here refers to John the Baptist, who was introduced in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist” or “John the Immerser”

about the light

Quote: περὶ τοῦ φωτός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses light to refer to the revelation of God’s truth and goodness in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “about Jesus, who revealed the true and good things of God”

through him

Quote: δι’ αὐτοῦ (1)

Here, through him indicates the means by which everyone might believe in the light. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of him”

John 1:8

That one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

That one here refers to John the Baptist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist” or “John the Immerser”

the light, … the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς & τοῦ φωτός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated light in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who revealed the true and good things of God … Jesus”

John 1:9

The true light, which

Quote: τὸ φῶς τὸ ἀληθινὸν, ὃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses light to refer to Jesus as the one who both reveals the truth about God and is himself that truth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who truly embodied God’s truth, who”

which gives light to all men

Quote: ὃ φωτίζει πάντα ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, John uses light to refer to God’s truth and goodness. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “which reveals the true and good things of God to all men”

men

Quote: ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, John is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people”

John 1:10

He was … through him, … him

Quote: ἦν & δι’ αὐτοῦ & αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He and him in this verse refer to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus was … through Jesus … Jesus”

in the world

Quote: ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the earth on which people live. It does not refer only to the people in the world or to the entire universe. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “on the earth”

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the universe God created. It does not refer only to the people in the world or only to the earth. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the whole universe”

and the world did not know him

Quote: καὶ ὁ κόσμος αὐτὸν οὐκ ἔγνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, and introduces a contrast between what was expected, that the world would recognize its Creator, and what happened, that the world did to do that. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but the world did not know him” or “yet the world did not know him”

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the people who lived in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people in the world”

did not know

Quote: οὐκ ἔγνω (1)

Alternate translation: “did not acknowledge”

John 1:11

his own, … his own

Quote: τὰ ἴδια & οἱ ἴδιοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, his own could refer to: (1) his own people, the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “his fellow Jews … his fellow Jews” (2) his own creation. Alternate translation: “the people he created … the people he created”

and

Quote: καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, and introduces a contrast between what was expected, that his own people would know their Messiah, and what happened, that his own people did not do that. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but”

did not receive him

Quote: αὐτὸν οὐ παρέλαβον (1)

Here, receive means to accept a person into one’s presence with friendliness. Alternate translation: “did not accept him” or “did not welcome him”

John 1:12

But as many as received him, he gave to them the authority to become children of God, to the ones believing in his name

Quote: ὅσοι δὲ ἔλαβον αὐτόν, ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ἐξουσίαν τέκνα Θεοῦ γενέσθαι, τοῖς πιστεύουσιν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. You will also need to adjust some words to fit the new order. Alternate translation: “But as many as received him and believed in his name, he gave to them the authority to become children of God”

received him

Quote: ἔλαβον αὐτόν (1)

Here, received means to accept a person into one’s presence with friendliness. See how you translated this word in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “accepted him” or “welcomed him”

he gave to them the authority

Quote: ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ἐξουσίαν (1)

Here, the word translated authority means either the right or ability to do something. Alternate translation: “he gave to them the right” or “he made it possible for them”

children of God

Quote: τέκνα Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses children to refer to people who love and obey God. The relationship between God and those who love him is like the relationship between a father and his children. Because this is an important concept in the Bible, you should not state the meaning plainly here, but you may use a simile. Alternate translation: “like children who have God as their father”

believing in his name

Quote: πιστεύουσιν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here John uses name to refer to Jesus’ identity and everything about him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who believed in him”

John 1:13

the ones

Quote: οἳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the ones here refers to the children of God mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be misunderstood for your readers, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

the ones not born from bloods

Quote: οἳ οὐκ ἐξ αἱμάτων & ἐγεννήθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John uses born to describe God changing a person from being spiritually dead to being spiritually alive when they believe in Jesus. John recorded Jesus referring to this change as being “born again” in 3:3. (See: born again, born of God, new birth) If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an expression that indicates spiritual rebirth rather than physical birth. Alternate translation: “These were born spiritually, not from blood”

not born from bloods

Quote: οὐκ ἐξ αἱμάτων & ἐγεννήθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, bloods refers to the bloodlines or genetic contributions of both parents of a child. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “were not born from human bloodlines” or “were not born from human decent”

from

Quote: ἐξ (1)

Here, from could refer to any of the following: (1) the means by which God’s children are born. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “by” (2) the source from which God’s children are born. Alternate translation: “of” (3) the cause of the birth of God’s children. Alternate translation: “as a result of”

nor from the will of the flesh

Quote: οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that this phrase would need in many languages in order to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “nor were they born from the will of the flesh”

from

Quote: ἐκ (1)

from the will of the flesh

Quote: ἐκ θελήματος σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here John is using the term flesh to refer to a human being, which is made of flesh. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from the human will”

nor from the will of a man

Quote: οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος ἀνδρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

from

Quote: ἐκ (2)

from the will of a man

Quote: ἐκ θελήματος ἀνδρὸς (1)

The term a man used here refers specifically to an adult male person and may also be translated “husband.” In this verse it refers to a father’s desire to have a child like himself. Alternate translation: “from the will of a husband”

but from God

Quote: ἀλλ’ ἐκ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

from

Quote: ἐκ (3)

John 1:14

the Word

Quote: ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Word refers to Jesus. It does not refer to a spoken word. ULT indicates this by capitalizing Word to indicate that this is a title for Jesus. Use whatever convention your language uses to indicate that this is a name. If “word” is feminine in your language, it could be translated as “the one who is called the Word.” See how you translated this phrase in John 1:1. Alternate translation: “Jesus, the Word”

became flesh

Quote: σὰρξ ἐγένετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, flesh represents “a person” or “a human being.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “became human” or “became a human being”

us, and we beheld

Quote: ἡμῖν, καὶ ἐθεασάμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here the pronouns us and we are exclusive since John is speaking on behalf of himself and the other eyewitnesses to the earthly life of Jesus, but the people to whom he is writing did not see Jesus. Your language may require you to mark this form.

his glory, glory

Quote: τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ, δόξαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “his glorious character, the glorious character”

of the One and Only from the Father

Quote: μονογενοῦς παρὰ πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase the One and Only refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the One and Only from the Father, Jesus,”

of the One and Only

Quote: μονογενοῦς (1)

Here and throughout John’s Gospel, the phrase the One and Only is a title for Jesus that could refer to: (1) Jesus being unique as the only member of his kind. Alternate translation: “the Unique One” (2) Jesus being the only child of his Father. Alternate translation: “the Only Begotten One”

from the Father

Quote: παρὰ πατρός (1)

The phrase from the Father means that Jesus came from the presence of God the Father to the world. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “who came from the Father”

the Father

Quote: πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

full of grace and truth

Quote: πλήρης χάριτος καὶ ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, John uses full of to describe Jesus fully possessing a quality, as if grace and truth were objects that could fill a person. If this might confuse you readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “fully possessing grace and truth”

full of grace and truth

Quote: πλήρης χάριτος καὶ ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and truth, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “full of God’s gracious and faithful character” or “full of kind acts and true teachings”

John 1:15

John testifies about him

Quote: Ἰωάννης μαρτυρεῖ περὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

To call attention to a development in the story, John uses the present tense in past narration. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you can use the past tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “John testified about him”

and has cried out, saying

Quote: καὶ κέκραγεν λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “and has cried out, and he said”

This was the one of whom I said, ‘The one coming after me has become greater than me, for he was before me

Quote: οὗτος ἦν ὃν εἶπον, ὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος, ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν, ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “This was the one I said would come after me, and who would be greater than me for he was before me”

The one coming after me

Quote: ὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος (1)

Here, John is speaking about Jesus. The phrase coming after me means that John’s ministry has already started, and Jesus’ ministry will start later. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “He who starts his ministry after I have done so”

has become greater than me

Quote: ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν (1)

Here, greater refers to being more important or having a superior position. Alternate translation: “is more important than I am” or “is superior to me”

for he was before me

Quote: ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν (1)

Here, before me means that Jesus existed earlier in time than John. This does not mean 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 existed. Alternate translation: “for he existed before I was born”

John 1:16

For

Quote: ὅτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here introduces the reason why John said that Jesus is “full of grace and truth” in verse 14. Alternate translation: “We can say that Jesus is full of grace and truth because”

his

Quote: αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, his refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus’”

his fullness

Quote: τοῦ πληρώματος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, fullness refers to the grace and truth which John said Jesus was full of in verse 14. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fullness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what he is full of” or “his full amount of grace and truth”

we have all received

Quote: ἡμεῖς πάντες ἐλάβομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, we refers to John and all believers. Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “all of we believers have received”

have all received even grace

Quote: πάντες ἐλάβομεν καὶ χάριν (1)

Here, even indicates that “grace after grace” explains what “his fullness” means. Alternate translation: “have all received, that is, grace” or “have all received, namely, grace”

grace after grace

Quote: χάριν ἀντὶ χάριτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “kind act after kind act”

grace after grace

Quote: χάριν ἀντὶ χάριτος (1)

Here, after could mean: (1) the second “grace” replaces the first “grace,” which is the most common use for this word. This meaning could indicate that the first “grace” refers to “the law” and the second “grace” refers to “Grace and truth” in the next verse. Alternate translation: “grace in place of grace” or “grace instead of grace” (2) the second “grace” is in addition to the first “grace.” Alternate translation: “grace in addition to” or “grace upon grace”

John 1:17

the law was given through Moses. Grace and truth came about through Jesus Christ

Quote: ὁ νόμος διὰ Μωϋσέως ἐδόθη, ἡ χάρις καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐγένετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

John placed the two sentences in this verse next to each other without any connecting word in order to show a contrast between the law of Moses and the grace and truth of Jesus. This does not mean that the law of Moses did not have grace and truth. Rather, John is indicating that the grace and truth revealed by Jesus is more complete than that revealed in the law of Moses. Although God revealed himself and his will through the law of Moses, he did so much more clearly though Jesus, who is God in human form. Alternate translation: “the law was given through Moses. In contrast, grace and truth came about through Jesus Christ”

the law was given through Moses

Quote: ὁ νόμος διὰ Μωϋσέως ἐδόθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

the law was given

Quote: ὁ νόμος & ἐδόθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The word law is a singular noun that refers to the many laws and instructions that God gave to the Israelites. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the group of laws was given” or “God’s laws were given”

Grace and truth

Quote: ἡ χάρις καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of grace and truth, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “God’s gracious and faithful character” or “Kind acts and true teachings”

John 1:18

The One and Only God

Quote: μονογενὴς Θεὸς (1)

Here and throughout John’s Gospel, the phrase the One and Only is a title for Jesus that could refer to: (1) Jesus being unique as the only member of his kind. Alternate translation: “the Unique God” (2) Jesus being the only child of his Father. Alternate translation: “the Only Begotten God”

The One and Only God

Quote: μονογενὴς Θεὸς (1)

Here, God indicates that Jesus, who is called the One and Only, is God. If it would be misunderstood to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the One and Only, who is God”

the one being in the bosom of the Father

Quote: ὁ ὢν εἰς τὸν κόλπον τοῦ Πατρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, in the bosom of is an idiom that refers to having a close and intimate relationship with someone. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “who has a close relationship with the Father”

of the Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

that one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to Jesus in an emphatic way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus himself”

has made {him} known

Quote: ἐξηγήσατο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him is not in the original text, but is necessary for English. It refers to God the Father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “has made the Father known”

has made {him} known

Quote: ἐξηγήσατο (1)

Here, the word translated has made him known refers to making people know something by explaining or revealing it clearly. Alternate translation: “has explained him” or “has fully revealed him”

John 1:19

of John

Quote: τοῦ Ἰωάννου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John refers to Jesus’ cousin, often referred to as “John the Baptist.” (See: https://git.door43.org/unfoldingWord/en_tw/src/branch/master/bible/names/johnthebaptist.md) It does not refer to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of John the Baptist” or “of John the Immerser”

the Jews sent

Quote: ἀπέστειλαν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the “Jewish leaders.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish leaders sent”

John 1:20

he confessed—and he did not deny, but confessed

Quote: ὡμολόγησεν καὶ οὐκ ἠρνήσατο, καὶ ὡμολόγησεν (1)

The phrase “he confessed” expresses in positive terms the same thing that he did not deny expresses in negative 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. Alternate translation: “he strongly confessed” or “he solemnly testified”

John 1:21

they asked

Quote: ἠρώτησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to “the Jews,” mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state it explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jews asked”

What then

Quote: τί οὖν? (1)

Alternate translation: “If you are not the Messiah, then who are you?”

Elijah

Quote: Ἠλείας (1)

Elijah was a prophet whom the Jews expected to return to earth shortly become the arrival of the Messiah.

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the Prophet

Quote: ὁ προφήτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Prophet refers to a prophet the Jews were waiting for, based on God’s promise to send a prophet like Moses, which is recorded in Deuteronomy 18:15. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the prophet whom God promised to send to us”

John 1:22

they said to him

Quote: εἶπαν & αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronouns they and him refer to the priests and Levites and John the Baptist, respectively. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the priests and Levites said to John the Baptist”

Who are you, so that we might give an answer to the ones having sent us? What

Quote: τίς εἶ? ἵνα ἀπόκρισιν δῶμεν τοῖς πέμψασιν ἡμᾶς; τί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages in order to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. This may require you to change the punctuation of the sentences. Alternate translation: “Who are you? Tell us so that we might given an answer to those who sent us. What”

we might give … us

Quote: δῶμεν & ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, we and us refer to the priests and Levites, not to John. Your language may require you to mark this form.

so that we might give an answer

Quote: ἵνα ἀπόκρισιν δῶμεν (1)

Alternate translation: “so that we might tell your answer”

to the ones having sent us

Quote: τοῖς πέμψασιν ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to those leaders in Jerusalem who sent us”

John 1:23

a voice, crying out in the wilderness: Make the way of the Lord straight

Quote: φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, εὐθύνατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these phrases, John quotes from the Old Testament book of Isaiah (Isaiah 40:3). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

I am a voice, crying out in the wilderness

Quote: ἐγὼ φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, voice refers to the person who is crying out in the wilderness. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am the one calling out in the wilderness”

I am a voice, crying out in the wilderness: Make the way of the Lord straight

Quote: ἐγὼ φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, εὐθύνατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

This clause is a quotation within a quotation. John is quoting from the book of Isaiah, and Isaiah is quoting the words of the person calling out in the wilderness. It would be best to indicate that by punctuating this material as a second-level quotation, since Luke is quoting from Scripture. However, if your language does not put one direct quotation within another, you could translate this material as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “I am a voice crying out in the wilderness to make the way of the Lord straight”

Make the way of the Lord straight

Quote: εὐθύνατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John the Baptist quotes Isaiah, using this clause to refer to telling people to get ready to listen to the Lord’s message when it comes. They are to do this by repenting of their sins. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Repent of your sins so that you will be ready to listen to the Lord’s message when it comes”

Isaiah the prophet

Quote: Ἠσαΐας ὁ προφήτης (1)

Isaiah wrote the book of Isaiah, in the Bible.

John 1:24

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This verse is background information about the people who questioned John. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the ones that had been sent

Quote: ἀπεσταλμένοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the ones refers to the priests and Levites, as introduced in verse 19. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the priests and Levites who had been sent”

the ones that had been sent were

Quote: ἀπεσταλμένοι ἦσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the ones whom the Jewish leaders sent”

were from the Pharisees

Quote: ἦσαν ἐκ τῶν Φαρισαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase could refer to: (1) the priests and Levites who had been sent. Alternate translation: “belonged to the Pharisees” (2) the leaders in Jerusalem who sent the priests and Levites. Alternate translation: “were sent from the Pharisees”

John 1:25

they asked

Quote: ἠρώτησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to the priests and Levites who had been sent from Jerusalem, as introduced in verse 19. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the priests and Levites from Jerusalem asked”

the Prophet

Quote: ὁ προφήτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John 1:26

John

Quote: Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John answered them, saying

Quote: ἀπεκρίθη αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰωάννης λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “John answered them, and he said”

John 1:27

the one coming after me

Quote: ὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John is speaking about Jesus. The phrase coming after me means that John’s ministry has already started and Jesus’ ministry will start later. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who starts his ministry after I have done so”

me, of whom I am not worthy that I might untie the strap of his sandal

Quote: μου & οὗ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐγὼ ἄξιος, ἵνα λύσω αὐτοῦ τὸν ἱμάντα τοῦ ὑποδήματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Untying sandals was the work of a slave or servant. John the Baptist uses this expression figurative to refer to the most unpleasant work of a servant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “me. I am not even worthy to untie the strap of his sandal” or “me, whom I am not worthy to serve in even the most unpleasant way”

John 1:28

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

This verse provides background information about the setting of the story that is recorded in 1:19–27. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

These things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to the events that were described in 1:19–27. If it would be misunderstood to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “This conversation between John and the priests and Levites from Jerusalem”

beyond the Jordan

Quote: πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Here, beyond the Jordan refers to the region of Judea that is on the east side of the Jordan River, which is the side opposite from Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “on the side of the Jordan River opposite from Jerusalem”

John

Quote: Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John 1:29

The next day

Quote: τῇ ἐπαύριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

The next day here indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event it has just described in 1:19–28. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “The day after John spoke with the priests and Levites from Jerusalem”

he sees … says

Quote: βλέπει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Behold

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses the term Behold to call his audience’s attention to what he is about to say. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here.

Behold, the Lamb of God

Quote: ἴδε, ὁ Ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase Lamb of God refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Behold, Jesus, the Lamb of God”

Lamb of God

Quote: Ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses a metaphor here to refer to Jesus as God’s perfect sacrifice. (See: lamb, Lamb of God) Since Lamb of God is an important title for Jesus, you should translate the words directly and not provide a plain explanation in the text of your translation.

the one taking away

Quote: ὁ αἴρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John the Baptist speaks of forgiving sin as if sin were an object that Jesus is taking away. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “who is forgiving”

of the world

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

John the Baptist uses world to refer to all the people in the world. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of those who live in the world”

John 1:30

After me comes a man who has become greater than me, for he was before me

Quote: ὀπίσω μου ἔρχεται ἀνὴρ, ὃς ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν, ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν. (1)

See how you translated this in verse 15.

John 1:31

And I did not know him

Quote: κἀγὼ οὐκ ᾔδειν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And I did not know Jesus”

And I did not know him

Quote: κἀγὼ οὐκ ᾔδειν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here John means that he did not know previously that Jesus was the Messiah. It does not mean that he didn’t know who Jesus was, because Jesus was his cousin. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “And I did not know that he was the Messiah”

so that he might be revealed to Israel, because of this

Quote: ἵνα φανερωθῇ τῷ Ἰσραὴλ διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Here John uses the redundant words so that and because of this to emphasize the reason why he was baptizing people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine these phrases and indicate the emphasis. Alternate translation: “for the exact purpose that he might be revealed to Israel”

to Israel

Quote: τῷ Ἰσραὴλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here John uses the name of the nation, Israel, to represent the people who belong to that nation. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the Israelites”

because of this

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to the revealing of the Messiah to Israel that is mentioned in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he might be revealed”

John 1:32

John testified, saying

Quote: ἐμαρτύρησεν Ἰωάννης λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “John testified, and he said”

like a dove

Quote: ὡς περιστερὰν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This phrase is a simile. As Luke 3:22 indicates, the Holy Spirit came down with an appearance that resembled a dove. Alternate translation: “resembling a dove”

upon him

Quote: ἐπ’ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “upon Jesus”

John 1:33

And I did not recognize him

Quote: κἀγὼ οὐκ ᾔδειν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here John means that he did not know previously that Jesus was the Messiah. It does not mean that he didn’t recognize who Jesus was when he saw him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And I did not recognize that he was the Messiah”

the one having sent me to baptize in water, that one

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με βαπτίζειν ἐν ὕδατι, ἐκεῖνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrases the one who sent me and that one both refer to God. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, who sent me to baptize in water,”

he is the one baptizing in the Holy Spirit

Quote: οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ βαπτίζων ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John the Baptist is using literal baptism, which puts a person under water, to refer to spiritual baptism, which puts people under the influence of the Holy Spirit, who purifies them. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he is the one who will put you under the influence of the Holy Spirit, who will purify you”

John 1:34

the Son of God

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

Although most copies of this text say Son of God, some say “chosen one of God” or “chosen Son of God.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the phrase it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to follow the example of the ULT.

Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

John 1:35

The next day, … again

Quote: τῇ ἐπαύριον πάλιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

The next day here indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event it has just described in 1:29–34. John saw Jesus two days after his conversation with the priests and Levites that is described in verses 19–28. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “Two days after John spoke with the priests and Levites from Jerusalem”

John 1:36

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Behold, the Lamb of God

Quote: ἴδε, ὁ Ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase Lamb of God refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Behold, Jesus, the Lamb of God”

Behold

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John records John the Baptist using the term Behold to call his audience’s attention to what he is about to say. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here.

Lamb of God

Quote: Ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this same phrase in John 1:29.

John 1:37

his two disciples heard {him

Quote: ἤκουσαν οἱ δύο μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, his and him refer to John the Baptist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “John’s two disciples heard him”

John 1:38

having seen them

Quote: θεασάμενος αὐτοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the two disciples of John the Baptist who were mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “having seen John’s two disciples”

having seen them following

Quote: θεασάμενος αὐτοὺς ἀκολουθοῦντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here John is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “having seen them following him”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

where are you staying

Quote: ποῦ μένεις (1)

Alternate translation: “where are you spending the night”

where are you staying

Quote: ποῦ μένεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This question is the answer to the question Jesus just asked in the previous sentence. It is a way for the two men to imply that they would like to have a private conversation with Jesus at the place where he was staying. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “where are you staying? We would like to speak with you privately.”

John 1:39

He says to them, “… he is staying

Quote: λέγει αὐτοῖς & μένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

he is staying

Quote: μένει (1)

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

that day

Quote: τὴν ἡμέραν ἐκείνην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, that day refers to the day the two disciples left John the Baptist to follow Jesus, as indicated in verse 35. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the same day that they left John”

the tenth hour

Quote: ὥρα & δεκάτη (1)

In this culture, people began counting the hours each day beginning around daybreak at six o’clock in the morning. Here, the tenth hour indicates a time in the late afternoon, before dark, at which it would be too late to start traveling to another town. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this in the way the people of your culture reckon time. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “about 4:00 PM”

John 1:40-42

General Information:

Verses [40–42] give background information about Andrew and how he brought his brother Peter to Jesus.

John 1:40

John

Quote: Ἰωάννου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

of Simon Peter

Quote: Σίμωνος Πέτρου (1)

Simon was also called Peter by Jesus, as recorded in verse 42. Alternate translation: “Simon, who is also called Peter”

John 1:41

This one

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

This one here refers to Andrew, who was mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Andrew”

finds … says

Quote: εὑρίσκει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

which is translated “Christ

Quote: ὅ ἐστιν μεθερμηνευόμενον, Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which means Christ”

which is translated “Christ

Quote: ὅ ἐστιν μεθερμηνευόμενον, Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John assumes that his readers will know that he is saying what the title “Messiah” means when translated from the Aramaic language into Greek. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “which is ‘Christ’ in Greek” or “which is the Aramaic word for ‘Christ’”

John 1:42

He brought him

Quote: ἤγαγεν αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He here refers to Andrew and him refers to Simon. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Andrew brought Simon”

Jesus, having looked at him, said

Quote: ἐμβλέψας αὐτῷ, ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “Jesus looked at him, and he said”

son of John

Quote: υἱὸς Ἰωάννου (1)

This is neither John the Baptist nor John the apostle.

You will be called Cephas

Quote: σὺ κληθήσῃ Κηφᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will call you Cephas”

Cephas

Quote: Κηφᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Cephas is a word in the Aramaic language that means “rock.” Here, Jesus uses the word as a name for Simon. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Cephas, which means ‘rock’ in Aramaic”

which is translated “Peter

Quote: ὃ ἑρμηνεύεται, Πέτρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

which is translated “Peter

Quote: ὃ ἑρμηνεύεται, Πέτρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John assumes that his readers will know that he is saying what the name Cephas means when translated from the Aramaic language into Greek. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “which is ‘Peter’ in Greek” or “which is the Aramaic word for Peter”

John 1:43

The next day

Quote: τῇ ἐπαύριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

The next day here indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event it has just described in the previous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “The day after Andrew brought Simon to Jesus,”

and he finds Philip and says

Quote: καὶ εὑρίσκει Φίλιππον, καὶ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Follow me

Quote: ἀκολούθει μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In this context, to follow someone means to become that person’s disciple. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Become my disciple” or “Come, follow me as your teacher”

John 1:44

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This verse provides background information about Philip. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 1:45

Philip … Nathaniel … Moses … Jesus … of Joseph

Quote: Φίλιππος & Ναθαναὴλ & Μωϋσῆς & Ἰησοῦν & Ἰωσὴφ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

These are the names of five men.

Philip finds Nathaniel and says

Quote: εὑρίσκει Φίλιππος τὸν Ναθαναὴλ, καὶ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the prophets

Quote: οἱ προφῆται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “the prophets wrote about”

John 1:46

Nathaniel said to him

Quote: εἶπεν αὐτῷ Ναθαναήλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Philip. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Nathaniel said to Philip”

Is any good thing able to be from Nazareth

Quote: ἐκ Ναζαρὲτ δύναταί τι ἀγαθὸν εἶναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Nathaniel is using the question form for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “No good thing can come out of Nazareth!”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 1:47

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Behold

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John records Jesus using the term Behold to call his audience’s attention to what he is about to say. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here.

in whom is no deceit

Quote: ἐν ᾧ δόλος οὐκ ἔστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Jesus is using a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that means the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “a completely truthful man”

John 1:48

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Before Philip called you, being under the fig tree, I saw you

Quote: πρὸ τοῦ σε Φίλιππον φωνῆσαι, ὄντα ὑπὸ τὴν συκῆν, εἶδόν σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Nathaniel’s reaction to this statement in the next verse indicates that this is a display of supernatural knowledge. It appears that Jesus knew something about Nathaniel that no one else could have known. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Before Philip called you, being completely alone under the fig tree, I saw you.”

being under the fig tree

Quote: ὄντα ὑπὸ τὴν συκῆν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The subject of this clause is Philip, not Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “while you were under the fig tree”

John 1:49

Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

John 1:50

Because I said to you that I saw you underneath the fig tree, do you believe

Quote: ὅτι εἶπόν σοι, ὅτι εἶδόν σε ὑποκάτω τῆς συκῆς, πιστεύεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be helpful in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the result for the reason that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Do you believe because I said to you that I saw you underneath the fig tree”

Because I said to you that I saw you underneath the fig tree, do you believe

Quote: ὅτι εἶπόν σοι, ὅτι εἶδόν σε ὑποκάτω τῆς συκῆς, πιστεύεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

John records Jesus using the question form for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You believe because I said, ‘I saw you underneath the fig tree’!”

do you believe

Quote: πιστεύεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that this phrase would need in many languages in order to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “do you believe that I am the Messiah”

greater things than these

Quote: μείζω τούτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses the plural pronoun these to refer to a general category of something, in this case the miraculous display of supernatural knowledge that took place in 1:48. Alternate translation: “greater things than this type of thing” or “greater things that this kind of miracle”

John 1:51

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus repeats Truly in order to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases, forming a separate sentence. Alternate translation: “What I am about to tell you is very true.”

I say to you

Quote: λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Jesus is using the plural form of you to indicate that he is speaking to all those who are with him at that moment. He is not only speaking to Nathaniel. If it would be misunderstood to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I say to all of you here”

you will see the heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending

Quote: ὄψεσθε τὸν οὐρανὸν ἀνεῳγότα, καὶ τοὺς ἀγγέλους τοῦ Θεοῦ ἀναβαίνοντας καὶ καταβαίνοντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus refers to an event described in the book of Genesis. While fleeing from his brother, Jacob had a dream in which he saw angels descending from and ascending to heaven. If it would be helpful to your readers who may not be familiar with the story, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “just as Jacob saw in his vision, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending”

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The title Son of Man is equivalent to “Messiah.” Jesus uses it to claim that role subtly and implicitly. You may want to translate this title directly into your language. On the other hand, if you think it would be helpful to your readers, you could state what it means. See the discussion of this phrase in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “the Messiah”

John 2

John 2 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus’ first sign: he turns water into wine (2:1–12)
Jesus causes controversy in the Temple (2:13–22)
Jesus’ ministry in Jerusalem at Passover (2:23–25)

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. As the Son of God, it was his Father’s temple that was being used inappropriately for making money. Therefore, he had the authority to drive out those who were misusing the temple.

“He knew what was in man”

Jesus knew what other people were thinking only because he is the Son of Man and the Son of God. Because he is the Son of God, he has supernatural insight into what other people were thinking and could correctly judge their intentions.

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“His disciples remembered”

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

John 2:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Jesus and his disciples were invited to a wedding. This verse gives background information about the setting of the story. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

on the third day

Quote: τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ τρίτῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

This phrase introduces a new event. The third day could refer to: (1) the third day from when Jesus called Philip and Nathaniel to follow him in 1:43. According to the Jewish way of counting days, the first day would have been the day in 1:43, making the third day occur two days afterward. Alternate translation: “two days after Jesus called Philip and Nathaniel” (2) the day after Jesus called Philip and Nathaniel to follow him in 1:43. In this case, the first day would have occurred in 1:35 and the second day in 1:43. Alternate translation: “on the day after Jesus called Philip and Nathaniel”

John 2:2

Jesus also was invited, and his disciples, to the wedding

Quote: ἐκλήθη & καὶ ὁ Ἰησοῦς καὶ οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ εἰς τὸν γάμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they also invited Jesus and his disciples to the wedding”

John 2:3

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

They do not have wine

Quote: οἶνον οὐκ ἔχουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Jesus’ mother is using a declarative statement to give an indirect request. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for a request. Alternate translation: “They ran out of wine. Could you do something to solve this problem?”

wine

Quote: οἶνον (1)

Regarding the drinking of wine in Jewish culture, see the discussion in the General Notes to this chapter.

John 2:4

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Woman

Quote: γύναι (1)

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

Woman, what to me and to you

Quote: τί ἐμοὶ καὶ σοί, γύναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the question form for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Woman, this has nothing to do with me or you”

My hour is not yet come

Quote: οὔπω ἥκει ἡ ὥρα μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word hour refers to the right occasion for Jesus to show that he is the Messiah by working miracles. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “It is not yet the right time for me to perform a mighty act”

John 2:5

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 2:6

two or three metretes

Quote: μετρητὰς δύο ἢ τρεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume

A metretes was equivalent to about 40 liters. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the quantity in modern measurements. Alternatively, to help your readers recognize that the biblical writings come from long ago when people used different measurements, you could express the amount using the ancient measurement, the metrete, and explain the equivalent in modern measurements in a footnote. Alternate translation: “80 to 120 liters”

John 2:7

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

to them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the servants at the wedding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the servants”

up to the brim

Quote: ἕως ἄνω (1)

The brim is the top edge of the water pot. Alternate translation: “to the very top”

John 2:8

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

to them, “… And they carried {it

Quote: αὐτοῖς & οἱ δὲ ἤνεγκαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them and they refer to the servants at the wedding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the servants … And the servants carried it”

to the head waiter

Quote: τῷ ἀρχιτρικλίνῳ (1)

The term head waiter refers to the person in charge of the servants who served the food and drink at meals and feasts.

John 2:9

the head waiter … the head waiter

Quote: ὁ ἀρχιτρίκλινος & ὁ ἀρχιτρίκλινος (1)

See how you translated this term in the previous verse.

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

John provides this background information about who knew where the wine came from in order to emphasize the veracity of this miracle. The head waiter did not know that the wine was originally water from the water pots. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

calls

Quote: φωνεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 2:10

Every man

Quote: πᾶς ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Every man here is an exaggeration that refers to something being a common practice. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “A man usually”

Every man

Quote: πᾶς ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, the head waiter is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “Every person”

and the cheaper wine when they have become drunk

Quote: καὶ ὅταν μεθυσθῶσιν τὸν ἐλάσσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that guests were given the cheaper wine, which is of lower quality and inferior flavor, after their senses had been dulled by drinking too much alcohol and were thus unable to tell that it was inferior wine. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the cheaper wine when they have become drunk and unable to discern the quality of the wine”

John 2:11

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John provides background information about the events described in 2:1–10. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

beginning of the signs

Quote: ἀρχὴν τῶν σημείων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John wrote much about the miraculous signs Jesus did. Turning water into wine at the wedding is the first of those signs. See the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

he revealed his glory

Quote: ἐφανέρωσεν τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, glory refers to the mighty power of Jesus that enabled him to do miracles. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “revealed his glorious power”

John 2:12

After this

Quote: μετὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

After this introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time afterward”

After this

Quote: μετὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to the what took place in Cana that was described in 2:1–11. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “After Jesus’ first sign in Cana”

went down

Quote: κατέβη (1)

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

John 2:13

went up to Jerusalem

Quote: ἀνέβη εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα (1)

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

John 2:14

the ones selling oxen and sheep and pigeons

Quote: τοὺς πωλοῦντας βόας καὶ πρόβατα καὶ περιστερὰς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These animals were used for sacrifices in the temple. People were buying animals in the temple courtyard in order to sacrifice them to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those selling oxen and sheep and pigeons for people to sacrifice to God”

money changers

Quote: κερματιστὰς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jewish authorities required people who wanted to buy animals for sacrifices in the temple to exchange their money for special money from the money changers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “people who exchanged money for special money approved for temple use”

sitting there

Quote: καθημένους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The next verse makes it clear that these people are in the temple courtyard. That area was intended for worship and not for commerce. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “sitting in the temple courtyard that was intended for worship”

John 2:15

And

Quote: καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here John is telling his readers what Jesus did as a result of the commerce he saw going on in the temple. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Consequently”

them} all

Quote: πάντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them all refers to the people selling the animals and the money changers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “all the sellers and money changers”

John 2:16

the house of my Father a house of commerce

Quote: τὸν οἶκον τοῦ πατρός μου οἶκον ἐμπορίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses the house of my Father to refer to the temple. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the house of my Father, which is the temple, a house of commerce”

of my Father

Quote: τοῦ πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 2:17

it is written

Quote: γεγραμμένον ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone had written”

it is written

Quote: γεγραμμένον ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here John uses it is written to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 69:9). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that John is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “it had been written in the scriptures”

Zeal for your house will consume me

Quote: ὁ ζῆλος τοῦ οἴκου σου καταφάγεταί με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 69:9. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

for your house

Quote: τοῦ οἴκου σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Here, your refers to God and is singular. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for God’s house”

for your house

Quote: τοῦ οἴκου σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, house refers to the temple, which is often called God’s house in the Bible. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “for your house, the temple”

will consume

Quote: καταφάγεταί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the author uses consume to refer to Jesus’ intense love for the temple, as if it were a fire that burned within him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “will be intense within” or “will be like a fire that consumes”

John 2:18

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to Jesus’ actions against the animal sellers and money changers in the temple. (See the discussion of this event in the General Notes to this chapter.) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these disruptive activities in the temple”

John 2:19

Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up

Quote: λύσατε τὸν ναὸν τοῦτον, καὶ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερῶ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but it should be translated as introducing a hypothetical situation rather than as a command. Jesus is stating a hypothetical situation in which the event in the second clause would happen if the event in the first clause took place. In this case, Jesus would certainly raise the temple up if the Jewish authorities were to destroy it. Alternate translation: “If you destroy this temple, then in three days I will raise it up”

Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up

Quote: λύσατε τὸν ναὸν τοῦτον, καὶ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερῶ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here, John records Jesus using the words Destroy and raise to describe his killing and resurrection, as if tearing down and rebuilding a building. However, the Jewish leaders did not understand this and Jesus does not explain the metaphor to them. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

John 2:20

you will raise it up in three days

Quote: σὺ ἐν τρισὶν ἡμέραις ἐγερεῖς αὐτόν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jewish leaders are using the question form for emphasis. They think that Jesus wants to tear down the temple and rebuild it in three days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you cannot possibly rebuild it in three days!”

John 2:21-22

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

General Information:

2:21–22 are a comment John made about the story that was described in 2:13–20. These verses tell about something that happened later.

John 2:21

But that one was speaking

Quote: ἐκεῖνος δὲ ἔλεγεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “But Jesus was speaking”

John 2:22

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Therefore indicates that in this verse John is giving the result of Jesus making the statement in 2:19. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because Jesus said this about his body”

he was raised from the dead

Quote: ἠγέρθη ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

his disciples remembered

Quote: ἐμνήσθησαν οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ (1)

Here, John is speaking about something that happened long after the event described in the previous verses. See the discussion of this in the General Notes to this chapter.

this, … the word that Jesus had spoken

Quote: τοῦτο & τῷ λόγῳ ὃν εἶπεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this and the word refer back to Jesus’ statement in 2:19. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “this statement about his body … the word about his body that Jesus had spoken”

the Scripture

Quote: τῇ Γραφῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

John is speaking of the Scripture in general, not of one particular book within the Bible. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “the scriptures”

John 2:23

Now when he was in Jerusalem

Quote: ὡς δὲ ἦν ἐν τοῖς Ἱεροσολύμοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Now here introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after the previous events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later in Jerusalem”

at the Passover, at the festival

Quote: ἐν τῷ Πάσχα ἐν τῇ ἑορτῇ (1)

These two phrases could refer to: (1) two different parts of the festival, the Passover referring to the first day of the festival, and the festival referring to the Festival of Unleavened Bread that begins at Passover and was one week long. Alternate translation: “at the Passover, during the Festival of Unleavened Bread” (2) the same event. Alternate translation: “at the Passover festival”

believed in his name

Quote: ἐπίστευσαν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name represents the person of Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “believed in him” or “trusted in him”

seeing his signs

Quote: θεωροῦντες αὐτοῦ τὰ σημεῖα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, seeing indicates the reason why the people were believing in Jesus. These people were only believing in Jesus because of the miracles he performed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because they saw his signs”

signs

Quote: τὰ σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated signs in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

John 2:24

did not trust himself to them

Quote: οὐκ ἐπίστευεν αὑτὸν αὐτοῖς (1)

Although many people were believing in him, Jesus knew that their belief was superficial and only lasted as long as he performed miracles for them. Therefore, he did not trust them the way he trusted his true disciples. Alternate translation: “did not trust them as true disciples” or “did not believe their belief in him”

he knew all {men

Quote: τὸ αὐτὸν γινώσκειν πάντας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the word men is masculine, John is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “he knew all people”

John 2:25

about man, … what was in man

Quote: περὶ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου & τί ἦν ἐν τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although both instances of the word man are masculine, John is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “about mankind … what was in mankind” or “about people … what was in people”

what was in man

Quote: τί ἦν ἐν τῷ ἀνθρώπῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to the inner thoughts and desires of people, which some cultures refer to as “the heart.” (See the discussion of this in the General Notes to this chapter.) If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “what people think” or “the thoughts and desires people have”

John 3

John 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Jesus teaches Nicodemus about being born again (3:1–21)
John the Baptist testifies about Jesus (3:22–36)

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 to begin to obey God. (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

The kingdom of God

The kingdom of God is a concept that is very rich in meaning. It includes the idea of eternal life in the presence of God, but it also includes the idea of what the earth will be like in the future when Jesus returns and rules everything, and the idea of life on earth right now, when and where God’s wishes are carried out fully. The unifying concept behind all of these ideas is God ruling and people embracing God’s rule over their lives. (See: kingdom of God, kingdom of heaven)

Born again

A major idea in this chapter is the spiritual new birth that Jesus says is necessary in order for someone to enter the kingdom of God 3:3–8. Jesus also uses the following expressions to refer to being born again: “born from water and the Spirit” (3:4) and “born from the Spirit” (3:6,8). (See: born again, born of God, new birth)

Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” twice in this chapter (3:13–14). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 3:1

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Now here introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related in the previous chapter. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later”

there was a man from the Pharisees, Nicodemus {was} his name

Quote: ἦν & ἄνθρωπος ἐκ τῶν Φαρισαίων, Νικόδημος ὄνομα αὐτῷ, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here, there was a man is used to introduce Nicodemus as a new character in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. The phrase from the Pharisees identifies him as member of a strict Jewish religious sect. Alternate translation: “there was a man named Nicodemus, who was a member of a strict Jewish religious group”

a ruler of the Jews

Quote: ἄρχων τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase means that Nicodemus was a member of the Jewish religious leadership, specifically the Jewish council called the Sanhedrin which made decisions about Jewish law. (See: council) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a member of the Jewish ruling council”

John 3:2

This one

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

This one here refers to Nicodemus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Nicodemus”

to him

Quote: πρὸς αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to Jesus”

we know

Quote: οἴδαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, we is exclusive. Nicodemus is only referring to himself and the other members of the Jewish council. Your language may require you to mark this form.

unless God is with him

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ ᾖ ὁ Θεὸς μετ’ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Nicodemus uses with him to refer to God’s help. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “without God’s help”

John 3:3

Truly, truly I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω σοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

would be born again

Quote: γεννηθῇ ἄνωθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

The phrase born again is a metaphor that refers to spiritual rebirth. See the discussion of this expression in the General Notes to this chapter. Nicodemus does not understand this metaphor and Jesus does not explain it to him in this verse. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

would be born again

Quote: γεννηθῇ ἄνωθεν (1)

Here, the word translated again could also be translated as “from above.” It could refer to: (1) spiritual rebirth as a second birth that takes place in addition to physical birth. Alternate translation, as in the ULT: “would be born again” (2) spiritual rebirth as a birth that is caused by God, in which case “above” is a euphemism for God. Alternate translation: “would be born from above” (3) spiritual rebirth as both a second birth and a birth caused by God. See the discussion of John’s use of double meaning in Part 3 of the Introduction to this book. Alternate translation: “would be born again by God”

to see the kingdom of God

Quote: ἰδεῖν τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses see to refer to experiencing an event or state. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to experience the kingdom of God” or “to participate in the kingdom of God”

the kingdom of God

Quote: τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here this phrase refers to both the place where God currently rules in heaven and to the earth when God rules over it in the future. See the discussion of this concept in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “the place where God rules”

John 3:4

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

How is a man able to be born, being an old man

Quote: πῶς δύναται ἄνθρωπος γεννηθῆναι, γέρων ὤν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Nicodemus uses this question to emphasize that this cannot happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “A man certainly cannot be born again when he is old!”

He is not able to enter a second time into the womb of his mother and to be born, is he

Quote: μὴ δύναται εἰς τὴν κοιλίαν τῆς μητρὸς αὐτοῦ δεύτερον εἰσελθεῖν καὶ γεννηθῆναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Nicodemus uses this question to emphasize his belief that a second birth is impossible. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “He surely cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb!”

John 3:5

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω σοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 3:3.

would be born from water and Spirit

Quote: γεννηθῇ ἐξ ὕδατος καὶ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase born from water and Spirit could refer to: (1) spiritual birth that includes cleansing from sin and spiritual transformation by the Holy Spirit. In this case, Jesus’ words would be understood as a reference to Ezekiel 36:25–27, which Nicodemus would have been familiar with. Alternate translation: “would be born again by cleansing and the Spirit.” (2) physical birth and spiritual birth. Alternate translation: “would be born physically and spiritually”

to enter into the kingdom of God

Quote: εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses enter into to refer to experiencing something. The meaning is similar to the meaning of “see” in 3:3. Alternate translation: “to experience the kingdom of God” or “to participate in the kingdom of God”

the kingdom of God

Quote: τὴν Βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 3:3.

John 3:6

What} has been born from the flesh

Quote: τὸ γεγεννημένον ἐκ τῆς σαρκὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “What flesh has given birth to”

the flesh is flesh

Quote: τῆς σαρκὸς, σάρξ ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus is describing human beings by referring to something associated with them, the flesh they are made of. The word flesh here does not refer to sinful human nature as it does in other verses in the New Testament. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a human being is a human being”

what} has been born from the Spirit

Quote: τὸ γεγεννημένον ἐκ τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit, who enables people to be born again. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “what has been born again by means of the Holy Spirit”

spirit

Quote: πνεῦμά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, spirit refers to the new spiritual nature that God gives a person when they are born again. (See: born again, born of God, new birth) If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “a new spiritual nature”

John 3:7

to be born again

Quote: γεννηθῆναι ἄνωθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

See how you translated this phrase in 3:3.

John 3:8

The wind blows where it wishes

Quote: τὸ πνεῦμα ὅπου θέλει, πνεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word translated wind can also mean spirit. Jesus here speaks of the Holy Spirit, as if he were wind. Just like people in Jesus’ time could not understand how the wind blew but could observe the effects of the wind, people cannot understand how the Holy Spirit works but can witness the effects of his work. If this might confuse your readers, you could express this with a simile. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit is like the wind that blows wherever it wants”

So is

Quote: οὕτως ἐστὶν (1)

This phrase connects this sentence with the previous sentence. In the same way that people cannot understand the wind but recognize its effects, people who are not born from the Spirit cannot understand those who are born from the Spirit but can recognize the effects of the new birth. Alternate translation: “So it is with” or “So it happens with”

everyone having been born from the Spirit

Quote: ὁ γεγεννημένος ἐκ τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 3:6.

the Spirit

Quote: τοῦ Πνεύματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John 3:9

How are these things able to happen

Quote: πῶς δύναται ταῦτα γενέσθαι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This question could be: (1) a genuine question that shows that Nicodemus is confused. Alternate translation: “How are these things possible” (2) a rhetorical question Nicodemus uses to add emphasis to the statement. Alternate translation: “These things cannot be!” or “These things are impossible!”

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to all that Jesus had spoken in 3:3–8. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these things you have just told me”

John 3:10

Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things

Quote: σὺ εἶ ὁ διδάσκαλος τοῦ Ἰσραὴλ, καὶ ταῦτα οὐ γινώσκεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the question form for emphasis. He is not asking Nicodemus a question in order to get information. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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!”

Are you the teacher … you do not understand

Quote: σὺ εἶ ὁ διδάσκαλος & οὐ γινώσκεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The word you is singular and refers to Nicodemus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Are you, Nicodemus, the teacher … you do not understand”

the teacher of Israel

Quote: ὁ διδάσκαλος τοῦ Ἰσραὴλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the teacher indicates that Nicodemus was recognized as a master teacher and religious authority in the land of Israel. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the renowned religious teacher in Israel”

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to all that Jesus had spoken in 3:3–8. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. See how you translated this phrase is the previous verse. Alternate translation: “these things you have just told me”

John 3:11

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω σοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 3:3.

we speak {what} we know, … our testimony

Quote: ὃ οἴδαμεν λαλοῦμεν & τὴν μαρτυρίαν ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Jesus says we and our in this verse, he was not including Nicodemus. Jesus used these pronouns as a contrast to Nicodemus saying we in 3:2. While Nicodemus used we to refer to himself and the other Jewish religious leaders, Jesus could have been referring to: (1) himself and his disciples. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “my disciples and I speak what we know … our testimony” (2) himself and the other members of the Godhead. Alternate translation: “the Father, Spirit, and I speak what we know … our testimony”

you do not receive

Quote: οὐ λαμβάνετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The word you is plural and could refer to: (1) the Jewish people in general. Alternate translation: “you Jews” (2) Nicodemus and his fellow Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “you Jewish leaders do not welcome”

John 3:12

If I told you earthly things

Quote: εἰ τὰ ἐπίγεια εἶπον ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

John records Jesus speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what Jesus is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since I told you earthly things”

you … you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you

Quote: ὑμῖν & οὐ πιστεύετε, πῶς ἐὰν εἴπω ὑμῖν & πιστεύσετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Throughout this verse, you is plural and could refer to: (1) the Jewish people in general. Alternate translation: “you Jews … you Jews do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you” (2) Nicodemus and his fellow Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “you Jewish leaders … you Jewish leaders do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you” See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

earthly things

Quote: τὰ ἐπίγεια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, earthly things refers to what Jesus had spoken in 3:3–8. Those things are called earthly because they are about things that take place on earth. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “these truths about what takes place on earth”

how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things

Quote: πῶς ἐὰν εἴπω ὑμῖν τὰ ἐπουράνια, πιστεύσετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus uses a question to emphasize the disbelief of Nicodemus and the Jews. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you certainly will not believe if I tell you about heavenly things!”

heavenly things

Quote: τὰ ἐπουράνια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, heavenly things refers to things that take place in heaven or are related to heaven. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “truths about what takes place in heaven”

John 3:13

the one having descended from heaven

Quote: ὁ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καταβάς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “me, the one who descended from heaven”

the Son of Man

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John 3:14

And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness

Quote: καὶ καθὼς Μωϋσῆς ὕψωσεν τὸν ὄφιν ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

In this verse, John records Jesus comparing his crucifixion to Moses lifting up a bronze snake. John assumes that his readers will know that Jesus is referring to a story recorded in the Old Testament book of Numbers. In that story, the Israelites complained against God, and God punished them by sending poisonous snakes to kill them. God then told Moses to make a bronze snake and raise it up on a pole so that whoever was bitten by one of the poisonous snakes and looked at the bronze snake would not die. You could indicate this explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers, particularly if they would not know the story. Alternate translation: “And just as Moses lifted up the bronze serpent on a pole when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness”

it is necessary for the Son of Man to be lifted up

Quote: ὑψωθῆναι δεῖ τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it is necessary for people to lift up the Son of Man”

the Son of Man to be lifted up

Quote: ὑψωθῆναι & τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “me, the Son of Man, to be lifted up”

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

John 3:15

so that

Quote: ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that Jesus is stating the purpose for which he would be crucified. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “in order that”

John 3:16

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that Jesus is giving a reason why the statement in the previous two verses is true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “This is true because”

God so loved the world

Quote: οὕτως & ἠγάπησεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸν κόσμον (1)

Here, so could refer to: (1) the manner in which God loved the world. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “God loved the world in this way” (2) the degree to which God loved the world. Alternate translation: “God loved the world so much” (3) both the manner in which and the degree to which God loved the world. For this interpretation, see the discussion of John’s use of double meaning in Part 3 of the Introduction to this book. Alternate translation: “in this way God loved the world so much”

the world

Quote: τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the people who live in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people in the world”

that

Quote: ὥστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, that introduces the result of what the previous clause stated. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “as a result”

his One and Only Son

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τὸν μονογενῆ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, One and Only Son refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “his One and Only Son, Jesus”

his One and Only Son

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τὸν μονογενῆ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here and throughout John’s Gospel, the phrase One and Only is a title for Jesus that could refer to: (1) Jesus being unique as the only member of his kind. Alternate translation: “his Unique Son” (2) Jesus being the only child of his Father. Alternate translation: “his Only Begotten Son”

his One and Only Son

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τὸν μονογενῆ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

One and Only Son is an important title for Jesus.

John 3:17

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that Jesus is giving a reason why the statement in the previous verse is true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “God gave his One and Only Son because”

For God did not send the Son into the world so that he might condemn the world, but so that the world might be saved through him

Quote: οὐ γὰρ ἀπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς τὸν Υἱὸν εἰς τὸν κόσμον, ἵνα κρίνῃ τὸν κόσμον, ἀλλ’ ἵνα σωθῇ ὁ κόσμος δι’ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean nearly the same thing, said twice for emphasis, first in the negative and then in the positive. Use whatever form your language uses for emphasis. Alternate translation: “For God truly sent his Son into the world so that he might save it”

the Son

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus.

the Son … through him

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν & δι’ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person. Alternate translation: “me … through me”

the world

Quote: τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, world refers to the universe God created. It does not refer only to the people in the world or only to the earth. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the universe”

so that he might condemn

Quote: ἵνα κρίνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to God; it does not refer to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that God might condemn”

so that he might condemn the world

Quote: ἵνα κρίνῃ τὸν κόσμον (1)

The word translated condemn means to judge someone to be guilty and deserving of punishment. Alternate translation: “so that he might judge the world as guilty”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τὸν κόσμον & ὁ κόσμος (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the people who live in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people in the world … the people in the world”

so that the world might be saved

Quote: ἵνα σωθῇ ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

through him

Quote: δι’ αὐτοῦ (1)

This phrase indicates the means by which God would save the world. Alternate translation: “by means of him”

John 3:18

is not condemned, … has already been condemned

Quote: οὐ κρίνεται & ἤδη κέκριται (1)

The word translated condemn means to judge someone to be guilty and deserving of punishment. See how you translated this term in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “is not judged as guilty … has already been judged as guilty”

in him

Quote: εἰς αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in Jesus”

The one believing in him is not condemned

Quote: ὁ πιστεύων εἰς αὐτὸν οὐ κρίνεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

but the one not believing has already been condemned

Quote: ὁ δὲ μὴ πιστεύων, ἤδη κέκριται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God

Quote: μὴ πεπίστευκεν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ μονογενοῦς Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name represents Jesus’ identity and everything about him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he has not believed in the One and Only Son of God”

of the One and Only Son of God

Quote: τοῦ μονογενοῦς Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)

Here and throughout John’s Gospel, the phrase One and Only is a title for Jesus that could refer to: (1) Jesus being unique as the only member of his kind. Alternate translation: “of the Unique Son of God” (2) Jesus being the only child of his Father. Alternate translation: “of the Only Begotten Son of God”

of … Son of God

Quote: Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

John 3:19

the judgment

Quote: ἡ κρίσις (1)

Here, judgment could refer to: (1) a verdict a judge pronounces in a court trial. Alternate translation: “the verdict” (2) the reason for a condemning judgment. Alternate translation: “the basis for condemnation”

the light has come into the world, … than the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς ἐλήλυθεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον & ἢ τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses light to refer to the revelation of God’s truth and goodness in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. See how you translated this term in those places where the light also refers to Jesus in the 1:7–9. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who revealed the true and good things of God, has come into the world … than Jesus”

the light has come into the world, … than the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς ἐλήλυθεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον & ἢ τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. 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: “I, the light, have come into the world … than me”

men

Quote: οἱ ἄνθρωποι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Jesus uses the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “people”

men loved the darkness

Quote: ἠγάπησαν οἱ ἄνθρωποι & τὸ σκότος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses darkness to refer to what is false and evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See the discussion of light and darkness in the General Notes for Chapter 1. Alternate translation: “men loved evil”

John 3:20

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates another reason why men love the darkness, as stated in the previous verse. People who do evil things hate the light. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “This is because”

everyone is doing evil

Quote: πᾶς & ὁ φαῦλα πράσσων (1)

This phrase refers to someone who habitually does evil things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “everyone who habitually does evil”

the light and … to the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς, καὶ & πρὸς τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the light in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who revealed the true and good things of God, and … to Jesus”

the light and … to the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς, καὶ & πρὸς τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

so that his deeds might not be exposed

Quote: ἵνα μὴ ἐλεγχθῇ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the light might not expose his deeds”

John 3:21

the one doing the truth

Quote: ὁ & ποιῶν τὴν ἀλήθειαν (1)

This phrase refers to someone who habitually does true things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “everyone who habitually does the truth”

the one doing the truth

Quote: ὁ & ποιῶν τὴν ἀλήθειαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the one who does true things” or “the one who does what is true”

comes to the light

Quote: ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the light in the previous two verses. Alternate translation: “comes to Jesus, who revealed the true and good things of God”

comes to the light

Quote: ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking about himself in the third person. If your language does not allow people to speak of themselves in the third person, you may need to specify who the light is. See how you translated this expression in the previous two verses.

his deeds might be revealed

Quote: φανερωθῇ αὐτοῦ τὰ ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the light might reveal his deeds”

that they have been worked in God

Quote: ὅτι ἐν Θεῷ ἐστιν εἰργασμένα (1)

This clause indicates what the light will reveal about the deeds of those who come to the light. The phrase in God indicates that the works these people have done were done with God’s help and not by their own strength or effort. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “that they have been done with God’s help”

John 3:22

After these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

This phrase introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later”

John 3:23

John

Quote: ὁ Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John refers to Jesus’ cousin, often referred to as “John the Baptist.” (See: John (the Baptist)) It does not refer to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist” or “John the Immerser”

Aenon

Quote: Αἰνὼν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Aenon is the name of a town near the Jordan River close to Samaria. Aenon is the Aramaic word for springs of water, which explains John’s comment in the next clause about there being much water there.

Salim

Quote: τοῦ Σαλείμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Salim is the name of a town near the Jordan River close to Samaria.

were being baptized

Quote: ἐβαπτίζοντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, John implies that John the Baptist did it. Alternate translation: “John was baptizing them” or “he was baptizing them”

John 3:24

John had not yet been thrown

Quote: οὔπω & ἦν βεβλημένος & ὁ Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Mark 6:17 implies that Herod did it. Alternate translation: “Herod had not yet thrown John”

John 3:25

Then a dispute came about from the disciples of John

Quote: ἐγένετο οὖν ζήτησις ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν Ἰωάννου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of dispute, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “Then the disciples of John began arguing”

Then a dispute came about from the disciples of John with a Jew

Quote: ἐγένετο οὖν ζήτησις ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν Ἰωάννου μετὰ Ἰουδαίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then John’s disciples and a Jew began to dispute”

of John

Quote: Ἰωάννου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John 3:26

they went

Quote: ἦλθον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to John the Baptist’s disciples, who were disputing in the previous verse. If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could state it explicitly. Alternate translation: “John’s disciples went”

the one who was with you beyond the Jordan, about whom you had testified

Quote: ὃς ἦν μετὰ σοῦ πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου, ᾧ σὺ μεμαρτύρηκας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus, who was with you beyond the Jordan, about whom you had testified”

behold, he is baptizing

Quote: ἴδε, οὗτος βαπτίζει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist’s disciples used the term behold to call John’s attention to what Jesus was doing. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here. Alternate translation: “see how he is baptizing”

they are all going to him

Quote: πάντες ἔρχονται πρὸς αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here John the Baptist’s disciples use the word all as a generalization for emphasis. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “it seems like everyone is going to him”

John 3:27

A man is not able

Quote: οὐ δύναται ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

John is speaking of people in general, not of one particular man. Alternate translation: “A person is not able”

it has been given to him from heaven

Quote: ᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “heaven has given it to him”

it has been given to him from heaven

Quote: ᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here John the Baptist uses heaven to refer to God, who dwells in heaven. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “it has been given to him by God”

John 3:28

You yourselves

Quote: αὐτοὶ ὑμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here, You is plural and refers to all the people to whom John the Baptist is talking. Alternate translation: “You all” or “All of you”

that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before that one

Quote: ὅτι εἶπον, οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐγὼ ὁ Χριστός, ἀλλ’, ὅτι ἀπεσταλμένος εἰμὶ ἔμπροσθεν ἐκείνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “that I said that I am not the Christ but that I have been sent before that one”

I have been sent before that one

Quote: ἀπεσταλμένος εἰμὶ ἔμπροσθεν ἐκείνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God sent me before that one”

that one

Quote: ἐκείνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to Jesus, whom John has called “the Christ” in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus” or “the Christ”

John 3:29

The one having the bride is the bridegroom. … of the bridegroom, … of the voice of the bridegroom

Quote: ὁ ἔχων τὴν νύμφην, νυμφίος ἐστίν & τοῦ νυμφίου & τὴν φωνὴν τοῦ νυμφίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses bride and bridegroom to refer to people who believe in Jesus and Jesus himself, respectively. Since these are important terms for Christians and for Jesus, you should translate the words directly and not provide a plain explanation in the text of your translation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these words with similes. Alternate translation: “The one who is like one who has a bride is like a bridegroom … of the one who is like a bridegroom … of the voice of one who is like a bridegroom”

But the friend of the bridegroom, the one having stood and hearing him, rejoices with joy

Quote: ὁ δὲ φίλος τοῦ νυμφίου, ὁ ἑστηκὼς καὶ ἀκούων αὐτοῦ, χαρᾷ χαίρει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

John the Baptist is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “But I am the friend of the bridegroom, and I stood and heard him, and I rejoice”

rejoices with joy

Quote: χαρᾷ χαίρει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These words mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how much joy John had because Jesus had come. Alternate translation: “rejoices greatly”

this my joy has been made complete

Quote: αὕτη & ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμὴ πεπλήρωται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I rejoice greatly” or “I rejoice with complete joy”

this my joy

Quote: αὕτη & ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Here, my refers to John the Baptist, the one who is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this joy that I, John, have”

John 3:30

It is necessary for that one to increase

Quote: ἐκεῖνον δεῖ αὐξάνειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to Jesus, whom John the Baptist called “the bridegroom” in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “It is necessary for Jesus to increase” or “It is necessary for the bridegroom to increase”

to increase, … to decrease

Quote: αὐξάνειν & ἐλαττοῦσθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses increase to refer to growing in importance and influence, while decrease refers to diminishing in importance and influence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to be more influential … to be less influential”

John 3:31

The one coming from above is above all things. … The one coming from heaven is above all things

Quote: ὁ ἄνωθεν ἐρχόμενος, ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν & ὁ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἐρχόμενος, ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. John repeats himself to emphasize that Jesus is greater than every person and every thing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine these phrases and include words that show emphasis. Alternate translation: “The one who comes from heaven is certainly above all things”

The one coming from above is above all things. … The one coming from heaven is above all things

Quote: ὁ ἄνωθεν ἐρχόμενος, ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν & ὁ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἐρχόμενος, ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Both of these phrases refer to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus, the one who comes from above, is above all things … Jesus, the one who comes from heaven, is above all things”

from above

Quote: ἄνωθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here John the Baptist uses above to refer to heaven, the place where God dwells. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “from heaven”

is above all things

Quote: ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses above to refer to having superior status. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is superior to all things”

The one being from the earth is from the earth and speaks from the earth

Quote: ὁ ὢν ἐκ τῆς γῆς, ἐκ τῆς γῆς ἐστιν, καὶ ἐκ τῆς γῆς λαλεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Here, John the Baptist is referring to himself in the third person, but the statement is also true for all humans other than Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “I, the one who is from the earth, am from the earth and speak from the earth”

is from the earth

Quote: ἐκ τῆς γῆς ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase refers to having an earthly origin, which is the case for John the Baptist and every human being other than Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “originates from the earth” or “has an earthly origin”

and speaks from the earth

Quote: καὶ ἐκ τῆς γῆς λαλεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase refers to speaking based on an earthly perspective, which is the perspective of John the Baptist and every human being other than Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and speaks from an earthly perspective” or “and speaks as someone from the earth”

is above all things

Quote: ἐπάνω πάντων ἐστίν (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses above to refer to having superior status. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is superior to all things”

John 3:32

He testifies about that which he has seen and heard, … his testimony

Quote: ὃ ἑώρακεν καὶ ἤκουσεν, τοῦτο μαρτυρεῖ & μαρτυρίαν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He and his in this verse refer to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus testifies about that which he has seen and heard … Jesus’ testimony”

which he has seen and heard

Quote: ὃ ἑώρακεν καὶ ἤκουσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to what Jesus saw and heard while he was in heaven. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “which he has seen and heard in heaven”

no one receives his testimony

Quote: τὴν μαρτυρίαν αὐτοῦ, οὐδεὶς λαμβάνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, John the Baptist exaggerates to emphasize that only a few people believed Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “very few people receive his testimony” or “it seems like no one receives his testimony”

John 3:33

The one having received his testimony

Quote: ὁ λαβὼν αὐτοῦ τὴν μαρτυρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

This phrase does not refer to a specific person, but to any person who does this thing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Anyone who has received his testimony”

his testimony

Quote: αὐτοῦ τὴν μαρτυρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, his refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus’ testimony”

has set his seal

Quote: ἐσφράγισεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

This expression refers to placing a seal on a document in order to certify that what is written in the document is true. (See: seal, sealed, unsealed) Here this meaning is extended to refer to certifying that God is true. If your readers would not be familiar with this practice of sealing documents, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “has certified” or “has attested”

John 3:34

the one whom God has sent

Quote: ὃν & ἀπέστειλεν ὁ Θεὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus, whom God has sent”

For

Quote: γὰρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the previous sentence is true. We know that Jesus speaks the words of God because God has given him the Holy Spirit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “We know this because”

he does not give

Quote: οὐ & δίδωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God does not give”

he does not give the Spirit by measure

Quote: οὐ & ἐκ μέτρου δίδωσιν τὸ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context, especially this discussion of God giving to his Son in the next verse. Alternate translation: “he does not give the Spirit to him by measure”

he does not give the Spirit by measure

Quote: οὐ & ἐκ μέτρου δίδωσιν τὸ Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This clause is a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that means the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “he certainly gives the Spirit without measure”

John 3:35

Father … Son

Quote: Πατὴρ & Υἱόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

has given all things into his hand

Quote: πάντα δέδωκεν ἐν τῇ χειρὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, giving into his hand means putting under his power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “has given him control over everything”

John 3:36

The one believing

Quote: ὁ πιστεύων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

in the Son … the Son

Quote: εἰς τὸν Υἱὸν & τῷ Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ὁ & ἀπειθῶν (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ὁ & ἀπειθῶν (2)

The word translated disobeys can also be translated “does not believe.” Alternate translation: “the one who does not believe”

will not see life

Quote: οὐκ ὄψεται ζωήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John the Baptist uses see metaphorically to refer to experiencing or participating in something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will not experience life”

will not see life

Quote: οὐκ ὄψεται ζωήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life, as indicated by the previous clause. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “will not see eternal life”

the wrath of God remains on him

Quote: ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ μένει ἐπ’ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of wrath, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God will continue to be angry against him”

John 4

John 4 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus leaves Judea for Galilee (4:1–6)
Jesus meets a Samaritan woman (4:7–14)
Jesus teaches the Samaritan woman about worship (4:15–26)
Jesus teaches his disciples about evangelism (4:27–38)
Jesus’ ministry in Samaria (4:39–42)
Jesus goes to Galilee (4:43–45)
Jesus’ second sign: he heals an official’s son (4:46–54)

John 4:7–38 forms one story centered on the teaching of Jesus as the “living water” who gives eternal life to all who believe in him. (See: believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“It was necessary for him to pass through Samaria”

Jews avoided traveling through the region of Samaria, because Jews and Samaritans were longtime enemies who hated each other. So Jesus did what most Jews did not want to do. (See: Samaria, Samaritan)

“an hour is coming”

Jesus used these words to begin prophecies about events that could be shorter or longer than sixty minutes. In such instances, “hour” refers to a point in time when something happens, not a set length of time. For example, “an hour … when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth” refers to the point in time when people begin to do so (4:23).

The proper place of worship

Long before Jesus came to earth, the Samaritan people had broken the law of Moses by setting up their own temple on Mount Gerizim (4:20). Jesus explained to the Samaritan woman that in the near future it would no longer be important where people worshiped (4:21–24).

Harvest

Harvest refers to the time 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 God’s kingdom. (See: 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 would later kill Jesus. (See: believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“in spirit and truth”

The people who truly know who God is and enjoy worshiping him for who the Bible says he is are the ones who truly please him. The place where they worship him is not important.

John 4:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

4:1–6 give the background to the next event, which is Jesus’ conversation with a Samaritan woman. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

John 4:1–3 is one long sentence. It may be necessary in your language to divide this long sentence into several shorter sentences.

Then when Jesus knew that the Pharisees heard that Jesus is making and baptizing more disciples than John

Quote: ὡς οὖν ἔγνω ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὅτι ἤκουσαν οἱ Φαρισαῖοι, ὅτι Ἰησοῦς πλείονας μαθητὰς ποιεῖ καὶ βαπτίζει ἢ Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “Now Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John. When he knew that the Pharisees had heard that he was doing this”

Then when Jesus knew

Quote: ὡς οὖν ἔγνω ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Then here introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later, when Jesus knew”

John 4:2

Jesus himself was not baptizing

Quote: Ἰησοῦς αὐτὸς οὐκ ἐβάπτιζεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here, himself is used to emphasize that Jesus was not baptizing disciples, but his disciples were doing the baptizing. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis.

but his disciples

Quote: ἀλλ’ οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here John is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “but his disciples were baptizing people”

John 4:5

Then he comes

Quote: ἔρχεται οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Then here indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event just described in 4:3. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “After leaving Judea, he comes”

he comes

Quote: ἔρχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Sychar

Quote: Συχὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Sychar is the name of a place.

John 4:6

there

Quote: ἐκεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this case, there refers to the town of Sychar mentioned in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “there at Sychar”

Then Jesus

Quote: ὁ οὖν Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Then here indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event just described in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “When Jesus came to Sychar”

having grown weary

Quote: κεκοπιακὼς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause indicates the reason why Jesus sat by the well. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he had grown weary”

from the journey

Quote: ἐκ τῆς ὁδοιπορίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This phrase indicates the reason why Jesus had grown weary. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because of the journey”

It was about the sixth hour

Quote: ὥρα ἦν ὡς ἕκτη (1)

In this culture, people began counting the hours each day beginning around daybreak at six o’clock in the morning. Here, the sixth hour indicates a time in the middle of the day, when it would be the hottest. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this in the way the people of your culture reckon time. Alternate translation: “about noon” or “about 12:00 PM”

John 4:7

comes … says

Quote: ἔρχεται & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Give me to drink

Quote: δός μοι πεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please give me to drink”

Give me to drink

Quote: δός μοι πεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records Jesus leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “Give me something to drink”

John 4:8

for his disciples had gone away

Quote: οἱ γὰρ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ ἀπεληλύθεισαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This phrase indicates the reason why Jesus asked the woman for water. The disciples had gone away and taken the tools for drawing water with them, so that Jesus could not draw the water himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because his disciples had gone away”

John 4:9

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

How do you, being a Jew, ask from me to drink, being a Samaritan woman

Quote: πῶς σὺ Ἰουδαῖος ὢν, παρ’ ἐμοῦ πεῖν αἰτεῖς γυναικὸς Σαμαρείτιδος οὔσης? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The woman is using the question form for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate her words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I cannot believe that you, being a Jew, are asking a Samaritan woman for a drink!”

do not have dealings with

Quote: οὐ & συνχρῶνται (1)

Alternate translation: “do not associate with” or “have nothing to do with”

John 4:10

If you had known the gift of God and who is the one saying to you, ‘… you would have asked him

Quote: εἰ ᾔδεις τὴν δωρεὰν τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ τίς ἐστιν ὁ λέγων σοι & σὺ ἂν ᾔτησας αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he knows that the condition is not true. He knows that the woman does not know the gift of God or who he is. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “You surely do not know the gift of God and who it is who is saying to you … Otherwise, you would have asked him”

the gift of God

Quote: τὴν δωρεὰν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)

Here, the gift of God refers to the “living water” that Jesus mentions at the end of the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God’s gift of living water”

the gift of God

Quote: τὴν δωρεὰν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus uses of to describe a gift that comes from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the gift from God”

who is the one saying to you, ‘… would have asked him, and he would have given

Quote: τίς ἐστιν ὁ λέγων σοι & ᾔτησας αὐτὸν, καὶ ἔδωκεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “who I am who is saying to you … would have asked me, and I would have given”

the one saying to you, ‘Give me to drink

Quote: ὁ λέγων σοι, δός μοι πεῖν, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “who is asking you to give him a drink”

living water

Quote: ὕδωρ ζῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

The phrase living water usually refers to moving or flowing water. However, Jesus uses living water here to refer to the Holy Spirit who works in a person to save and transform them. However, the woman does not understand this and Jesus does not explain the metaphor to her in this verse. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

John 4:11

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The Samaritan woman calls Jesus Sir in order to show respect or politeness. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

the living water

Quote: τὸ ὕδωρ τὸ ζῶν (1)

See how you translated the living water in the previous verse.

John 4:12

You are not greater, are you, than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, and his sons and his cattle

Quote: μὴ 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? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The woman is using the question form for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate her words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are certainly not greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, and his sons and his cattle!”

drank from it

Quote: ἐξ αὐτοῦ ἔπιεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records the woman leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “drank water from it”

and his sons and his cattle

Quote: καὶ οἱ υἱοὶ αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὰ θρέμματα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records the woman leaving out some words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and his sons drank water from it and his cattle drank water from it”

John 4:13

will thirst again

Quote: διψήσει πάλιν (1)

Alternate translation: “will need to drink water again”

John 4:14

but whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never thirst … the water that I will give him will become a fountain of water in him, springing up to eternal life

Quote: ὃς δ’ ἂν πίῃ ἐκ τοῦ ὕδατος οὗ ἐγὼ δώσω αὐτῷ, οὐ μὴ διψήσει & τὸ ὕδωρ ὃ δώσω αὐτῷ γενήσεται ἐν αὐτῷ πηγὴ ὕδατος, ἁλλομένου εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus speaks about receiving the Holy Spirit by continuing the metaphor of water. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “but whoever is like one who drinks from the water that I will give him will be like one who never thirsts … the water that I will give him will become like a fountain of water in him, resulting in eternal life”

John 4:15

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The Samaritan woman calls Jesus Sir in order to show respect or politeness. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

to draw {water

Quote: ἀντλεῖν (1)

Here, draw refers to taking water out of a well using a container that can hold water. Alternate translation: “get water” or “pull water up from the well”

John 4:16

He says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 4:17

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

You have rightly said, ‘I do not have a husband

Quote: καλῶς εἶπας, ὅτι ἄνδρα οὐκ ἔχω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “You have rightly said that you do not have a husband”

John 4:18

This you have said is true

Quote: τοῦτο ἀληθὲς εἴρηκας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This you have said refers to the Samaritan woman’s statement in the previous verse that she did not have a husband. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You have spoken the truth when you said you do not have a husband”

John 4:19

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The Samaritan woman calls Jesus Sir in order to show respect or politeness. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

I see that you are a prophet

Quote: θεωρῶ ὅτι προφήτης εἶ σύ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The woman uses see to refer to understanding something. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I understand that you are a prophet”

John 4:20

on this mountain

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὄρει τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this mountain refers to Mount Gerizim, the mountain where the Samaritans built their own temple. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “here on Mount Gerizim”

you say

Quote: ὑμεῖς λέγετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here the word you is plural and refers to the Jewish people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you Jewish people say”

the place

Quote: ὁ τόπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the place refers to the Jewish temple, the place where God commanded his people to worship at that time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish temple”

John 4:21

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

woman

Quote: γύναι (1)

Here, woman refers to the Samaritan woman. If it is impolite to call someone “woman” in your language, you can use another word that is polite, or leave it out.

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, hour refers to a point in time when something happens. It does not refer to a 60-minute length of time. See the discussion of this in the General Notes to this chapter. Alternate translation: “a point in time is coming”

Father

Quote: Πατρί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

on this mountain

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὄρει τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this mountain refers to Mount Gerizim. See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “here on Mount Gerizim”

John 4:22

You … you do not know

Quote: ὑμεῖς & οὐκ οἴδατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

You is plural here in this verse and refers to the Samaritan people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you Samaritan people … you all do not know”

We … we know

Quote: ἡμεῖς & οἴδαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

We here is exclusive. Jesus is only referring to himself and the Jewish people. Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “We Jewish people … we all know”

for salvation is from the Jews

Quote: ὅτι ἡ σωτηρία ἐκ τῶν Ἰουδαίων ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from the Jews indicates that the Jewish people were the people group from which salvation came. This is true because the Savior Jesus was from the Jewish people. This phrase does not mean that the Jewish people themselves will save others from their sins. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “for salvation comes from among the Jewish people”

salvation

Quote: ἡ σωτηρία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the way to be saved”

John 4:23

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of an hour is coming in the General Notes to this chapter and see how you translated this phrase in verse 21.

the Father … the Father

Quote: τῷ Πατρὶ & ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

in spirit

Quote: ἐν πνεύματι (1)

Here, spirit could refer to: (1) the inner person, which is what a person thinks and feels. Alternate translation: “with their spirits” (2) the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “in the Holy Spirit”

in spirit and truth

Quote: ἐν πνεύματι καὶ ἀληθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, truth refers to thinking correctly of what is true about God, which is revealed in the Bible. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in spirit and in accordance with God’s Word”

John 4:24

in spirit and truth

Quote: ἐν πνεύματι καὶ ἀληθείᾳ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

John 4:25

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the one called Christ

Quote: ὁ λεγόμενος Χριστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Christ is the Greek translation of Messiah. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one called Christ in the Greek language”

When he comes, that one

Quote: ὅταν ἔλθῃ ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he and that one refer to the Messiah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “When the Messiah may come, the Messiah”

that one will declare everything to us

Quote: ἐκεῖνος, ἀναγγελεῖ ἡμῖν ἅπαντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The words declare everything imply all that the people need to know. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will tell us all that we need to know”

to us

Quote: ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When the woman said “us,” she was including the people to whom she was speaking, so this would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

John 4:26

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the one speaking to you

Quote: ὁ λαλῶν σοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in third person. If this would confuse your readers, you can use the first person form, as in the UST.

John 4:27

at this

Quote: ἐπὶ τούτῳ (1)

Alternate translation: “at the time he said this” or “just as Jesus was saying this”

and they were amazed that he was speaking with a woman

Quote: καὶ ἐθαύμαζον ὅτι μετὰ γυναικὸς ἐλάλει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In the culture of that time, it was very unusual for a Jew to speak with a woman he did not know, especially if they were alone or if that woman was a Samaritan. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and they were amazed that he was speaking alone with an unknown woman, because people didn’t usually do that”

What are you seeking

Quote: τί ζητεῖς? (1)

This question could be spoken to: (1) Jesus. Alternate translation: “What do you want from this woman?” (2) the woman. Alternate translation: “What do you want from him?”

John 4:28

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

to the men

Quote: τοῖς ἀνθρώποις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, the men could refer to: (1) the men who lived in the nearby town and would have been working out in the fields at that time. Alternate translation: “to the men of the town” (2) the people who lived in the nearby town. Alternate translation: “to the people of the town”

John 4:29

Come, see a man who told me all things, as much as I have done

Quote: δεῦτε, ἴδετε ἄνθρωπον ὃς εἶπέ μοι πάντα ὅσα ἐποίησα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The Samaritan woman exaggerates to show that she is impressed by how much Jesus knows about her. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “Come see a man who knows very much about me even though I never met him before”

This is not the Christ, is it

Quote: μήτι οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ Χριστός? (1)

This question is not a rhetorical question. The woman is not sure that Jesus is the Christ, so she asks a question that expects “no” for an answer. However, the fact that she asked the question instead of making a statement indicates that she is uncertain. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in a way that shows her uncertainty. Alternate translation: “Is it even possible that this is the Christ?”

John 4:30

They went out

Quote: ἐξῆλθον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

They here refers to the men or people from the town to whom the woman had spoken. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Your translation will depend on how you translated “the men” in verse 28. Alternate translation: “The men of the town went out” or “The nearby townspeople went out”

John 4:31

In the meantime

Quote: ἐν τῷ μεταξὺ (1)

Alternate translation: “While the woman was going into town” or “During the time that the woman was in the town”

the disciples were urging him, saying

Quote: ἠρώτων αὐτὸν οἱ μαθηταὶ λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “the disciples were urging him, and they said”

Rabbi, eat

Quote: Ῥαββεί, φάγε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Here, eat is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Rabbi, please eat”

John 4:32

I have food to eat

Quote: ἐγὼ βρῶσιν ἔχω φαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus uses the word food to refer to doing God’s will, as he states in 4:34. However, his disciples do not understand this and Jesus does not explain the metaphor to them in this verse. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

John 4:33

No one brought him to eat, did he

Quote: μή τις ἤνεγκεν αὐτῷ φαγεῖν? (1)

The disciples think Jesus is literally talking about something to eat. They begin asking each other this question, expecting a “no” response. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in a way that shows their uncertainty. Alternate translation: “Is it even possible that someone brought him food to eat?”

John 4:34

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

My food is that I might do the will of the one having sent me and might complete his work

Quote: ἐμὸν βρῶμά ἐστιν ἵνα ποιήσω τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πέμψαντός με, καὶ τελειώσω αὐτοῦ τὸ ἔργον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses food to refer to obeying God’s will. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could express this with a simile. Alternate translation: “Like food satisfies a hungry person, doing the will of the one who sent me and completing his work satisfies me”

of the one having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one who sent me refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of God, the one who sent me”

John 4:35

Do you not say, ‘There are still four months, and the harvest comes

Quote: οὐχ ὑμεῖς λέγετε, ὅτι ἔτι τετράμηνός ἐστιν καὶ ὁ θερισμὸς ἔρχεται? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Behold

Quote: ἰδοὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus using the term Behold to call the disciples’ attention to what he is about to say. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here.

lift up your eyes

Quote: ἐπάρατε τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase, lift up your eyes, is a common idiom in the Bible that is used to describe the act of looking at something or direct one’s own attention toward something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “look”

see the fields

Quote: θεάσασθε τὰς χώρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the word fields to refer to people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning with a simile or plainly. Alternate translation: “see these people who are like fields” or “see these people”

they are already white for harvest

Quote: λευκαί εἰσιν πρὸς θερισμόν ἤδη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the phrase white for harvest to say that people are ready to receive the message of Jesus, like fields that are ready to be harvested. If it would be helpful in your language, you could convey the meaning with a simile or do it plainly. Alternate translation: “they are like a field that is ready to be harvested” or “they are already ready to believe my message”

John 4:36

The one harvesting … and the one harvesting

Quote: ὁ θερίζων & καὶ ὁ θερίζων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. The act of harvesting crops is used to refer to the act of proclaiming Jesus’ message to those who are ready to receive it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “The one who is proclaiming the message to those who are being saved is like one who is harvesting … and the one who is like a harvester”

receives wages

Quote: μισθὸν, λαμβάνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. Those who proclaim Jesus’ message are described as those who receive wages for their labor. Here, wages refers to the joy those who proclaim the message will receive, as indicated by the last clause in this verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “has great joy that is like wages”

and gathers fruit for eternal life

Quote: καὶ συνάγει καρπὸν εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. Jesus uses the phrasefruit for eternal life to refer to people who believe his message and are forgiven for their sins, so that they can have eternal life with God in heaven. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this as a simile. Alternate translation: “and the people who believe the message and receive eternal life are like the fruit that the one who is harvesting gathers”

the one sowing

Quote: ὁ σπείρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. The act of sowing seed is used to refer to the act of preparing people to receive Jesus’ message. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “the one who is preparing people to receive the message is like one who is sowing seed”

John 4:37

in this

Quote: ἐν & τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this could refer to: (1) the statements in the rest of this verse and the next verse. Alternate translation: “regarding what I am about to say,” (2) the statement in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “regarding what I have just said,”

One is the one sowing

Quote: ἄλλος ἐστὶν ὁ σπείρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. This is part of an extended metaphor in verses 35–38. Here, sowing is used to refer to preparing people to receive the message of Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this with a simile. Alternate translation: “One preparing people to receive the message is like one sowing”

the one harvesting

Quote: ὁ θερίζων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. This is part of an extended metaphor in verses 35–38. Here, harvesting refers to proclaiming the message of Jesus to those already prepared to receive it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this with a simile. Alternate translation: “the one proclaiming the message to those who are receiving it is like one harvesting”

John 4:38

you … you … you

Quote: ὑμᾶς & ὑμεῖς & ὑμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In this verse you is plural and refers to the disciples to whom Jesus is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you who are my disciples … you … you disciples”

I sent you to harvest

Quote: ἐγὼ ἀπέστειλα ὑμᾶς θερίζειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues to speak to describe people proclaiming and receiving his message. This is part of an extended metaphor in verses 35–38. Here, harvest refers to proclaiming the message of Jesus to those already prepared to receive it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this with a simile. Alternate translation: “I sent you to successfully proclaim my message like those who harvest”

that on which you have not labored

Quote: ὃ οὐχ ὑμεῖς κεκοπιάκατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to those who received Jesus’ message when his disciples proclaimed it to them. Although the disciples did not prepare those people to receive the message, they enjoyed the benefits of seeing those people trust in Jesus for salvation. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “those people whom you previously did not prepare to receive the message”

Others have labored

Quote: ἄλλοι κεκοπιάκασιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Others here refers to those people who prepared people to receive Jesus’ message before Jesus’ disciples successfully proclaimed that message to them. This would include Jesus, John the Baptist, and possibly the Old Testament prophets as well. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Others such as myself and the prophets have labored”

you have entered into their labor

Quote: ὑμεῖς εἰς τὸν κόπον αὐτῶν εἰσεληλύθατε (1)

Here, entered into means to have joined others or participated with others in doing something. Alternate translation: “you have joined in doing their work”

John 4:39

from that city

Quote: ἐκ & τῆς πόλεως ἐκείνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, that city refers to the Samaritan city of Sychar. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “from Sychar”

He told me all things that I have done

Quote: εἶπέν μοι πάντα ἃ ἐποίησα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, all things is an exaggeration. The woman was impressed by how much Jesus knew about her. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “He told me many things that I have done”

John 4:40

to him, … him … he stayed

Quote: πρὸς αὐτὸν & αὐτὸν & ἔμεινεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse him and he refer to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to Jesus … Jesus … Jesus stayed”

John 4:41

his word

Quote: τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the message that Jesus proclaimed. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his message”

John 4:42

they said

Quote: ἔλεγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to the Samaritans from Sychar. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the local Samaritans said”

We … believe … we … have heard, … we know

Quote: πιστεύομεν & ἀκηκόαμεν & οἴδαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

We throughout this verse refers to the Samaritan townspeople who came to Jesus apart from the Samaritan woman, so the pronoun would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

this one

Quote: οὗτός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, this one refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this man, Jesus”

of the world

Quote: κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to everyone throughout the world who believes in Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all the believers in the world”

John 4:43

Now after the two days

Quote: μετὰ δὲ τὰς δύο ἡμέρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

This phrase introduces a new event that happened after the events the story has just related. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “After he had spent two days in Samaria”

from there

Quote: ἐκεῖθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, there could refer to: (1) the Samaritan city of Sychar. Alternate translation: “from Sychar” (2) the region of Samaria in general. Alternate translation: “from Samaria”

John 4:44

for

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, for indicates that this verse provides one reason why Jesus wanted to go to Galilee. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he went to Galilee because”

for Jesus himself testified

Quote: αὐτὸς γὰρ Ἰησοῦς ἐμαρτύρησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

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.

a prophet has no honor in his own country

Quote: προφήτης ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ πατρίδι, τιμὴν οὐκ ἔχει (1)

Alternate translation: “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”

in his own country

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ πατρίδι (1)

This could refer to: (1) the whole region of Galilee where Jesus came from. Alternate translation: “in the Galilee region where he was from” (2) the specific town Jesus grew up in, which is Nazareth. Alternate translation: “in his hometown of Nazareth”

John 4:45

When therefore

Quote: ὅτε οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, therefore indicates that what follows is the result of what Jesus had testified in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “As a result of this being true, when”

the Galileans welcomed him

Quote: ἐδέξαντο αὐτὸν οἱ Γαλιλαῖοι (1)

Since this verse gives the result of Jesus saying in the previous verse that a prophet was not honored in his own country, it is important to indicate that welcoming Jesus was not the same as honoring him. They welcomed him because he did miracles, not because they honored him as a prophet. Alternate translation: “the Galileans only welcomed him”

having seen all {the things

Quote: πάντα ἑωρακότες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause indicates the reason why the Galileans welcomed Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because they had seen all the things”

having seen all {the things

Quote: πάντα ἑωρακότες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, all is an exaggeration that refers to the Galileans having seen many of Jesus’ miracles. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “having seen many of the things”

at the festival, … to the festival

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἑορτῇ & εἰς τὴν ἑορτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the festival refers the Passover festival, as indicated in 2:12–25. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the Passover festival … to the Passover”

John 4:46

Then

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Then indicates that the events which the story will now relate came after the event it has just described. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “After Jesus entered Galilee and the Galileans welcomed him”

and there was a certain royal official

Quote: καὶ ἦν τις βασιλικὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

This phrase introduces a new character in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. The expression royal official identifies this man as someone who was in the service of the king. Since he is a new participant, if it would be helpful to your readers, you could call him something like “a man who was a government official who served the king”

John 4:47

He

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He here refers to the royal official. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The official”

he was about

Quote: ἤμελλεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to the royal official’s son. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the official’s son was about”

John 4:48

Unless you would see signs and wonders, you would certainly not believe

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα ἴδητε, οὐ μὴ πιστεύσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “Only if you see signs and wonders will you believe”

you would see … you would … believe

Quote: ἴδητε & πιστεύσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The word you is plural in this verse. This means that Jesus was not only speaking to the royal official, but also to the other people who were there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you all would see … you all would … believe”

signs and wonders

Quote: σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word wonders describes the character of Jesus’ miraculous signs. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “wonderful miraculous signs”

John 4:49

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The royal official calls Jesus Sir in order to show respect or politeness. See how you translated this word in 4:11. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

come down

Quote: κατάβηθι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

John 4:50

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

The man

Quote: ὁ ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, The man refers to the royal official who was introduced in verse 46. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “The royal official”

believed the word

Quote: ἐπίστευσεν & τῷ λόγῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to all that Jesus said to the man. It does not refer to one specific word that Jesus said. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “believed the words”

John 4:51

he

Quote: αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse he, his, and him refer to the royal official who was introduced in verse 46. If it would be misunderstood to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the royal official”

saying that his son lives

Quote: λέγοντες, ὅτι ὁ παῖς αὐτοῦ ζῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as a direct quotation. You will also need to adjust the sentence to indicate to whom they are speaking. Alternate translation: “saying, ‘Your son lives’”

John 4:52

So he asked from them the hour in which he began to improve

Quote: ἐπύθετο οὖν τὴν ὥραν παρ’ αὐτῶν ἐν ᾗ κομψότερον ἔσχεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “So he asked from them, ‘In what hour did he begin to improve?’”

he began to improve

Quote: ἔσχεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to the royal official’s son who was ill. If it would be misunderstood to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his son began to improve”

at the seventh hour

Quote: ὥραν ἑβδόμην (1)

In this culture, people began counting the hours each day beginning around daybreak at six o’clock in the morning. Here, the seventh hour indicates a time in the middle of the day. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this in the way the people of your culture reckon time. Alternate translation: “at about one o’clock in the afternoon”

John 4:53

the father

Quote: ὁ πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the father refers to the royal official who was introduced in verse 46. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the royal official”

Jesus had said to him, “Your son lives

Quote: εἶπεν αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ὁ υἱός σου ζῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “Jesus had said to him that his son lives”

he himself … believed

Quote: ἐπίστευσεν αὐτὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

John uses the word himself to emphasize the importance of this event. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “that same royal official … believed”

John 4:54

Now Jesus again did this second sign

Quote: τοῦτο δὲ πάλιν δεύτερον σημεῖον ἐποίησεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)

This verse is a comment about the events described in 4:46–53. John wrote much about the miraculous signs Jesus did. This is the second of those signs. Alternate translation: “That was the second sign Jesus did”

sign

Quote: σημεῖον (1)

See how you translated the term sign in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracle”

John 5

John 5 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus’ third sign: he heals a paralyzed man (5:1–9)
Jewish leaders oppose Jesus’ ministry (5:10–18)
Jesus says he is equal with God (5:19–30)
Jesus’ witnesses are John the Baptist, Jesus’ works, God, and the Scriptures (5:31–47)

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.” The man Jesus healed in this chapter was one of those people (5:2–7).

Testimony

In the Bible, a 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. In this chapter, Jesus tells the Jews that God had told them who Jesus was, so he did not need to tell them who he was (5:34–37). 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 (5:44–47).

The resurrection of life and the resurrection of judgment

In this chapter, Jesus mentions two resurrections, the resurrection of life and the resurrection of judgment (5:28–29). Regarding the resurrection of life, God will make some people alive again, and they will live with him forever, because he gives them his grace. Regarding the resurrection of judgment, God will make some people alive again and they will live apart from him forever, because he will treat them justly.

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” (5:19), the “Son of God” (5:25), and the “Son of Man” (5:27). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. (See: First, Second or Third Person)

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (5:27). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 5:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

5:1–4 give background information about the setting of the story. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

After these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

went up to Jerusalem

Quote: ἀνέβη & εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα (1)

Jerusalem is located on the top of a hill. Therefore, roads to Jerusalem went up. If your language has a different word for going up a hill than for walking on level ground or going down a gill, you should use it here.

John 5:2

a pool

Quote: κολυμβήθρα (1)

This pool was a large manmade hole in the ground that people filled with water and used for bathing. Sometimes they lined these pools with tiles or stones.

in Hebrew

Quote: Ἑβραϊστὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When John says in Hebrew in his Gospel, he refers to the language spoken by the Jews during his time. This language is now called Jewish Aramaic. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in Jewish Aramaic”

Bethesda

Quote: Βηθζαθά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Bethesda is the name of a place.

roofed porches

Quote: στοὰς (1)

These porches were structures with roofs that had at least one wall missing and were attached to the sides of buildings.

John 5:5

Now a certain man was there

Quote: ἦν δέ τις ἄνθρωπος ἐκεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

This verse introduces the man lying beside the pool as a new character to the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character.

was there

Quote: ἦν & ἐκεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, there refers being at the pool called Bethesda in verse 2. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “was at the Bethesda pool”

John 5:6

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 5:7

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The man calls Jesus Sir in order to show respect or politeness. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

when the water is stirred up

Quote: ὅταν ταραχθῇ τὸ ὕδωρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, verse 4 indicates who the man believed was doing the action. Alternate translation: “when an angel moves the water”

into the pool

Quote: εἰς τὴν κολυμβήθραν (1)

See how you translated pool in verse 2.

another goes down before me

Quote: ἄλλος πρὸ ἐμοῦ καταβαίνει (1)

The man believed that only the first person to enter the water after the water stirred would be healed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “another goes down before me and is healed”

John 5:8

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 5:9

Now that day

Quote: δὲ & ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

John uses the word Now to show that the words that follow provide background information for a new event in the story that takes place in 5:10–13. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “The day on which Jesus healed the man”

John 5:10

So the Jews said

Quote: ἔλεγον οὖν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

to the one healed

Quote: τῷ τεθεραπευμένῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, John indicates who did the action in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “to the one whom Jesus had healed”

It is the Sabbath

Quote: Σάββατόν ἐστιν (1)

Your language might use an indefinite article rather than the definite article here, since the synagogue ruler is not speaking of a specific Sabbath. Alternate translation: “It is a Sabbath day”

not permitted for you to carry your bed

Quote: οὐκ ἔξεστίν σοι ἆραι τὸν κράβαττον σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jewish leaders (who were probably Pharisees) said this because they thought that the man was doing work by carrying his mat, and so he was disobeying God’s command to rest and not work on the Sabbath. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and INVALID bible/kt/works and Sabbath) If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “it is not permitted for you, according to our law, to carry your mat”

John 5:11

The one having made me healthy

Quote: ὁ ποιήσας με ὑγιῆ (1)

Alternate translation: “The one who made me well” or “The one who healed me of my illness”

that one said to me, ‘Pick up your bed

Quote: ἐκεῖνός μοι εἶπεν, ἆρον τὸν κράβαττόν σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “that one said to me to pick up my mat”

John 5:12

They asked him

Quote: ἠρώτησαν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

They here refers to the Jewish leaders and him refers to the man whom Jesus had healed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The Jewish leaders asked the man who was healed”

having said to you, ‘Pick {it} up

Quote: ὁ εἰπών σοι, ἆρον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “who told you to pick it up”

John 5:13

the one having been healed

Quote: ὁ & ἰαθεὶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, John indicates who did the action in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “the one whom Jesus had healed”

who it was

Quote: τίς ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “who it was who had healed him”

a crowd being in the place

Quote: ὄχλου ὄντος ἐν τῷ τόπῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This could refer to: (1) the reason why Jesus left secretly. Alternate translation: “because a crowd was in the place” (2) the time when Jesus left secretly. Alternate translation: “while a crowd was in the place”

a crowd

Quote: ὄχλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The word crowd is a singular noun that refers to a group of people. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a group of people” or “many people”

John 5:14

After these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

After these things introduces a new event that happened some time after the events which the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later”

finds

Quote: εὑρίσκει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

him … to him

Quote: αὐτὸν & αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to the man whom Jesus had healed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the healed man … that man”

Behold

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the term Behold to call the man’s attention to what he is about to say. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here.

John 5:15

to the Jews

Quote: τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 5:10.

John 5:16

And because of this, the Jews began to persecute Jesus, because he was doing these things on the Sabbath

Quote: καὶ διὰ τοῦτο, ἐδίωκον οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι τὸν Ἰησοῦν, ὅτι ταῦτα ἐποίει ἐν Σαββάτῳ. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The writer uses the phrase And because of this to show that previous verse gave background information for what John will now present. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Now the Jews began to persecute Jesus because he was doing these things on the Sabbath.”

because of this

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to what the man whom Jesus had healed told the Jewish leaders. The Jewish leaders began to persecute Jesus because he had healed the man on the Sabbath, which was something they believed was against the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because Jesus had healed him on the Sabbath”

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in the previous verse.

because he was doing these things

Quote: ὅτι ταῦτα ἐποίει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase indicates a second reason why the Jewish leaders began persecuting Jesus. Here, these things refers to Jesus healing people on the Sabbath. The plural things indicates that he healed on the Sabbath multiple times, not just on the occasion recorded in verses 5–9. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he was doing these healings”

on the Sabbath

Quote: ἐν Σαββάτῳ (1)

Your language might use an indefinite article rather than the definite article here, since the synagogue ruler is not speaking of a specific Sabbath. Alternate translation: “on a Sabbath day”

John 5:17

My Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 5:18

Because of this, therefore

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to what Jesus had said in the previous verse. One of the reasons why the Jewish leaders wanted to kill Jesus was that Jesus called God his Father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because Jesus said this, therefore”

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 5:10.

because he not only was breaking the Sabbath

Quote: ὅτι οὐ μόνον ἔλυε τὸ Σάββατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase breaking the Sabbath is an idiom that means to disobey the regulations for the Sabbath that God gave in the law of Moses. The Pharisees themselves added many regulations which they considered to be equal to those God had given. It was the additional Jewish regulations that Jesus was disobeying, thereby making the Jewish leaders very angry with him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he not only was disobeying their Sabbath regulations”

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

making himself equal to God

Quote: ἴσον ἑαυτὸν ποιῶν τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause, making himself equal to God, is the result of what Jesus had said in the previous clause. The result of Jesus calling God Father is that he was claiming to be equal with God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the result being that he was making himself equal to God”

John 5:19

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Therefore indicates that what Jesus is about to say is a response to the accusations of the Jewish leaders that were mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because the Jewish leaders had made these accusations”

to them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the Jewish leaders who wanted to kill Jesus and made accusations against him in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the Jewish authorities”

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

I say to you

Quote: λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Since Jesus is speaking to a group of Jewish leaders, you is plural here and through 5:47. If your language does not have a different form for plural you, you can use another way to express it. Alternate translation: “I say to you Jews” or “I say to you all”

Son … Father

Quote: Υἱὸς & Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son and Father are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God.

the Son … also the Son does

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς & καὶ ὁ Υἱὸς & ποιεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If this would confuse your readers, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

from himself

Quote: ἀφ’ ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate the source of Jesus’ teaching and ability to do miracles. His teaching and miracles could only have authority if they came from God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on his own authority”

what he would see the Father doing

Quote: τι βλέπῃ τὸν Πατέρα ποιοῦντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses see to refer to knowing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what he would perceive the Father doing”

John 5:20

the Father … the Son

Quote: ὁ & Πατὴρ & τὸν Υἱὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God.

the Son

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous verse, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

he shows him … he will show him

Quote: δείκνυσιν αὐτῷ & δείξει αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses shows and show to refer to revealing or making something known. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he reveals to him … he will reveal to him”

he will show him

Quote: δείξει αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to God the Father and him refers to Jesus the Son. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Father will reveal to the Son”

greater works than these

Quote: μείζονα τούτων & ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, works refers specifically to miracles. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “greater miracles than these”

greater works than these

Quote: μείζονα τούτων & ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these refers to the miracles that Jesus had already performed by the time he spoke these words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “greater works than these miracles I have already performed”

John 5:21

Father … Son

Quote: Πατὴρ & Υἱὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

makes {them} alive, … makes alive whom he desires

Quote: ζῳοποιεῖ & οὓς θέλει ζῳοποιεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase makes them alive could refer to: (1) eternal life. Alternate translation: “makes them have eternal life … makes whom he desires have eternal life” (2) physical life, in which case it would repeat the idea of “raises the dead” in the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “makes them live again … makes alive again whom he desires”

the Son

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous two verses, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “I, the Son”

John 5:22

the Father … to the Son

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ & τῷ Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

judgment

Quote: τὴν κρίσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, judgment refers to the legal authority to judge people as guilty or innocent. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “power to judge others”

to the Son

Quote: τῷ Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous three verses, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

John 5:23

the Son … the Father. … not honoring the Son does not honor the Father

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν & τὸν Πατέρα. ὁ μὴ τιμῶν τὸν Υἱὸν, οὐ τιμᾷ τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

the Son … The one not honoring the Son

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν & ὁ μὴ τιμῶν τὸν Υἱὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous four verses, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

the Father having sent him

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα, τὸν πέμψαντα αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this phrase refers to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, the Father who sent him”

John 5:24

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

I say to you

Quote: λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

the one hearing my word

Quote: ὁ τὸν λόγον μου ἀκούων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hearing means listening to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. It does not mean simply to hear what someone says. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one heeding my word”

my word

Quote: τὸν λόγον μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the message or teachings of Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my message”

the one having sent me

Quote: τῷ πέμψαντί με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one who sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

does not come into judgment

Quote: εἰς κρίσιν οὐκ ἔρχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus speaks of judgment as if it were a place a person could enter. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will not be judged”

he has passed from death to life

Quote: μεταβέβηκεν ἐκ τοῦ θανάτου εἰς τὴν ζωήν (1)

Here, passed means to move from one state to another. Alternate translation: “he has moved from death to life”

John 5:25

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

I say to you

Quote: λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of an hour is coming in the General Notes to Chapter 4 and see how you translated this phrasef in 4:21.

the dead

Quote: οἱ νεκροὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the dead could refer to: (1) people who are spiritually dead. Alternate translation: “the spiritually dead” (2) people who are physically dead. Alternate translation: “the physically dead” (3) both the spiritually dead and physically dead. In this case, an hour that is coming would refer to the future resurrection of the dead while is now would refer to those spiritually dead people who were listening to Jesus when he spoke these words. Alternate translation: “the spiritually dead and physically dead”

of the Son of God

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

of the Son of God

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous verses in this paragraph, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “of me, the Son of God”

will hear … the ones having heard

Quote: ἀκούσουσιν & οἱ ἀκούσαντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, heard means to listen to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. See how you translated “hearing” in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “will heed … those who have heeded”

will live

Quote: ζήσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could refer to: (1) having eternal life. Alternate translation: “will have eternal life” (2) physical life, as in being resurrected after death. Alternate translation: “will become alive again” (3) both eternal life and physical life. Alternate translation: “will have eternal life and become alive again”

John 5:26

the Father … to the Son

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ & τῷ Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

has life in himself, … to have life in himself

Quote: ἔχει ζωὴν ἐν ἑαυτῷ & ζωὴν, ἔχειν ἐν ἑαυτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrases has life and have life refer to being the source of life or having the ability to create life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “is the source of life … the right to be the source of life”

to the Son to have life in himself

Quote: τῷ Υἱῷ & ζωὴν, ἔχειν ἐν ἑαυτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous verses in this paragraph, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

John 5:27

he gave him … he is

Quote: ἔδωκεν αὐτῷ & ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The first occurrence of he refers to God the Father, but him and the second occurrence of he refer to the Son of Man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Father gave the Son … the Son is”

he gave him … he is the Son of Man

Quote: ἔδωκεν αὐτῷ & Υἱὸς Ἀνθρώπου ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous verses in this paragraph, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

he gave him authority to do judgment

Quote: ἐξουσίαν ἔδωκεν αὐτῷ κρίσιν ποιεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of authority and judgment, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “he authorized him to act as judge”

the Son of Man

Quote: Υἱὸς Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

John 5:28

Do not be amazed at this

Quote: μὴ θαυμάζετε τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to the Son of Man’s authority to give eternal life and to carry out judgment, as stated in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Do not be amazed that the Father has given the Son this authority”

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of an hour is coming in the General Notes to Chapter 4 and see how you translated this phrase in verse 25.

will hear his voice

Quote: ἀκούσουσιν τῆς φωνῆς αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As in the previous verses in this paragraph, Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

John 5:29

a resurrection of life

Quote: ἀνάστασιν ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

In this phrase, Jesus uses of to describe a resurrection that results in eternal life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. For further discussion of this phrase, see the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “a resurrection that results in life”

a resurrection of judgment

Quote: ἀνάστασιν κρίσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

In this phrase, Jesus uses of to describe a resurrection that results in eternal judgment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. For further discussion of this phrase, see the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “a resurrection that results in judgment”

John 5:30

from myself

Quote: ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate the source of Jesus’ teaching and ability to do miracles. His teaching and miracles could only have authority if they came from God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on my own authority”

Just as I hear, I judge

Quote: καθὼς ἀκούω, κρίνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “Just as I hear from the Father, I judge”

my judgment is righteous

Quote: ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ δικαία ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of judgment and righteous, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “I judge rightly” or “I judge justly”

of the one having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

John 5:31

If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true

Quote: ἐὰν ἐγὼ μαρτυρῶ περὶ ἐμαυτοῦ, ἡ μαρτυρία μου οὐκ ἔστιν ἀληθής. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus is referring to a rule in the law of Moses. According to Deuteronomy 19:15, a statement had to be confirmed by at least two witnesses in order to be considered true in legal decisions. If your audience is not familiar with the law of Moses in the Old Testament, then you can state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You know that the law of Moses states that if I testify about myself, my testimony is not true”

If I testify about myself

Quote: ἐὰν ἐγὼ μαρτυρῶ περὶ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus assumed that his listeners understood that he was referring to testifying about himself without any other witnesses. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “If I testify about myself without any other witnesses”

John 5:32

There is another one testifying about me

Quote: ἄλλος ἐστὶν ὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, another refers to God the Father. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “There is another who is testifying about me, the Father”

John 5:33

You have sent to John

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἀπεστάλκατε πρὸς Ἰωάννην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here and through 5:47, You is plural and refers to the Jewish leaders to whom Jesus is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You Jewish authorities sent to John”

You have sent to John

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἀπεστάλκατε πρὸς Ἰωάννην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “You have sent messengers to John”

to John

Quote: πρὸς Ἰωάννην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John 5:34

from man

Quote: παρὰ ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, man does not refer to any specific man, but to any human being. Alternate translation: “from mankind” or “from anyone”

I say these things

Quote: ταῦτα λέγω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things could refer to: (1) what Jesus said about John the Baptist in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I say this about John” (2) all that Jesus has said in verses 17–33. Alternate translation: “I say these things about myself and John”

so that you might be saved

Quote: ἵνα ὑμεῖς σωθῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Jesus implies that God did it. Alternate translation: “so that God might save you”

John 5:35

That one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

That one here refers to Jesus’ cousin, often referred to as “John the Baptist.” (See: John (the Baptist)) If it would be misunderstood to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist” or “John the Immerser”

That one was the lamp that was burning and shining

Quote: ἐκεῖνος ἦν ὁ λύχνος ὁ καιόμενος καὶ φαίνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the word lamp to refer to John the Baptist. In the way that lamps in those days burned oil and shined light, so John’s teaching helped people understand God’s truth and prepared them to receive Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “That one taught you the truth about God” or “That one was like a lamp that was burning and shining”

in his light

Quote: ἐν τῷ φωτὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the word light to refer to John the Baptist’s teaching. In the way that light enables people to see in the dark, so John’s teaching helped people understand God’s truth and prepared them to receive Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “in his teaching” or “in his teaching that was like a light”

for an hour

Quote: πρὸς ὥραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, hour refers to a short amount of time. It does not mean a 60-minute period of time or a specific point in time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for a moment”

John 5:36

for

Quote: γὰρ (1)

Here, for indicates that what follows is an explanation of the “testimony” Jesus has mentioned in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “that testimony is”

the works

Quote: τὰ & ἔργα (1)

Here, works could refer to: (1) the miracles that Jesus did. Alternate translation: “the miracles” (2) Jesus’ miracles and teaching. Alternate translation: “the miracles and teaching”

the Father … that the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ & ὅτι ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

the very works that I do—testify about me

Quote: αὐτὰ τὰ ἔργα ἃ ποιῶ, μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Jesus is speaking of works as though they were a person who could testify about who he is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this plainly. Alternate translation: “the very works that I do—are evidence for who I am”

John 5:37

the Father having sent me has himself testified

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με Πατὴρ, ἐκεῖνος μεμαρτύρηκεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

The reflexive pronoun himself emphasizes that it is the Father, not someone less important, who has testified about who Jesus is. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “none other than the Father himself who sent me has testified”

the Father having sent me

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here this phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 5:23.

John 5:38

his word

Quote: τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the teachings that God gave to his people in the Scriptures. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his teachings” or “the Scriptures he gave us”

you do not have his word remaining in you

Quote: τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἔχετε ἐν ὑμῖν μένοντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus is speaking of God’s word as if it were an object that could remain inside people. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you do not live according to his word”

the one whom he has sent, this one

Quote: ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος, τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

This phrase refers to Jesus. He is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “me, the one whom he has sent, me whom”

John 5:39

in them you have eternal life

Quote: ἐν αὐταῖς ζωὴν αἰώνιον ἔχειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Some Jews in Jesus’ time believed that a person could earn their way to heaven by studying the Scriptures and doing good deeds. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will get eternal life if you study them”

in them … these are the ones

Quote: ἐν αὐταῖς & ἐκεῖναί εἰσιν αἱ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, them, these, and the ones all refer to the Scriptures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state some of these words explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the Scriptures … these Scriptures are the ones”

these are the ones testifying about me

Quote: ἐκεῖναί εἰσιν αἱ μαρτυροῦσαι περὶ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Jesus is speaking of the Scriptures as though they were a person who is testifying about who he is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this plainly. Alternate translation: “these indicate who I am”

John 5:40

you are not willing to come to me

Quote: οὐ θέλετε ἐλθεῖν πρός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, come does not mean to merely come near Jesus, but it means to follow him and be his disciple. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you are not willing to come and by my disciples”

you might have life

Quote: ζωὴν ἔχητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you might have eternal life”

John 5:41

from men

Quote: παρὰ ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Jesus uses the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “from people”

John 5:42

the love of God

Quote: τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This could mean: (1) they did not love God. Alternate translation: “love for God” (2) they had not received God’s love. Alternate translation: “love from God”

John 5:43

in the name of my Father

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John records Jesus using the word name to refer to God’s power and authority. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with the authority of my Father”

of … Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

you do not receive me

Quote: οὐ λαμβάνετέ με (1)

Here, receive means to accept a person into one’s presence with friendliness. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1:11. Alternate translation: “you do not welcome me”

If another comes in his own name

Quote: ἐὰν ἄλλος ἔλθῃ ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τῷ ἰδίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John records Jesus using the word name to refer to authority. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “If another comes in his own authority”

John 5:44

How are you able to believe, receiving glory from one another, and are not seeking the glory that is from the only God

Quote: πῶς δύνασθε ὑμεῖς πιστεῦσαι, δόξαν παρὰ ἀλλήλων λαμβάνοντες, καὶ τὴν δόξαν τὴν παρὰ τοῦ μόνου Θεοῦ, οὐ ζητεῖτε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

to believe

Quote: πιστεῦσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John records Jesus leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “to believe me”

receiving glory from one another

Quote: δόξαν παρὰ ἀλλήλων λαμβάνοντες (1)

Here, receiving could refer to: (1) the time they are receiving glory. Alternate translation: “while receiving glory from one another” (2) a causal statement. Alternate translation: “since receiving glory from one another”

John 5:45

The one accusing you is Moses, in whom you have hoped

Quote: ἔστιν ὁ κατηγορῶν ὑμῶν Μωϋσῆς, εἰς ὃν ὑμεῖς ἠλπίκατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Moses here could refer to: (1) the person named Moses who gave the Israelites the law of Moses. (2) the law of Moses itself. Alternate translation: “Moses accuses you in the law, the very law in which you have hoped”

John 5:46

For if you believed Moses, you would believe me

Quote: εἰ γὰρ ἐπιστεύετε Μωϋσεῖ, ἐπιστεύετε ἂν ἐμοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

John records Jesus making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. Jesus knows that the Jewish leaders do not truly believe Moses. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “you must not believe Moses since you do not believe me”

John 5:47

if you do not believe

Quote: εἰ & οὐ πιστεύετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

how will you believe my words

Quote: πῶς τοῖς ἐμοῖς ῥήμασιν πιστεύσετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

my words

Quote: τοῖς ἐμοῖς ῥήμασιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, words refers to what Jesus said to these Jewish leaders. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what I have told you”

John 6

John 6 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus’ fourth sign: Jesus feeds a large crowd (6:1–14)
Jesus’ fifth sign: Jesus walks on the Sea of Galilee (6:15–21)
Jesus says he is the bread of life (6:22–71)

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. 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 people’s 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, 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 the people to understand that they need him so they can have eternal life, just as people need food to sustain physical life. (See: Metaphor and Synecdoche)

Eating the flesh and drinking the blood

When Jesus said, “unless you would eat the flesh of the Son of Man and would drink his blood, you do not have life in yourselves,” he was speaking of believing in his sacrificial death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. He also knew that before he died he would tell his followers to commemorate this sacrifice 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 to what the metaphor referred. (See: INVALID bible/kt/flesh and INVALID 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 background information needed to better understand the story. These explanations are intended to give the reader some additional knowledge without interrupting the flow of the narrative. This information is placed inside parentheses.

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” several times in this chapter. Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 6:1-4

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

Jesus had traveled from Jerusalem to Galilee. A crowd has followed him up a mountainside. Verses 1–4 tell the setting of this part of the story. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 6:1

After these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

This phrase, After these things, introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later”

of the Sea of Galilee (of Tiberias

Quote: τῆς θαλάσσης τῆς Γαλιλαίας τῆς Τιβεριάδος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Sea of Galilee was called by several names, one of which was Sea of Tiberias. (See: Sea of Galilee, Sea of Kinnereth, lake of Gennesaret, Sea of Tiberias) If having two different names for the same place would be confusing in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the Sea of Galilee (also known as the Sea of Tiberias)”

John 6:2

a great crowd

Quote: ὄχλος πολύς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated signs in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

John 6:4

Now the Passover, the festival of the Jews, was near

Quote: ἦν δὲ ἐγγὺς τὸ Πάσχα, ἡ ἑορτὴ τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about when the events happened. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “This event took place near the time of the Passover, the festival of the Jews”

John 6:5

Then

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Then here could mean: (1) what follows is the next event in the story. Alternate translation: “Next” (2) what follows is the result of what happened in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “Therefore,”

having lifted up his eyes

Quote: ἐπάρας & τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, “lifted up his eyes” is an idiom that means to look upward. See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:35.

a great crowd

Quote: πολὺς ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 6:6

But he said this, testing him, for he himself knew what he was going to do

Quote: τοῦτο δὲ ἔλεγεν πειράζων αὐτόν; αὐτὸς γὰρ ᾔδει τί ἔμελλεν ποιεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to explain why Jesus asked Philip where to buy bread. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Now he said this at that time to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do”

testing him

Quote: πειράζων αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here John is stating the purpose for which Jesus asked Philip the question in the previous verse. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “so that he could test Philip”

him

Quote: αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Philip. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Philip”

he himself knew

Quote: αὐτὸς & ᾔδει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here, John uses the reflexive pronoun himself to make clear that the word he refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus himself knew”

John 6:7

200 denarii {worth} of bread

Quote: διακοσίων δηναρίων ἄρτοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney

The word denarii is the plural form of “denarius.” It was a denomination of money in the Roman Empire that was equivalent to one days’ wages. Alternate translation: “The amount of bread that cost 200 days’ wages”

John 6:8

of Simon Peter

Quote: Σίμωνος Πέτρου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated the name Simon Peter in 1:40.

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 6:9

five barley bread loaves

Quote: πέντε ἄρτους κριθίνους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The grain barley was a common grain eaten by the poor in Israel because it was cheaper than wheat. (See: barley) They would bake the barley into bread loaves, which are lumps of flour dough that a person has shaped and baked. Alternate translation: “five loaves of barley bread”

what are these to so many

Quote: ταῦτα τί ἐστιν εἰς τοσούτους? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Andrew is using the question form to emphasize that they do not have enough food to feed everyone.If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “these are not enough to feed so many!”

John 6:10

Jesus said, “Make the men sit down

Quote: εἶπεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ποιήσατε τοὺς ἀνθρώπους ἀναπεσεῖν. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “Jesus said to make the men sit down”

the men

Quote: τοὺς ἀνθρώπους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, Jesus uses the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “the people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ἦν δὲ χόρτος πολὺς ἐν τῷ τόπῳ. ἀνέπεσαν οὖν οἱ ἄνδρες, τὸν ἀριθμὸν ὡς πεντακισχίλιοι. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “So the men sat down, about 5,000 in number. (Now there was a lot of grass in the place.)”

Now there was a lot of grass in the place

Quote: ἦν δὲ χόρτος πολὺς ἐν τῷ τόπῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about the place where this event happened. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “The place where the people were all coming together had a lot of grass”

So the men sat down, about 5,000 in number

Quote: ἀνέπεσαν οὖν οἱ ἄνδρες, τὸν ἀριθμὸν ὡς πεντακισχίλιοι (1)

Here, men refers specifically to adult males. Although the term for “men” used earlier in this verse refers to a group that included men, women, and children, here John is counting only the men.

John 6:11

the loaves

Quote: τοὺς ἄρτους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

This means loaves of bread, which are lumps of flour dough that a person has shaped and baked. These loaves are those five barley loaves mentioned in verse 9. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the five loaves of barley bread”

having given thanks

Quote: εὐχαριστήσας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John leaves out some words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “having given thanks to God for the food”

he gave them

Quote: διέδωκεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, he refers to “Jesus and his disciples.” Alternate translation: “Jesus and his disciples gave them”

the fish

Quote: τῶν ὀψαρίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These fish are the two fish mentioned in verse 9. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those two small fish”

John 6:12

they were filled

Quote: ἐνεπλήσθησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they had finished eating” or “they had filled themselves”

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

he says to his disciples, “Gather up

Quote: λέγει τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ, συναγάγετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “he says to his disciples to gather up”

John 6:13

baskets

Quote: κοφίνους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here, baskets refers to large baskets that were used for carrying food and goods while traveling. If your language has a word for this kind of basket, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “large traveling baskets”

John 6:14

the men

Quote: οἱ & ἄνθρωποι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, John uses the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “the people”

having seen the sign he did

Quote: ἰδόντες ὃ ἐποίησεν σημεῖον (1)

This clause could refer to: (1) the time that they said the words which follow in the verse. Alternate translation: “at the time they saw the sign he did” (2) the reason that they said what follows in the verse. Alternate translation: “because they saw the sign he did”

the sign

Quote: ὃ & σημεῖον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, sign refers to the Jesus miraculously feeding the large crowd that was described in verses 5–13. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the sign of miraculously feeding the large crowd that”

the Prophet coming into the world

Quote: ὁ προφήτης ὁ ἐρχόμενος εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Prophet refers to a prophet the Jews were waiting for, based on God’s promise to send a prophet like Moses, which is recorded in Deuteronomy 18:15. If your readers will not be familiar with this Old Testament reference, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Prophet whom God said he would send into the world”

John 6:15

having realized that they were about to come

Quote: γνοὺς ὅτι μέλλουσιν ἔρχεσθαι (1)

This clause could refer to: (1) the time that Jesus decided to withdraw. Alternate translation: “at the time he realized that they were about to come” (2) the reason that Jesus decided to withdraw. Alternate translation: “because he realized that they were about to come”

by himself alone

Quote: αὐτὸς μόνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here John uses the reflexive pronoun himself to emphasize that Jesus was completely alone. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “completely alone”

John 6:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

This is the next event in the story. Jesus’ disciples go out onto the Sea of Galilee in a boat.

the sea

Quote: τὴν θάλασσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here and throughout this chapter, sea refers to the Sea of Galilee. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as modeled by UST.

John 6:17

and darkness had already happened, but Jesus had not yet come to them

Quote: καὶ σκοτία ἤδη ἐγεγόνει, καὶ οὔπω ἐληλύθει πρὸς αὐτοὺς ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In these clauses John provides background information about the situation in order to help readers understand what happens in this story. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 6:18

A strong wind was blowing, and the sea was being aroused

Quote: ἥ τε θάλασσα ἀνέμου μεγάλου πνέοντος διηγείρετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The first clause about the wind indicates the reason the sea was being aroused in the second clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because a strong wind was blowing, the sea was being aroused”

was being aroused

Quote: διηγείρετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John uses aroused to refer to the wind causing the sea to become turbulent. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “was being stirred up”

the sea was being aroused

Quote: ἥ & θάλασσα & διηγείρετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the wind was causing the sea to be aroused”

John 6:19

having rowed

Quote: ἐληλακότες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The boats used on the Sea of Galilee usually had positions for two, four, or six people who sat together and rowed with oars on each side of the boat. If your readers would not be familiar with rowed boats, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “having propelled the boat through the water by using oars”

about 25 or 30 stadia

Quote: ὡς σταδίους εἴκοσι πέντε ἢ τριάκοντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

The word stadia is the plural of “stadium,” which is a Roman measurement of distance equivalent to about 185 meters or a little over 600 feet. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: “about four and a half or five and a half kilometers” or “about three or three and a half miles”

they see

Quote: θεωροῦσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 6:20

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 6:21

they were willing to receive him into the boat

Quote: ἤθελον & λαβεῖν αὐτὸν εἰς τὸ πλοῖον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied that Jesus got into the boat. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “they gladly received him into the boat”

John 6:22

the crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

on the other side of the sea

Quote: πέραν τῆς θαλάσσης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the other side of the sea refers to the side of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus had fed the crowd. It does not refer to the side of the Sea of Galilee that he and his disciples arrived at in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the side of the sea where Jesus performed the miracle”

there was no other boat there except one

Quote: πλοιάριον ἄλλο οὐκ ἦν ἐκεῖ, εἰ μὴ ἕν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, one refers to the boat that the disciples had taken to cross the Sea of Galilee. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “there was no other boat there except the one that the disciples had taken”

John 6:23

Other boats came from Tiberias close to the place where they had eaten the bread loaves

Quote: ἄλλα ἦλθεν πλοῖα ἐκ Τιβεριάδος, ἐγγὺς τοῦ τόπου ὅπου ἔφαγον τὸν ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John provides background information about the story. The day after Jesus miraculously fed the crowd, some boats with people from Tiberias came to see Jesus. However, Jesus and his disciples had left that place the night before. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Other boats came with people from Tiberias close to the place where the crowd had eaten the bread loaves”

the Lord

Quote: τοῦ Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Lord refers to Jesus. It does not refer to God the Father. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as modeled by the UST.

after the Lord had given thanks

Quote: εὐχαριστήσαντος τοῦ Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 6:24

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Therefore indicates that this verse is the result of what happened in verse 22. This verse resumes the narrative that was interrupted by the background information in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because Jesus and his disciples had gone to the other side of the Sea of Galilee”

the crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

are

Quote: ἔστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

into the boats

Quote: εἰς τὰ πλοιάρια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These boats are the boats mentioned in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “into the boats that had come from Tiberias”

seeking Jesus

Quote: ζητοῦντες τὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here John is stating the purpose for which the crowd went to Capernaum. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation (without a comma preceding): “so that they could seek Jesus”

John 6:25

on the other side of the sea

Quote: πέραν τῆς θαλάσσης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, on the other side refers to the side of the Sea of Galilee that is opposite the side where Jesus had miraculously fed the crowd. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the opposite side of the sea from where Jesus had fed the crowd”

John 6:26

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase is in 1:51.

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated this term in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

were filled

Quote: ἐχορτάσθητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “filled yourselves”

John 6:27

for the food that endures to eternal life

Quote: τὴν βρῶσιν τὴν μένουσαν εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using the word food to refer to himself, because he is the source of salvation, the One who gives eternal life to all who trust him. Jesus lasts forever, and so does the eternal life that he gives. However, the crowd does not understand this, and Jesus does not tell them this plainly at this time. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

for the food that endures to eternal life

Quote: τὴν βρῶσιν τὴν μένουσαν εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John records Jesus leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “work for the food that endures to eternal life”

the Son of Man will give … this one

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου & δώσει; τοῦτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

These two expressions are all refer to Jesus. He is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, will give … me”

which the Son of Man will give you

Quote: ἣν ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου ὑμῖν δώσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase could give further information about: (1) “the food that endures to eternal life.” Alternate translation: “that is, the food the Son of Man will give you” (2) “eternal life.” Alternate translation: “that is, the life the Son of Man will give you”

Son of Man … God the Father

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου & ὁ Πατὴρ & ὁ Θεός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of Man and God the Father are important titles that describe the relationship between Jesus and God.

the Son of Man

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Son of Man in 1:51.

has set his seal on this one

Quote: τοῦτον & ἐσφράγισεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

To “set a seal” on something means to place a mark on it in order to show to whom it belongs or to certify its authenticity. Here, the phrase is used as an idiom and could mean: (1) that the Father approves of the Son in every way. Alternate translation: “has affirmed his approval of him” (2) that the Son belongs to the Father. Alternate translation: “has affirmed that the Son belongs to him”

John 6:29

This is the work of God: that you would believe in the one whom that one has sent

Quote: τοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἵνα πιστεύητε εἰς ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus says which work one must do in order to receive “the food that endures to eternal life” that was mentioned in verse 27. This work is not any kind of labor or deed that can be done, but it is faith in Jesus, which is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8–9). If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “This is the work of God that is required to receive the food that endures to eternal life: that you believe in the one whom that one has sent”

the one whom that one has sent

Quote: ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

This phrase refers to Jesus. He is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

that one has sent

Quote: ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to God the Father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God has sent”

John 6:31

Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness

Quote: οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν τὸ μάννα ἔφαγον ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, John assumes that his readers will know that the crowd is referring to a story recorded in the Old Testament book of Exodus. In that story, the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron because they were hungry. God responded by providing a flake-like food that fell from the sky and could be baked into bread. The people called this flake-like food “manna.” (See: manna) You could indicate this explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers, particularly if they would not know the story. Alternate translation: “Our fathers ate the manna when they were wandering in the wilderness after leaving Egypt”

Our fathers

Quote: οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The crowd used fathers to refer to their ancestors. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Our ancestors” or “Our forefathers”

it is written

Quote: ἐστιν γεγραμμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the prophets wrote in the Scriptures”

it is written

Quote: ἐστιν γεγραμμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here the crowd uses it is written to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 78:24). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that the crowd is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “it was written in the scriptures”

it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat

Quote: ἐστιν γεγραμμένον, ἄρτον ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς φαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “it is written that he gave them bread from heaven to eat”

He gave them bread from heaven to eat

Quote: ἄρτον ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς φαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

He here could refer to: (1) Moses, in which case the crowd was mistakenly quoting a scripture about God and applying it to Moses. This is possible because Jesus says in the next verse, “Moses has not given you the bread from heaven.” Alternate translation: “Moses gave them bread from heaven to eat” (2) God, which is who it referred to in the scripture the crowd is quoting. Alternate translation: “God gave them bread from heaven to eat”

bread

Quote: ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, John records the crowd using the word bread to represent food in general that is needed to sustain life. The manna that God gave the Israelites from heaven was not bread, but a food that could be baked into bread. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “food”

John 6:32

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

Moses has not given you

Quote: οὐ Μωϋσῆς δέδωκεν ὑμῖν (1)

Here John records Jesus speaking in a way that emphasizes that Moses was not the source of manna in the wilderness. He seems to be correcting the crowd’s incorrect understanding of the scripture they quoted in the previous verse. Use whatever form best communicates this kind of negative emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: “Moses was not the one who has given you”

the bread

Quote: τὸν ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here John records Jesus using the word bread to represent food in general that is needed to sustain life. See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

but my Father gives

Quote: ἀλλ’ ὁ Πατήρ μου δίδωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase serves two purposes. First, it implies that the Father, not Moses, was the source of the bread from heaven mentioned by the crowd in the previous verse. Second, it indicates that the Father is still giving bread from heaven, although not the kind of bread the crowd is expecting. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. You may also want to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Rather, my Father has given that bread and now gives”

my Father gives you the true bread from heaven

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου δίδωσιν ὑμῖν τὸν ἄρτον ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ τὸν ἀληθινόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using true bread to refer to himself. However, the crowd does not understand this, and Jesus does not tell them this plainly until verse 35. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

my Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

bread

Quote: ἄρτον (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the word bread earlier in this verse and in the previous verse.

John 6:33

the bread of God is

Quote: ὁ & ἄρτος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using bread to refer to himself. However, the crowd does not understand this, and Jesus does not tell them this plainly until verse 35. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

the bread of God

Quote: ὁ & ἄρτος τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This phrase could mean: (1) the bread came from God. Alternate translation: “the bread that God gives” (2) the bread belongs to God. Alternate translation: “God’s bread”

the one coming down from heaven

Quote: ὁ καταβαίνων ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

This phrase refers to Jesus. However, the crowd does not understand this and Jesus does not tell them this plainly at this time. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

life

Quote: ζωὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as modeled in the UST.

to the world

Quote: τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world refers to the people who live in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people living in the world”

John 6:34

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The crowd calls Jesus Sir in order to show respect or politeness. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

bread

Quote: τὸν ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, bread could refer to: (1) food in general, as the word was used by the crowd in 6:31. This would mean that the crowd did not understand that Jesus was calling himself the bread from heaven. Alternate translation: “food” (2) some gift from God of which the crowd was uncertain. This would mean that the crowd recognized that Jesus was talking about something more spiritual than mere food but did not understand that he was talking about himself. Alternate translation: “heavenly food”

John 6:35

I am the bread of life

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

John records Jesus continuing the bread metaphor to refer to himself. In Jesus’ culture, bread was the primary food people ate to stay alive. Just as bread is necessary for sustaining physical life, Jesus is necessary for giving spiritual life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “Just as food keeps you physically alive, I can give you spiritual life”

the bread of life

Quote: ὁ ἄρτος τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus uses of life to the source of the life about which he is speaking. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the bread that produces life”

of life

Quote: τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of eternal life”

The one coming to me will certainly not hunger, and the one believing in me will certainly not ever thirst

Quote: ὁ ἐρχόμενος πρὸς ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ πεινάσῃ; καὶ ὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ διψήσει πώποτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus speaks about the person who trusts in him by continuing the metaphor of food that he began in verse 32. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “The one coming to me will be like a person who never gets hungry, and the one believing in me will be like a person who never gets thirsty”

The one coming to me will certainly not hunger, and the one believing in me will certainly not ever thirst

Quote: ὁ ἐρχόμενος πρὸς ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ πεινάσῃ; καὶ ὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ διψήσει πώποτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that anyone who trusts in Jesus will never lack spiritual satisfaction. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “The one who trusts me will certainly never lack spiritual satisfaction again”

The one coming to me

Quote: ὁ ἐρχόμενος πρὸς ἐμὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, coming does not mean to merely come near Jesus. It means to believe in him and be his disciple. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “The one coming to be my disciple”

will certainly not hunger, … will certainly not ever thirst

Quote: οὐ μὴ πεινάσῃ & οὐ μὴ διψήσει πώποτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

John records Jesus using a figure of speech twice in the same verse to express a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that has the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “will always be full … will always have his thirst quenched”

John 6:37

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

will come to me, … the one coming to me

Quote: πρὸς ἐμὲ ἥξει & τὸν ἐρχόμενον πρός ἐμὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, come and coming do not mean to merely come near Jesus, but they mean to believe in him and be his disciple. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “will come to be my disciples … the one coming to be my disciple”

the one coming to me I will certainly not throw out

Quote: τὸν ἐρχόμενον πρός ἐμὲ, οὐ μὴ ἐκβάλω ἔξω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Jesus is using a figure of speech here to expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that means the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “I will keep everyone who comes to me”

John 6:38

For

Quote: ὅτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Connecting Statement:

For introduces the reason why Jesus will not throw out anyone who comes to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “This is true because”

of the one having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one who sent me refers to God. See how you translated it in 4:34.

John 6:39

of the one having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one who sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

I would not lose from it anyone whom

Quote: πᾶν ὃ & μὴ ἀπολέσω ἐξ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

I would not lose from it … but will raise it up

Quote: μὴ ἀπολέσω ἐξ αὐτοῦ, ἀλλὰ ἀναστήσω αὐτὸ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to the whole group of believers as a whole. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or use a plural pronoun. Alternate translation: “I would not lose from the group of believers … but will raise that group up” or “I would not lose from them … but will raise them up”

will raise it up

Quote: ἀναστήσω αὐτὸ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will cause them to live again”

on the last day

Quote: τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the last day refers to “the day of the Lord,” which is the time when God judges everyone, Jesus returns to earth, and the bodies of those who are dead are raised from their graves. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh) If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the day when I return and judge everyone”

John 6:40

For this is the will of my Father, that everyone

Quote: τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν τὸ θέλημα τοῦ Πατρός μου, ἵνα πᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For introduces the reason for the Father’s will that Jesus stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “What I have just said is my Father’s will, because his will is also that everyone”

of my Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

everyone seeing the Son

Quote: πᾶς ὁ θεωρῶν τὸν Υἱὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses sees to refer to understanding something. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “everyone who understands who the Son is”

I will raise him up

Quote: ἀναστήσω αὐτὸν ἐγὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. See how you translated this term in the previous verse.

on the last day

Quote: τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the last day refers to “the day of the Lord,” which is the time when God judges everyone, Jesus returns to earth, and the bodies of those who are dead are raised from their graves. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh) See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “on the day when I return and judge everyone”

John 6:41

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

The Jewish leaders interrupt Jesus as he is speaking to the crowd. His conversation with these Jewish leaders is in verses 41–58.

Then the Jews

Quote: οὖν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here and to the end of this chapter, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

I am the bread

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the Jewish leaders paraphrase what Jesus said in verse 33. See how you translated bread and come down from heaven in verse 33.

John 6:42

Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know

Quote: οὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν Ἰησοῦς ὁ υἱὸς Ἰωσήφ, οὗ ἡμεῖς οἴδαμεν τὸν πατέρα καὶ τὴν μητέρα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here the Jewish leaders are using the form of a question to emphasize that they believe that Jesus is just a normal person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation, and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This is just Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know!”

How then does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven

Quote: πῶς νῦν λέγει, ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καταβέβηκα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here the Jewish leaders are using the form of a question to emphasize that they do not believe that Jesus came from heaven. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “He is lying when he says that he came from heaven!”

How then does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven

Quote: πῶς νῦν λέγει, ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καταβέβηκα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “How then does he now say that he has come down from heaven?”

John 6:44

to come to me

Quote: ἐλθεῖν πρός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, come does not mean to merely come near Jesus. It means to believe in him and be his disciple. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to come to be my disciple”

the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

having sent me

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 5:23.

would draw him

Quote: ἑλκύσῃ αὐτόν (1)

Alternate translation: “would pull him” or “would drag him”

him, … him

Quote: αὐτόν & αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the pronoun him is masculine, Jesus uses the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “that person”

will raise him up

Quote: ἀναστήσω αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 6:40.

on the last day

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the last day refers to “the day of the Lord,” which is the time when God judges everyone, Jesus returns to earth, and the bodies of those who are dead are raised from their graves. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh) See how you translated this phrase in verse 40. Alternate translation: “on the day when I return and judge everyone”

John 6:45

It is written in the prophets

Quote: ἔστιν γεγραμμένον ἐν τοῖς προφήταις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation, as in the UST.

It is written in the prophets

Quote: ἔστιν γεγραμμένον ἐν τοῖς προφήταις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Jesus uses It is written to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Isaiah 54:13). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Jesus is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “It had been written by the prophets in the scriptures”

in the prophets, ‘And all will be taught by God

Quote: ἐν τοῖς προφήταις, καὶ ἔσονται πάντες διδακτοὶ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “in the prophets that all will be taught by God”

all will be taught by God

Quote: ἔσονται πάντες διδακτοὶ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will teach all”

the Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

comes to me

Quote: ἔρχεται πρὸς ἐμέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, comes does not mean to merely come near Jesus. It means to believe in him and be his disciple. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “comes to be my disciple”

John 6:46

the Father, … has seen the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα & ἑώρακεν τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

the one being from God—he has seen the Father

Quote: ὁ ὢν παρὰ τοῦ Θεοῦ; οὗτος ἑώρακεν τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

John records Jesus referring to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person. Alternate translation: “me, the who is from God—I have seen the Father”

John 6:47

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

the one believing

Quote: ὁ πιστεύων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John records Jesus leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the one believing in me” or “the one believing that I am the Messiah”

John 6:48

I am the bread of life

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in John 6:35.

John 6:49

Your fathers

Quote: οἱ πατέρες ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses fathers to refer to ancestors. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Your forefathers” or “Your ancestors”

ate the manna in the wilderness

Quote: ἔφαγον ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ τὸ μάννα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in verse 31.

John 6:50

This is the bread which comes down from heaven, so that a {person} might eat from it and might not die

Quote: οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ἄρτος ὁ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καταβαίνων, ἵνα τις ἐξ αὐτοῦ φάγῃ, καὶ μὴ ἀποθάνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus continues using the bread metaphor to express that one must believe in him in order to have eternal life just as one must eat bread to sustain physical life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as a simile. Alternate translation: “I am this bread that comes down from heaven, just as one must eat bread to live, so must one believe in me in order to not die spiritually”

This is … it

Quote: οὗτός ἐστιν & αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

John records Jesus referring to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person. Alternate translation: “I am … me”

the bread

Quote: ὁ ἄρτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this term in verse 48.

might eat from it

Quote: ἐξ αὐτοῦ φάγῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses eat to refer to believing in him for salvation. What Jesus said plainly in verse 47 he says here. If this would confuse your readers, you could express this with a simile. Alternate translation: “might believe in me as one eats bread to live”

might not die

Quote: μὴ ἀποθάνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses die to refer to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “might not die spiritually” or “might not experience spiritual death”

John 6:51

I am the living bread that has come down from heaven. If anyone eats from this bread, he will live into eternity

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ἄρτος ὁ ζῶν ὁ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καταβάς; ἐάν τις φάγῃ ἐκ τούτου τοῦ ἄρτου, ζήσεται εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

As in the previous verse, Jesus continues using the bread metaphor to say that one must believe in him in order to have eternal life just as one eats bread to sustain physical life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this as a simile. Alternate translation: “I am the living bread that comes down from heaven. Just as one lives if they eat bread, so does one who believes in me live forever”

I am

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses this phrase emphatically to make a strong statement about who he is. Use the most natural way to express emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: “I myself am” or “I am indeed”

the living bread

Quote: ὁ ἄρτος ὁ ζῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, living refers to being the source of life or having the ability to produce life, which is synonymous with “of life” in the phrase “the bread of life,” which Jesus used in 6:35. See how you translated “the bread of life” in 6:35. Alternate translation: “the bread that gives life”

If anyone eats from this bread, he will live into eternity

Quote: ἐάν τις φάγῃ ἐκ τούτου τοῦ ἄρτου, ζήσεται εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here and in the previous verse, Jesus uses eats to refer to believing in Jesus for salvation. Jesus gives eternal life to those who believe in him. See how you translated “eat” in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Just as food keeps you physically alive, I can give you spiritual life”

my flesh

Quote: σάρξ μού (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John records Jesus using flesh to refer to his whole physical body. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my body”

the bread

Quote: ὁ ἄρτος (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using the bread metaphor slightly differently from how he has used it previously. Here it refers specifically to his physical body, which he would sacrifice on the cross to pay for the sins of those who believe in him. Since Jesus says this explicitly at the end of the verse, you do not need to explain its meaning further.

for the life of the world

Quote: ὑπὲρ τῆς τοῦ κόσμου ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the eternal life of the world”

for the life of the world

Quote: ὑπὲρ τῆς τοῦ κόσμου ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world is used to refer to the people in the world. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for the life of the people in the world”

John 6:52

Then the Jews

Quote: οὖν & οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

the Jews began to argue among themselves, saying

Quote: ἐμάχοντο & πρὸς ἀλλήλους οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “then the Jews began to argue among themselves, and they said”

How is this one able to give us his flesh to eat

Quote: πῶς δύναται οὗτος ἡμῖν δοῦναι τὴν σάρκα φαγεῖν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here the Jewish leaders are using the form of a question to emphasize that they are reacting negatively to what Jesus has said about his flesh. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “There is no way that this one is able to give us his flesh to eat!”

his flesh

Quote: τὴν σάρκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John records the Jews using flesh to refer to Jesus’ whole physical body. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his body”

John 6:53

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

you would eat the flesh of the Son of Man and would drink his blood

Quote: φάγητε τὴν σάρκα τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, καὶ πίητε αὐτοῦ τὸ αἷμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using the phrases eat the flesh and drink his blood. Just as people need to eat and drink in order to live, people need to trust Jesus in order to have eternal life. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

you would eat the flesh of the Son of Man and would drink his blood

Quote: φάγητε τὴν σάρκα τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, καὶ πίητε αὐτοῦ τὸ αἷμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases, eat the flesh and drink his blood, mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that trusting in Jesus is the only way to have eternal life. Because Jesus’ flesh and blood are important concepts, do not combine them. Instead, you could communicate the emphasis in a way that is most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you would indeed eat the flesh of the Son of Man and would indeed drink his blood”

of the Son of Man and would drink his blood

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, καὶ πίητε αὐτοῦ τὸ αἷμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

of the Son of Man

Quote: τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

you do not have life

Quote: οὐκ ἔχετε ζωὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you do not have eternal life”

John 6:54

The one eating my flesh and drinking my blood has eternal life

Quote: ὁ τρώγων μου τὴν σάρκα, καὶ πίνων μου τὸ αἷμα, ἔχει ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

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. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

The one eating my flesh and drinking my blood has eternal life

Quote: ὁ τρώγων μου τὴν σάρκα, καὶ πίνων μου τὸ αἷμα, ἔχει ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

As in the previous verse, these two phrases, eat the flesh and drink his blood, mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used for emphasis. See how you translated the similar expressions in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Indeed, the one eating my flesh and drinking my blood surely has eternal life”

will raise him up

Quote: ἀναστήσω αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 6:40.

in the last day

Quote: τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the last day refers to “the day of the Lord,” which is the time when God judges everyone, Jesus returns to earth, and the bodies of those who are dead are raised from their graves. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh) See how you translated this phrase in verse 39. Alternate translation: “on the day when I return and judge everyone”

John 6:55

my flesh … my blood

Quote: σάρξ μου & αἷμά μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using the phrases my flesh and my blood to refer to believing in him. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink

Quote: ἡ & σάρξ μου ἀληθής ἐστι βρῶσις, καὶ τὸ αἷμά μου ἀληθής ἐστι πόσις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is using the phrases true food and true drink to say that he, Jesus, gives life to those who trust in him. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink

Quote: ἡ & σάρξ μου ἀληθής ἐστι βρῶσις, καὶ τὸ αἷμά μου ἀληθής ἐστι πόσις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

As in the previous two verses, these two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used for emphasis. See how you translated the similar expressions in the previous two verses. Alternate translation: “my flesh is indeed true food, and my blood is indeed true drink”

John 6:56

The one eating my flesh and drinking my blood

Quote: ὁ τρώγων μου τὴν σάρκα, καὶ πίνων μου τὸ αἷμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

See how you translated this phrase in verse 54.

remains in me

Quote: ἐν ἐμοὶ μένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, and frequently in John’s Gospel, remains in indicates being united in a continuous personal relationship with someone. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. See the discussion of this expression in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “has a close relationship with me”

and I in him

Quote: κἀγὼ ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records Jesus leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be confusing in your language, you could supply the word from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and I remain in him”

John 6:57

the living Father

Quote: ὁ ζῶν Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, living refers to being the source of life or having the ability to create life. This is also how Jesus used living in verse 51. See how you translated living in verse 51. Alternate translation: “the Father who causes life”

Father … Father

Quote: Πατὴρ & Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

and I live because of the Father

Quote: κἀγὼ ζῶ διὰ τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, live refers to being the source of life or having the ability to create life. It does not mean to merely be alive. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and I cause life because of the Father”

and I live because of the Father

Quote: κἀγὼ ζῶ διὰ τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, because of the Father indicates the reason why Jesus has the ability to cause life. God the Father gave Jesus the ability to cause others to live. Jesus explained this concept in 5:25–26. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and I cause life because the Father has enabled me to do so”

so the one eating me

Quote: καὶ ὁ τρώγων με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Jesus is using eating me to refer to trusting him. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here. See how you translated similar expressions in verses 53–56.

he will also live because of me

Quote: κἀκεῖνος ζήσει δι’ ἐμέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, live refers to having eternal life. It does not refer to being the source of life, as living and live are used previously in this verse. If this shift in meaning might confuse your readers, you could state the difference explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will also have eternal life because of me”

John 6:58

This is the bread that has come down from heaven

Quote: οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ἄρτος ὁ ἐξ οὐρανοῦ καταβάς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

John records Jesus referring to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person, as in the UST.

This is the bread … this bread

Quote: οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ ἄρτος & τοῦτον τὸν ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Jesus is continuing the bread metaphor to refer to himself. Just as bread is necessary for our physical life, Jesus is necessary for our spiritual life. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

the fathers

Quote: οἱ πατέρες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus usesfathers to refer to ancestors. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the ancestors” or “the forefathers”

not just as the fathers ate and died

Quote: οὐ καθὼς ἔφαγον οἱ πατέρες καὶ ἀπέθανον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John records Jesus leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “this bread is not just as the bread that the fathers ate and died”

the fathers ate and died

Quote: ἔφαγον οἱ πατέρες καὶ ἀπέθανον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase ate and died does not mean that the people died immediately after eating the bread. If this wording would confuse your readers, you could translate it in a way that shows a time gap between eating and drinking. Alternate translation: “the fathers ate and still died at a later time”

The one eating this bread

Quote: ὁ τρώγων τοῦτον τὸν ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus spoke about himself as this bread. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person, as in the UST.

The one eating this bread

Quote: ὁ τρώγων τοῦτον τὸν ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Jesus is using eating this bread to refer to trusting him. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

John 6:59

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John gives background information about when this event happened. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to what Jesus said to the crowd and Jewish leaders in verses 26–58. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these teachings about being the bread of life”

John 6:60

having heard

Quote: ἀκούσαντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John leaves out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “having heard this”

This word is

Quote: ἐστιν ὁ λόγος οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word stands for what Jesus had just spoken to the crowd in verses 26–58. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “What he has just said is” or “These words are”

hard

Quote: σκληρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, hard refers to something that causes a negative reaction because it is harsh or unpleasant. It does not refer to something that is difficult to understand, but something that is difficult to accept. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “hard to accept” or “offensive”

who is able to listen to it

Quote: τίς δύναται αὐτοῦ ἀκούειν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here the disciples use the question form for emphasis. If this would be confusing in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “no one is able to listen to it!” or “it is too hard to listen to!”

John 6:61

But Jesus, knowing in himself

Quote: εἰδὼς δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐν ἑαυτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase implies that Jesus had supernatural knowledge. It indicates that Jesus knew what his disciples were saying even though he did not hear what they said. If it would be helpful to your readers, your could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Even though no one told Jesus, he knew” or “Even though Jesus had not heard them, he was fully aware”

about this, … this

Quote: περὶ τούτου & τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, this refers to what Jesus had just spoken to the crowd in verses 26–58. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “about these teachings … what I teach”

you

Quote: ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here and throughout 6:61–71 you is plural and refers to Jesus’ disciples. If your language distinguishes between singular and plural second person pronouns, you should use the plural form of you. Alternate translation: “you disciples of mine”

John 6:62

if you would see the Son of Man going up to where he was before

Quote: ἐὰν & θεωρῆτε τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, ἀναβαίνοντα ὅπου ἦν τὸ πρότερον? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records Jesus using only one part of a conditional sentence. He leaves out the second part of the conditional sentence for emphasis. Many languages need to have both parts of a conditional sentence in order to make the sentence complete. If this is true for your language, you could supply the second clause from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “if you would see the Son of Man going up to where he was before, would it offend you?”

the Son of Man going up to where he was before

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, ἀναβαίνοντα ὅπου ἦν τὸ πρότερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

to where he was before

Quote: ὅπου ἦν τὸ πρότερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to heaven, where Jesus was before he came down to earth. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to heaven, where I used to be”

John 6:63

The Spirit is the one making alive

Quote: τὸ Πνεῦμά ἐστιν τὸ ζῳοποιοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, making alive refers to giving eternal life, not physical life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “The Spirit is the one giving eternal life”

the flesh

Quote: ἡ σὰρξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the flesh could refer to: (1) human nature, as in the UST. (2) Jesus’ body. Alternate translation: “my flesh” (3) both human nature and Jesus’ body. “your nature and my flesh”

profits nothing

Quote: οὐκ ὠφελεῖ οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, profit means to be beneficial or useful. It does not mean to earn money. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “has no benefit” or “is no help at all”

The words … they are life

Quote: τὰ ῥήματα & ζωή ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, words stands for the teachings that Jesus had just spoken to the crowd in verses 26–58. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The teachings … these teachings are life”

are spirit

Quote: πνεῦμά ἐστιν (1)

This could mean: (1) from the Spirit. Alternate translation: “are from the Spirit” (2) about the Spirit. Alternate translation: “are about the Spirit”

and they are life

Quote: καὶ ζωή ἐστιν (1)

This could mean: (1) give life. Alternate translation: “and they give life” (2) about life. Alternate translation: “and they are about life”

life

Quote: ζωή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as in the UST.

John 6:64

For Jesus knew from the beginning who are the ones not believing and who is the one that will be betraying him

Quote: ᾔδει γὰρ ἐξ ἀρχῆς ὁ Ἰησοῦς, τίνες εἰσὶν οἱ μὴ πιστεύοντες, καὶ τίς ἐστιν ὁ παραδώσων αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this sentence John gives background information to explain why Jesus said the earlier part of this verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Jesus said this because he knew from the start who did not believe and who would later betray him”

who do not believe.” … the ones not believing

Quote: οἳ οὐ πιστεύουσιν & οἱ μὴ πιστεύοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied object of believe and believing is Jesus or Jesus’ teaching. If your language requires an object for these words, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who do not believe in me … the ones not believing in me” or “who do not believe what I say … the ones not believing what I say”

John 6:65

Because of this

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to the information Jesus said in the previous verse. If it would be misunderstood for your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because of the disbelief I have just told you about”

no one is able to come to me

Quote: οὐδεὶς δύναται ἐλθεῖν πρός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the identical phrase in verse 44. Alternate translation: “no one is able to come to be my disciple”

it would have been granted to him

Quote: ᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun it refers to the ability to come to Jesus and be his disciple. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the ability to come to me would be have been granted to him”

it would have been granted to him by the Father

Quote: ᾖ δεδομένον αὐτῷ ἐκ τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Father would give it to him”

Father

Quote: Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 6:66

stayed behind

Quote: ἀπῆλθον εἰς τὰ ὀπίσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, stayed behind is an idiom that refers to going back to living the way one had lived previously. Here, these people left Jesus to go back to living the way they had lived before they met him. If this might confuse your readers, you could state its meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “returned to their former manner of living” or “went back to their previous way of life”

no longer were walking with him

Quote: οὐκέτι μετ’ αὐτοῦ περιεπάτουν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Although Jesus did walk from one place to another, here walking is used to refer to how a person lives and behaves. These people were no longer living according to Jesus’ teaching and thus were no longer his disciples. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “no longer obeyed his teachings” or “no longer were his disciples”

John 6:67

to the Twelve

Quote: τοῖς δώδεκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

John is using the adjective Twelve as a noun in order to indicate a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “the 12 apostles” or “the 12 men whom he had appointed to be apostles”

to the Twelve

Quote: τοῖς δώδεκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

If your language does not ordinarily use adjectives as nouns, you may be able to do that in this case, since this is a title by which the apostles were known. Even though it is a number, if you translate it as a title, as the ULT does, follow the conventions for titles in your language. For example, capitalize main words and write out numbers rather than use digits.

You do not want to go away also, do you

Quote: μὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς θέλετε ὑπάγειν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John records Jesus asking this question in a way that expects a negative response. He does this to contrast the Twelve from the many other disciples who had just abandoned him. If your language has a question form that assumes a negative response, you should use it here. Alternate translation: “You probably do not want to go away also, am I right?”

John 6:68

Simon Peter

Quote: Σίμων Πέτρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated the name Simon Peter in 1:40.

Lord, to whom will we go

Quote: Κύριε, πρὸς τίνα ἀπελευσόμεθα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Simon Peter is using the form of a question to emphasize that he desires to follow only Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Lord, we could never follow anyone but you!”

You have words of eternal life

Quote: ῥήματα ζωῆς αἰωνίου ἔχεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Peter uses of to describe words that give eternal life. If this is not clear in your language, you could use express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You have words that give eternal life”

words

Quote: ῥήματα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

John records Peter using the term words to describe the things that Jesus taught by using words. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the teaching”

John 6:69

we

Quote: ἡμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Peter says we, he is speaking of himself and the rest of the twelve disciples, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

the Holy One of God

Quote: ὁ Ἅγιος τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Peter uses of to describe the Holy One who comes from God. If this is not clear in your language, you could use express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Holy One from God”

John 6:70

Did not I choose you, the Twelve, and one of you is a devil

Quote: οὐκ ἐγὼ ὑμᾶς τοὺς δώδεκα ἐξελεξάμην, καὶ ἐξ ὑμῶν εἷς διάβολός ἐστιν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus gives this remark in the form of a question in order to emphasize that one of the twelve disciples will betray him. Alternate translation: “I chose you, the Twelve, myself, and one of you is a devil!”

the Twelve

Quote: τοὺς δώδεκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the Twelve in verse 67.

one of you is a devil

Quote: ἐξ ὑμῶν εἷς διάβολός ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word devil could mean: (1) one of Jesus’ twelve disciples was a wicked person whose thoughts and actions resembled those of the devil or was being influenced or controlled by the devil. It does not mean that this person actually was the devil in human form. It also does not imply that there is more than one devil. Alternate translation: “one of you is wicked like the devil” or “one of you is controlled by the devil” (2) one of Jesus’ twelve disciples was speaking harmful and untrue things about Jesus to others. This meaning is possible because the word translated devil can also mean “slanderer.” Alternate translation: “one of you is a slanderer”

John 6:71

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John provides background information about what Jesus said in the previous verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

of Judas, {son} of Simon Iscariot

Quote: Ἰούδαν Σίμωνος Ἰσκαριώτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Judas and Simon are names of two men. This Simon is not the same as Simon Peter. Iscariot is a distinguishing term that most likely means he came from the village of Kerioth.

the Twelve

Quote: τῶν δώδεκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the Twelve in verse 67.

John 7

John 7 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus goes to Jerusalem for the Festival of Shelters (7:1–13)
Jesus says his authority is from God (7:14–24)
Jesus says he came from God (7:25–31)
Jesus says he will return to God (7:32–36)
Jesus says he is the living water (7:37–39)
The people disagree about who Jesus is (7:40–44)
The Jewish leaders disagree about who Jesus is (7:45–53)

Translators may wish to include a note at 7:53 to explain to the reader why they have chosen or chosen not to translate 7:53–8:11. These verses are not in the best and oldest ancient manuscripts. If the translators have chosen to translate these verses, then they will want to either put them in a footnote outside of the main text or mark them in some way, such as square brackets ([ ]), to indicate that the passage may not have originally been in John’s Gospel. (See: Textual Variants)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“Believing in him”

A recurring theme in this chapter is the concept of believing Jesus to be the Messiah. Some people believed he was the Messiah, while others did not. 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: Christ, Messiah and prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)

“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 that are happening in his life.

“Living water”

This is an important metaphor used in the New Testament to refer to the Holy Spirit. See the discussion of this metaphor in the note about “living water” for 4:10. (See: Metaphor)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Prophecy

In 7:33–34 Jesus gives a prophecy about his return to heaven without explicitly indicating his statement as prophecy.

Irony

Nicodemus explains to the other Pharisees that the Law requires them to hear directly from a person before making a judgment about that person. 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 that Jesus was the Messiah at the time the events in this chapter took place. (See: believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)

“The Jews”

This term is used in two different ways in this passage. It is used specifically to refer to the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus and were trying to kill him (7:1, 11, 13, 15, 35). It is also used in 7:2 to refer to Jewish people in general. The translator may wish to use the terms “Jewish leaders” and “Jewish people” to clarify this distinction.

John 7:1

after these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here and throughout this chapter, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. Apart from one exception in 7:2, it does not refer to the Jewish people in general. See how you translated this term in 1:19. Alternate translation: “the Jewish authorities”

John 7:2

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

of the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Unlike in the previous verse and throughout this chapter, the Jews here refers to the Jewish people in general. It does not refer to the Jewish leaders. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of the Jewish people”

John 7:3

his brothers

Quote: οἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

These were Jesus’ younger brothers, the other sons of Mary and Joseph who were born after Jesus. Since the Father of Jesus was God and their father was Joseph, they were actually his half-brothers. That detail is not normally translated, but if your language has a specific word for a man’s younger brother, it would be appropriate to use it here. Alternate translation: “his younger brothers” or “his half-brothers”

your works that you do

Quote: σοῦ τὰ ἔργα ἃ ποιεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, works refers to the powerful miracles that Jesus was performing. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “your miracles that you do”

John 7:4

seeks himself

Quote: ζητεῖ αὐτὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here, Jesus’ brothers use the reflexive pronoun himself in order to emphasize their belief that Jesus wants to make himself famous. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “seeks for his own benefit”

seeks himself to be in openness

Quote: ζητεῖ αὐτὸς ἐν παρρησίᾳ εἶναι (1)

Alternate translation: “seeks publicity for himself” or “seeks public attention”

If you do these things

Quote: εἰ ταῦτα ποιεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

John records Jesus’ brothers speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but they mean that it is actually true. Although they didn’t believe that Jesus was the Messiah at this time, they did not deny that he was doing miracles. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what the brothers are saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since you do these things”

to the world

Quote: τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world is used figurative to refer to all of the people in the world. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to all people”

John 7:5

For not even his brothers were believing in him

Quote: οὐδὲ γὰρ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ ἐπίστευον εἰς αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about the brothers of Jesus. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Jesus’ brothers said this because even they did not believe in him”

his brothers

Quote: οἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated brothers in verse 3. Alternate translation: “his younger brothers” or “his half-brothers”

John 7:6

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

My time is not yet come

Quote: ὁ καιρὸς ὁ ἐμὸς οὔπω πάρεστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This could mean: (1) It was not the right time for Jesus to go to Jerusalem for the festival because God had not yet told him to go. This meaning explains why he eventually went to the festival in verse 10. Alternate translation: “Now is not the right time for me to go to Jerusalem” (2) It was not the right time for Jesus to publicly reveal himself as the Messiah, which is what his brothers wanted him to do. Alternate translation: “Now is not the right time for me to publicly reveal myself as the Messiah”

your

Quote: ὁ ὑμέτερος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

All instances of “you” and your in verses 6–8 are plural. They only refer to Jesus’ brothers.

but your time is always ready

Quote: ὁ δὲ καιρὸς ὁ ὑμέτερος πάντοτέ ἐστιν ἕτοιμος (1)

Alternate translation: “but any time is good for you”

John 7:7

The world is not able to hate you

Quote: οὐ δύναται ὁ κόσμος μισεῖν ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The world here refers to the people who live in the world. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “All the people in the world are not able to hate you”

it hates … about it … the works of it

Quote: μισεῖ & περὶ αὐτοῦ & τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, it refers to the people in the world. If you translated the world with a plural noun, then you should change these pronouns to plural form as well. Alternate translation: “they hate … about them … their works”

I testify about it that the works of it are evil

Quote: ἐγὼ μαρτυρῶ περὶ αὐτοῦ, ὅτι τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ πονηρά ἐστιν (1)

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

John 7:8

You go up

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἀνάβητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John records Jesus saying go up to refer to going to Jerusalem, because that city is at a higher elevation than Galilee, which is where Jesus and his brothers were at this time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate where they would go. Alternate translation: “You go up to Jerusalem”

my time has not yet been fulfilled

Quote: ὁ ἐμὸς καιρὸς οὔπω πεπλήρωται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase means the same as “My time is not yet come” in verse 6. See how you translated this phrase there. Alternate translation: “Now is not the right time for me to go to Jerusalem” or “Now is not the right time for me to publicly reveal myself as the Messiah”

John 7:10

his brothers

Quote: οἱ ἀδελφοὶ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: “his younger brothers” or “his half-brothers”

he also went up

Quote: καὶ αὐτὸς ἀνέβη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated “go up” in verse 8.

not publicly, but as in secret

Quote: οὐ φανερῶς, ἀλλὰ ὡς ἐν κρυπτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that Jesus did not want to attract public attention in Jerusalem. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “very secretly”

John 7:11

the Jews

Quote: οἱ & Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

Where is that one

Quote: ποῦ ἐστιν ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records the Jewish leaders saying that one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus without saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “Where is that so-and-so”

John 7:12

murmuring

Quote: γογγυσμὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Although the word translated murmuring usually refers to grumbling or complaining, here it refers to speaking quietly, without a negative meaning. Some people in the crowd were discussing who Jesus was and didn’t want the religious leaders to hear them. If your word for murmuring only has a negative connotation in your language, use a different neutral expression. Alternate translation: “quiet discussion” or “whispering”

the crowds … the crowd

Quote: τοῖς ὄχλοις & τὸν ὄχλον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, crowds refers to several different groups of people, while crowd refers to a group of people in general. See how you translated crowd in 5:13. Alternate translation: “the groups of people … the group of people”

he leads the crowd astray

Quote: πλανᾷ τὸν ὄχλον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the people use leads astray to refer to persuading someone to believe something that is not true. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he misleads the crowd”

John 7:13

because of the fear of the Jews

Quote: διὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe the fear that the people had for the Jewish leaders. If this use of the possessive form would be confusing in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “because of their fear that the Jews would harm them”

of the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

John 7:14

the festival

Quote: τῆς ἑορτῆς (1)

Here, the festival refers to the Jewish Festival of Shelters mentioned in verse 1. See how you translated the word festival there. Alternate translation: “the Shelters festival”

into the temple

Quote: εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Since only priests could enter the temple building, this refers to the temple courtyard. John is using the word for the entire building to refer to one part of it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “into the temple courtyard”

John 7:15

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

marveled

Quote: ἐθαύμαζον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated marveled refers to being amazed or in wonder of something in either a negative or positive way. Since the Jewish leaders despised Jesus, their amazement was unfavorable toward him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “showed their surprise”

How does this one know letters, not being educated

Quote: πῶς οὗτος γράμματα οἶδεν, μὴ μεμαθηκώς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jewish leaders are using the form of a question to emphasize that they were surprised and annoyed by how much knowledge Jesus had about Scripture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate their words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “He certainly cannot know so much about the scriptures, not being educated!”

this one

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records the Jewish leaders saying this one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

not being educated

Quote: μὴ μεμαθηκώς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jewish leaders use educated to refer to receiving a Jewish religious education, which would include studying the Hebrew scriptures and Jewish religious traditions. This does not mean that they thought Jesus didn’t know how to read or write. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “not being trained in our scriptures and doctrines”

the Jews marveled, saying

Quote: ἐθαύμαζον & οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “the Jews marveled, and they said”

John 7:16

of the one having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

John 7:17

it is from God, … from myself

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐστιν & ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate the source of Jesus’ teaching. A teaching could only have authority if God was its source. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “it is with God’s authority … only with my own authority”

John 7:18

from himself

Quote: ἀφ’ ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate the source of what the person is speaking. A teaching could only have authority if God was its source. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by his own authority”

seeks his own glory, but the one seeking the glory of the one having sent him

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τὴν ἰδίαν ζητεῖ; ὁ δὲ ζητῶν τὴν δόξαν τοῦ πέμψαντος αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “seeks to make himself glorious, but the one seeking to make the one who sent him glorious”

there is no unrighteousness in him

Quote: ἀδικία ἐν αὐτῷ οὐκ ἔστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of unrighteousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “he is not wicked”

John 7:19

Did not Moses give you the law? Yet none of you does the law

Quote: οὐ Μωϋσῆς δέδωκεν ὑμῖν τὸν νόμον, καὶ οὐδεὶς ἐξ ὑμῶν ποιεῖ τὸν νόμον? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the form of a question to add emphasis. If your language does not use this type of question, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “It was Moses who gave you the law, but none of you obeys the law!”

the law? … does the law

Quote: τὸν νόμον & ποιεῖ τὸν νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 1:17.

does the law

Quote: ποιεῖ τὸν νόμον (1)

Here, does the law means to keep, follow, or obey the law. If this use of does would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “obeys the law”

Why do you seek to kill me

Quote: τί με ζητεῖτε ἀποκτεῖναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the form of a question to emphasize that the Jewish leaders who want to kill him for breaking the law of Moses are themselves breaking that law. If your language does not use this type of question, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You break the law yourselves and yet you want to kill me!”

John 7:20

The crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

You have a demon

Quote: δαιμόνιον ἔχεις (1)

Alternate translation: “A demon is inside of you!” or “You must be under the control of a demon!”

Who seeks to kill you

Quote: τίς σε ζητεῖ ἀποκτεῖναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The crowd is using the form of a question to add emphasis. If your language does not use this type of question, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “No one wants to kill you!”

John 7:21

one work

Quote: ἓν ἔργον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, work refers to the time when Jesus miraculously healed a paralyzed man on the Jewish day of rest called the Sabbath, as recorded in 5:5–9. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “one miracle on the Sabbath”

you all marvel

Quote: πάντες θαυμάζετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated marvel refers to being amazed or in wonder of something in either a negative or positive way. Since some people in this crowd despised Jesus, their amazement was unfavorable toward him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you are all surprised”

John 7:22

Because of this

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to someone doing something on the Sabbath to help someone else. More specifically, Jesus is referring to the time he offended the Jews by healing a paralyzed man on the Sabbath. This event was indirectly mentioned in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “On account of activities like healing taking place on the Sabbath”

not that it is from Moses, but from the fathers

Quote: οὐχ ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ Μωϋσέως ἐστὶν, ἀλλ’ ἐκ τῶν πατέρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Here Jesus provides additional information about where the Jewish practice of circumcision came from. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the fathers

Quote: τῶν πατέρων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, fathers refers specifically to the first ancestors of the Jewish people, who are often called “the Patriarchs.” Those people are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It does not refer to the ancestors of the Jewish people in general. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Patriarchs” or “the men who founded the Jewish people”

on the Sabbath you circumcise a man

Quote: ἐν Σαββάτῳ περιτέμνετε ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus implies that to circumcise a child was a kind of work. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you circumcise a male baby on the Sabbath. That is working too”

a man

Quote: ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of any Jewish man in general, not of one particular man. If this use of man would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “men”

John 7:23

If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath

Quote: εἰ περιτομὴν λαμβάνει ἄνθρωπος ἐν Σαββάτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

a man receives

Quote: λαμβάνει ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated man in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “men receive”

the law

Quote: ὁ νόμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 1:17.

the law of Moses might not be broken

Quote: μὴ λυθῇ ὁ νόμος Μωϋσέως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you might not break the law of Moses”

the law of Moses might not be broken

Quote: μὴ λυθῇ ὁ νόμος Μωϋσέως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, Jesus uses broken to refer to disobeying the regulations that God gave in the law of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the regulations of the law of Moses might not be disobeyed”

why are you angry with me because I made a man completely healthy on the Sabbath

Quote: ἐμοὶ χολᾶτε ὅτι ὅλον ἄνθρωπον ὑγιῆ ἐποίησα ἐν Σαββάτῳ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the question form for emphasis. If your language does not use this type of question, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you should not be angry with me because I made a man completely well on the Sabbath!”

John 7:24

Do not judge according to appearance, but judge righteous judgment

Quote: μὴ κρίνετε κατ’ ὄψιν, ἀλλὰ τὴν δικαίαν κρίσιν κρίνετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus implies that the people should not decide what is right based only on what they can see. A person does something for a reason and that reason cannot be seen. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Do not judge people according to appearance! Instead, decide what is right according to what God says is right”

according to appearance

Quote: κατ’ ὄψιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of appearance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “according to what you see”

judge righteous judgment

Quote: τὴν δικαίαν κρίσιν κρίνετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “judge righteously”

John 7:25

Is not this the one they seek to kill

Quote: οὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν ὃν ζητοῦσιν ἀποκτεῖναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here, the Jerusalemites are using the question form for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This is the one they are seeking to kill!”

John 7:26

they say nothing to him

Quote: οὐδὲν αὐτῷ λέγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jerusalemites use this phrase in order to imply that the Jewish leaders are not opposing Jesus. Alternate translation: “they say nothing to oppose him”

The rulers do not truly know that this is the Christ, do they

Quote: μήποτε ἀληθῶς ἔγνωσαν οἱ ἄρχοντες, ὅτι οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ Χριστός? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jerusalemites ask this question in a way that expects a negative response, but also expresses uncertainty about that response. If your language has a question form that assumes a negative response with uncertainty, you should use it here. Alternate translation: “Could it be possible that the rulers really know this is the Christ?”

The rulers

Quote: οἱ ἄρχοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the Jewish religious leadership, specifically the Jewish council called the Sanhedrin, which made decisions about Jewish law. (See: council) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The members of the Jewish ruling council”

John 7:27

this one

Quote: τοῦτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records the Jerusalemites saying this one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus without saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

John 7:28

Then Jesus cried out in the temple, teaching and saying

Quote: ἔκραξεν οὖν ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ διδάσκων Ἰησοῦς, καὶ λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “Then Jesus cried out in the temple. While he was teaching, he said”

cried out

Quote: ἔκραξεν (1)

Alternate translation: “spoke in a loud voice”

in the temple

Quote: ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jesus and the people were actually in the courtyard of the temple. See how you translated temple in 7:14. Alternate translation: “in the temple courtyard”

from myself

Quote: ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated from myself in verse 17.

the one having sent me

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in verse 16.

the one having sent me is true

Quote: ἔστιν ἀληθινὸς ὁ πέμψας με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, true could mean: (1) real, in contrast to a false god. In this case, Jesus would be saying that the Father is the only real God. Alternate translation: “the one who sent me is the real God” (2) truthful, in contrast to a liar. In this case, Jesus would be saying that Father who sent him always tells the truth. Alternate translation: “the one who sent me can be trusted”

John 7:30

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Therefore indicates that this verse states the result of what had happened in the previous verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “As a result of Jesus saying these things”

they were seeking

Quote: ἐζήτουν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they could refer to: (1) the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “the Jewish authorities were seeking” (2) the Jerusalemites. Alternate translation: “the people dwelling in Jerusalem were seeking”

no one laid a hand on him

Quote: οὐδεὶς ἐπέβαλεν ἐπ’ αὐτὸν τὴν χεῖρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

To lay a hand on someone is an idiom which means to grab someone or hold onto someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “no one grabbed him”

his hour had not yet come

Quote: οὔπω ἐληλύθει ἡ ὥρα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the word hour is used to refer to the time God had planned for Jesus to be arrested and killed. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the right time to arrest him had not yet come”

John 7:31

from among the crowd

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ ὄχλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

When the Christ may come, he will not do more signs than what this one has done, will he

Quote: ὁ Χριστὸς, ὅταν ἔλθῃ, μὴ πλείονα σημεῖα ποιήσει ὧν οὗτος ἐποίησεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The crowd uses the form of a question to add emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this type of question by translating these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “When the Christ may come, surely he will not do more signs than this one has done!”

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated signs in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

John 7:32

the crowd

Quote: τοῦ ὄχλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

murmuring

Quote: γογγύζοντος (1)

Although the word translated murmuring usually refers to grumbling or complaining, here it refers to speaking quietly, without a negative meaning. Some people in the crowd were discussing whether or not Jesus was the Messiah and didn’t want the religious leaders to hear them. See how you translated this word in verse 12.

John 7:33

I am still with you for a short time

Quote: ἔτι χρόνον μικρὸν μεθ’ ὑμῶν εἰμι (1)

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

I go away

Quote: ὑπάγω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus uses go away to refer to his death and return to heaven. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

the one having sent me

Quote: τὸν πέμψαντά με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in verse 16.

John 7:34

where I am, you will not be able to come

Quote: ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ ὑμεῖς, οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “you will not be able to come to the place where I am”

John 7:35

The Jews therefore said among themselves

Quote: εἶπον οὖν οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι πρὸς ἑαυτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

this one

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records the Jewish leaders saying this one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. See how you translated this phrase in verse 15. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

He is not about to go to the dispersion of the Greeks and to teach the Greeks, is he

Quote: μὴ εἰς τὴν διασπορὰν τῶν Ἑλλήνων μέλλει πορεύεσθαι, καὶ διδάσκειν τοὺς Ἕλληνας? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jewish leaders are using the form of a question to add emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this type of question by translating these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely he is not about to go to the dispersion of the Greeks and to teach the Greeks!”

the dispersion

Quote: τὴν διασπορὰν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, dispersion refers to the Jewish people who were spread across the Greek-speaking world that was outside of the land of Israel. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jews who are dispersed” or “the Jews who are scattered”

the dispersion of the Greeks

Quote: τὴν διασπορὰν τῶν Ἑλλήνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The Jews used the phrase of the Greeks to describe the location where the Jews were dispersed. If this use of the possessive form would be confusing in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the Jews who are dispersed among the Greeks”

John 7:36

What is this word that he said

Quote: τίς ἐστιν ὁ λόγος οὗτος ὃν εἶπε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word is used to refer to the meaning of the message that Jesus had shared. The Jewish leaders had failed to understand that message. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “What was he talking about when he said”

he said, ‘You will seek me, but will not find {me}, and where I am, you will not be able to come

Quote: εἶπε, ζητήσετέ με, καὶ οὐχ εὑρήσετέ; καὶ ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ, ὑμεῖς οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation, as in the UST.

You will seek me, but will not find {me}, and where I am, you will not be able to come

Quote: ζητήσετέ με, καὶ οὐχ εὑρήσετέ; καὶ ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ, ὑμεῖς οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)

See how you translated this in verse 34.

John 7:37

General Information:

About three or four days has passed since the events described in verses 14–36. It is now the last day of the Festival of Shelters, and Jesus speaks to the crowd.

cried out, saying

Quote: ἔκραξεν λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “cried out, and he said”

cried out

Quote: ἔκραξεν (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 28.

If anyone thirsts

Quote: ἐάν τις διψᾷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses thirst to refer to a person’s need for God, just as someone would thirst for water. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “If anyone who recognizes their need for God is like a thirsty person who desires water”

let him come to me and drink

Quote: ἐρχέσθω πρός με καὶ πινέτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses come and drink to refer together to believing in Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use similes. Alternate translation: “let him believe in me”

John 7:38

The one believing in me, just as the scripture says

Quote: ὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ, καθὼς εἶπεν ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. You will also need to adjust some words to fit the new order. Alternate translation: “As the scripture says about anyone who believes in me”

just as the scripture says, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his stomach

Quote: καθὼς εἶπεν ἡ Γραφή, ποταμοὶ ἐκ τῆς κοιλίας αὐτοῦ ῥεύσουσιν ὕδατος ζῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “rivers of living water will flow from the stomach of the one believing in me, just as the scripture says”

the scripture says

Quote: εἶπεν ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here Jesus uses scripture as if it were a person who could speak. If this might confuse your readers, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the prophets spoke in the scriptures”

Rivers of living water will flow

Quote: ποταμοὶ & ῥεύσουσιν ὕδατος ζῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses rivers to refer to a constant and abundant flow of living water. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “An abundance of living water will flow”

of living water

Quote: ὕδατος ζῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Jesus uses living water here to refer to the Holy Spirit who works in a person to save and transform them. However, since John explains this meaning in the next verse, you do not need to explain it further here. See how you translated living water in 4:10.

of living water

Quote: ὕδατος ζῶντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, living is used to mean “giving eternal life” or “causing people to live forever.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of water that gives eternal life”

his

Quote: αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun his could refer to: (1) the person who believes in Jesus. This meaning is used in most Bible translations and assumes that a new sentence begins at the beginning of this verse. Alternate translation, as in the ULT: “his” (2) Jesus. This meaning is used in some ancient church writings and assumes that the sentence at the end of the previous verse continues into through the one believing in me in this verse. Alternate translation: “my”

from his stomach

Quote: ἐκ τῆς κοιλίας αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the stomach is used to refer to the non-physical part of a person. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from inside of him” or “from his heart”

John 7:39

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John gives information to clarify what Jesus was talking about in the previous verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the Spirit was not yet

Quote: οὔπω & ἦν Πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies here that the Spirit would later come to dwell in those who trusted in Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Spirit had not yet come to dwell in the believers”

had not yet been glorified

Quote: οὐδέπω ἐδοξάσθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the word glorified could refer to: (1) the time when Jesus would die on the cross and rise from the dead (See: John 12:23). Alternate translation: “had not yet been crucified and resurrected” (2) the time when Jesus would ascend to his Father in heaven. Acts 1–2 records the Holy Spirit coming after Jesus went up to heaven. Alternate translation: “had not yet returned to God in glory” (3) both the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. Alternate translation: “had not yet been glorified by his death, resurrection, and return to heaven” See the discussion of double meaning in Part 3 of the Introduction to the Gospel of John.

John 7:40

Then

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Then here indicates that what follows is the continuation of the narrative from 7:38, which John had interrupted with background information in 7:39. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show reference to earlier events by translating this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “After Jesus had said this about the Holy Spirit,”

some from the crowd

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ ὄχλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

these words

Quote: τῶν λόγων τούτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

John uses the term words to describe the content of what Jesus had said by referring to something associated with it, the words he used to communicate it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “these things he was saying”

the Prophet

Quote: ὁ προφήτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Prophet in 1:21. Alternate translation: “the Prophet whom God promised to send to us”

John 7:41

Indeed, the Christ does not come from Galilee, does he

Quote: μὴ γὰρ ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας ὁ Χριστὸς ἔρχεται? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

These people are using the form of a question to add emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this type of question by translating these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Indeed, the Christ surely does not come from Galilee!”

John 7:42

Has the Scripture not said that the Christ will come from the seed of David and from Bethlehem, the village where David was

Quote: οὐχ ἡ Γραφὴ εἶπεν, ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ σπέρματος Δαυεὶδ, καὶ ἀπὸ Βηθλέεμ, τῆς κώμης ὅπου ἦν Δαυεὶδ, ἔρχεται ὁ Χριστός? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people are using the form of a question to add emphasis. This group of people does not believe Jesus is the Messiah, because they do not think he came from Bethlehem. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this type of question by translating the words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “The scriptures surely say that the Christ will come from the seed of David and from Bethlehem, the village where David was!”

Has the Scripture not said

Quote: οὐχ ἡ Γραφὴ εἶπεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Scripture here is referred to as though it were a person who could speak. If this use of said might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Have the prophets not said in the scriptures”

John 7:43

a division happened in the crowd

Quote: σχίσμα & ἐγένετο ἐν τῷ ὄχλῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of division, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the crowd was divided”

in the crowd

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὄχλῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

John 7:44

some of them

Quote: τινὲς & ἐξ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the people in the crowd with whom Jesus had just spoken, particularly those who were opposed to him. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “some of his opponents in the crowd”

no one laid hands on him

Quote: οὐδεὶς ἐπέβαλεν ἐπ’ αὐτὸν τὰς χεῖρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 7:30.

John 7:47

You have not also been deceived, have you

Quote: μὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς πεπλάνησθε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Pharisees ask this question in a way that expects a negative response but also expresses uncertainty about that response. If your language has a question form that assumes a negative response with uncertainty, you should use it here. Alternate translation: “Could it be possible that you have also been deceived?”

You have not also been deceived, have you

Quote: μὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς πεπλάνησθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “He has not also deceived you, has he?”

John 7:48

None from the rulers have believed in him, or from the Pharisees, have they

Quote: μή τις ἐκ τῶν ἀρχόντων ἐπίστευσεν εἰς αὐτὸν, ἢ ἐκ τῶν Φαρισαίων? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here, the Pharisees are using the form of a question to add emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this type of question by translating these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Surely none from the rulers have believed in him, or from the Pharisees!”

the rulers

Quote: τῶν ἀρχόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, rulers refers to the Jewish religious leadership, specifically the Jewish council called the Sanhedrin, which made decisions about Jewish law. (See: council) See how you translated rulers in 3:1. Alternate translation: “a member of the Jewish ruling council”

John 7:49

crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

the law

Quote: τὸν νόμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the law in 1:17.

they are accursed

Quote: ἐπάρατοί εἰσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has cursed them”

John 7:50

the one having come to him earlier, being one from them

Quote: ὁ ἐλθὼν πρὸς αὐτὸν πρότερον, εἷς ὢν ἐξ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

John provides this information to remind us of who Nicodemus is and the conversation he had with Jesus that is recorded in chapter 3. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “this man was a Pharisee who had spoken with Jesus at an earlier time”

being one from them

Quote: εἷς ὢν ἐξ αὐτῶν (1)

Alternate translation: “although he was one of them” or “despite being one of them”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 7:51

Our law does not judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he does, does it

Quote: μὴ ὁ νόμος ἡμῶν κρίνει τὸν ἄνθρωπον, ἐὰν μὴ ἀκούσῃ πρῶτον παρ’ αὐτοῦ, καὶ γνῷ τί ποιεῖ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Nicodemus is using the form of a question to add emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this type of question by translating his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Our law certainly does not judge a man unless it might first hear from him and might know what he does!”

Our law does not judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he does, does it

Quote: μὴ ὁ νόμος ἡμῶν κρίνει τὸν ἄνθρωπον, ἐὰν μὴ ἀκούσῃ πρῶτον παρ’ αὐτοῦ, καὶ γνῷ τί ποιεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Nicodemus speaks of the law as if it were a person. If this use of law is not natural in your language, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “It is not written in our law that we may judge a man unless we might first hear from him and might know what he does, is it”

a man

Quote: τὸν ἄνθρωπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a man does not refer to a specific man. It refers to any man in general. Alternate translation: “any man”

John 7:52

You are not also from Galilee, are you

Quote: μὴ καὶ σὺ ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας εἶ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jewish leaders know that Nicodemus is not from Galilee. They ask this question as a way of scoffing at him. If your language does not use questions in this way, use another way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “You must also be one of those people from Galilee!”

Search, and see

Quote: ἐραύνησον καὶ ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records the Jewish leaders leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the missing words from the context. Alternate translation: “Look carefully and read what is written in the Scriptures to learn”

no prophet rises up from Galilee

Quote: προφήτης ἐκ τῆς Γαλιλαίας οὐκ ἐγείρεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jewish leaders believed that Jesus came from Galilee and that no prophet in the scriptures came from Galilee. Therefore, based on their reasoning, Jesus could not be a prophet. However, what they believed was incorrect. Jesus did not originally come from Galilee, but Bethlehem in Judea. Also, the prophet Jonah came from Galilee (2 Kings 14:25) and Isaiah 9:1–7 said that the Messiah would be a great light rising from Galilee. If your readers might not understand what the Jewish leaders are implying, you could state it explicitly. Alternate translation: “no prophet rises up from Galilee, so this man cannot be a true prophet”

rises up

Quote: ἐγείρεται (1)

Here, rises up means to appear. Alternate translation: “appears”

John 7:53

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

General Information:

The best early texts do not have 7:53–8:11. The ULT has set them apart in square brackets ([ ]) to show that John probably did not include them in his original text. See the discussion of this textual issue in the General Notes to this chapter.

John 8

John 8 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus forgives the adulterous woman 8:1–11
Jesus says he is the light of the world (8:12–20)
Jesus says he came from above (8:21–30)
Jesus says he frees people from sin (8:31–36)
Jesus describes the true children of Abraham and the children of Satan (8:37–47)
Jesus is greater than Abraham (8:48–59)

Translators may wish to include a note at 8:1 to explain to the reader why they have chosen to translate or to not translate 8:1–11. 7:53–8:11 are not in the best and oldest ancient manuscripts. Those ancient texts which do have these verses also have many differences between them, which are additional evidence that these verses were not originally in the Gospel of John. If the translators have chosen to translate these verses, then they will want to either put them in a footnote outside of the main text or mark them in some way, such as square brackets ([ ]), to indicate that the passage may not have originally been in John’s Gospel. (See: Textual Variants)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Light and darkness

Generally in John’s Gospel, light represents what is true and good and darkness represents what is false and evil. Similar to the discussion of light in 1:4–9, in 8:12 Jesus applies the light metaphor to himself in order to show that he is the embodiment of God’s truth and goodness. Jesus calls himself the Light of the World because he is the one who enables people to know God’s truth and goodness. (See: INVALID bible/other/light)

I AM

John records Jesus saying these words as an independent phrase three times in this chapter (8:24, 28, 58). They stand alone as a complete sentence, and they literally translate the Hebrew expression “I AM,” by which Yahweh identified himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14. For these reasons, many people believe that when Jesus said these words he was claiming to be Yahweh. (See: Yahweh).

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (8:28). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 8:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

General Information:

John 8:12

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

In this verse Jesus begins speaking to a crowd near the treasury in the temple some time after the events of John 7:1–52. John does not mark the beginning of this new event.

again spoke to them, saying

Quote: πάλιν & αὐτοῖς ἐλάλησεν & λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “spoke to the people again, and he said”

I am the light of the world; … but will have the light of life

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι τὸ φῶς τοῦ κόσμου & ἀλλ’ ἕξει τὸ φῶς τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses light to refer to God’s truth and goodness that are revealed to the world by Jesus. He is the embodiment of God’s truth and goodness. See the discussion of light and darkness in the General Notes to this chapter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “I am the one who reveals God’s truth and goodness, that is like a light, to the world … but will have that truth and goodness of life”

of the world

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to all the people in the world. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of the people of the world”

the one following me

Quote: ὁ ἀκολουθῶν ἐμοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, following means to become Jesus’ disciple and obey his teachings. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1:43. Alternate translation: “the one who becomes my disciple” or “the one who obeys me”

may certainly not walk in the darkness

Quote: οὐ μὴ περιπατήσῃ ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the phrase walk in the darkness to refer to living a sinful life. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “may certainly not live as if he were living in the darkness of sin”

light of life

Quote: φῶς τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, John records Jesus using the of to describe light that gives life. If this use of the possessive form is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “light that brings life”

of life

Quote: τῆς ζωῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “eternal life”

John 8:13

You testify about yourself

Quote: σὺ περὶ σεαυτοῦ μαρτυρεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Pharisees assumed that their listeners understood that they were referring to Jesus testifying about himself without there being any other witnesses to confirm his testimony. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “You are testifying about yourself without any other witnesses”

your testimony is not true

Quote: ἡ μαρτυρία σου οὐκ ἔστιν ἀληθής (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Pharisees are implying that the testimony of only one person is not true because of a rule in the law of Moses. According to Deuteronomy 19:15, a statement had to be confirmed by at least two witnesses in order to be considered true in legal decisions. If your audience is not familiar with the law of Moses in the Old Testament, then you can state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “your testimony about yourself cannot be true because the law of Moses requires at least two witnesses”

John 8:14

but you do not know

Quote: ὑμεῖς δὲ οὐκ οἴδατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In 8:14–20 Jesus uses the plural form of you to indicate that he is speaking to the Pharisees. He is not speaking directly to those who believe in him. If this would confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but you Pharisees do not know”

John 8:15

the flesh

Quote: τὴν σάρκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the flesh to refer to human standards. Such standards are superficial and based on the limitations of sinful human nature. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “standards limited by human nature” or “superficial human standards”

I do not judge anyone

Quote: ἐγὼ οὐ κρίνω οὐδένα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This could mean: (1) Jesus does not judge anyone in the same manner as the Pharisees, that is, according to the flesh. Alternate translation: “I do not judge anyone according to the flesh” (2) Jesus is not judging anyone at that time. Alternate translation: “I do not judge anyone at this time”

John 8:16

my judgment

Quote: ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what I judge”

my judgment is true

Quote: ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ ἀληθινή ἐστιν (1)

Here, Jesus is contrasting the nature of the Pharisees’ judgment with the nature of his own judgment. Alternate translation: “my judgment is right” or “my judgment is according to what is true”

I am not alone

Quote: μόνος οὐκ εἰμί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus implies that he is not alone when he judges people. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I am not alone in how I judge” or “I do not judge alone”

the Father having sent me

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 5:23.

the Father

Quote: ὁ & Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 8:17

it is written

Quote: γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Jesus implies that “Moses” did it. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote”

the testimony of two men is true

Quote: δύο ἀνθρώπων ἡ μαρτυρία ἀληθής ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus is referring to a rule in the law of Moses. According to Deuteronomy 19:15, a statement had to be confirmed by at least two witnesses in order to be considered true in legal decisions. If it would be helpful to your readers, then you can state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “if the testimony of two men agrees, then it is valid” or “if two men say something that agrees, then it should be considered to be true”

John 8:18

the Father having sent me testifies about me

Quote: μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ ὁ πέμψας με Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In addition to Jesus himself, God the Father also testifies about Jesus. Jesus thus implies that his testimony is true, because there are two witnesses. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “my Father, who sent me, also brings evidence about me. So you should believe that what we tell you is true” or “my Father, who sent me, also testifies about me. Therefore, my testimony is true”

the Father having sent me

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in verse 16.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ὁ & Πατήρ (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 8:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: οὔτε ἐμὲ οἴδατε, οὔτε τὸν Πατέρα μου. εἰ ἐμὲ ᾔδειτε, καὶ τὸν Πατέρα μου ἂν ᾔδειτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, know refers to knowing who Jesus and God actually are, not just knowing information about them. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You know neither who I am nor who my Father is; if you had known who I am, you would have known who my Father is also”

Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

if you had known me, you would have known my Father also

Quote: εἰ ἐμὲ ᾔδειτε, καὶ τὸν Πατέρα μου ἂν ᾔδειτε. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Here, Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that the Pharisees do not know who he really is and do not really know God. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “you do not know me, because if you did, you would also know my Father”

John 8:20

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John finishes telling about the events in the story by giving background information about where these events happened. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Some languages may require the information about the setting to be placed at the beginning of this part of the story in 8:12.

these words

Quote: ταῦτα τὰ ῥήματα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, these words refers to what Jesus had just spoken in verses 12–19. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “these things about himself” or “these things to the Pharisees”

the treasury

Quote: τῷ γαζοφυλακίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A treasury is the place where treasures are stored. In Jesus’ time, the temple treasury referred to a place in the courtyard that had containers for receiving money offerings. If your readers would not be familiar with this use of treasury, you could give a fuller description. Alternate translation: “the place where people gave money”

his hour had not yet come

Quote: οὔπω ἐληλύθει ἡ ὥρα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the word hour is used to refer to the time God had planned for Jesus to be arrested and killed. See how you translated this phrase in 7:30. Alternate translation: “the right time to arrest him had not yet come”

John 8:21

Then again he said to them

Quote: εἶπεν οὖν πάλιν αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Then again here introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “At another time he again said to them”

I go away, … Where I go away

Quote: ἐγὼ ὑπάγω & ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Two times in this verse Jesus uses go away to refer to his death and return to God in heaven. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

in your sin

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἁμαρτίᾳ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, sin is singular. This could refer to one: (1) the specific sin of rejecting Jesus as the Messiah. Alternate translation: “in your sin of unbelief” (2) sinfulness in general. Alternate translation: “in your state of sinfulness”

Where I go away, you are not able to come

Quote: ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω, ὑμεῖς οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “You are not able to come to where I go”

John 8:22

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

He will not kill himself, will he

Quote: μήτι ἀποκτενεῖ ἑαυτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John records the Jewish leaders using the form of a question in a way that expects a negative response but also expresses uncertainty about that response. If your language has a question form that assumes a negative response with uncertainty, you should use it here. Alternate translation: “Could it be possible that he will kill himself?”

Is that why he says, ‘Where I go, you are not able to come

Quote: ὅτι λέγει, ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω ὑμεῖς, οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Where I go, you are not able to come

Quote: ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω ὑμεῖς, οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)

See how you translated this clause in the previous verse.

John 8:23

You are from the things below

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἐκ τῶν κάτω ἐστέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In 8:23–30 Jesus uses the plural form of you to indicate that he is speaking to the Jewish leaders. He is not speaking directly to those who believe in him. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You Jewish authorities are from below”

You are from the things below

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἐκ τῶν κάτω ἐστέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from below could refer to: (1) the origin of the subject. Alternate translation: “You came from the things below” (2) the place where the subject belongs. Alternate translation: “You belong to the things below”

the things below

Quote: τῶν κάτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records Jesus using the things below to refer to this world. It does not refer to hell. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You are from this lower world”

I am from the things above

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐκ τῶν ἄνω εἰμί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from the things above could refer to: (1) the origin of the subject. Alternate translation: “I came from the things above” (2) the place where the subject belongs, which is heaven. Alternate translation: “I belong to the things above”

I am from the things above

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐκ τῶν ἄνω εἰμί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records Jesus using the things above to refer to heaven. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I am from heaven”

You are from this world; I am not from this world

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἐκ τούτου τοῦ κόσμου ἐστέ, ἐγὼ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from this world could refer to: (1) the origin of the subject. Alternate translation: “You come from this world; I do not come from this world” (2) the place where the subject belongs. Alternate translation: “You belong to this world; I do not belong to this world”

this world; … this world

Quote: τούτου τοῦ κόσμου & τοῦ κόσμου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, this world refers to everything in the universe that has been corrupted by sin and is hostile to God. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “this sinful world … this sinful world” or “this world that opposes God … this world that opposes God”

John 8:24

you will die in your sins. … I am, you will die in your sins

Quote: ἀποθανεῖσθε ἐν ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν & ἐγώ εἰμι, ἀποθανεῖσθε ἐν ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν (1)

This phrase you will die in your sins is different from the similar statement in verse 21 because sins is plural in this verse but singular in that verse. Therefore, make sure that you translate sins differently than how you translated “sin” in verse 21.

that I am

Quote: ὅτι ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) Jesus is identifying himself as Yahweh, who identified himself to Moses as “I AM” in Exodus 3:14. Alternate translation: “that I am the I AM” (2) Jesus expects the people to understand that he is referring to what he already has already said about himself in the previous verse: “that I am from above” See the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes for this chapter.

John 8:25

they said

Quote: ἔλεγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to the Jewish leaders. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish authorities said”

What have I even been saying to you from the beginning

Quote: τὴν ἀρχὴν ὅ τι καὶ λαλῶ ὑμῖν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he has already told the Jewish leaders who he is. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I am who I have been telling you I am since the beginning!”

John 8:26

But the one having sent me is true; and the things that I heard from him, these things I say to the world

Quote: ἀλλ’ ὁ πέμψας με ἀληθής ἐστιν, κἀγὼ ἃ ἤκουσα παρ’ αὐτοῦ, ταῦτα λαλῶ εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases and make a new sentence. Alternate translation: “But I will say to the world the things that I heard from him who sent me. He is true”

the one having sent me … from him

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με & παρ’ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

These phrases refer to God. However, since the Jewish leaders did not understand what Jesus meant when he used these phrases, you do not need to explain their meaning further here.

the one having sent me is true

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με ἀληθής ἐστιν (1)

Here, true means to be truthful or to speak only the truth. If this use of true would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who sent me is truthful” or “the one who sent me tells the truth”

and the things that I heard from him, these things

Quote: κἀγὼ ἃ ἤκουσα παρ’ αὐτοῦ, ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus says that the one who sent him is true in order to imply that these things he heard and spoke are true. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the true things that I heard from him, these true things”

these things I say to the world

Quote: ταῦτα λαλῶ εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John records Jesus using the world to refer to the people who live in the world. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “these things I say to everyone”

John 8:27

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John gives information about the Jewish leaders to explain their reaction to Jesus’ teaching. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

about the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 8:28

When you have lifted up

Quote: ὅταν ὑψώσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records Jesus referring to when he would be lifted up on the cross to be killed. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “When you have lifted me up on a cross to kill me”

When you have lifted up the Son of Man

Quote: ὅταν ὑψώσητε τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this clause in the first person, as in the UST.

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Son of Man in 1:51.

I am

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in verse 24 and also see the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes for this chapter.

from myself

Quote: ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase, from myself, in 5:30. Alternate translation: “on my own authority”

just as the Father taught me, I speak these things

Quote: καθὼς ἐδίδαξέν με ὁ Πατὴρ, ταῦτα λαλῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 8:29

the one having sent me

Quote: ὁ πέμψας με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

with me

Quote: μετ’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses with me to refer to God’s help. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “helping me”

John 8:30

As} he is speaking these things

Quote: ταῦτα αὐτοῦ λαλοῦντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

Here, John is describing something that happened at the same time as the other clause in the sentence. If this might confuse your readers, you could make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “At the time Jesus was saying these things”

John 8:31

the Jews

Quote: τοὺς & Ἰουδαίους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

In 8:31–59 those Jews could refer to: (1) some Jewish people from Judea who were in the temple courtyard with Jesus. Alternate translation: “those Judeans” (2) some of the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “those Jewish authorities”

you

Quote: ὑμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In 8:31–59 Jesus uses the plural form of you to indicate that he could be speaking to: (1) some Jewish people from Judea who were in the temple courtyard with Jesus. Alternate translation: “you Judeans” (2) some of the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “you Jewish authorities”

remain in my word

Quote: μείνητε ἐν τῷ λόγῳ τῷ ἐμῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase remain in my word means to obey what Jesus said. If this might confuse your readers, you can express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “obey what I have said”

John 8:32

the truth will free you

Quote: ἡ ἀλήθεια ἐλευθερώσει ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Jesus speaks of truth as though it were a person who could free someone. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “knowing the truth will cause you to be free” or “if you obey the truth, God will set you free”

the truth, … the truth

Quote: τὴν ἀλήθειαν & ἡ ἀλήθεια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, the truth refers to what Jesus reveals about God, which would include his plan for forgiving sinful people through Jesus’ death on the cross. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what is true about God … those true things”

John 8:33

how can you say, ‘You will be free

Quote: πῶς σὺ λέγεις, ὅτι ἐλεύθεροι γενήσεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jews are using the question form here to emphasize their shock at what Jesus has said. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We do not need to be set free!”

how can you say, ‘You will be free

Quote: πῶς σὺ λέγεις, ὅτι ἐλεύθεροι γενήσεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

John 8:34

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

is a slave of sin

Quote: δοῦλός ἐστιν τῆς ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the word slave to refer to someone who cannot stop sinning. This implies that sin is like a master for the person who sins. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile instead. Alternate translation: “is like a slave to sin”

John 8:35

the slave does not remain … the son remains

Quote: ὁ & δοῦλος οὐ μένει & ὁ Υἱὸς μένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of slaves and sons in general, not of one particular slave and son. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “slaves do not remain … sons remain”

in the house

Quote: ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses house to refer to the family that lives inside the house. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as a permanent member of a family”

the son remains into eternity

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς μένει εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is in contrast to the previous clause. Although slaves do not remain permanent members of the family who owns them, sons are permanent family members. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but the son remains into eternity”

the son remains into eternity

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς μένει εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “the son remains in the house into eternity”

John 8:36

if the Son frees you, you will be truly free

Quote: ἐὰν & ὁ Υἱὸς ὑμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ, ὄντως ἐλεύθεροι ἔσεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

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”

if the Son frees you

Quote: ἐὰν & ὁ Υἱὸς ὑμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Unlike the generic use of son in the previous verse, here Jesus uses the Son to refer to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person. Alternate translation: “if I, the Son, free you”

if the Son frees you

Quote: ἐὰν & ὁ Υἱὸς ὑμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses frees to refer to stopping people from being controlled by their sinful desires. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “if the Son frees you from being controlled by sin”

the Son

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God.

you will be truly free

Quote: ὄντως ἐλεύθεροι ἔσεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses free to refer to people no longer being controlled by their sinful desires and thus able to avoid sinning. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “you will truly no longer be controlled by sin” or “you will truly be able to refrain from sin”

John 8:37

my word has no place in you

Quote: ὁ λόγος ὁ ἐμὸς οὐ χωρεῖ ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase has no place in you is an idiom that means to truly accept or believe something. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a similar idiom in your language or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you do not receive my words in your hearts” or “you reject my words”

my word

Quote: ὁ λόγος ὁ ἐμὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the message or teachings of Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my message”

John 8:38

the Father

Quote: τῷ Πατρὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

and … what you heard from the father, you do

Quote: καὶ ὑμεῖς & ἃ ἠκούσατε παρὰ τοῦ πατρὸς, ποιεῖτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

In this clause, Jesus uses the phrase the father to refer to the devil. Despite using the same words as in the previous clause, here Jesus is not referring to God. However, since Jesus did not yet reveal what he meant when he used this phrase, but was speaking ambiguously, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

John 8:39

father

Quote: ὁ πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the people use father to refer to their ancestor. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Our forefather”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

children of Abraham

Quote: τέκνα τοῦ Ἀβραάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses children to mean “descendants.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “descendants of Abraham”

the works of Abraham

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τοῦ Ἀβραὰμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe works that were done by Abraham. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the works done by Abraham”

John 8:40

Abraham did not do this

Quote: τοῦτο Ἀβραὰμ οὐκ ἐποίησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to what Jesus said earlier in the verse about what the Jews were trying to do to him. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Abraham did not seek to kill someone who told him the truth from God”

John 8:41

You do the works of your father

Quote: ὑμεῖς ποιεῖτε τὰ ἔργα τοῦ πατρὸς ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Jesus uses the phrase your father to refer to the devil. However, since the Jews did not understand what Jesus meant when he used this phrase, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

We have not been born from sexual immorality

Quote: ἡμεῖς ἐκ πορνείας οὐ γεγεννήμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jews imply that Jesus does not know who his real father is and that his birth is the result of an immoral sexual relationship. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “We do not know about you, but we are not illegitimate children” or “We were all born from proper marriages”

John 8:42

If God were your Father, you would have loved me

Quote: εἰ ὁ Θεὸς Πατὴρ ὑμῶν ἦν, ἠγαπᾶτε ἂν ἐμέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he already knows that the condition is not true. Jesus knows that the Jews speaking to him here do not love him and are not true followers of God. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “God is surely not your father, because if he were, you would love me”

have I come from myself

Quote: ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ ἐλήλυθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate Jesus’ origin. He could only have authority if he came from God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “have I come on my own authority”

that one

Quote: ἐκεῖνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to God the Father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God”

John 8:43

Because of what do you not understand my speech

Quote: διὰ τί τὴν λαλιὰν τὴν ἐμὴν οὐ γινώσκετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I will tell you why you do not understand what I say!”

you are not able to hear my words

Quote: οὐ δύνασθε ἀκούειν τὸν λόγον τὸν ἐμόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hear means to listen to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. It does not mean simply to hear what someone says. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you are not able to heed my words”

my words

Quote: τὸν λόγον τὸν ἐμόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses words to refer to his teachings. See how you translated this phrase in 5:47. Alternate translation: “my teachings.”

John 8:44

You are from your father, the devil

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἐκ τοῦ πατρὸς τοῦ διαβόλου ἐστὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from your father could refer to: (1) the person to whom the subject belongs, as in the UST. (2) the origin of the subject. Alternate translation: “You came from your father, the devil”

That one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, That one refers to the devil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The devil”

was a murderer from the beginning

Quote: ἀνθρωποκτόνος ἦν ἀπ’ ἀρχῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the beginning refers to the time when the first humans, Adam and Eve, sinned. It does not refer to the very beginning of time. The devil tempted Eve to sin and Adam sinned as well. Because they sinned, all living things die as part of the punishment for sin. Therefore, Jesus calls the devil a murderer for starting the process that brought death to the world. You could indicate this explicitly if it would be helpful to your readers, particularly if they would not know the story. Alternate translation: “was a murderer from the time when he tempted the first people to sin”

does not stand in the truth

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἀληθείᾳ οὐκ ἔστηκεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase does not stand in the truth is an idiom that means to not accept or approve of what is true. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “does not approve of the truth”

there is no truth in him

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν ἀλήθεια ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus speaks of truth as if it were an object that could exist inside someone. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he never speaks the truth”

he speaks from his own {nature

Quote: ἐκ τῶν ἰδίων λαλεῖ (1)

Alternate translation: “he speaks according to his character” or “he speaks what is most natural for him to speak”

the father of it

Quote: ὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses father to refer to the one who originated the act of lying. Since the devil is the first being to tell a lie, he is called the father of lying. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the first one to lie”

the father of it

Quote: ὁ πατὴρ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, it refers to the act of lying. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the father of lying”

John 8:46

Which one of you convicts me concerning sin

Quote: τίς ἐξ ὑμῶν ἐλέγχει με περὶ ἁμαρτίας? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he has never sinned. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “None of you can convict me concerning sin!”

If I speak the truth

Quote: εἰ ἀλήθειαν λέγω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

John records Jesus speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what John is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since I speak the truth”

why do you not believe me

Quote: διὰ τί ὑμεῖς οὐ πιστεύετέ μοι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to scold the Jews for their unbelief. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you have no reason for not believing me!”

John 8:47

He who is from God … you are not from God

Quote: ὁ ὢν ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ & ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐκ ἐστέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from God could refer to: (1) the person to whom the subject belongs, as in the UST. (2) the origin of the subject. Alternate translation: “He who came from God … you did not come from God”

He who is from God

Quote: ὁ ὢν ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although He is masculine, Jesus is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “A person who is from God”

hears … you do not hear

Quote: ἀκούει & ὑμεῖς οὐκ ἀκούετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hears and hear mean to listen to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. See how you translated hear in verse 43. Alternate translation: “heeds … you do not heed”

the words of God

Quote: τὰ ῥήματα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses words to refer to what God has said. See how you translated words in 5:47. Alternate translation: “the things that God has said”

John 8:48

The Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, The Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

Do we not rightly say that you are a Samaritan and have a demon

Quote: οὐ καλῶς λέγομεν ἡμεῖς ὅτι Σαμαρείτης εἶ σὺ, καὶ δαιμόνιον ἔχεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jews are using a rhetorical question here to accuse Jesus and to dishonor him. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We certainly say rightly that you are a Samaritan and have a demon!”

you are a Samaritan

Quote: Σαμαρείτης εἶ σὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Most Jewish people in Jesus’ time hated and despised Samaritans, so his Jewish opponents here called Jesus a Samaritan in order to insult him. Use the natural form in your language to indicate that this is an insult. Alternate translation: “you are one of those accursed Samaritans” or “you are an enemy Samaritan”

have a demon

Quote: δαιμόνιον ἔχεις (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 7:20. Alternate translation: “a demon is inside of you!” or “you must be under the control of a demon!”

John 8:49

I do not have a demon

Quote: ἐγὼ δαιμόνιον οὐκ ἔχω (1)

See how you translated the similar phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “a demon is not inside of me” or “I am not under the control of a demon”

John 8:50

do not seek my glory

Quote: οὐ ζητῶ τὴν δόξαν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “I do not seek to glorify myself”

there is one seeking and judging

Quote: ἔστιν ὁ ζητῶν καὶ κρίνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, one refers to God. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “God is the one seeking and judging”

one seeking

Quote: ὁ ζητῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “one seeking my glory”

judging

Quote: κρίνων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. Here, judging could refer to: (1) God judging between what Jesus said about himself and what his Jewish opponents were saying about him. Alternate translation: “judging between your testimony and mine” (2) God condemning those who dishonor Jesus. Alternate translation: “judging those who dishonor me”

John 8:51

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

my word

Quote: τὸν ἐμὸν λόγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the message or teachings of Jesus. See how you translated this phrase in 5:24. Alternate translation: “my message” or “what I say”

he will certainly not see death

Quote: θάνατον οὐ μὴ θεωρήσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses see to refer to experiencing or participating in something. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he will certainly not experience death”

he will certainly not see death into eternity

Quote: θάνατον οὐ μὴ θεωρήσῃ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Jesus uses death to refer to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. However, the Jews did not understand this. Therefore, you do not need to explain its meaning further here. Alternate translation: “he will certainly not die”

John 8:52

The Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

you have a demon

Quote: δαιμόνιον ἔχεις (1)

Alternate translation: “a demon is inside of you” or “you must be under the control of a demon”

you say, ‘If anyone keeps my word

Quote: σὺ λέγεις, ἐάν τις τὸν λόγον μου τηρήσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If anyone keeps my word

Quote: ἐάν τις τὸν λόγον μου τηρήσῃ (1)

See how you translated this in the previous verse.

he will certainly not taste death into eternity

Quote: οὐ μὴ γεύσηται θανάτου εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The Jews say here that Jesus used taste to refer to experiencing or participating in something. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he will certainly not ever experience death”

death

Quote: θανάτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated death in the previous verse.

John 8:53

You are not greater than our father Abraham who died, are you

Quote: μὴ σὺ μείζων εἶ τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν Ἀβραάμ, ὅστις ἀπέθανεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jews are using this question to emphasize that they do not think that Jesus is greater than Abraham. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are certainly not greater than our father Abraham who died!”

our father

Quote: τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in verse 39.

Who do you make yourself out to be

Quote: τίνα σεαυτὸν ποιεῖς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jews are using this question to rebuke Jesus for thinking that he is more important than Abraham. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not think that you are so important!”

John 8:54

Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

about whom you say, ‘He is our God

Quote: ὃν ὑμεῖς λέγετε, ὅτι Θεὸς ἡμῶν ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

John 8:55

his word

Quote: τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses word to refer what God has said. If this would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what God says”

John 8:56

Your father

Quote: ὁ πατὴρ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in verse 39.

he might see … he saw

Quote: ἴδῃ & εἶδεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

my day

Quote: τὴν ἡμέραν τὴν ἐμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses my day to refer to the time when Jesus came to earth. If this would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my coming” or “the time when I would come to earth”

he saw and was glad

Quote: εἶδεν καὶ ἐχάρη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase could mean: (1) Abraham literally saw a prophetic vision of Jesus coming to earth. Alternate translation: “he foresaw my coming through revelation from God and was glad” (2) when his son Isaac was born, Abraham metaphorically saw that God was beginning to fulfill the covenant that would culminate in Jesus coming to earth. Alternate translation: “he perceived my coming when God gave him a son, and he was glad”

John 8:57

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the Jews in 8:31. Alternate translation: “the Judeans” or “the Jewish leaders”

You do not yet have 50 years, and you have seen Abraham

Quote: πεντήκοντα ἔτη οὔπω ἔχεις, καὶ Ἀβραὰμ ἑώρακας? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here, the Jews opposing Jesus are using this question to express their shock that Jesus claims to have seen Abraham. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are less than fifty years old! You could not possibly have seen Abraham!”

John 8:58

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

I am

Quote: ἐγὼ εἰμί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated I am verse 24 and also see the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes for this chapter.

John 8:59

they picked up stones in order to throw at him

Quote: ἦραν & λίθους, ἵνα βάλωσιν ἐπ’ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jews opposing Jesus are outraged at what Jesus said in the previous verse. Here, John implies that they picked up stones in order to kill him by stoning because he had made himself equal to God (See: stone, stoning). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “they picked up stones in order to kill him, because he claimed to be equal with God”

the temple

Quote: τοῦ ἱεροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jesus and his Jewish opponents were in the courtyard of the temple. See how you translated temple in 8:14.

John 9

John 9 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus’ sixth sign: he heals a blind man (9:1–12)
The Pharisees question the formerly blind man whom Jesus healed (9:13–34)
Jesus speaks with the formerly blind man and some Pharisees (9:35–41)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“Who sinned?”

Many of the Jews in Jesus’ time believed that if a person was blind or deaf or crippled, it was because he, his parents, or someone else in his family had sinned. The rabbis even taught that it was possible for a baby to sin while still in the womb. This was not the teaching of the law of Moses. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

“A sinner”

The Pharisees call some people in this chapter “sinners.” The Jewish leaders thought these people were sinful, but in reality the leaders were also sinful. This can be taken as irony. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and Irony)

“He does not keep the Sabbath”

The Pharisees thought that Jesus was working, and so breaking the Sabbath, by healing the blind man. (See: 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: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

Seeing and being blind

Jesus uses the healing of the blind man as a metaphor for spiritual blindness. Just as a blind man cannot see the physical world, a man who is spiritually blind does not recognize God’s truth, which includes his sinfulness and need for salvation. The blind man in this story is first healed from his physical blindness (9:6–7), then from his spiritual blindness (9:38). By contrast, the Pharisees are not physically blind but are spiritually blind. Jesus calls the Pharisees blind because they have seen him do great miracles that only someone sent from God could do, but they still refuse to believe that God sent him or that they are sinners who need to repent (9:39–40). (See: Metaphor)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (9:35). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 9:1

And

Quote: καὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

And here shows that John intended for the events in this chapter to be directly connected to what Jesus said in the previous chapter. In chapter 8, Jesus said that he is the Light of the World. In this chapter, Jesus demonstrates that he is the Light of the World by giving physical sight and spiritual light to a blind man.

John 9:2

asked him, saying

Quote: ἠρώτησαν αὐτὸν & λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “asked him, and they said”

who sinned, this one or his parents, so that he might be born blind

Quote: τίς ἥμαρτεν, οὗτος ἢ οἱ γονεῖς αὐτοῦ, ἵνα τυφλὸς γεννηθῇ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This question reflects the ancient Jewish belief that sin caused illnesses and other deformities. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. 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?”

so that he might be born blind

Quote: ἵνα τυφλὸς γεννηθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 9:3

so that the works of God might be revealed in him

Quote: ἵνα φανερωθῇ τὰ ἔργα τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John records Jesus leaving out some information that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “he was born blind so that the works of God might be revealed in him”

the works of God

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe works that are performed by God. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the works done by God”

the works of God might be revealed

Quote: φανερωθῇ τὰ ἔργα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I might reveal the works of God”

in him

Quote: ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him could refer to: (1) the man’s body, especially his blind eyes. Alternate translation: “in his body” (2) the man’s body and spirit. Alternate translation: “in his body and spirit”

John 9:4

us

Quote: ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Jesus says us here, he is including himself and the disciples who are with him. Your language may require you to mark this form.

the works of the one having sent me

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Jesus is using of to describe works that God wants Jesus and his disciples to do. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the works that the one who sent me demands”

of the one having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

while it is day. Night is coming

Quote: ἕως ἡμέρα ἐστίν; ἔρχεται νὺξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, day and night could mean: (1) the time when Jesus was on the earth with his disciples and the time when he was no longer on earth, respectively. Alternate translation: “while I am still with you. The time when I will leave you is coming” (2) a person’s lifetime and the time that person dies, respectively. Alternate translation: “while we are still alive. The time when we will die is coming”

while it is day

Quote: ἕως ἡμέρα ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses day. He compares the time when he and his disciples can do God’s work to the daytime, which is the time when people normally work. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “while it is the time like the daylight hours when people usually work”

Night is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται νὺξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses Night. He compares the time when he and his disciples cannot do God’s work to the nighttime, which is the time when people normally cannot work because it is too dark to see. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “The time like the night hours is coming when people cannot work”

John 9:5

in the world

Quote: ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to the earth on which people live. It does not refer only to the people in the world or to the entire universe. Alternate translation: “on the earth”

I am the light of the world

Quote: φῶς εἰμι τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this clause in 8:12. Alternate translation: “I am the one who is like a light and who reveals God’s truth and goodness to the world”

John 9:6

made mud from the saliva

Quote: ἐποίησεν πηλὸν ἐκ τοῦ πτύσματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus used his fingers to mix the dirt and saliva into mud. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “used his fingers to mix the dirt and saliva to make mud”

John 9:7

wash … washed

Quote: νίψαι & ἐνίψατο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus wanted the blind man to wash the mud off of his eyes in the pool and that is what the man did. Jesus did not want him to bathe or wash his whole body. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and wash your eyes … washed his eyes”

the pool of Siloam

Quote: τὴν κολυμβήθραν τοῦ Σιλωάμ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe a pool that is called Siloam. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the pool named Siloam”

which is translated “Sent

Quote: ὃ ἑρμηνεύεται, ἀπεσταλμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

which is translated “Sent

Quote: ὃ ἑρμηνεύεται, ἀπεσταλμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this clause John provides a brief break in the storyline in order to explain to his readers what Siloam means. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “which means ‘Sent’”

which is translated “Sent

Quote: ὃ ἑρμηνεύεται, ἀπεσταλμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John assumes that his readers will know that he is saying what the name Siloam means when translated from the Aramaic language into Greek. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “which is the Aramaic word for ‘Sent’”

came back

Quote: ἦλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

As the next verse suggests, the man came back to his home, not to Jesus. Your language may state “went” rather than came in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “went back”

seeing

Quote: βλέπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, seeing means that the man became able to see before coming back. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “after becoming able to see”

John 9:8

that he was a beggar

Quote: ὅτι προσαίτης ἦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This clause is missing some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “those who had seen that he was a beggar”

Is not this the one sitting and begging

Quote: οὐχ οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ καθήμενος καὶ προσαιτῶν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people here are using a rhetorical question to express their surprise at seeing the blind man who has been healed. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This man is the one who used to sit and beg!”

John 9:10

How were your eyes opened

Quote: πῶς ἠνεῴχθησάν σου οἱ ὀφθαλμοί? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “How did your eyes become opened?”

How were your eyes opened

Quote: πῶς ἠνεῴχθησάν σου οἱ ὀφθαλμοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, eyes opened describes the ability to see by referring to something associated with vision coming into action, specifically, the eyes. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “How are you able to see?”

John 9:11

called Jesus

Quote: ὁ λεγόμενος Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom we call Jesus”

made mud

Quote: πηλὸν ἐποίησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:6. Alternate translation: “used his fingers to mix the dirt with saliva to make mud”

wash.’ … and having washed

Quote: νίψαι & καὶ νιψάμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated wash in 9:7. Alternate translation: “wash your eyes … and having washed my eyes”

I received my sight

Quote: ἀνέβλεψα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sight, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “I could see”

John 9:13

They bring

Quote: ἄγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 9:14

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about when Jesus healed the man. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes

Quote: τὸν πηλὸν ἐποίησεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ ἀνέῳξεν αὐτοῦ τοὺς ὀφθαλμούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The negative reaction of the Pharisees described in the following verses is based on their belief that, according to their religious law, Jesus’ actions were considered to be work. Therefore, they believed that he was disobeying God’s command to rest and not work on the Sabbath. (See: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and INVALID bible/kt/works and Sabbath). If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. These were two deeds the Pharisees considered to be work.”

opened his eyes

Quote: ἀνέῳξεν αὐτοῦ τοὺς ὀφθαλμούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, opened eyes describes the ability to see by referring to something associated with vision coming into action, specifically, the eyes. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “caused him to see”

John 9:15

Then again the Pharisees also began asking him

Quote: πάλιν οὖν ἠρώτων αὐτὸν καὶ οἱ Φαρισαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, again means that this is the second time people questioned the blind man whom Jesus had healed. It does not mean that this is the second time the Pharisees questioned him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Then, in addition to his neighbors questioning him, the Pharisees also began asking him”

he received his sight

Quote: ἀνέβλεψεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:11. Alternate translation: “he could see”

I washed

Quote: ἐνιψάμην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated washed in 9:11. Alternate translation: “I washed my eyes”

John 9:16

he does not keep the Sabbath

Quote: τὸ Σάββατον οὐ τηρεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase he does not keep the Sabbath means he disobeys the regulations for the Sabbath that God gave in the law of Moses. The Pharisees added many regulations which they considered to be equal with those that God had given. It was these additional regulations that Jesus was disobeying, thereby making the Pharisees very angry with him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he does not obeying our Sabbath regulations”

This man is not from God

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν οὗτος παρὰ Θεοῦ ὁ ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate Jesus’ origin. He could only have authority if he came from God. Since Jesus was not obeying the Pharisees’ rules, they refused to believe that God had given him authority. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “This man does not have God’s authority”

How is a man, a sinner, able to do such signs

Quote: πῶς δύναται ἄνθρωπος ἁμαρτωλὸς τοιαῦτα σημεῖα ποιεῖν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Some people are using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that Jesus’ signs prove he is not a sinner. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “A sinner cannot possibly do such signs!”

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated this term in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

there was a division among them

Quote: σχίσμα ἦν ἐν αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of division, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “they divided themselves against each other”

John 9:17

they ask

Quote: λέγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

since he opened your eyes

Quote: ὅτι ἠνέῳξέν σου τοὺς ὀφθαλμούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Because the next verse indicates that the Pharisees did not believe that the man used to be blind, here, since does not mean that they thought the man had really been healed. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “since you claim that he opened your eyes”

he opened your eyes

Quote: ἠνέῳξέν σου τοὺς ὀφθαλμούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, he opened your eyes describes the newly gained ability to see by referring to something associated with vision coming into action, specifically, the eyes. See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:14. Alternate translation: “he caused you to see”

John 9:18

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Therefore here indicates that what follows is the result of what the man said about Jesus in the previous verse. Because the formerly blind man believed Jesus was a prophet, the Jews who opposed Jesus refused to believe that the man had really been blind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Since the man said that Jesus was a prophet”

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders, which in this chapter may have been a group of leaders among the Pharisees. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

John 9:19

they asked them, saying

Quote: ἠρώτησαν αὐτοὺς λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “they asked him, and they said”

was born blind

Quote: τυφλὸς ἐγεννήθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he was blind when you bore him”

John 9:20

he was born blind

Quote: τυφλὸς ἐγεννήθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 9:21

has full maturity

Quote: ἡλικίαν ἔχει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase full maturity describes a person who is an adult and is legally responsible for himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “is an adult” or “is a full-grown man”

John 9:22

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about the man’s parents being afraid of the Jewish leaders. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

of the Jews. … the Jews

Quote: τοὺς Ἰουδαίους & οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders, which in this chapter may have been a group of leaders among the Pharisees. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

he would be put out of the synagogue

Quote: ἀποσυνάγωγος γένηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses put out of the synagogue to refer to no longer being allowed to go into the synagogue and no longer belonging to the group of people who attend services at the synagogue. When people were put out of the synagogue, they were shunned by their local community. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he would not be allowed to enter the synagogue” or “he would no longer belong to the synagogue community”

John 9:23

He has full maturity

Quote: ἡλικίαν ἔχει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 9:21.

John 9:24

they called the man

Quote: ἐφώνησαν & τὸν ἄνθρωπον (1)

Here, they refers to the Jewish leaders introduced in (9:18)

Give glory to God

Quote: δὸς δόξαν τῷ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that Jewish people used when commanding someone to take an oath. It first appears in Joshua 7:19 when Joshua orders Achan to confess his sin. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Speak the truth before God”

this man

Quote: οὗτος ὁ ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John records the Jewish leaders saying this man as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

John 9:25

that one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to the man who had been blind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the man who had been blind”

John 9:26

How did he open your eyes

Quote: πῶς ἤνοιξέν σου τοὺς ὀφθαλμούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, open eyes describes the ability to see by referring to something associated with vision coming into action, specifically, the eyes. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “How did he cause you to see?”

John 9:27

Why do you want to listen again

Quote: τί πάλιν θέλετε ἀκούειν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The man is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize his amazement that the Jewish leaders have asked him to tell them again what happened. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I am surprised that you want to listen again to what happened to me!”

You do not want to become his disciples also, do you

Quote: μὴ καὶ ὑμεῖς θέλετε αὐτοῦ μαθηταὶ γενέσθαι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

Here the formerly blind man actually means to communicate the opposite of the literal meaning of his words. He knows that the Jewish leaders do not want to follow Jesus, but asks this question to ridicule them. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “It sounds like you also want to become his disciples!”

John 9:28

of that one

Quote: ἐκείνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here John records the Jewish leaders saying that one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “of that so-and-so”

but we are disciples of Moses

Quote: ἡμεῖς δὲ τοῦ Μωϋσέως ἐσμὲν μαθηταί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, the pronoun we is exclusive. The Jewish leaders are speaking only of themselves. Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “but we true Jews are disciples of Moses”

John 9:29

this one

Quote: τοῦτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here John records the Jewish leaders saying this one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

where this one is from

Quote: τοῦτον & πόθεν ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jewish leaders use from to indicate Jesus’ origin. He could only have authority if he came from God, but they say that they do not know where he came from. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “where this one gets his authority”

John 9:30

Now this is a remarkable thing, that you do not know

Quote: ἐν τούτῳ γὰρ τὸ θαυμαστόν ἐστιν, ὅτι ὑμεῖς οὐκ οἴδατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

If the plain statement form for this seems unnatural, you could translate this as an exclamation and you may need to make a new sentence. Alternate translation: “This is amazing! You do not know” or “How remarkable! You do not know”

where he is from

Quote: πόθεν ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated from in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “where he gets his authority”

he opened my eyes

Quote: ἤνοιξέν μου τοὺς ὀφθαλμούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:14. Alternate translation: “he caused me to see”

John 9:31

does not hear sinners, … he hears this one

Quote: ἁμαρτωλῶν & οὐκ ἀκούει & τούτου ἀκούει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hear and hears mean paying attention to or listening to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. It does not mean simply to hear what someone says. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “does not heed sinners … he heeds this one”

John 9:32

it has never been heard

Quote: οὐκ ἠκούσθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one has ever heard”

opened the eyes of one having been born blind

Quote: ἠνέῳξέν & ὀφθαλμοὺς τυφλοῦ γεγεννημένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:14. Alternate translation: “caused one having been born blind to see”

of one having been born blind

Quote: τυφλοῦ γεγεννημένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “of one who was blind when his mother bore him”

John 9:33

If this one were not from God, he would not be able to do anything

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦν οὗτος παρὰ Θεοῦ, οὐκ ἠδύνατο ποιεῖν οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

Here, the formerly blind man uses a double negative sentence pattern to emphasize the positive fact that Jesus must be from God. If this double-negative pattern would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “Only a man from God would be able to do anything like that!”

If this one were not from God

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦν οὗτος παρὰ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

The formerly blind man is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He has concluded that Jesus must have come from God because he healed him. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If this one were not from God, but he is”

were not from God

Quote: μὴ ἦν & παρὰ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated from God in 9:16. Alternate translation: “did not have God’s authority”

anything

Quote: οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, anything does not mean “anything at all.” It means anything like the miraculous signs that Jesus was performing, particularly his healing of this man who was born blind. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “anything like healing a man blind from birth”

John 9:34

You were completely born in sins, and you are teaching us

Quote: ἐν ἁμαρτίαις σὺ ἐγεννήθης ὅλος, καὶ σὺ διδάσκεις ἡμᾶς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Jewish leaders are using a question to emphasize their belief that this man was not qualified to question their opinion. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You were completely born in sins, and you are not qualified to teach us!”

You were completely born in sins

Quote: ἐν ἁμαρτίαις σὺ ἐγεννήθης ὅλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Your mother bore you completely in sins”

You were completely born in sins

Quote: ἐν ἁμαρτίαις σὺ ἐγεννήθης ὅλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jewish leaders mention the formerly blind man being born in sins to imply that the sins of his parents had caused his blindness. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You were born blind completely because of your parents’ sins”

they put him out

Quote: ἐξέβαλον αὐτὸν ἔξω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses threw him out to refer to him no longer being allowed to go into the synagogue and no longer belonging to the group of people who attend services at the synagogue. When people were thrown out of the synagogue, they were shunned by their local community. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he was forbidden to enter the synagogue” or “he was forbidden to belong to the synagogue community”

John 9:35

General Information:

Jesus finds the man whom he healed in (9:1–7) and begins to speak to him and the crowd.

they had put him out

Quote: ἐξέβαλον αὐτὸν ἔξω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “they had forbidden him from entering the synagogue” or “they had forbidden him from belonging to the synagogue community”

having found him

Quote: εὑρὼν αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, found implies that Jesus had first searched for the man. It does not mean that Jesus unintentionally or accidentally met the man at another time. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “having looked for him and found him”

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man”. However, the formerly blind man did not realize that Jesus was speaking of himself, and Jesus does not explain the metaphor to him until verse 37. Therefore, you do not need to explain that Jesus is speaking about himself here.

the Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

John 9:36

sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

The formerly blind man calls Jesus sir in order to show respect or politeness. He does not yet know that Jesus is the Lord. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

John 9:37

and that one is the one speaking with you

Quote: καὶ ὁ λαλῶν μετὰ σοῦ ἐκεῖνός ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Here, Jesus is referring to himself in third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person form. Alternate translation: “and I, the one who is speaking with you, am that one”

John 9:38

Lord

Quote: Κύριε (1)

Now that the formerly blind man knows that Jesus is the Lord, he calls Jesus Lord. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

I believe

Quote: πιστεύω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, the formerly blind man is leaving out some words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from 9:36. Alternate translation: “I believe that you are the Son of Man”

John 9:39

For judgment

Quote: εἰς κρίμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “In order to judge”

so that those not seeing might see and those seeing might become blind

Quote: ἵνα οἱ μὴ βλέποντες, βλέπωσιν; καὶ οἱ βλέποντες, τυφλοὶ γένωνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, not seeing, see, seeing, and become blind are metaphors. See the discussion of these metaphors in the General Notes for this chapter. If these uses of these words would confuse your readers, you could use similes or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “so that those who know they are spiritually blind might receive spiritual sight, and those who falsely think they have spiritual sight might remain spiritually blind” or “so that those who recognize that they don’t know God might know him, and those who falsely think they know God might continue not knowing him”

so that those not seeing might see and those seeing might become blind

Quote: ἵνα οἱ μὴ βλέποντες, βλέπωσιν; καὶ οἱ βλέποντες, τυφλοὶ γένωνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, so that could indicate that: (1) the rest of the verse is the result of Jesus’ judgment, which may require starting a new sentence. Alternate translation: “The result of my judgment will be that those not seeing might see and those seeing might become blind” (2) the rest of the verse is an explanation of the judgment Jesus mentioned at the beginning of the verse, which may also require starting a new sentence. Alternate translation: “That judgment is that those not seeing might see and those seeing might become blind”

John 9:40

We are not also blind, are we

Quote: μὴ καὶ ἡμεῖς τυφλοί ἐσμεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Several Pharisees are using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that they do not think that they are spiritually blind. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We surely are not also blind!”

We are not also blind, are we

Quote: μὴ καὶ ἡμεῖς τυφλοί ἐσμεν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the Pharisees use blind to refer to not knowing God’s truth. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “We are not also ignorant of God’s truth, are we?”

John 9:41

If you were blind, you would have no sin

Quote: εἰ τυφλοὶ ἦτε, οὐκ ἂν εἴχετε ἁμαρτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated blind in 9:39–40. Alternate translation: “If you did not know God’s truth, you would have no sin”

you would have no sin, … Your sin remains

Quote: οὐκ ἂν εἴχετε ἁμαρτίαν & ἡ ἁμαρτία ὑμῶν μένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In these two phrases, Jesus speaks of sin as if it were an object that a person could possess or that could remain with a person. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you would not be sinful … You are still sinful”

you say, ‘We see.’ Your sin remains

Quote: λέγετε, ὅτι βλέπομεν, ἡ ἁμαρτία ὑμῶν μένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated see in 9:39. Alternate translation: “you say, ‘We know God’s truth.’ Your sin remains”

you say, ‘We see.’ Your sin remains

Quote: λέγετε, ὅτι βλέπομεν, ἡ ἁμαρτία ὑμῶν μένει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

John 10

John 10 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus tells the Parable of the Sheep Pen (10:1–6)
Jesus says he is the gate of the sheep pen (10:7–10)
Jesus says he is the Good Shepherd (10:11–18)
The Jewish leaders disagree about who Jesus is (10:19–21)
Jesus says he is God at the Festival of Dedication (10:22–42)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Blasphemy

Blasphemy is when a person claims that he is God or claims that God has told him to speak when God has not told him to speak. The law of Moses commanded the Israelites to kill blasphemers by throwing stones at them until they died. When Jesus said, “I and the Father are one,” the Jews thought he was blaspheming, so they picked up stones to kill him. (See: blasphemy, blaspheme, blasphemous and law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Parables

Parables were short stories that Jesus told so that people who wanted to believe in him could easily understand the lesson he was trying to teach them. People who did not want to believe in him would not be able to understand the message (10:1–6).

Sheep

Jesus spoke metaphorically of people as sheep because sheep do not see well, do not think well, often walk away from those who care for them, and cannot defend themselves when other animals attack them. God’s people are similar to sheep in that they also are weak and do foolish things like rebelling against God. (See: ewe, ram, sheep, sheepfold, sheepshearers, sheepskins)

Sheep pen

A sheep pen was a space with a stone wall around it in which shepherds would keep their sheep for periods of time, such as over night. There were large sheep pens in which multiple flocks were kept, and also smaller sheep pens for a single flock. 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. In 10:1–5, Jesus uses the sheep pen as a metaphor for the people of Israel. Out of the “sheep pen” of the Jewish people, Jesus calls his first “sheep.”

Laying down and taking up life

Jesus speaks of his life as if it were a physical object that he could: (1) lay down on the ground, which is a metaphor for dying, or (2) pick up again, which is a metaphor for becoming alive again.

John 10:1-5

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables

General Information:

In 10:1–5, Jesus speaks a parable, which he then uses for teaching purposes in 10:7–18. Here, the “shepherd” is a metaphor for Jesus and “sheep” is a metaphor for people. “His own sheep” are the people who follow Jesus, and the thief, robber, and “strangers” are the Jewish leaders, including the Pharisees, who try to deceive the people. Since Jesus does not explain the meaning of this parable here, you should not explain the metaphors within the parable itself.

John 10:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

In 10:1–21, Jesus continues to speak to the Pharisees whom he was speaking with at the end of the last chapter. This section continues the story which began in 9:35.

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

sheep pen

Quote: αὐλὴν τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A sheep pen is an enclosed or fenced area where a shepherd keeps his sheep. See the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. If your readers would not be familiar with this way of protecting livestock, you could use a general expression for a roofless space surrounded by walls or a fence. Alternate translation: “walled area for protecting the sheep” or “place where sheep are kept”

a thief and a robber

Quote: κλέπτης & καὶ λῃστής (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The words translated thief and robber describe two different kinds of criminals. A thief is a person who steals by stealth, but a robber is a person who steals by force or violence. For this reason, you may want to use “or” instead of and between these two terms. Alternate translation: “a thief or a robber”

John 10:2

the shepherd of the sheep

Quote: ποιμήν & τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe a shepherd who takes care of the sheep. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the shepherd who cares for the sheep” or “the shepherd in charge of the sheep”

John 10:3

The gatekeeper

Quote: ὁ θυρωρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A gatekeeper is a person who guards the sheep pen and opens the gate for the shepherd. If your readers would not be familiar with this way of protecting livestock, you could use a general expression for a person who guards an entrance. Alternate translation: “The gate guard” or “The person guarding the gate”

The gatekeeper opens

Quote: ὁ θυρωρὸς ἀνοίγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “The gatekeeper opens the gate”

for this one, … his voice, … he calls his own sheep

Quote: τούτῳ & τῆς φωνῆς αὐτοῦ & τὰ ἴδια πρόβατα φωνεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, this one, his, and he refer to the shepherd mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for this shepherd … the shepherd’s voice … the shepherd calls his own sheep”

the sheep hear his voice

Quote: τὰ πρόβατα τῆς φωνῆς αὐτοῦ ἀκούει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hear could mean: (1) all the sheep in the pen hear the shepherd’s voice, but not all of them respond to it, as in the ULT. This meaning implies that there are multiple flocks in the sheep pen. (2) the sheep that belong to the shepherd heed or obey his voice. This implies that the sheep are identical with his own sheep. Alternate translation: “the sheep heed his voice”

he calls his own sheep by name

Quote: τὰ ἴδια πρόβατα φωνεῖ κατ’ ὄνομα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, his own sheep are designated as a separate group among the sheep of the previous clause. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he calls his own sheep by name out from among all the sheep”

John 10:4

he goes ahead of them

Quote: ἔμπροσθεν αὐτῶν πορεύεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Shepherds in Jesus’ culture led their sheep by walking in front of them. If people who take care of livestock in your culture do not do this, you might need to state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he leads them to pasture by walking in front of them”

John 10:5

the voice of strangers

Quote: τῶν ἀλλοτρίων τὴν φωνήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the word voice is singular in form, but it refers to all of the strangers’ voices as a group. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the voices of strangers”

John 10:6

this parable

Quote: ταύτην τὴν παροιμίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables

This parable is an illustration from the work of shepherds that uses metaphors. See the discussion of parables in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “this analogy”

to them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, them, those ones, and they refer to the Pharisees, whom Jesus was speaking with in 9:40–41. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly, as the UST does.

John 10:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

In 10:7–18, Jesus uses ideas from the parable he told in 10:1–5 in order to teach about himself, those who believe in him, and those who deceive the people.

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

I am the gate

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ θύρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the word gate differently than he did in 10:1–2. Here, Jesus uses gate to say that he provides access into heaven, where God dwells. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “I am like the gate”

I am the gate of the sheep

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ θύρα τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe himself as a gate that is for the sheep to use. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “I am the gate for the sheep”

of the sheep

Quote: τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Jesus uses sheep to refer to people who believe in him. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “of those who follow me like sheep”

John 10:8

Everyone who came before me

Quote: πάντες ὅσοι ἦλθον πρὸ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Everyone here is an exaggeration that refers to the majority of Israel’s leaders, including the Pharisees and other Jewish leaders. Not every leader of Israel throughout history was wicked, but most were. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “Most leaders who came before me”

a thief and a robber

Quote: κλέπται & καὶ λῃσταί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses thief and robber to refer to the Jewish leaders who were deceiving the people. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “like a thief and a robber”

a thief and a robber

Quote: κλέπται & καὶ λῃσταί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The words translated thief and robber describe two different kinds of criminals. See how you translated this expression in 10:1. Alternate translation: “a thief or a robber”

the sheep

Quote: τὰ πρόβατα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Jesus uses sheep to refer specifically to the Jewish people who believed in him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the sheep who follow me” or “the sheep, my disciples”

did not hear them

Quote: οὐκ ἤκουσαν αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hear means listening to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. It does not mean simply to hear what someone says. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “did not heed them”

John 10:9

I am the gate

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ θύρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the word gate to say that he provides access into heaven, where God dwells. See how you translated this phrase in 10:7. Alternate translation: “I am like the gate”

If anyone enters through me

Quote: δι’ ἐμοῦ ἐάν τις εἰσέλθῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses enters through me to refer to trusting in him for salvation. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “If anyone believes in me for salvation”

he will be saved

Quote: σωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, saved refers to being saved from the eternal punishment in hell that all people deserve because of their sins. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will be saved from hell”

he will be saved

Quote: σωθήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

he will go in and go out

Quote: εἰσελεύσεται, καὶ ἐξελεύσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase go in and go out is a common Old Testament idiom meaning to travel and move around freely in a safe environment. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “he will move about freely” or “he will go around in a safe environment”

will find pasture

Quote: νομὴν εὑρήσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the phrase ** find pasture** to refer to having one’s needs provided for. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will find sustenance” or “will receive everything that he needs”

John 10:10

The thief

Quote: ὁ κλέπτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of thieves in general, not of one particular thief. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “A thief”

The thief

Quote: ὁ κλέπτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses thief to refer to the Jewish leaders who were deceiving the people. See how you translated the similar use of this word in 10:8. Alternate translation: “Every leader is like a thief who”

does not come except in order that he might steal

Quote: οὐκ ἔρχεται εἰ μὴ ἵνα κλέψῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “comes only in order that he might steal”

he might steal and kill and destroy

Quote: κλέψῃ, καὶ θύσῃ, καὶ ἀπολέσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “he might steal and kill and destroy the sheep”

they might have

Quote: ἔχωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to the sheep, which is a metaphor for God’s people. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the sheep might have”

so that they might have life

Quote: ἵνα ζωὴν ἔχωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that they might have eternal life”

and might have it abundantly

Quote: καὶ περισσὸν ἔχωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, abundantly implies that the eternal life Jesus’ followers will receive has more blessings than anyone could expect. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and might have it with abundant blessings”

John 10:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

In 10:11–18, Jesus uses ideas from the parable he told in 10:1–5 to proclaim that he is the good shepherd who leads his sheep to heaven and takes care of them.

I am the good shepherd

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the phrase good shepherd to refer to himself. Just as a good shepherd takes care of his sheep, Jesus takes care of his followers. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “I am like a good shepherd”

lays down his life

Quote: τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ τίθησιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here Jesus uses lays down his life to refer to voluntarily dying. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “voluntarily dies”

the sheep

Quote: τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated sheep in the 10:8.

John 10:12

the hired man

Quote: ὁ μισθωτὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the phrase hired servant to refer to the Jewish leaders and teachers. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “each of your leaders is like a hired servant”

the hired man

Quote: ὁ μισθωτὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the man whom someone hired”

the wolf … the wolf

Quote: τὸν λύκον & ὁ λύκος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A wolf is a fierce wild dog that is known for attacking and devouring livestock. If your readers would not be familiar with this animal, you could use the name of a fierce predator or wild dog in your area that commonly eats farmers’ livestock, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “the fierce predator … that predator”

the sheep … the sheep

Quote: τὰ πρόβατα & τὰ πρόβατα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated sheep in the 10:8.

the wolf seizes and scatters them

Quote: ὁ λύκος ἁρπάζει αὐτὰ καὶ σκορπίζει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

This clause describes two events. The first event causes the second event. When the wolf attacks and seizes a sheep, the other sheep scatter. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “the wolf seizes a sheep, and the rest of the sheep scatter”

John 10:13

a hired man

Quote: μισθωτός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated a similar phrase in the previous verse.

it is not a concern to him about the sheep

Quote: οὐ μέλει αὐτῷ περὶ τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus compares a hired man who abandons the sheep to the Jewish leaders and teachers who do not care for God’s people. See how you translated sheep in the 10:8. Alternate translation: “he is not concerned about the sheep, just like your leaders are not concerned about God’s people”

John 10:14

I am the good shepherd

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 10:11. Alternate translation: “I am like a good shepherd”

John 10:15

the Father … the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ & τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

I lay down my life

Quote: τὴν ψυχήν μου τίθημι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the similar phrase in 10:11. Alternate translation: “I voluntarily die”

the sheep

Quote: τῶν προβάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the 10:8.

John 10:16

I have other sheep that are not from this sheep pen

Quote: ἄλλα πρόβατα ἔχω, ἃ οὐκ ἔστιν ἐκ τῆς αὐλῆς ταύτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses other sheep to refer to his followers who are not Jews. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “I have disciples who are not from the Jews”

this sheep pen

Quote: τῆς αὐλῆς ταύτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses sheep pen to refer to the people of Israel. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish people”

to bring them also

Quote: κἀκεῖνα & ἀγαγεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that this phrase would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. This could mean: (1) Jesus will bring them to himself, as in the UST. (2) Jesus will bring them to God. Alternate translation: “to bring them also to God”

they will hear my voice

Quote: τῆς φωνῆς μου ἀκούσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hear refers to listening to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. See how you translated this word in 10:8. Alternate translation: “they will heed my voice”

one flock

Quote: μία ποίμνη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses flock to refer to all of his followers, including Jews and non-Jews, as if they are one group, like a flock of sheep. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “one group”

one shepherd

Quote: εἷς ποιμήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses shepherd to refer to himself. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for the chapter. See also how you translated shepherd in 10:11.

John 10:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

Jesus finishes speaking to the crowd.

Because of this the Father loves me, because I lay down my life so that I might take it up again

Quote: διὰ τοῦτό, με ὁ Πατὴρ ἀγαπᾷ, ὅτι ἐγὼ τίθημι τὴν ψυχήν μου, ἵνα πάλιν λάβω αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Here, this refers to all the information in the second clause. If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “Because I lay down my life so that I might take it up again, the Father loves me”

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

I lay down my life

Quote: ἐγὼ τίθημι τὴν ψυχήν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the similar phrase in 10:11. Alternate translation: “I voluntarily die”

so that I might take it up again

Quote: ἵνα πάλιν λάβω αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus refers to becoming alive again as if life were an object that he could take up. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “so that I might cause myself to be alive again”

John 10:18

No one takes it away from me

Quote: οὐδεὶς ἦρεν αὐτὴν ἀπ’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus refers to his life as if it were an object that someone could take away. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “No one is causing me to die”

I lay it down … to lay it down

Quote: ἐγὼ τίθημι αὐτὴν & θεῖναι αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the similar phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I voluntarily die … to voluntarily die”

I lay it down from myself

Quote: ἐγὼ τίθημι αὐτὴν ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

The reflexive pronoun myself is used here to emphasize that Jesus voluntarily lays down his own life. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “I myself lay it down”

to take it up again

Quote: πάλιν λαβεῖν αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “to cause myself to be alive again”

my Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 10:19

A division again occurred among the Jews

Quote: σχίσμα πάλιν ἐγένετο ἐν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of division, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “The Jews divided themselves against each other again”

the Jews

Quote: τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders, which in this chapter and the previous chapter may have been a group of leaders among the Pharisees. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

because of these words

Quote: διὰ τοὺς λόγους τούτους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, these words refers to what Jesus has just said to the Jews in the previous verses. It wasn’t the words themselves that caused division, but the meaning of what Jesus said. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “because of the things he said”

John 10:20

He has a demon

Quote: δαιμόνιον ἔχει (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in 7:20. Alternate translation: “A demon is inside of him!” or “He must be under the control of a demon!”

Why do you listen to him

Quote: τί αὐτοῦ ἀκούετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus’ opponents are using the form of a question to emphasize that the people should not listen to Jesus. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should certainly not listen to him!”

John 10:21

These are not the words of a demon-possessed man

Quote: ταῦτα τὰ ῥήματα οὐκ ἔστιν δαιμονιζομένου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, words refers to what a demon-possessed man would say. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “These things are not what a demon-possessed man would say”

A demon is not able to open the eyes of the blind, is he

Quote: μὴ δαιμόνιον δύναται τυφλῶν ὀφθαλμοὺς ἀνοῖξαι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people are using the form of a question to emphasize that they do not believe that a demon could heal a blind person. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Certainly a demon cannot cause a blind man to see!” or “Certainly a demon cannot give sight to blind people!”

to open the eyes of the blind

Quote: τυφλῶν ὀφθαλμοὺς ἀνοῖξαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, open the eyes describes the ability to see by referring to something associated with vision coming into action, specifically, the eyes. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to cause the blind to see”

John 10:22

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

Some Jews begin to question Jesus during the Festival of Dedication. This verse gives background information about the time when the events of 10:24–39 took place. The next verse gives background information about the place where those events too place. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the Festival of Dedication

Quote: τὰ ἐνκαίνια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The Festival of Dedication is an eight-day holiday that Jews celebrate in the winter to remember when they dedicated the Jewish temple to God after it had been defiled by the Syrians. If your readers would not be familiar with this holiday, you could use a general expression to explain it. Alternate translation: “the Jewish temple dedication festival” or “the Jewish festival for remembering the dedication of their temple”

John 10:23

Jesus was walking in the temple

Quote: περιεπάτει ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jesus was walking in the courtyard of the temple. See how you translated temple in 8:14. Alternate translation: “Jesus was walking in the temple courtyard”

the porch of Solomon

Quote: τῇ στοᾷ τοῦ Σολομῶνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the possessive form describes the porch that was associated with King Solomon in some way. It may have been the only remaining part of the temple built during the time of Solomon. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the porch associated with Solomon”

porch

Quote: στοᾷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A porch was a structure with a roof; it had at least one wall missing and was attached to the side of a building. See how you translated this word in 5:2.

John 10:24

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

are you taking away our life

Quote: τὴν ψυχὴν ἡμῶν αἴρεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, taking away our life is an idiom that means to keep people in suspense by not telling them something. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “will you keep us from knowing for sure?”

John 10:25

The works

Quote: τὰ ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, works could refer to: (1) the miracles that Jesus did. Alternate translation: “The miracles” (2) Jesus’ miracles and teaching. Alternate translation: “The miracles and teaching” See how you translated works in 5:36.

in the name of my Father

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name could mean: (1) Jesus performed miracles by means of God’s authority. Alternate translation: “through my Father’s authority” (2) Jesus performed miracles as God’s representative. Alternate translation: “as my Father’s representative”

of my Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

these testify concerning me

Quote: ταῦτα μαρτυρεῖ περὶ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Jesus speaks of his works as though they were a person who could testify and offer proof in a court of law. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “these offer proof concerning me”

John 10:26

not from my sheep

Quote: οὐκ & ἐκ τῶν προβάτων τῶν ἐμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses sheep to refer to people who believe in him. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not my followers” or “not my disciples”

John 10:27

My sheep

Quote: τὰ πρόβατα τὰ ἐμὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated My sheep in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “My followers” or “My disciples”

hear my voice

Quote: τῆς φωνῆς μου ἀκούουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hear means listening to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. See how you translated this word in 10:16. Alternate translation: “heed my voice”

they follow me

Quote: ἀκολουθοῦσίν μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in 8:12.

John 10:28

no one will snatch any of them from my hand

Quote: οὐχ ἁρπάσει τις αὐτὰ ἐκ τῆς χειρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses the word hand to refer to his protective care and snatch to refer to removing someone from that care. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “no one will steal any of them away from me” or “they all will remain secure forever in my care”

John 10:29

My Father, who has given them to me

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου ὃς δέδωκέν μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

no one is able to snatch them from the hand of the Father

Quote: οὐδεὶς δύναται ἁρπάζειν ἐκ τῆς χειρὸς τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses the word hand to refer to God’s protective care and snatch to refer to removing someone from that care. See how you translated hand and snatch in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “no one will steal any of them away from my Father” or “they all will remain secure forever in my Father’s care”

John 10:30

are one

Quote: ἕν ἐσμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word translated one means to be one entity. Although this expression implies that Jesus is God, he is not identical to God the Father. Therefore, one cannot be translated as “one person.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “are one entity”

the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 10:31

The Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

so that they might stone him

Quote: ἵνα λιθάσωσιν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jews opposing Jesus are outraged at what Jesus said in the previous verse. Here, John implies that they wanted to kill him with stones because he had made himself equal to God. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that they might stone him because he claimed to be equal with God”

John 10:32

many good works … of those works

Quote: πολλὰ ἔργα καλὰ & αὐτῶν ἔργον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated works in 10:25. Alternate translation: “many good miracles … of those miracles”

from the Father

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ Πατρός (1)

This phrase could refer to: (1) the source of the good works. Alternate translation: “originating from the Father” (2) the one who enabled the good works. Alternate translation: “given to me by the Father”

the Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

For which of those works are you stoning me

Quote: διὰ ποῖον αὐτῶν ἔργον, ἐμὲ λιθάζετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

Here Jesus is using irony. Jesus knows the Jewish leaders do not want to stone him because he has done good works. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Your certainly are not stoning me because of those works!”

John 10:33

The Jews answered him

Quote: ἀπεκρίθησαν αὐτῷ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated this phrase in 10:31. Alternate translation: “The Jewish authorities answered him”

for blasphemy

Quote: περὶ βλασφημίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of blasphemy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because you are blaspheming”

blasphemy

Quote: βλασφημίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jews use the word blasphemy with its technical sense, which refers to a human being claiming to be God. This is what the Jewish leaders felt Jesus was doing in 10:30. Here, blasphemy does not have a general sense of “insult.” See the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “committing the crime of blasphemy”

making yourself God

Quote: ποιεῖς σεαυτὸν Θεόν (1)

This phrase means to claim to be God. It does not mean to try to make oneself into God or become God. Alternate translation: “saying that you are God”

John 10:34

Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένον ἐν τῷ νόμῳ ὑμῶν, ὅτι ἐγὼ εἶπα, θεοί ἐστε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here Jesus uses the form of a question to add emphasis. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “It is certainly written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods”’.”

Is it not written

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Did not a prophet write”

Is it not written in your law

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένον ἐν τῷ νόμῳ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Jesus uses written in your law to introduce a quotation from (Psalm 82:6). Psalms is considered to be part of the Old Testament “wisdom literature.” However, the Jews sometimes used law broadly to refer to the entire Old Testament. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state explicitly that Jesus was quoting from Psalms. Alternate translation: “Has it not been written in the Psalms”

in your law

Quote: ἐν τῷ νόμῳ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jesus is using the name of the first part of the Hebrew Scriptures, the law, to represent the entire Hebrew Scriptures in general. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in your Scriptures”

I said, “You are gods

Quote: ἐγὼ εἶπα, θεοί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus quotes Psalm 82:6 where God calls some humans gods. Jesus does this in order to show that God also used the word “god” to refer to people other than himself. In the verse that Jesus quotes, the first person I refers to God. If this might be misunderstood by your readers, you could state it explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, God, said, ‘You are gods’”

I said, “You are gods

Quote: ἐγὼ εἶπα, θεοί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

John 10:35

Verses 35 and 36 are one sentence. In this sentence, Jesus argues by moving from a weaker reason to a stronger reason (an argument from the lesser to the greater). Based on the scripture he quoted in verse 34, Jesus argues that, since God calls humans gods in that verse, it is even more appropriate to call him God because he is the Son of God. You may need to change the order of the clauses in order for this idea to be clearer in your language.

If he called them gods

Quote: εἰ ἐκείνους εἶπεν θεοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

If indicates a conditional sentence that extends until the end of the next verse. Jesus is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what John is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since he called them gods”

the word of God came

Quote: ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐγένετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus used the term word to describe the message that God said by using words. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God’s message came”

the word of God came

Quote: ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐγένετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Jesus speaks of the word of God as though it were a person who moved toward those who heard it. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God spoke his word”

the Scripture is not able to be broken

Quote: οὐ δύναται λυθῆναι ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

the Scripture is not able to be broken

Quote: οὐ δύναται λυθῆναι ἡ Γραφή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase could mean: (1) no one can prove that the Scriptures are false or contain errors. Alternate translation: “the Scriptures are not able to be proven false” (2) the authority of Scripture cannot be ignored. Alternate translation: “the Scriptures are not able to be ignored”

John 10:36

do you say to the one the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God

Quote: ὃν ὁ Πατὴρ ἡγίασεν καὶ ἀπέστειλεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον, ὑμεῖς λέγετε, ὅτι βλασφημεῖς, ὅτι εἶπον, Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ εἰμι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here Jesus uses the form of a question to rebuke his opponents for accusing him of blasphemy. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you should not say to the one the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God!’”

do you say … You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God

Quote: ὑμεῖς λέγετε, ὅτι βλασφημεῖς, ὅτι εἶπον, Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If the direct quotations inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the two instances of second direct quotations as indirect quotations. Alternate translation: “do you say … that he is blaspheming because I said that I am the Son of God”

to the one the Father sanctified and sent into the world

Quote: ὃν ὁ Πατὴρ ἡγίασεν καὶ ἀπέστειλεν εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “to me whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world”

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

You are blaspheming

Quote: βλασφημεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. See how you translated “blasphemy” in 10:33 and also see the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “You have committed the crime of blaspheming God” or “You are guilty of blaspheming God”

the Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

This phrase, the Son of God, is an important title for Jesus.

John 10:37

the works of my Father

Quote: τὰ ἔργα τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here Jesus is using of to describe works that God wants him to do. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:4. Alternate translation: “the works that my Father demands”

of … Father

Quote: Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 10:38

But if I am doing them

Quote: εἰ δὲ ποιῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Here, Jesus is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what Jesus is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “But since I am doing them”

believe in the works

Quote: τοῖς ἔργοις πιστεύετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, believe in means to acknowledge that the works Jesus does are done with the authority of the Father and prove that he is God. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “believe that the works I do are from God” or “believe that the works I do are done with God’s power”

the Father {is} in me, and I in the Father

Quote: ἐν ἐμοὶ ὁ Πατὴρ, κἀγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here Jesus uses the word in to express the close personal relationship between himself and God. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my Father has a close relationship with me, and I have a close relationship with my Father”

the Father {is} in me, and I in the Father

Quote: ἐν ἐμοὶ ὁ Πατὴρ, κἀγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that the truth of what Jesus is saying. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “my Father and I are completely joined together as one”

John 10:39

he went away out of their hand

Quote: ἐξῆλθεν ἐκ τῆς χειρὸς αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John used the word hand to refer to the custody or possession of the Jewish leaders. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he escaped from them”

John 10:40

beyond the Jordan

Quote: πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, beyond the Jordan refers to the region of Judea that is on the east side of the Jordan River, which is the side opposite from Jerusalem. See how you translated this expression in 1:28. Alternate translation: “on the side of the Jordan River opposite from Jerusalem”

John

Quote: Ἰωάννης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John refers to Jesus’ cousin, often referred to as “John the Baptist.” (See: John (the Baptist)) It does not refer to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. See how you translated John in 1:26. Alternate translation: “John the Baptist” or “John the Immerser”

John first was baptizing

Quote: ἦν Ἰωάννης τὸ πρῶτον βαπτίζων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, first refers to the beginning of John’s ministry. It does not mean that John was the first person to baptize people in that location. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “John was baptizing during the first days of his ministry”

he stayed there

Quote: ἔμεινεν ἐκεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus remained on the east side of Jordan for a short period of time. If your language requires a length of time for stay, you can use a general expression. Alternate translation: “Jesus stayed there for several days”

John 10:41

sign

Quote: σημεῖον (1)

See how you translated sign in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracle”

this one

Quote: τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, this one refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this man, Jesus”

John 11

John 11 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus returns to Judea (11:1–16)
Jesus’ seventh sign: Jesus makes Lazarus become alive again (11:17–46)
The Jewish leaders plan to kill Jesus (11:47–57)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Ancient Jewish burial customs

According to the burial customs of that time, a dead person’s family would wrap the dead body with many strips of linen cloth and place it on a table inside a tomb. The tomb was either a cave or a room cut out of the side a large rock. According to Jewish tradition, the body was left to decompose in the tomb for one year. Then the family would place the bones in a stone box. If your readers would be unfamiliar with these burial customs, then you may need to provide explanations in your translation or in a note for 11:38–44.

Passover

After Jesus made Lazarus become alive again, the Jewish leaders were determined to kill Jesus, so he started traveling secretly from place to place. The Pharisees knew that he would come to Jerusalem for the Passover festival because God had commanded all Jewish men to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem. Thus they planned to catch him and kill him during Passover (11:55–57). (See: Passover)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

“One man dies for the people”

In the law of Moses, God commanded the priests to kill animals so that God would forgive the people’s sins. In this chapter, the high priest Caiaphas says, “It is better for you that one man dies for the people than that the whole nation perishes” (11:50). He said this because he loved his “place” and “nation” (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. However, God wanted Jesus to die so that he could forgive all of his people’s sins.

“The Jews”

This term is used in three different ways in this chapter. Unlike in other parts of John’s Gospel, it is used here primarily to refer to the Jewish people who were living in Judea, especially Judean friends and relatives of Lazarus. Some of these Judeans believed in Jesus and others opposed him (11:36–37). The term is also used specifically at least once in this chapter to refer to the Jewish leaders who opposed Jesus and were trying to kill him (11:8 and possibly 11:54). Finally, the term is used in 11:55 to refer to the Jewish people in general. The translator may wish to use the terms “Judeans,” “Jewish authorities,” and “Jewish people” to clarify these distinctions.

Hypothetical situation

When Martha and Mary said, “If you had been here, my brother would not have died,” they were speaking of a situation that could have happened but did not happen (11:21, 32). Jesus had not come, and their brother did die.

John 11:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

11:1–2 provide background information about Lazarus and his sisters. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus from Bethany

Quote: ἦν δέ τις ἀσθενῶν Λάζαρος ἀπὸ Βηθανίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

This verse introduces Lazarus as a new character in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. Alternate translation: “There was a man named Lazarus, who was from Bethany and was sick”

her sister Martha

Quote: Μάρθας τῆς ἀδελφῆς αὐτῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Because those who wrote scripture usually listed the names of siblings in order from oldest to youngest, the list in 11:5 suggests that Martha was the oldest and Lazarus was the youngest of the three siblings. If your language uses different words for sister depending on birth order, use the word for an older sister here. Alternate translation: “her older sister Martha”

John 11:2

Now Mary was the one having anointed the Lord with myrrh and having wiped his feet with her hair

Quote: ἦν δὲ Μαρία ἡ ἀλείψασα τὸν Κύριον μύρῳ, καὶ ἐκμάξασα τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ ταῖς θριξὶν αὐτῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Here, John refers to an event that would happen at a time following the events recorded in this chapter (12:1–8). If this might confuse your readers, you could translate this as a future event. Alternate translation: “Now it was Mary who would later anoint the Lord with myrrh and wipe his feet with her hair”

brother Lazarus

Quote: ὁ ἀδελφὸς Λάζαρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Because those who wrote scripture usually listed the names of siblings in order from oldest to youngest, the list in 11:5 suggests that Martha was the oldest and Lazarus was the youngest of the three siblings. If your language uses different words for brother depending on birth order, use the word for a younger brother here. Alternate translation: “younger brother Lazarus”

John 11:3

the sisters sent to him, saying

Quote: ἀπέστειλαν & αἱ ἀδελφαὶ πρὸς αὐτὸν λέγουσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “the sisters sent to him, and they said”

sent to him

Quote: ἀπέστειλαν & πρὸς αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “sent messengers to him” or “sent a message to him”

Sir, behold, he whom you love is sick

Quote: Κύριε, ἴδε, ὃν φιλεῖς ἀσθενεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Here, the sisters are using a present statement to make a request indirectly. They tell Jesus that Lazarus is sick, because they want Jesus to come and heal him. If this use of a statement is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for instruction. Alternate translation: “Sir, behold, he whom you love is sick and needs your help”

behold

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, behold means to take notice of something or pay attention to something. It is used here to emphasize the urgency of the words that follow. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “take notice”

John 11:4

is not to death

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν πρὸς θάνατον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, not to indicates that what follows is not the result of the sickness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “This sickness will not result in death”

but for the glory of God

Quote: ἀλλ’ ὑπὲρ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Jesus is stating the purpose for Lazarus’s sickness. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “but for the purpose of glorifying God”

for the glory of God

Quote: ὑπὲρ τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in order to glorify God”

so that the Son of God may be glorified by it

Quote: ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ δι’ αὐτῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Jesus is stating the second purpose for Lazarus’s sickness. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a second purpose clause. Alternate translation: “and for the purpose of glorifying the Son of God”

the Son of God

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person form, as in the UST.

Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

John 11:5

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John briefly stops telling about the events in the story in order to give background information about Jesus’ relationship with Lazarus and his sisters. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

sister

Quote: τὴν ἀδελφὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Because those who wrote scripture usually listed the names of siblings in order from oldest to youngest, the list in 11:5 suggests that Martha was the oldest and Lazarus was the youngest of the three siblings. If your language uses different words for sister depending on birth order, use the word for a younger sister here. Alternate translation: “younger sister”

John 11:6

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Therefore connects this verse to the previous verse in order to indicate that Jesus delayed going to Lazarus because he loved him and his sisters. Jesus’ delay is not in contrast to his love for them. Although Lazarus’s family would suffer for a short time, they would experience a great blessing when Jesus brought Lazarus back to life. Alternate translation: “Because Jesus loved them”

John 11:7

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 11:8

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19 and the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter.

you are going back there again

Quote: πάλιν ὑπάγεις ἐκεῖ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here the disciples use the form of a question to emphasize that they do not want Jesus to go to Jerusalem. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you surely should not go back there again!”

John 11:9

Are there not 12 hours in the day

Quote: οὐχὶ δώδεκα ὧραί εἰσιν τῆς ἡμέρας? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the form of a question for emphasis. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “There are surely 12 hours in the day.”

If someone walks in the daytime, he does not stumble, because he sees by the light of this world

Quote: ἐάν τις περιπατῇ ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ, οὐ προσκόπτει, ὅτι τὸ φῶς τοῦ κόσμου τούτου βλέπει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus speaks about someone walking in the daytime in order to comfort his disciples who were worried about going to Judea. In this metaphor Jesus uses the light of this world to refer to himself, who has previously called himself “the Light of the World” in 8:12 and 9:5.This whole metaphor could mean: (1) if Jesus and his disciples did God’s work during the limited time God had given him to work with them (the daytime), they would not fail (stumble) because Jesus was with them. This interpretation has a similar meaning to Jesus’ statement in 9:4. Alternate translation: “If you do God’s work during the time I am here, you will succeed, because you are with me, the light of this world.” (2) someone who acts according to God’s will (walks in the daytime) does not fail (stumble) because Jesus guides that person. Alternate translation: “If someone acts according to God’s will, he will succeed, because I, the light of this world, will guide him”

John 11:10

But if someone walks at night, he stumbles because the light is not in him

Quote: ἐὰν δέ τις περιπατῇ ἐν τῇ νυκτί, προσκόπτει, ὅτι τὸ φῶς οὐκ ἔστιν ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

In this verse Jesus expands the metaphor from the previous verse about a person walking outside. In this metaphor Jesus uses the light to refer to himself, who has previously called himself “the Light of the World” in 8:12 and 9:5. This whole metaphor could mean: (1) if his disciples tried to do God’s work after the limited time God had given him to be with them (the night which comes after “the daytime”), they would fail (stumble) because Jesus would not be with them. This interpretation has a similar meaning to Jesus’ statement in 9:4. Alternate translation: “If you try to do this work after I have left, you will fail because I, the light, am not with you.” (2) someone who does not act according to God’s will (walks at night) is an unbeliever who fails completely (stumble) because that person does not know Jesus. Alternate translation: “If someone does not act according to God’s will, he will fail because he does not know me, the light”

John 11:11

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep

Quote: Λάζαρος ὁ φίλος ἡμῶν κεκοίμηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Jesus uses fallen asleep to refer to being dead. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. Since Jesus explains the meaning in 11:14, you do not need to explain it here. However, If you have an idiom for this idea in your language, you may use it here.

but I am going so that I may wake him out of sleep

Quote: ἀλλὰ πορεύομαι ἵνα ἐξυπνίσω αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, wake him out of sleep refers to Jesus’ plan to cause Lazarus to become alive again. If you have an idiom for this idea in your language, you may use it here. Since the disciples do not understand what Jesus is saying here, do not translate this plainly.

John 11:12

if he has fallen asleep

Quote: εἰ κεκοίμηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated fallen asleep in the previous verse.

John 11:13

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John briefly stops telling the events in the story in order to give background information about Jesus’ conversation with his disciples. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

those ones

Quote: ἐκεῖνοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, those ones refers to Jesus’ disciples. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

he is speaking

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the sleep of slumber

Quote: τῆς κοιμήσεως τοῦ ὕπνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe sleep that is slumber. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “sleep that is actually sleep” or “natural sleep”

John 11:14

Jesus then said to them plainly

Quote: τότε & εἶπεν αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς παρρησίᾳ (1)

Here, plainly means to say something clearly without using and metaphors or others figures of speech. Because the disciples did not understand the metaphor Jesus told them in 11:11, he told them the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Jesus then said to them in words that they could understand”

John 11:15

for your sakes

Quote: δι’ ὑμᾶς (1)

Alternate translation: “for your benefit” or “for your good”

so that you may believe

Quote: ἵνα πιστεύσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, Jesus is leaving out some words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. You may also need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “for I allowed this to happen so that you may believe in me” or “for I let Lazarus die so that you may believe that I am the Messiah”

John 11:16

Didymus

Quote: Δίδυμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Didymus is the name of a man. It is a Greek word that means “twin” and is Thomas’ other name.

John 11:17

Jesus found him having already been in the tomb for four days

Quote: ὁ Ἰησοῦς εὗρεν αὐτὸν, τέσσαρας ἤδη ἡμέρας ἔχοντα ἐν τῷ μνημείῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Jesus found him; people had put his body in the tomb four days earlier”

John 11:18

Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about 15 stadia away

Quote: ἦν δὲ ἡ Βηθανία ἐγγὺς τῶν Ἱεροσολύμων, ὡς ἀπὸ σταδίων δεκαπέντε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This verse gives background information about the place where this event took place. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “This event took place in Bethany, which was near Jerusalem and was about 15 stadia away”

15 stadia away

Quote: ἀπὸ σταδίων δεκαπέντε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

John 11:19

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This verse gives background information about the people who were present when this event took place. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jews refers to people living in Judea, particularly the Jewish friends of Lazarus’ family. It does not refer to the Jewish leaders or those Jews who opposed Jesus. See the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as in the UST.

their brother

Quote: τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated brother in 11:2.

John 11:20

she heard, “Jesus is coming

Quote: ἤκουσεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἔρχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this statement as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “she heard that Jesus was coming”

John 11:21

if you were here, my brother would not have died

Quote: εἰ ἦς ὧδε, οὐκ ἂν ἀπέθανεν ὁ ἀδελφός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Martha is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but she knows that the condition is not true. Jesus had not been there and her brother had died. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “if you had been here, but you were not, my brother would not have died, but he did”

brother

Quote: ὁ ἀδελφός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated brother in 11:2.

John 11:23

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Your brother will rise again

Quote: ἀναστήσεται ὁ ἀδελφός σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, rise again is an idiom that refers to a died person becoming alive again. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Your brother will become alive again”

brother

Quote: ὁ ἀδελφός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated brother in 11:2.

John 11:24

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

he will rise again

Quote: ἀναστήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated rise again in the previous verse.

in the resurrection

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἀναστάσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of resurrection, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “when God resurrects people” or “when God brings people back from the dead”

on the last day

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the last day refers to “the day of the Lord,” which is the time when God judges everyone, Jesus returns to earth, and the bodies of those who are dead are raised from their graves. (See: day of the Lord, day of Yahweh). If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the day when God judges everyone”

John 11:25

the resurrection

Quote: ἡ ἀνάστασις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus calls himself the resurrection in order to say that he is the one who causes dead people to come back to life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who resurrects dead people” or “the one who brings dead people back to life”

the life

Quote: ἡ ζωή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus calls himself the life in order to say that he is the one who gives people eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who makes people live forever” or “the one who causes people to live forever”

even if he dies

Quote: κἂν ἀποθάνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, dies refers to physical death. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “even if his body dies”

will live

Quote: ζήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, live refers to having eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “will have eternal life”

John 11:26

everyone living

Quote: πᾶς ὁ ζῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, living refers to having eternal life, as “live” does in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “everyone who has eternal life”

may certainly not die into eternity

Quote: οὐ μὴ ἀποθάνῃ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, die refers to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea behind this use of die explicitly. See how you translated a similar phrase in 6:50. Alternate translation: “may certainly not die spiritually into eternity” or “may certainly not experience spiritual death into eternity”

may certainly not die into eternity

Quote: οὐ μὴ ἀποθάνῃ εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Jesus is using a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “may certainly live into eternity”

John 11:27

She says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

coming into the world

Quote: ὁ εἰς τὸν κόσμον ἐρχόμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to a prophet the Jews were waiting for, based on God’s promise to send into the world a prophet like Moses, which is recorded in Deuteronomy 18:15. If your readers will not be familiar with this Old Testament reference, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “whom God said he would send into the world”

John 11:28

sister

Quote: τὴν ἀδελφὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated sister in 11:5.

Teacher

Quote: διδάσκαλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Teacher refers to Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Teacher, Jesus,”

John 11:30

Now Jesus had not yet come into the village

Quote: οὔπω δὲ ἐληλύθει ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἰς τὴν κώμην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Here John provides a brief break in the story to give background information regarding the location of Jesus. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “At that time Jesus had not yet come into the village”

John 11:31

the Jews

Quote: οἱ & Ἰουδαῖοι (1)

See how you translated the Jews in 11:19.

being with her in the house and comforting her

Quote: οἱ ὄντες μετ’ αὐτῆς ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ καὶ παραμυθούμενοι αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase is making a distinction between the Jews who were comforting Mary in her house and those who were not doing so. It is not giving us further information about the Jews. If this might confuse your readers, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “the Jews, that is, those Jews who were with her in the house and comforting her”

John 11:32

she fell down at his feet

Quote: ἔπεσεν αὐτοῦ πρὸς τοὺς πόδας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, fell down means that Mary voluntarily threw herself down on the ground in front of Jesus to show the respect that she had for him. The phrase does not mean that Mary involuntarily fell down. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “she prostrated herself at his feet”

she fell down at his feet, saying to him

Quote: ἔπεσεν αὐτοῦ πρὸς τοὺς πόδας, λέγουσα αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “she fell down at his feet and said to him”

Lord, if you were here, my brother would not have died

Quote: Κύριε, εἰ ἦς ὧδε, οὐκ ἄν μου ἀπέθανεν ὁ ἀδελφός (1)

See how you translated this sentence in 11:21.

John 11:33

the Jews

Quote: τοὺς & Ἰουδαίους (1)

See how you translated the Jews in 11:19.

he was deeply disturbed in the spirit and he troubled himself

Quote: ἐνεβριμήσατο τῷ πνεύματι καὶ ἐτάραξεν ἑαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. John combines these phrases to express the intense emotional distress that Jesus was feeling. Alternate translation: “he was very upset”

he was deeply disturbed

Quote: ἐνεβριμήσατο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated deeply disturbed could mean: (1) Jesus was experiencing very intense negative emotions, in which case the meaning would be similar to troubled. Alternate translation: “he was deeply moved” (2) Jesus was angry or indignant, which is what the word means in other books in the Bible. Alternate translation: “he was outraged”

he was deeply disturbed in the spirit

Quote: ἐνεβριμήσατο τῷ πνεύματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, spirit refers to Jesus’ spirit. It does not refer to the Holy Spirit. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he was deeply disturbed within himself” or “he was deeply disturbed inside”

John 11:34

Where have you laid him

Quote: ποῦ τεθείκατε αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Jesus is referring to putting Lazarus’ dead body in a tomb as laying him down. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant and accurately describes the Jewish burial practice of laying a dead body on a table inside the tomb. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “Where have you entombed him?”

John 11:35

Jesus wept

Quote: ἐδάκρυσεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated wept is different from the word used to describe the weeping of Mary and the Jews with her in 11:31–33. The word here just means to shed tears. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus cried” or “Jesus shed tears”

John 11:36

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)

See how you translated the Jews in 11:19.

John 11:37

Was this one, having opened the eyes of the blind man, not able to act so that this one also would not die

Quote: οὐκ ἐδύνατο οὗτος, ὁ ἀνοίξας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς τοῦ τυφλοῦ, ποιῆσαι ἵνα καὶ οὗτος μὴ ἀποθάνῃ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Some of the Jews use the form of a question to express their surprise that Jesus did not heal Lazarus. This could mean: (1) they believed that Jesus loved Lazarus, but doubted his ability to heal him. “He opened the eyes of the blind man, but he was not able to keep this man from dying.” (2) they thought that Jesus did not really love Lazarus because he healed the blind man but not him. Alternate translation: “He could open the eyes of the blind man. So if he really loved this man, he surely would have healed him!”

having opened the eyes of the blind man

Quote: ὁ ἀνοίξας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς τοῦ τυφλοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:14. Alternate translation: “who caused the blind man to see”

John 11:38

being deeply disturbed in himself

Quote: ἐμβριμώμενος ἐν ἑαυτῷ (1)

See how you translated the similar phrase in 11:33.

Now it was a cave, and a stone lay against it

Quote: ἦν δὲ σπήλαιον, καὶ λίθος ἐπέκειτο ἐπ’ αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

John provides a brief break in the story to describe the tomb where the people had entombed Lazarus. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “The place Lazarus was entombed was a cave that had a stone laying against it.”

John 11:39

says, “… says

Quote: λέγει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the sister

Quote: ἡ ἀδελφὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Martha was Lazarus’ oldest sister. If your language uses different words for sister depending on birth order, use the word for a older or oldest sister here. Alternate translation: “the oldest sister”

for it is four days

Quote: τεταρταῖος γάρ ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that it has been four days since Lazarus died. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “for he has been dead for four days” or “for it has been four days since he died”

John 11:40

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Did I not say to you that, if you believe, you will see the glory of God

Quote: οὐκ εἶπόν σοι, ὅτι ἐὰν πιστεύσῃς, ὄψῃ τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the form of a question to emphasize that God is about to do something wonderful. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I certainly said to you that, if you believe, you would see the glory of God!”

if you believe

Quote: ἐὰν πιστεύσῃς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, Jesus is leaving out some words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “if you believe in me” or “if you believe that I am the Messiah”

the glory of God

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This could mean: (1) God receives the glory. Alternate translation: “the glorification of God” (2) glory that comes from God. Alternate translation: “the glory from God”

the glory of God

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “God glorified” or “how glorious God is”

John 11:41

Jesus lifted up his eyes

Quote: Ἰησοῦς ἦρεν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς ἄνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, “lifted up his eyes” is an idiom that means to look upward. See how you translated a similar phrase in 4:35.

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 11:42

the crowd that is standing around

Quote: τὸν ὄχλον τὸν περιεστῶτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

John 11:44

his feet and hands having been bound with cloths, and his face having been bound with a cloth

Quote: δεδεμένος τοὺς πόδας καὶ τὰς χεῖρας κειρίαις, καὶ ἡ ὄψις αὐτοῦ σουδαρίῳ περιεδέδετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

his feet and hands having been bound with cloths, and his face having been bound with a cloth

Quote: δεδεμένος τοὺς πόδας καὶ τὰς χεῖρας κειρίαις, καὶ ἡ ὄψις αὐτοῦ σουδαρίῳ περιεδέδετο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Wrapping a dead body in strips of cloth was the burial custom in this culture. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. If your readers would not be familiar with such a custom, you could describe it more specifically, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “his feet and hands having been bound with burial cloths, and his face having been wrapped with a burial cloth” or “his feet, hands, and face having been wrapped in clothes for burial”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 11:45

General Information:

[11:45–54] explain what happened after Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.

the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 11:19.

John 11:47

the Sanhedrin

Quote: Συνέδριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Sanhedrin is the name of the highest ruling council of the Jews. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Sanhedrin, their ruling council”

the Sanhedrin

Quote: Συνέδριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Sanhedrin is the name of a governing body.

What will we do

Quote: τί ποιοῦμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied here that the council members are talking about Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “What are we going to do about Jesus”

this man

Quote: οὗτος ὁ ἄνθρωπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jewish leaders say this man as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated signs in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

John 11:48

all will believe in him

Quote: πάντες πιστεύσουσιν εἰς αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jewish leaders were afraid that the people would try to make Jesus their king and rebel against the Roman government. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this explicitly. Alternate translation: “everyone will believe in him, make him king, and revolt against the Roman government”

the Romans will come

Quote: ἐλεύσονται οἱ Ῥωμαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The Jewish leaders use the Romans to refer to the Roman army. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Roman soldiers will come”

and will take away both our place

Quote: καὶ ἀροῦσιν ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν τόπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, place could mean: (1) the Jewish temple, as in the UST. (2) the city of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “and will take away both our city, Jerusalem”

nation

Quote: τὸ ἔθνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, nation refers to all of the Jewish people. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jewish nation” or “the people of our nation”

John 11:49

one certain man among them, Caiaphas

Quote: εἷς & τις ἐξ αὐτῶν, Καϊάφας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

This phrase introduces Caiaphas as a new character in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. Alternate translation: “there was a man among them named Caiaphas”

You do not know anything

Quote: ὑμεῖς οὐκ οἴδατε οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, Caiaphas uses an exaggeration in order to insult his hearers. If this would confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows contempt. Alternate translation: “You do not understand what is happening” or “You speak as though you know nothing”

John 11:50

and the whole nation would not perish

Quote: καὶ μὴ ὅλον τὸ ἔθνος ἀπόληται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the Romans would not kill all the people of our nation”

and the whole nation would not perish

Quote: καὶ μὴ ὅλον τὸ ἔθνος ἀπόληται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, nation refers to all of the Jewish people. See how you translated this word in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “and all the people of our nation would not perish”

John 11:51-52

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In 11:51–52 John interrupts the story to explain that Caiaphas was prophesying even though he did not realize it at the time. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 11:51

from himself

Quote: ἀφ’ ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from himself could mean: (1) Caiaphas was speaking something he had thought of himself. Alternate translation: “on his own initiative” (2) Caiaphas was speaking from his own authority, which is how the phrase is used in 5:19. Alternate translation: “on his own authority”

but being high priest that year

Quote: ἀλλὰ ἀρχιερεὺς ὢν τοῦ ἐνιαυτοῦ ἐκείνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause indicates the reason why Caiaphas prophesied a true prophecy from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he was high priest that year”

to die for the nation

Quote: ἀποθνῄσκειν ὑπὲρ τοῦ ἔθνους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated nation in the previous verse.

John 11:52

the nation

Quote: τοῦ ἔθνους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated nation in the previous verse.

the children of God

Quote: τὰ τέκνα τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses the word children to express the relationship between God and those who trust Jesus for salvation. That relationship is like the relationship between children and their father. See the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes to chapter 1. Since this is an important metaphor in the Bible, you should keep it in your translation. However, you can use a simile if it might confuse your readers. Alternate translation: “those who are like God’s children”

so that also the children of God having been scattered would be gathered together into one

Quote: ἵνα καὶ τὰ τέκνα τοῦ Θεοῦ, τὰ διεσκορπισμένα συναγάγῃ εἰς ἕν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive voice, you could express the ideas of these two passive phrases in active forms or in another way that is natural in your language. You may need to change the sentence structure in order to do this. Alternate translation: “so that also Jesus would gather together into one the children of God whom God had scattered”

would be gathered together into one

Quote: συναγάγῃ εἰς ἕν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, John is leaving out a word that some languages would need in order for the sentence to be complete. The word people is implied by the context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “would be gathered into one people”

John 11:53

Therefore

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

John is telling his readers what the Jewish leaders did as a result of what Caiaphas said in 11:49–50. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Consequently”

they plotted

Quote: ἐβουλεύσαντο (1)

The word translated plotted could mean: (1) the Jewish leaders made plans together for how to kill Jesus. Alternate translation: “they schemed” (2) the Jewish leaders were determined to kill Jesus. Alternate translation: “they resolved”

John 11:54

walked openly among the Jews

Quote: παρρησίᾳ περιεπάτει ἐν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews does not refer to the Jewish people in general. It could refer to: (1) the Jewish leaders. Alternate translation: “among the Jewish authorities” (2) the people living in Judea. Alternate translation: “among the Judeans”

walked openly among the Jews

Quote: παρρησίᾳ περιεπάτει ἐν τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John uses walked openly to mean “walked around where everyone could see him.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “walked around where all the Jews could see him”

the country

Quote: τὴν χώραν (1)

Here, country could refer to: (1) an area of land. Alternate translation: “the area” or “the district” (2) the rural area outside cities where fewer people live. Alternate translation: “the countryside” or “the rural area”

There he stayed with the disciples

Quote: κἀκεῖ ἔμεινεν μετὰ τῶν μαθητῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus and his disciples stayed in Ephraim for a short period of time. If your language requires a length of time for stayed, you can use a general expression. Alternate translation: “There he stayed with the disciples for a time”

John 11:55

went up to Jerusalem

Quote: ἀνέβησαν & εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα (1)

The phrase went up is used here because Jerusalem is at a higher elevation than the surrounding areas. See how you translated went up in 7:10.

the country

Quote: τῆς χώρας (1)

John 11:56-57

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

General Information:

The event in 11:57 occurs before the event in this verse. If this order might confuse your readers, you can combine these verses and put the text of 11:57 before the text of this verse.

John 11:56

they were looking for Jesus

Quote: ἐζήτουν & τὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to the Jewish people who had traveled to Jerusalem before the Passover celebration, as described in the previous verse. If this use of they might be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish people who came to Jerusalem before the Passover celebration were looking for Jesus”

in the temple

Quote: ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The people were standing in the courtyard of the temple. See how you translated temple in 8:14.

What does it seem to you

Quote: τί δοκεῖ ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom used to ask for someone’s opinion. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “What is your opinion”

That he may certainly not come to the festival

Quote: ὅτι οὐ μὴ ἔλθῃ εἰς τὴν ἑορτήν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people are using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that they do not think Jesus will come to the Passover festival. The speakers here were wondering if Jesus would come to the festival since the Jewish leaders wanted to kill him. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “He will certainly not come to the festival!”

That he may certainly not come to the festival

Quote: ὅτι οὐ μὴ ἔλθῃ εἰς τὴν ἑορτήν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The people are leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “Does it seem to you that he will come to the festival?”

John 11:57

Now the chief priests

Quote: δὲ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

This event occurs before that of the previous verse. If this order might confuse your readers, you can combine these verses and put the text of this verse before the text of 11:56. Another option would be to clearly state that this verse refers to an earlier event. Alternate translation: “Earlier, the chief priests”

John 12

John 12 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Mary pours perfume on Jesus (12:1–11)
Jesus enters Jerusalem (12:12–19)
Some Greeks come to Jesus (12:20–26)
Jesus predicts his death (12:27–36)
John explains the Jews’ rejection of Jesus (12:37–43)
Jesus says that he is God (12:44–50)

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 sections in 12:38 and 40, which are quotations from the Old Testament.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Mary poured perfume on Jesus’ feet

The Jews would put oil on a person’s head to make that person feel welcome and comfortable. They would also put oil on a person’s body after the person had died but before they buried the body. However, they would never think to put oil on a person’s feet, because they thought that feet were dirty.

The donkey and the colt

Jesus rode into Jerusalem on an animal, which was a common practice for kings. The kings of Israel in the Old Testament rode on donkeys. So by riding on a donkey Jesus was showing that he was the king of Israel.

Glory

Scripture often speaks of God’s glory as a great, brilliant light. When people see this light, they are afraid. In 12:16 John says that the glory of Jesus is his resurrection and possibly his return to heaven as well.

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Light and darkness

In 12:35–36, 46, Jesus uses an extended metaphor in which light represents what is true and good, and darkness represents what is false and evil. He applies that light metaphor to himself in order to show that he is the embodiment of God’s truth and goodness. (See: righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)

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 one’s life for eternal life.

“Son of Man”

John 12:1

Then, six days before the Passover

Quote: οὖν & πρὸ ἓξ ἡμερῶν τοῦ Πάσχα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

John uses this phrase to mark the beginning of a new event. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Some time later, six days before the Passover”

had raised from the dead

Quote: ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, raised is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “had caused to live again”

John 12:2

the ones reclining to eat

Quote: τῶν ἀνακειμένων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

At a relaxed meal such as this one, it was the custom in this culture for host and guests to eat while lying down comfortably around a table that was close to the ground. You could translate this by using the expression in your language for the customary posture at a meal. Alternate translation: “those sitting down at the table to eat”

John 12:3

a litra of perfumed oil

Quote: λίτραν μύρου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A litra is about one third of a kilogram or three quarters of a pound. If your language does not measure liquids by weight, you may refer to its volume equivalent, which would be about half a liter. You might also refer to the container that could hold that amount. Alternate translation: “about half a liter of perfume” or “a one-half liter bottle of perfume”

of perfumed oil

Quote: μύρου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here, perfumed oil refers to a liquid made from the oils of pleasant-smelling plants and flowers. This oil was put on a person’s skin or hair in order for that person to smell pleasant. If your readers would not be familiar with this oil, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “of scented liquid”

of perfumed oil of very precious pure nard

Quote: μύρου νάρδου πιστικῆς πολυτίμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe perfumed oil that is made from very precious pure nard. If this use of the possessive of would be confusing in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “of perfumed oil made from very precious pure nard”

of very precious pure nard

Quote: νάρδου πιστικῆς πολυτίμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The perfumed oil was made from the oil of a nard plant, which is sometimes called “spikenard.” The oil is extracted from the roots of this plant. If your readers would not be familiar with nard plants, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “of very precious scented plants”

Now the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfumed oil

Quote: ἡ δὲ οἰκία ἐπληρώθη ἐκ τῆς ὀσμῆς τοῦ μύρου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Now the fragrance of the perfumed oil filled the house”

John 12:4

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 12:5

For what reason was this perfumed oil not sold for 300 denarii and given to the poor

Quote: διὰ τί τοῦτο τὸ μύρον οὐκ ἐπράθη τριακοσίων δηναρίων, καὶ ἐδόθη πτωχοῖς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Judas is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he thought the perfumed oil should not be poured on Jesus. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation, and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This perfume could have been sold for 300 denarii and given to the poor!”

for 300 denarii

Quote: τριακοσίων δηναρίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney

The word denarii is the plural form of “denarius.” It was a denomination of money in the Roman Empire that was equivalent to one days’ wages. Alternate translation: “for 300 days’ wages”

to the poor

Quote: πτωχοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Judas is using the adjective poor as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “to people who are poor”

John 12:6

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John interrupts the story to explain why Judas made the statement in the previous verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

he said this, not because it was a concern to him about the poor, but because he was a thief

Quote: εἶπεν & τοῦτο, οὐχ ὅτι περὶ τῶν πτωχῶν ἔμελεν αὐτῷ, ἀλλ’ ὅτι κλέπτης ἦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “he said this because he was a thief, not because it was a concern to him about the poor”

the poor

Quote: τῶν πτωχῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the poor in the previous verse.

but because he was a thief

Quote: ἀλλ’ ὅτι κλέπτης ἦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “but he said this because he was a thief”

the things being put in it

Quote: τὰ βαλλόμενα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “what people gave him to put in it”

John 12:7

Leave her alone so that she might have kept it for the day of my burial

Quote: ἄφες αὐτήν, ἵνα εἰς τὴν ἡμέραν τοῦ ἐνταφιασμοῦ μου, τηρήσῃ αὐτό (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This could mean: (1) Jesus is stating the purpose for which Mary did not sell the perfume. In this case he would be leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. This translation would require supplying those words from Judas’ objection in 12:5 and making a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Leave her alone. She did not sell this perfumed oil so that she might keep it for the day of my burial” (2) Jesus is giving the purpose for his command in the previous clause. In this case he would be implying that there was some leftover perfumed oil which Mary could later put on his dead body. Alternate translation: “Leave her alone so that she might keep it for the day of my burial”

Leave her alone so that she might have kept it for the day of my burial

Quote: ἄφες αὐτήν, ἵνα εἰς τὴν ἡμέραν τοῦ ἐνταφιασμοῦ μου, τηρήσῃ αὐτό (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

If Jesus is stating the reason why Mary had the perfume, then Jesus is implying that Mary’s actions can be understood as anticipating his death and burial. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. You may need to add a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Leave her alone. She did not sell this perfumed oil so that she might keep it to prepare my body for burial, as she had just done”

John 12:8

For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me

Quote: τοὺς πτωχοὺς γὰρ πάντοτε ἔχετε μεθ’ ἑαυτῶν, ἐμὲ δὲ οὐ πάντοτε ἔχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus’ statement in this verse implies that Mary acted properly by pouring the expensive perfume on him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “She acted appropriately, because you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me”

you always have the poor with you

Quote: τοὺς πτωχοὺς & πάντοτε ἔχετε μεθ’ ἑαυτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus implies that there will always be opportunities to help the poor. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you always have the poor with you that you can help”

the poor

Quote: τοὺς πτωχοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the poor in the 12:6.

you … have … with you, … you do … have

Quote: ἔχετε μεθ’ ἑαυτῶν & ἔχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In this verse every occurrence of you is plural and refers to the disciples and those who were with Jesus at the dinner.

but you do not always have me

Quote: ἐμὲ δὲ οὐ πάντοτε ἔχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus implies that he will not always be with them, because he will die. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but I will not always be here with you”

John 12:9

Then

Quote: οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Then is used here to mark a break in the main storyline. This break continues until the end of 12:11. In this verse John gives background information about a new group of people that has come to Bethany. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

a large crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος πολὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to people from Judea. See the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “the Judeans”

he is

Quote: ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

he had raised from the dead

Quote: ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 12:1.

John 12:10

plotted

Quote: ἐβουλεύσαντο (1)

See how you translated plotted in 11:53.

they might also put Lazarus to death

Quote: καὶ τὸν Λάζαρον ἀποκτείνωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, also implies that the chief priests want to kill Lazarus in addition to Jesus, whom they have already plotted to kill in 11:53. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “they might put Lazarus to death in addition to Jesus”

John 12:11

because of him

Quote: δι’ αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase implies that the fact that Lazarus was alive after he had been dead caused many Jews to believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because Lazarus was alive after having died”

of the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 12:9.

went away

Quote: ὑπῆγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, John uses went away to refer to the fact that many of the Jews stopped believing the teachings of the Jewish religious authorities and starting trusting Jesus instead. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “stopped listening to them”

John 12:12

General Information:

Jesus enters Jerusalem and the people honor him as a king of Israel.

On the next day

Quote: τῇ ἐπαύριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

John uses this phrase to mark the beginning of a new event. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “On the day after that happened,”

the great crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος πολὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

the festival

Quote: τὴν ἑορτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, festival refers to the Jewish Passover festival. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Passover festival”

John 12:13

the branches of the palm trees

Quote: τὰ βαΐα τῶν φοινίκων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In that culture a palm tree branch was a symbol that represented the nation of Israel. Here, the people were waving these branches to express their belief that Jesus was the Messiah who would free Israel from Roman rule. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this use of the branches of the palm trees by stating the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the branches of the palm trees, which represented their hope to be freed from Roman rule”

cried out

Quote: ἐκραύγαζον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase introduces a quotation from the Old Testament book of Psalms (Psalm 118:25–26) which occurs next in the verse. The Jews recite Psalm 118 at the Passover festival to express their hope that the Messiah would come.

Hosanna! Blessed {is} the one coming in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel

Quote: ὡσαννά! εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου, καὶ ὁ Βασιλεὺς τοῦ Ἰσραήλ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 118:25–26. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Hosanna

Quote: ὡσαννά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Hosanna is the Greek pronunciation of an expression in the Hebrew language that means “Please save!” It is a quotation from part of Psalm 118:25. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Save us now!”

in the name of the Lord

Quote: ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name refers to a person’s power and authority. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with the Lord’s authority” or “as God’s representative”

John 12:14

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In 12:14–16 John interrupts the story to give background information about how Jesus fulfilled an Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah riding on a donkey. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

Jesus, having found a young donkey, sat on it

Quote: εὑρὼν & ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὀνάριον, ἐκάθισεν ἐπ’ αὐτό (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies that Jesus will ride the donkey into Jerusalem. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus, having found a young donkey, sat on it, riding it into the city”

just as it is written

Quote: καθώς ἐστιν γεγραμμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase introduces a combination of parts of various quotations from the Old Testament which occur in the next verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that John is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “just as the prophets wrote in the Old Testament” or “as it had been written in the scriptures”

just as it is written

Quote: καθώς ἐστιν γεγραμμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “as prophets wrote in the Scripture”

John 12:15

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is a combination of parts of various quotations from the Old Testament. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

daughter of Zion

Quote: θυγάτηρ Σιών (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, daughter of Zion is used to refer to the people who lived in Jerusalem. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you people of Jerusalem”

a colt of a donkey

Quote: πῶλον ὄνου (1)

A colt is a young male donkey.

John 12:16

these things … these things … these things

Quote: ταῦτα (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, these things refers to the words of the Old Testament prophecies that were quoted in the previous verse, which were fulfilled in the events described in 12:13–14. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these words from the scriptures”

when Jesus was glorified

Quote: ὅτε ἐδοξάσθη Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

was glorified

Quote: ἐδοξάσθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, glorified could refer to: (1) when Jesus became alive again after he was killed. Alternate translation: “when Jesus came back to life” (2) when Jesus returned to heaven. Alternate translation: “when Jesus went back to heaven” (3) both Jesus’ resurrection and return to heaven. Alternate translation: “when Jesus came back to life and went back to heaven”

these things had been written about him

Quote: ταῦτα ἦν ἐπ’ αὐτῷ γεγραμμένα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 12:17

the crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

testified the crowd being with him

Quote: ἐμαρτύρει & ὁ ὄχλος ὁ ὢν μετ’ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the crowd refers to the group of Jews who had seen Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead at Bethany in Chapter 11. This is a different crowd than the crowd mentioned in the next verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “one crowd testified that they had been with him”

raised him up from the dead

Quote: ἤγειρεν αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 12:1.

John 12:18

the crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the crowd refers to a group of people who were coming out of Jerusalem to see Jesus as he came. This is a different crowd than the crowd mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a second crowd”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: τοῦτο & τὸ σημεῖον (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, an event that was mentioned in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “this sign, bringing a dead man back to life”

sign

Quote: τὸ σημεῖον (1)

See how you translated sign in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracle”

John 12:19

You see that you are accomplishing nothing

Quote: θεωρεῖτε ὅτι οὐκ ὠφελεῖτε οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Pharisees imply here that it might be impossible to stop Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “It seems like we can do nothing to stop him”

Behold, the world has gone after him

Quote: ἴδε, ὁ κόσμος ὀπίσω αὐτοῦ ἀπῆλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The Pharisees use the world as an exaggeration to express their shock that so many people have come out to follow Jesus. If this would confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows shock. Alternate translation: “Behold, it seems like everyone has gone after him”

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the people who lived in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “every person in the world”

has gone after him

Quote: ὀπίσω αὐτοῦ ἀπῆλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, gone after means to follow Jesus and become his disciple. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “has become his disciple”

John 12:20

Now certain Greeks

Quote: δὲ Ἕλληνές τινες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

This phrase marks the introduction of certain Greeks as new characters in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character.

Greeks

Quote: Ἕλληνές (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the term Greeks refers to non-Jewish people who lived in the Roman Empire. It does not refer only to people from the country of Greece or to people who speak the Greek language. (See: Greek, Grecian, Hellenist) If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Gentiles” or “non-Jews”

the ones going up

Quote: τῶν ἀναβαινόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase going up is used specifically for the act of going to Jerusalem, which is a city at a higher elevation than the area around it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those going up to Jerusalem”

so that they might worship at the festival

Quote: ἵνα προσκυνήσωσιν ἐν τῇ ἑορτῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out a word that some languages would need in order a clause to be complete. If you language requires an object for the verb worship, you can supply it from the context. Alternate translation: “to worship God at the festival”

the festival

Quote: τῇ ἑορτῇ (1)

This refers to the Jewish Passover festival. See how you translated this word in 12:12.

John 12:21

Bethsaida

Quote: Βηθσαϊδὰ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated Bethsaida in 1:44.

asked him, saying

Quote: ἠρώτων αὐτὸν λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “asked him by saying”

Sir

Quote: κύριε (1)

Speaking to Philip, the Greeks called him Sir in order to show respect or politeness. (See: lord, Lord, master, sir)

we want to see Jesus

Quote: θέλομεν τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἰδεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

The Greeks are using a statement to make a request. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for a request. Alternate translation: “may we see Jesus?” or “could you take us to see Jesus?”

John 12:22

speaks to Andrew

Quote: λέγει τῷ Ἀνδρέᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Philip tells Andrew about the Greeks’ request to see Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “relates to Andrew what the Greeks had said”

goes and speaks … go and speak

Quote: ἔρχεται & καὶ λέγει & ἔρχεται & καὶ λέγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

speak to Jesus

Quote: λέγουσιν τῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Philip and Andrew tell Jesus about the Greeks’ request to see him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “speak to Jesus about what the Greeks had said”

John 12:23

answers them, saying

Quote: ἀποκρίνεται αὐτοῖς λέγων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “answered them by saying”

The hour has come

Quote: ἐλήλυθεν ἡ ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of this in the General Notes to Chapter 4 and see how you translated this phrase in 4:21.

so that the Son of Man might be glorified

Quote: ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus refers to his upcoming death, resurrection, and return to heaven as the time when he would be glorified. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that the Son of Man might be glorified through his death, resurrection, and ascension”

the Son of Man

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

the Son of Man

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Son of Man in 1:51.

so that the Son of Man might be glorified

Quote: ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who will do the action, Jesus implies that God will do it. Alternate translation: “so that God might glorify the Son of Man”

John 12:24

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

unless a grain of wheat, having fallen into the earth, dies, it remains by itself; but if it would die, it bears much fruit

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ ὁ κόκκος τοῦ σίτου πεσὼν εἰς τὴν γῆν ἀποθάνῃ, αὐτὸς μόνος μένει; ἐὰν δὲ ἀποθάνῃ, πολὺν καρπὸν φέρει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses a grain of wheat to refer to himself. He speaks of the death of that grain to refer to his death, burial, and resurrection. He also uses fruit to refer to those people who will trust in him for salvation after his resurrection. Just as a seed is planted and grows 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. If this would confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am like a grain of wheat. Unless that grain of wheat, having fallen into the earth, dies, it remains by itself; but if it would die, it bears much fruit”

John 12:25

The one loving his life loses it

Quote: ὁ φιλῶν τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ, ἀπολλύει αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the one loving his life refers to someone who thinks that his own physical life is more important than anything else. If this clause would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Whoever values his own life more than anything else will still die”

the one hating his life in this world will keep it for eternal life

Quote: ὁ μισῶν τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ τούτῳ, εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον φυλάξει αὐτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the one hating his life refers to someone who values his own physical life less than he values being a disciple of Jesus. The word “hating” here does not refer to having negative feelings about one’s life or despising oneself. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “whoever values being my disciple more than he values his own life will keep it for eternal life”

for eternal life

Quote: εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The phrase eternal life states the result of what precedes it. The one hating his life will keep that life, which will result in eternal life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and also gain eternal life”

John 12:26

let him follow me

Quote: ἐμοὶ ἀκολουθείτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In this context, to follow someone means to become that person’s disciple. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1:43. Alternate translation: “let him follow me as my disciple”

where I am, there will my servant also be

Quote: ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ, ἐκεῖ καὶ ὁ διάκονος ὁ ἐμὸς ἔσται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus implies that those who serve him will be with him in heaven. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “when I am in heaven, my servant will also be there with me”

the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 12:27

what might I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour

Quote: τί εἴπω, Πάτερ, σῶσόν με ἐκ τῆς ὥρας ταύτης? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Here Jesus uses a rhetorical question to emphasize what he will not do. Although Jesus desires to avoid crucifixion, he chooses to be obedient to God and let himself be killed. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I will not say, ‘Father, save me from this hour!’”

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

this hour’? … this hour

Quote: τῆς ὥρας ταύτης & τὴν ὥραν ταύτην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this verse this hour refers to the time when Jesus would suffer and die on the cross. See how you translated hour in 12:23.

because of this

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this reason refers to Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “in order to suffer and die,” or

John 12:28

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

glorify your name.” … I have both glorified {it}, … I will glorify {it

Quote: δόξασόν σου τὸ ὄνομα & καὶ ἐδόξασα & δοξάσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this verse, name and it refer to God himself. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “glorify yourself … I have both glorified myself … I will glorify myself”

a voice came from heaven

Quote: ἦλθεν & φωνὴ ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John refers to the sound of God’s voice as if it were an object that came from heaven. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God spoke from heaven”

John 12:29

the crowd

Quote: ὁ & ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

John 12:30

This voice did not come

Quote: οὐ & ἡ φωνὴ αὕτη γέγονεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus refers to the sound of God’s voice as if it were an object that came down from heaven (See: 12:28). If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God did not speak this”

John 12:31

Now is the judgment of this world

Quote: νῦν κρίσις ἐστὶν τοῦ κόσμου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “Now God will judge this world”

of this world

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, this world is used to refer to all the people in the world. See how you translated world in 1:29.

Now will the ruler of this world be thrown out

Quote: νῦν ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου ἐκβληθήσεται ἔξω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, ruler of this world refers to Satan. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Now Satan will be thrown out”

Now will the ruler of this world be thrown out

Quote: νῦν ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου ἐκβληθήσεται ἔξω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 12:32

I am lifted up from the earth

Quote: ὑψωθῶ ἐκ τῆς γῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people lift me up from the earth”

if I am lifted up from the earth

Quote: ἐὰν ὑψωθῶ ἐκ τῆς γῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, lifted up from the earth could refer to: (1) Jesus’ crucifixion only, in which case earth would refer to the ground. Alternate translation: “if I am lifted up from the ground on a cross” (2) Jesus’ crucifixion and return to heaven, in which case earth refers to both the ground and the planet. See the discussion about double meaning in the Part 3 of the Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “if I am lifted up from the earth on a cross and then up to heaven”

will draw everyone to myself

Quote: πάντας ἑλκύσω πρὸς ἐμαυτόν (1)

See how you translated “draws” in 6:44. Alternate translation: “will pull everyone to myself”

will draw everyone to myself

Quote: πάντας ἑλκύσω πρὸς ἐμαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, everyone is an exaggeration that Jesus uses to refer to all people groups, both Jews and non-Jews. The context of non-Jewish people coming to see Jesus in 12:20 suggests this meaning. This clause does not mean that every individual person will believe in Jesus. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “will draw people from both Jews and non-Jews” or “will draw people, all people, Jews and non-Jews alike”

John 12:33

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John explains the meaning of what Jesus said in the previous verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 12:34

the crowd

Quote: ὁ ὄχλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated crowd in 5:13.

the law

Quote: τοῦ νόμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The crowd is using the name of the first part of the Hebrew Scriptures, the law, to represent the entire Hebrew Scriptures in general. See how you translated this use of the law in 10:34. Alternate translation: “the Scriptures”

it is necessary for the Son of Man to be lifted up

Quote: δεῖ ὑψωθῆναι τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase lifted up means “crucified.” If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “it is necessary for the Son of Man to be crucified”

the Son of Man … Son of Man

Quote: τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου & ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Son of Man in 1:51.

Who is this Son of Man

Quote: τίς ἐστιν οὗτος ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) they are asking to know the identity of the Son of Man. Alternate translation: “What is the identity of this Son of Man?” (2) they are asking to know what Jesus means when he says, ‘Son of Man.’ Alternate translation: “What kind of Son of Man are you talking about?”

John 12:35

The light will be with you … while you have the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς ἐν ὑμῖν ἐστιν & ὡς τὸ φῶς ἔχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses light to refer to refer to himself. He is “the Light of the World” who reveals God’s truth and goodness the way a light reveals a person’s surroundings. See how you translated light in 8:12. Alternate translation: “The one who reveals God’s truth and goodness will be with you … while you have him”

The light will be with you … while you have the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς ἐν ὑμῖν ἐστιν & ὡς τὸ φῶς ἔχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these phrases in the first person. Alternate translation: “I, the light, will be with you … while you have me”

Walk

Quote: περιπατεῖτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses Walk to refer to how a person lives and behaves. He is telling the crowd to live and act according to the example that he has shown them while he has been with them. If this would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Behave righteously”

so that darkness might not overtake you

Quote: ἵνα μὴ σκοτία ὑμᾶς καταλάβῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Jesus uses darkness as though it were a person who could overtake someone. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning plainly or with a simile. Alternate translation: “so that you do not act sinfully, as if the darkness of sin had taken control of you”

darkness

Quote: σκοτία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses darkness to refer to what is false and evil. See how you translated this term in 1:5.

the one walking in the darkness

Quote: ὁ περιπατῶν ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses this phrase to refer to a person who lives a sinful life and behaves sinfully. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “the one who lives sinfully” or “the one who does not behave righteously”

John 12:36

the light, … in the light

Quote: τὸ φῶς & εἰς τὸ φῶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Both occurrences of the light here refer to Jesus. See how you translated light in the previous verse.

sons of light

Quote: υἱοὶ φωτὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, sons of light is an idiom that refers to people who live according to God’s truth and goodness, which Jesus has revealed to them. Here, sons does not refer specifically to male children and light does not refer to Jesus. If this expression would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “people who share in God’s truth and goodness”

John 12:37-43

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In 12:37–43 John interrupts the main storyline in order to explain how the Jewish people had fulfilled prophecies that had been spoken by the prophet Isaiah. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information for these verses.

John 12:37

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated signs in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

John 12:38

so that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled

Quote: ἵνα ὁ λόγος Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in order to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet”

the word of Isaiah the prophet

Quote: ὁ λόγος Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the specific prophecy written down by Isaiah that is quoted in the second half of this verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “this prophecy of Isaiah the prophet”

in which he said

Quote: ὃν εἶπεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase introduces a quotation that occurs in the rest of this verse. The quotation is from the Old Testament book written by Isaiah the prophet (Isaiah 53:1). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that John is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “which Isaiah said in the Old Testament”

Lord, who has believed our report, and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed

Quote: Κύριε, τίς ἐπίστευσεν τῇ ἀκοῇ ἡμῶν? καὶ ὁ βραχίων Κυρίου τίνι ἀπεκαλύφθη? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Isaiah 53:1. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Lord, who has believed our report, and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed

Quote: Κύριε, τίς ἐπίστευσεν τῇ ἀκοῇ ἡμῶν? καὶ ὁ βραχίων Κυρίου τίνι ἀπεκαλύφθη? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This quotation from Isaiah 53:1 contains two rhetorical questions to express the prophet’s dismay that the people do not believe his report. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as two statements or exclamations and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Lord, no one has believed our message! It seems like the arm of the Lord has been revealed to no one!”

to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed

Quote: ὁ βραχίων Κυρίου τίνι ἀπεκαλύφθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to whom has the Lord revealed his arm”

the arm of the Lord

Quote: ὁ βραχίων Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, John quotes Isaiah using arm to refer to the Lord’s power. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Lord’s power”

John 12:39

this

Quote: τοῦτο (1)

Here, this refers to the reason for the Jews’ unbelief. That reason is given in the quotation from Isaiah provided in the next verse. It does not refer back to the quotation from Isaiah in the previous verse.

for Isaiah had again said

Quote: ὅτι πάλιν εἶπεν Ἠσαΐας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This phrase introduces a quotation from the Old Testament book written by Isaiah the prophet (Isaiah 6:10) which occurs in the next verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that John is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “for Isaiah had again said in the Old Testament” or “for according to Isaiah”

John 12:40

He has blinded their eyes, and he has hardened their heart; so that they might not see with their eyes and might understand with their heart, and might turn, and I will heal them

Quote: τετύφλωκεν αὐτῶν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς καὶ ἐπώρωσεν αὐτῶν τὴν καρδίαν, ἵνα μὴ ἴδωσιν τοῖς ὀφθαλμοῖς καὶ νοήσωσιν τῇ καρδίᾳ, καὶ στραφῶσιν καὶ ἰάσομαι αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is a quotation from Isaiah 6:10. It is a prophecy that God told Isaiah to speak against the Jewish people because they kept rejecting God. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

He has blinded their eyes

Quote: τετύφλωκεν αὐτῶν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here John quotes Isaiah using blinded their eyes to refer to causing people to not be able to understanding what they see. Although the Jews saw Jesus’ many miracles, most of them did not understand that those miracles proved that Jesus was sent by God. If this use of blinded and eyes would confuse your readers, you could state the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “He has caused them to not be able to understand” or “He has made them like those who are blind”

he has hardened their heart

Quote: ἐπώρωσεν αὐτῶν τὴν καρδίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John quotes Isaiah using the phrase hardened their heart to refer to causing the Jewish people to become stubborn. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he has made them stubborn”

their heart; … with their heart

Quote: αὐτῶν τὴν καρδίαν & τῇ καρδίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Both occurrences of the singular noun heart in this verse refer to all of the hearts of the people as a group. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “their hearts … with their hearts”

they might not see with their eyes

Quote: μὴ ἴδωσιν τοῖς ὀφθαλμοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John quotes Isaiah using the phrase see with their eyes here to refer to people understanding something that they see. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they might not see and perceive”

might understand with their heart

Quote: νοήσωσιν τῇ καρδίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John quotes Isaiah using the phrase understand with their heart to refer to the Jewish people truly understanding something. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “might fully understand” or “might understand deep within themselves”

and might turn

Quote: καὶ στραφῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John quotes Isaiah using turn to mean “repent,” which means to stop sinning and start obeying the Lord. If this might confuse your readers, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and they would repent” or “and they would stop sinning and obey God”

and I will heal them

Quote: καὶ ἰάσομαι αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John quotes Isaiah using heal to refer to forgiving people of their sins. It does not refer to physical healing. If this might confuse your readers, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and I would forgive them”

John 12:41

his glory

Quote: τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how glorious he is”

John 12:42

the rulers

Quote: τῶν ἀρχόντων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

so that they would not be put out of the synagogue

Quote: ἵνα μὴ ἀποσυνάγωγοι γένωνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

they would not be put out of the synagogue

Quote: μὴ ἀποσυνάγωγοι γένωνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John uses put out of the synagogue to refer to no longer being allowed to go into the synagogue and no longer belonging to the group of people who attended services at the synagogue. When people were put out of the synagogue, they were shunned by their local community. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they would not be allowed to enter the synagogue” or “they would no longer belong to the synagogue community”

John 12:43

they loved the glory of men more than the glory of God

Quote: ἠγάπησαν & τὴν δόξαν τῶν ἀνθρώπων μᾶλλον ἤπερ τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, loved refers to preferring one thing over something else. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “they preferred the glory of men more than the glory of God”

the glory of men

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe glory that is given by men. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the glory that is given by men”

the glory of men

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τῶν ἀνθρώπων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term men is masculine, John is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “the glory of people”

the glory of God

Quote: τὴν δόξαν τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe glory that is given by God. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the glory that is given by God”

John 12:44

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Now here introduces a new event that happened at some time after the events in 12:20–36. The story does not say how long after the previous events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “At another time”

Jesus cried out and said

Quote: Ἰησοῦς & ἔκραξεν καὶ εἶπεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John uses cried out to imply that Jesus was speaking loudly to a crowd of people. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jesus cried out and said to a crowd”

the one having sent me

Quote: τὸν πέμψαντά με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

John 12:45

the one having sent me

Quote: τὸν πέμψαντά με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

John 12:46

I have come {as} a light to the world

Quote: ἐγὼ φῶς εἰς τὸν κόσμον ἐλήλυθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses light to refer to himself. See how you translated light in 8:12. Alternate translation: “I have come as the one who reveals God’s truth and goodness to the world”

to the world

Quote: εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the people who live in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the people living in the world”

might not remain in the darkness

Quote: ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ μὴ μείνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses darkness to refer to what is false and evil. See how you translated darkness in 12:35 and also see the discussion of light and darkness in the General Notes for Chapter 1. Alternate translation: “might not remain in sin and evil”

John 12:47

my words

Quote: μου & τῶν ῥημάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, words refers to the message or teachings of Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my message” or “what I say”

but does not keep {them

Quote: καὶ μὴ φυλάξῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, keep means to obey. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “but does not obey them”

I do not judge him; … so that I might judge the world

Quote: ἐγὼ οὐ κρίνω αὐτόν & ἵνα κρίνω τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, the word judge implies condemnation. Jesus did not come to condemn people to be eternally punished in hell. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I do not condemn him … so that I might condemn the world”

the world, … the world

Quote: τὸν κόσμον (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in the previous verse.

John 12:48

my words

Quote: τὰ ῥήματά μου (1)

See how you translated my words in the previous verse.

one judging … will judge

Quote: τὸν κρίνοντα & κρινεῖ (1)

See how you translated this judge in the previous verse.

one judging him. The word which I have spoken, this will judge him

Quote: τὸν κρίνοντα αὐτόν & ὁ λόγος ὃν ἐλάλησα, ἐκεῖνος κρινεῖ αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Jesus refers to his word as though it were a person who could judge someone. He means that his teachings will be used as the criterion by which God will judge those who have rejected Jesus. If this might be confusing to your readers, you could express this meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “one by which he will be judged. The word which I have spoken, this will be the standard by which you will be judged”

on the last day

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 6:39.

John 12:49

from myself

Quote: ἐξ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from is used to indicate the source of what Jesus spoke. See how you translated this phrase in 7:17. Alternate translation: “by my own authority”

the Father

Quote: ὁ & Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

what I should say and what I should speak

Quote: τί εἴπω, καὶ τί λαλήσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Here, what I should speak could refer to: (1) the manner in which Jesus should speak. Alternate translation: “what I should say and the manner in which I should say it” (2) the same meaning as what I should say, in which case the two phrases would be a doublet used for emphasis and could be combined into one clause. Alternate translation: “exactly what I should say”

John 12:50

I know that his command

Quote: οἶδα, ὅτι ἡ ἐντολὴ αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, his command refers to the teachings that God commanded Jesus to speak, as mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I know that what he commanded me to speak”

his command is eternal life

Quote: ἡ ἐντολὴ αὐτοῦ ζωὴ αἰώνιός ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase means that what God commanded Jesus to say gives eternal life to those who believe it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “his command gives eternal life”

John 13

John 13 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

The Passover meal begins: Jesus washes his disciples’ feet (13:1–20)
Jesus predicts that Judas will betray him (13:21–30)
Jesus commands his disciples to love each other (13:31–35)
Jesus predicts that Peter will deny him (13:36–38)

The events of this chapter are commonly referred to as the “Last Supper.” In many ways this Passover meal parallels the sacrifice of Jesus as the lamb of God. (See: Lord’s Supper and 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 people’s feet. The disciples did not want Jesus to wash their feet, because they considered him to be their master and themselves to be his servants, and it was a servant’s job to wash the feet of master and guests. However, Jesus wanted to show them that his disciples need to humbly serve and love each other. (See: Symbolic Action)

I AM

John records Jesus saying these words as an independent phrase one time in this chapter (13:19). They stand alone as a complete sentence, and they literally translate the Hebrew expression “I AM,” by which Yahweh identified himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14. For these reasons many people believe that when Jesus said these words he was claiming to be Yahweh. (See: Yahweh).

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“The disciple whom Jesus loved”

The Apostle John first referred to himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” in this chapter (13:23). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. If this is the case, then you will need to add a first person pronoun to these references and the other references to John in (13:23–25). If your language can retain the third person references, then you may still want to make these references to John explicit by adding “John” next to them. See the discussion of this in Part 1 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: John (the apostle) and First, Second or Third Person)

“Son of Man”

Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” in this chapter (13:31). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. See the discussion of this concept in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: Son of Man, son of man and First, Second or Third Person)

John 13:1-4

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

It is not yet Passover, and Jesus is with his disciples for the evening meal. 13:1–4 explain the setting of the story and give background information about Jesus and Judas. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 13:1

his hour had come

Quote: ἦλθεν αὐτοῦ ἡ ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the word hour is used to refer to the time God had planned for Jesus to be arrested and killed. See how you translated this word in 7:30. Alternate translation: “the right time to arrest him had come”

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

his own in the world

Quote: τοὺς ἰδίους τοὺς ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to Jesus’ disciples. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his own disciples who were with him in the world”

he loved them to the end

Quote: εἰς τέλος ἠγάπησεν αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, to the end could mean: (1) to the end of Jesus’ life. If you use this meaning, make sure that you do not translate this phrase in a way that could imply that Jesus did not continue to love them after his death. Alternate translation: “he loved them to the time of his death” (2) utterly or completely. Alternate translation: “he loved them to the uttermost”

John 13:2

the devil having already put into the heart of Judas, {son} of Simon Iscariot, so that he might betray him

Quote: τοῦ διαβόλου ἤδη βεβληκότος εἰς τὴν καρδίαν, ἵνα παραδοῖ αὐτὸν Ἰούδας, Σίμωνος Ἰσκαριώτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, put into the heart is an idiom that means to cause someone to think about something. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the devil had already caused Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to think about betraying Jesus”

of Judas, {son} of Simon Iscariot

Quote: Ἰούδας, Σίμωνος Ἰσκαριώτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated this phrase in 6:71.

John 13:3

knowing

Quote: εἰδὼς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, the word knowing could mean: (1) the rest of this verse is the reason why Jesus did the result that John describes in the next verse. Alternate translation: “because he knew” (2) this verse provides a contrast between who Jesus is and what he would do in the next verse. Alternate translation: “although he knew”

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

into his hands

Quote: εἰς τὰς χεῖρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, John uses hands to refer to power and authority. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “into his power”

John 13:4

he gets up … takes off

Quote: ἐγείρεται & τίθησιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

he gets up from supper

Quote: ἐγείρεται ἐκ τοῦ δείπνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

During Jesus’ time, people would often eat meals while lying on their sides on low couches next to the table. Here, gets up means that Jesus went from lying on his side on a couch next to the table where he was eating supper to standing up. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he gets up from the table where he was eating supper”

takes off his outer clothing

Quote: τίθησιν τὰ ἱμάτια (1)

Here, outer clothing refers to clothing that is worn over undergarments. It does not refer to a coat that would be worn over a person’s regular clothing. Use the term in your language for the regular clothing that people wear on top of their underwear.

having taken a towel

Quote: λαβὼν λέντιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, towel refers to piece of cloth that is long enough to wrap around Jesus’ waist and still has enough leftover cloth to wipe the disciples’ feet. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “having taken a long towel”

John 13:5

he pours

Quote: βάλλει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

that was tied around himself

Quote: ᾧ ἦν διεζωσμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that he had tied around himself”

John 13:6

he comes … He says

Quote: ἔρχεται & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Lord, do you wash my feet

Quote: Κύριε, σύ μου νίπτεις τοὺς πόδας? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Peter is using a rhetorical question here to show that he does not want Jesus to wash his feet. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Lord, it is not right for you to wash my feet!”

John 13:7

after these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “after the events that are about to take place”

John 13:8

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

If I do not wash you, you have no share with me

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ νίψω σε, οὐκ ἔχεις μέρος μετ’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

Jesus uses two negative statements to convince Peter to allow him to wash his feet. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “I must wash you so that you can have a share with me”

If I do not wash you, you have no share with me

Quote: ἐὰν μὴ νίψω σε, οὐκ ἔχεις μέρος μετ’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus’ use of no share with me could imply: (1) that Peter must let him wash his feet if he wants to receive his share of the inheritance that God promised to give his people. Alternate translation: “If I do not wash you, you will not share in God’s promised inheritance with me” (2) that Peter must let him wash his feet if he wants to continue being his disciple. Alternate translation: “If I do not wash you, you will no longer be my disciple”

John 13:9

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

not only my feet

Quote: μὴ τοὺς πόδας μου μόνον, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Peter is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “wash not only my feet”

John 13:10

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

The one that has been washed has no need, except to wash his feet

Quote: ὁ λελουμένος οὐκ ἔχει χρείαν, εἰ μὴ τοὺς πόδας νίψασθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Jesus uses washed to refer to God forgiving a person for their sins. He also uses feet to refer to daily sins, because people in Jesus’ culture had to wash their feet frequently due to wearing sandals while walking on dusty, dirty roads. If this might confuse your readers, you could state their meanings clearly or use similes. Alternate translation: “The one who has received God’s forgiveness for their sins, only needs to be forgiven for his daily sins”

The one that has been washed

Quote: ὁ λελουμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The one who someone has washed”

but he is completely clean, and you are clean

Quote: ἀλλ’ ἔστιν καθαρὸς ὅλος; καὶ ὑμεῖς καθαροί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Jesus uses clean to refer to someone who has been forgiven for their sins. If this might be confusing in your language, you could state its meaning clearly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “but he has been completely forgiven for his sins, and you have been forgiven”

you

Quote: ὑμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Here Jesus uses the word you to refer to all of his disciples, not only Peter. Use a plural form of you if your language distinguishes between singular and plural you.

John 13:11

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Here John interrupts the story to give the reason why Jesus made his comment in the end of the previous verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

Not all are clean

Quote: οὐχὶ πάντες καθαροί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated clean in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Not all of you have received God’s forgiveness”

John 13:12

Do you understand what I have done for you

Quote: γινώσκετε τί πεποίηκα ὑμῖν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a question to emphasize the importance of what he is teaching his disciples. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You need to understand what I have done for you!”

John 13:13

You call me ‘The Teacher’ and ‘The Lord

Quote: ὑμεῖς φωνεῖτέ με ὁ Διδάσκαλος καὶ, ὁ Κύριος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus implies that his disciples have great respect for him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “You show me great respect when you call me ‘teacher’ and ‘Lord.’”

John 13:14

If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, have washed your feet

Quote: εἰ οὖν ἐγὼ ἔνιψα ὑμῶν τοὺς πόδας, ὁ Κύριος καὶ ὁ Διδάσκαλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Jesus is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what Jesus is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, have washed your feet, and I have”

John 13:15

you also would do just as I did to you

Quote: καθὼς ἐγὼ ἐποίησα ὑμῖν, καὶ ὑμεῖς ποιῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Jesus is using a statement to give an instruction. Jesus is telling his disciples to follow his example and serve one another. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for instruction. Alternate translation: “you also must do just as I did to you”

John 13:16

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

a slave is not greater than his master, nor {is} a messenger greater than the one having sent him

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δοῦλος μείζων τοῦ κυρίου αὐτοῦ, οὐδὲ ἀπόστολος μείζων τοῦ πέμψαντος αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, greater means to be more important or deserving of more respect than another person. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “a slave is not respected more than his master, nor is a messenger respected more than the one who sent him”

a slave is not greater than his master, nor {is} a messenger greater than the one having sent him

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δοῦλος μείζων τοῦ κυρίου αὐτοῦ, οὐδὲ ἀπόστολος μείζων τοῦ πέμψαντος αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that Jesus’ disciples are not more important than him, so they should humbly serve each other. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “none of you are greater than me”

a slave is not greater than his master

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δοῦλος μείζων τοῦ κυρίου αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the words slave and master to refer to his disciples and himself, respectively. He is telling his disciples that they should humbly serve each other because they are not more important than him, and he has humbly served them. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Jesus’ meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “you are not greater than me”

nor {is} a messenger greater than the one having sent him

Quote: οὐδὲ ἀπόστολος μείζων τοῦ πέμψαντος αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses messenger and the one who sent him to refer to his disciples and himself, respectively. He is telling his disciples that they should humbly serve each other because they are not more important than him, and he has humbly served them. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Jesus’ meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “and you are not greater than me”

John 13:17

If you know these things

Quote: εἰ ταῦτα οἴδατε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

you are blessed

Quote: μακάριοί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 13:18

I am not speaking about all of you

Quote: οὐ περὶ πάντων ὑμῶν λέγω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus is referring back to what he just said in the previous verse. He means that not all of those to whom he is speaking will be blessed for serving each other, because one of them, Judas Iscariot, will betray him. If this clause would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I am not speaking this about all of you” or “I am not saying that God will bless all of you”

I know whom I have chosen

Quote: ἐγὼ οἶδα τίνας ἐξελεξάμην (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus states that he knew the character of every person he chose to be his disciple. Therefore, he knew Judas would betray him when he chose him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I know exactly the kind of men I have chosen to be my disciples”

but so that the scripture might be fulfilled

Quote: ἀλλ’ ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

so that the scripture might be fulfilled

Quote: ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “this is in order to fulfill the scripture”

so that the scripture might be fulfilled

Quote: ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Jesus uses that the scripture might be fulfilled to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 41:9). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Jesus is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “so that what is written in the Psalms might be fulfilled”

The one eating bread with me lifted up his heel against me

Quote: ὁ τρώγων μετ’ ἐμοῦ τὸν ἄρτον, ἐπῆρεν ἐπ’ ἐμὲ τὴν πτέρναν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 41:9. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

The one eating bread with me lifted up his heel against me

Quote: ὁ τρώγων μετ’ ἐμοῦ τὸν ἄρτον, ἐπῆρεν ἐπ’ ἐμὲ τὴν πτέρναν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase, The one eating bread with me, here is an idiom that refers to someone who acts like a friend would act. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “The one who has acted like he is my friend”

lifted up his heel against me

Quote: ἐπῆρεν ἐπ’ ἐμὲ τὴν πτέρναν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, lifted up his heel is an idiom that refers to someone who has become an enemy. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “has turned against me” or “has become my enemy”

John 13:19

From this moment I tell you

Quote: ἀπ’ ἄρτι λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context, as modeled by the UST.

I am

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated I am in 8:24, and also see the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes for Chapter 8.

John 13:20

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

the one receiving … receives … receiving … receives

Quote: ὁ λαμβάνων & λαμβάνει & λαμβάνων & λαμβάνει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

In this verse, receiving and receives mean to accept or welcome a person into one’s presence with friendliness. See how you translated this word in 1:12.

the one having sent me

Quote: τὸν πέμψαντά με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

John 13:21

was troubled in spirit

Quote: ἐταράχθη τῷ πνεύματι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar phrase in 11:33.

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

John 13:23

one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved

Quote: εἷς ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ & ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. See the discussion of this phrase in Part 1 of the Introduction to the Gospel of John and the discussion in the General Notes for this chapter. If this phrase would be confusing to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved” or “John, one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved”

reclining to eat

Quote: ἀνακείμενος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

During Jesus’ time, people would often eat meals while lying on their sides on low couches next to a table. If your readers would not be familiar with this meal practice, you could use a general expression for sitting to have a meal. Alternate translation: “seated at the table”

against the chest of Jesus

Quote: ἐν τῷ κόλπῳ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In Jesus’ culture, lying with one’s head against the side of another person when having a meal was considered to be a sign that the two people had a very close friendship. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “closely beside Jesus as a close friend”

John 13:24

to this one

Quote: τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this one refers to John, who calls himself the disciple “whom Jesus loved” in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the disciple whom Jesus loved” or “to me”

John 13:25

that one says

Quote: ἐκεῖνος & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, that one refers to John, who calls himself the disciple “whom Jesus loved” in 13:23. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “that disciple whom Jesus loved says” or “I say”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

13:28 indicates that the disciples did not know why Jesus spoke to Judas in the way he did. This means that they must not have heard the conversation in this verse and the next, because John and Jesus were speaking quietly. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “said in a quite voice”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 13:26

to Judas, {son} of Simon Iscariot

Quote: Ἰούδᾳ Σίμωνος Ἰσκαριώτη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated this phrase in 6:71.

John 13:27

And after the bread

Quote: καὶ μετὰ τὸ ψωμίον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Satan then entered into him

Quote: τότε εἰσῆλθεν εἰς ἐκεῖνον ὁ Σατανᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, entered into is an idiom that means that Satan took control of Judas. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Satan then started to command Judas”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 13:28

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In 13:28–29 John interrupts the main storyline in order to provide background information about the disciples’ confusion. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

of the ones reclining to eat

Quote: τῶν ἀνακειμένων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated reclining to eat in 13:23.

John 13:29

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

festival

Quote: ἑορτήν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, festival refers to the Jewish Passover festival. See how you translated this word in 12:12.

so that he might give something to the poor

Quote: τοῖς πτωχοῖς ἵνα τι δῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “Give something to the poor”

John 13:30

Now it was night

Quote: ἦν δὲ νύξ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this sentence John provides background information about the time of day when Judas went out to betray Jesus. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 13:31

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him

Quote: νῦν ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου, καὶ ὁ Θεὸς ἐδοξάσθη ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

In this verse, Jesus twice uses the past tense has been glorified in order to refer to something that will happen in the future. He is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If this is confusing in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “Now the Son of Man will be glorified, and God will be glorified in him”

Now the Son of Man has been glorified

Quote: νῦν ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Jesus implies that God did it. Alternate translation: “Now God will glorify the Son of Man”

the Son of Man has been glorified

Quote: ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “I, the Son of Man, have been glorified”

the Son of Man

Quote: ὁ Υἱὸς τοῦ Ἀνθρώπου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Son of Man in 1:51.

God has been glorified in him

Quote: ὁ Θεὸς ἐδοξάσθη ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he will glorify God”

John 13:32

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

In some Bibles, this verse begins with the clause, “If God has been glorified in him”. However, these words are not in most of the oldest ancient manuscripts. Nevertheless, if a translation of the Bible already exists in your region, consider using whichever reading is found in that version. If a translation does not already exist, we recommend that you follow the reading in the ULT text.

him … him

Quote: αὐτὸν & αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Both occurrences of the pronoun him refer to the Son of Man, Jesus. If this use of him would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Son of Man … the Son”

God will glorify him in himself

Quote: ὁ Θεὸς δοξάσει αὐτὸν ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

The word himself here refers to God and is used to emphasize that God is the one who would glorify Jesus. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “God himself will glorify him”

John 13:33

Little children

Quote: τεκνία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus is using the phrase Little children to describe the disciples to whom he is speaking. He loves them as if they were his own children. If this might confuse your readers, you could translate this plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “You dear disciples who are like children to me”

to the Jews

Quote: τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

and just as I said to the Jews, ‘Where I go, you are not able to come.’ Now I also say this to you

Quote: καὶ καθὼς εἶπον τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις, ὅτι ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω, ὑμεῖς οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν, καὶ ὑμῖν λέγω ἄρτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “and just as I said to the Jews, now I also say this to you, ‘Where I go, you are not able to come.’”

Where I go, you are not able to come

Quote: ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω, ὑμεῖς οὐ δύνασθε ἐλθεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated this sentence in 8:21.

John 13:34

just as I have loved you, so also you would love one another

Quote: καθὼς ἠγάπησα ὑμᾶς, ἵνα καὶ ὑμεῖς ἀγαπᾶτε ἀλλήλους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Jesus is using a future statement to give an instruction. If this is confusing in your language, you can use a more natural form for instruction. Alternate translation: “just as I have loved you, so also you must love one another”

John 13:35

everyone

Quote: πάντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, Jesus uses everyone as an exaggeration that refers only to those people who would see how the disciples loved each other. If this might confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression.

John 13:36

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 13:37

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

I will lay down my life

Quote: τὴν ψυχήν μου & θήσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated a similar phrase in 10:11.

John 13:38

Will you lay down your life for me

Quote: τὴν ψυχήν σου ὑπὲρ ἐμοῦ θήσεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. He knows that Peter is not really willing to lay down his life for Jesus. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You will certainly not lay down your life for me!”

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω σοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

the rooster may certainly not crow before which you will deny me three times

Quote: οὐ μὴ ἀλέκτωρ φωνήσῃ, ἕως οὗ ἀρνήσῃ με τρίς (1)

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this negative statement as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “you will surely deny me three times before the rooster crows”

the rooster may certainly not crow before which

Quote: οὐ μὴ ἀλέκτωρ φωνήσῃ, ἕως οὗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jesus is referring to a certain time of day. Roosters crow just before the sun appears in the morning. In other words, Jesus is referring to dawn. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “before another morning begins”

the rooster

Quote: ἀλέκτωρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A rooster is a bird that calls out loudly around the time the sun comes up. If your readers would not be familiar with this bird, you could use the name of a bird in your area that calls out or sings just before dawn, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “the bird that sings in the morning”

the rooster

Quote: ἀλέκτωρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is not speaking of one particular rooster but of roosters in general. Alternate translation: “the roosters” or “the birds”

John 14

John 14 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus says he is the way to the Father (14:1–14)
Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will come (14:15–31)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“My Father’s house”

Jesus used these words to refer to heaven, where God dwells. It does not refer to any temple in Jerusalem or to a church building. (See: heaven, sky, heavens, heavenly)

The Holy Spirit

Jesus told his disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit to them. He called the Holy Spirit the Helper (14:16), who is always with God’s people to help them and to speak to God for them. Jesus also called him the Spirit of Truth (14:17), who tells God’s people what is true about God so they know him better and serve him well. (See: Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit)

John 14:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues in this chapter. Jesus reclines at the table with his disciples during the evening meal and continues to speak to them.

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In 14:1–7 the word “you” is always plural and refers to Jesus’ disciples.

Do not let your heart be troubled

Quote: μὴ ταρασσέσθω ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses heart to represent the disciples’ thoughts and emotions. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not let your thoughts be troubled”

Believe in God; believe also in me

Quote: πιστεύετε εἰς τὸν Θεόν, καὶ εἰς ἐμὲ πιστεύετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Both of these clauses could be: (1) commands, as in the UST. (2) statements. Alternate translation: “You believe in God; you also believe in me”

John 14:2

In the house of my Father

Quote: ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses house to refer to heaven, which is the place where God dwells. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “In the place where my Father dwells” or “In heaven where my Father dwells”

of … Father

Quote: Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

But if not, I would have told you, for I am going to prepare a place for you

Quote: εἰ δὲ μή, εἶπον ἂν ὑμῖν, ὅτι πορεύομαι ἑτοιμάσαι τόπον ὑμῖν (1)

The word translated for could also be translated “that,” in which case this sentence would be a question instead of a statement. With either interpretation the point of the sentence is the same: Jesus is emphasizing that what he has just said in the previous sentence is true. He is going to heaven to prepare a place for his people. Alternate translation: “But if not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?”

John 14:3

if I go

Quote: ἐὰν πορευθῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Jesus is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he knows that it will actually take place. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what Jesus is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “when I go”

John 14:4

the way

Quote: τὴν ὁδόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus uses the way. This could refer to: (1) himself as the means by which people can go to God in heaven, which is clearly the meaning for the way in 14:6. (2) a manner of life that will eventually lead someone to be with God in heaven. Since the disciples did not understand this when Jesus said it, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

John 14:5

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

How are we able to know the way

Quote: πῶς δυνάμεθα τὴν ὁδὸν εἰδέναι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Thomas is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We surely do not know the way!”

John 14:6

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the way

Quote: ἡ ὁδὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the way to indicate that he is the means by which people can go to God, who is in heaven. Trusting in Jesus is the only way to have access to God. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who gives people access to the Father” or “the means by which one may come to the Father”

the truth

Quote: ἡ ἀλήθεια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the truth to indicate that he is the one who reveals God’s truth to people. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who reveals God’s truth” or “the means by which people can know God’s truth”

the life

Quote: ἡ ζωή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the life to indicate that he is the means by which people can receive eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one who makes people spiritually alive” or “the means by which one may receive eternal life”

no one comes to the Father except through me

Quote: οὐδεὶς ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα, εἰ μὴ δι’ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, through me means that a person can come to God only by trusting Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “no one comes to the Father except by believing in me”

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 14:7

If you have known me

Quote: εἰ ἐγνώκατε με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

John 14:8

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Lord, show us the Father

Quote: Κύριε, δεῖξον ἡμῖν τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 14:9

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

So long a time I am with you, and you do not know me, Philip

Quote: τοσοῦτον χρόνον μεθ’ ὑμῶν εἰμι, καὶ οὐκ ἔγνωκάς με, Φίλιππε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “So long a time I am with you, and you should know me, Philip!”

you, … you

Quote: ὑμῶν & σὺ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The first occurrence of you in this verse is plural, but the second occurrence is singular. Your language may require you to mark these forms.

the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

How do you say, ‘Show us the Father

Quote: πῶς σὺ λέγεις, δεῖξον ἡμῖν τὸν Πατέρα? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize what he is saying to Philip. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You really should not say, ‘Show us the Father!’”

John 14:10

Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in me

Quote: οὐ πιστεύεις ὅτι ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρὶ, καὶ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί ἐστιν? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

I am in the Father, and the Father is in me

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρὶ, καὶ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 10:38.

Father, … the Father … Father

Quote: Πατρὶ & ὁ Πατὴρ & Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

The words that I say to you

Quote: τὰ ῥήματα ἃ ἐγὼ λαλῶ ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here, you is plural. Jesus shifts from speaking to Philip to speaking to all of his disciples.

The words

Quote: τὰ ῥήματα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, words refers to the message or teachings of Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The message” or “The teachings”

from myself

Quote: ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated from myself in 5:30. Alternate translation: “on my own authority”

work

Quote: τὰ ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated work in 7:3.

John 14:11

I {am} in the Father, and the Father {is} in me

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρὶ, καὶ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

the works

Quote: τὰ ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated work in the previous verse.

John 14:12

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν, (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

the one believing in me, the works that I do, he also will do

Quote: ὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ, τὰ ἔργα ἃ ἐγὼ ποιῶ, κἀκεῖνος ποιήσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “the one believing in me will also do the works that I do”

the works

Quote: τὰ ἔργα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated works in the previous verse.

and he will do greater than these

Quote: καὶ μείζονα τούτων ποιήσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and he will do greater works than these”

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 14:13

whatever you ask

Quote: ὅ τι ἂν αἰτήσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply the word from the context. Alternate translation: “whatever you might ask God”

whatever you ask in my name

Quote: ὅ τι ἂν αἰτήσητε ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, ask in my name could mean: (1) to request something as the representative of Jesus or as if Jesus himself were requesting it. Alternate translation: “whatever you might ask as if I were asking” or “whatever you might ask that I would ask” (2) to request something with the authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “whatever you ask with my authority”

so that the Father may be glorified in the Son

Quote: ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν τῷ Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The one that may do the action could be: (1) Jesus, in which case in the Son would mean “by the Son.” Alternate translation: “so that the Son may glorify the Father” (2) everyone who experiences the result of what has been asked. Alternate translation: “so that everyone may glorify the Father in the Son”

the Father … Son

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ & Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

in the Son

Quote: ἐν τῷ Υἱῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this phrase in the first person. Alternate translation: “in me, the Son”

John 14:14

If you ask me anything in my name

Quote: ἐάν τι αἰτήσητέ με ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated in my name in the previous verse.

John 14:15

you will keep my commandments

Quote: τὰς ἐντολὰς τὰς ἐμὰς τηρήσετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, keep means to obey. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will obey my commandments”

John 14:16

Helper

Quote: Παράκλητον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Helper here refers to the Holy Spirit. See the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “one who helps, the Holy Spirit”

John 14:17

the Spirit of Truth

Quote: τὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Spirit of Truth refers to the Holy Spirit. See the discussion of this term in the General Notes for this chapter. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit of Truth”

the Spirit of Truth

Quote: τὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe the Spirit who teaches people the Truth about God. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the Spirit that teaches God’s truth”

whom the world is not able to receive

Quote: ὃ ὁ κόσμος οὐ δύναται λαβεῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to the people in the world who oppose God. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “whom the people in this world who oppose God are not able to receive” or “whom those who oppose God are not able to receive”

will be in you

Quote: ἐν ὑμῖν ἔσται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses the future tense will to indicate that the Holy Spirit would be inside Jesus’ disciples at a future point in time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will be in you at a future time”

John 14:18

I will not leave you as orphans

Quote: οὐκ ἀφήσω ὑμᾶς ὀρφανούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses orphans to refer to people who have no one to care for them. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I will not leave you with no one to care for you”

I am coming

Quote: ἔρχομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Jesus uses the present tense I am coming to refer to something that will happen in the near future. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the future tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “I will come”

John 14:19

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in 14:17.

Because I live, you will also live

Quote: ὅτι ἐγὼ ζῶ, καὶ ὑμεῖς ζήσεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, Jesus uses live to refer to living forever after one’s resurrection. Because Jesus will live forever after his death and resurrection, so too will his disciples life forever after they die and are resurrected. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because I live forever, you will also life forever”

Because I live

Quote: ὅτι ἐγὼ ζῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Jesus uses the present tense I live to refer to when he comes back to life after his death. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the future tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “Because I will live”

John 14:20

In that day

Quote: ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

On that day here refers to the time that Jesus’ disciples would see him again after his resurrection. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “When you see me again”

I am in my Father, and you {are} in me, and I {am} in you

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ Πατρί μου, καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐν ἐμοὶ, κἀγὼ ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse Jesus uses in to indicate being united with someone. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I am united with my Father, and you are united with me, and I am united with you”

my Father

Quote: Πατρί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

you {are} in me, and I {am} in you

Quote: ὑμεῖς ἐν ἐμοὶ, κἀγὼ ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize the unity between Jesus and his disciples. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “you and I are just like one person”

John 14:21

The one having my commandments

Quote: ὁ ἔχων τὰς ἐντολάς μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus speaks of commandments as if they were an object that someone could possess. If your readers would not speak of knowing commandments in this way, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation, “The one knowing my commandments”

keeping them

Quote: τηρῶν αὐτὰς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, keeping means obeying. See how you translated this word in 14:15.

and the one loving me will be loved by my Father

Quote: ὁ δὲ ἀγαπῶν με, ἀγαπηθήσεται ὑπὸ τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and my Father will love the one loving me”

my Father

Quote: Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

I will show myself to him

Quote: ἐμφανίσω αὐτῷ ἐμαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) Jesus will reveal himself to his disciples after his resurrection, as also stated in 14:19. Alternate translation: “I will show myself to him after I live again” (2) Jesus will reveal his character to the minds of anyone who loves and obeys him, as suggested by his statement in 14:23. Alternate translation: “I will reveal to him what I am like” (3) Jesus will both reveal himself to his disciples after his resurrection and reveal his character to everyone who loves and obeys him. Alternate translation: “I will reveal myself to him after I live again and will reveal what I am like”

John 14:22

Judas (not Iscariot

Quote: Ἰούδας, οὐχ ὁ Ἰσκαριώτης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Here, Judas is the name of a man who was another disciple of Jesus. He was not the other disciple named Judas who was from the village of Kerioth and betrayed Jesus.

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

what has happened that you are about to show yourself to us

Quote: τί γέγονεν, ὅτι ἡμῖν μέλλεις ἐμφανίζειν σεαυτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Judas uses the expression what has happened to express his confusion about what Jesus said in the previous verse. The Jewish people were expecting the Messiah to come and reveal himself to the whole world, but Jesus said he would only show himself to his disciples. Therefore, Judas thinks something has caused Jesus to act differently than he had expected. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “what is causing you to only show yourself to us”

to us

Quote: ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Judas says us, he is speaking of himself and Jesus’ other disciples, so us would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

to the world

Quote: τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the people who live in it. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the people living in the world”

John 14:23

he will keep my word

Quote: τὸν λόγον μου τηρήσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 8:51.

my Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

we will come to him, and we will make a dwelling place with him

Quote: πρὸς αὐτὸν ἐλευσόμεθα, καὶ μονὴν παρ’ αὐτῷ ποιησόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Jesus says we in this verse, he is speaking of himself and God the Father, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

and we will make a dwelling place with him

Quote: καὶ μονὴν παρ’ αὐτῷ ποιησόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to God and Jesus dwelling within the person who loves and obeys Jesus. After Jesus’ resurrection and return to heaven, he and God live inside every believer through the Holy Spirit. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and we will live within him”

John 14:24

does not keep my words

Quote: τοὺς λόγους μου οὐ τηρεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 8:51.

the word

Quote: ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to what Jesus has just said in the preceding verses. If this would confuse your readers, you could express that meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “these things I have just said” or “this statement”

is not mine

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν ἐμὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, mine refers to the source of what Jesus has said. What Jesus has said did not come from himself, but from God. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “does not come from me”

of the Father having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jesus is using of to describe the source of the word. If this is not clear in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “has come from the Father who sent me”

of the Father having sent me

Quote: τοῦ πέμψαντός με Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here this phrase refers to God. See how you translated this phrase3 in 5:23.

of the Father

Quote: τοῦ & Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 14:26

Now the Helper—the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything, and he will remind you of everything that I said to you

Quote: ὁ δὲ Παράκλητος, τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον, ὃ πέμψει ὁ Πατὴρ ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου, ἐκεῖνος ὑμᾶς διδάξει πάντα, καὶ ὑπομνήσει ὑμᾶς πάντα ἃ εἶπον ὑμῖν. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of the phrases in this verse. Alternate translation: “Now the Helper will teach you everything, and he will remind you of everything that I said to you. He is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name.”

the Helper

Quote: ὁ & Παράκλητος (1)

See how you translated the Helper in 14:16.

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

in my name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, in my name could mean: (1) as the representative of Jesus or in place of Jesus. Alternate translation: “as my representative” or “in place of me” (2) with the authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “with my authority”

everything

Quote: πάντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, everything is an exaggeration that Jesus uses for emphasis. He means that the Holy Spirit would teach the disciples all that they needed to know about what he had taught them. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the plain meaning. Alternate translation: “everything that you need to know about what I have said”

John 14:27

I leave you peace; I give you my peace

Quote: εἰρήνην ἀφίημι ὑμῖν; εἰρήνην τὴν ἐμὴν δίδωμι ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “I leave you a peaceful feeling; I give you my peaceful feeling”

I leave you peace

Quote: εἰρήνην ἀφίημι ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus speaks of peace as if it were an object that he could leave with someone. If this would confuse your readers, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “You will feel peace after I leave”

I do not give to you as the world gives

Quote: οὐ καθὼς ὁ κόσμος δίδωσιν, ἐγὼ δίδωμι ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jesus is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “I do not give to you peace as the world gives peace”

I do not give to you as the world gives

Quote: οὐ καθὼς ὁ κόσμος δίδωσιν, ἐγὼ δίδωμι ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, as the world gives could mean: (1) the manner in which the world gives peace. Alternate translation: “I do not give to you in the manner that the world gives” (2) the type of peace that the world gives. Alternate translation: “I do not give to you the kind of peace that the world gives”

world

Quote: κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in 14:17.

Do not let your heart be troubled

Quote: μὴ ταρασσέσθω ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this clause in 14:1.

John 14:28

I said to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you

Quote: ἐγὼ εἶπον ὑμῖν, ὑπάγω καὶ ἔρχομαι πρὸς ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If you loved me, you would be glad

Quote: εἰ ἠγαπᾶτέ με, ἐχάρητε ἄν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he knows that the condition is not true. Jesus knows that at this point his disciples don’t truly love him in the way that they should. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If you loved me, but you don’t, you would be glad, but your aren’t”

I am going to the Father

Quote: πορεύομαι πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus implies that he will return to his Father. Alternate translation: “I am going back to the Father”

the Father is greater than I am

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ μείζων μού ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus could mean: (1) 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” (2) that Jesus functions in a subordinate role to the Father for all time. Alternate translation: “the role of the Father is superior to the role that I have”

the Father, … the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα & ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 14:29

I have told you

Quote: εἴρηκα ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 14:30

the ruler of the world

Quote: ὁ τοῦ κόσμου ἄρχων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the ruler of this world refers to Satan. See how you translated this phrase in 12:31.

he has nothing in me

Quote: ἐν ἐμοὶ οὐκ ἔχει οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, has nothing in me means that Satan has no control over Jesus and cannot make him do anything. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he is not able to control me”

John 14:31

but so that the world might know that I love the Father, and just as the Father commanded me, thus I do

Quote: ἀλλ’ ἵνα γνῷ ὁ κόσμος, ὅτι ἀγαπῶ τὸν Πατέρα, καὶ καθὼς ἐνετείλατο μοι ὁ Πατὴρ, οὕτως ποιῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. The first event that is done to accomplish this purpose could be: (1) a phrase Jesus left out that can be supplied from the context of the previous verses. Alternate translation: “but the ruler of this world is coming so that the world might know that I love the Father, and just as the Father commanded me, thus I do” or “but these things will happen so that the world might know that I love the Father, and just as the Father commanded me, thus I do” (2) what is stated later in the sentence, in which case the order of the clauses must be changed. Alternate translation: “but just as the Father commanded me, thus I do so that the world might know that I love the Father”

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in 14:17.

the Father, … the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα & ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 15

John 15 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus says he is the vine (15:1–8)
Jesus commands his disciples to love each other (15:9–17)
Jesus promises that his disciples will be persecuted (15:18–16:4)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Vine

Jesus used the vine as a metaphor for himself. The vine of the grape plant takes water and minerals from the ground and gives them to the leaves and grapes that are on the branches. Without the vine, the branches, 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: vine, vines, grape, grapevine, and Metaphor)

“Remain in me”

Jesus uses the word “remain” as a metaphor. He is speaking of a believer being spiritually joined to someone else as if the person “remained” in the other person. Christians are said to “remain” in Christ. The Son is said to “remain” in believers. Many translators will find it impossible to represent these ideas in their languages in exactly the same way. In (15:7), the UST expresses this idea of “my words remain in you” as “obey what I have taught you.” Translators may find it possible to use this translation as a model.

John 15:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Jesus continues to speak to his disciples either at the end of their evening meal or after they have finished that meal and are walking to Gethsemane. It is unclear whether or not they left immediately after Jesus said “Let us go from here,” at the end of the previous chapter (John 14:31).

I am the true vine

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ἄμπελος ἡ ἀληθινή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses the true vine to refer to himself. As a vine is the source of life for its branches, so Jesus causes people to live in a way that pleases God and brings other people to believe in Jesus. Since the vine is an important metaphor in the Bible, you should translate the words directly or use a simile and not provide a plain explanation in the text of your translation. Alternate translation: “I am like a true vine”

true

Quote: ἡ ἀληθινή (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word translated vine refers specifically to the grapevine plant that produces grapes. If your readers would not be familiar with grapevines, use an equivalent word in your language for a vine that produces fruit. Alternate translation: “grapevine” or “fruit-producing vine”

my Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

my Father is the farmer

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου ὁ γεωργός ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses farmer to refer to God. Just as a farmer takes care of thevine to ensure it is as fruitful as possible, so God takes care of his people. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “my Father is like a gardener”

the farmer

Quote: ὁ γεωργός (1)

While farmer is a general term for anyone who farms the ground, in this context it refers to someone who takes care of grapevines and grows grapes. Alternate translation: “vine grower” or “grape farmer”

John 15:2

Every branch in me not bearing fruit, … and every one that bears fruit, … so that it might bear more fruit

Quote: πᾶν κλῆμα ἐν ἐμοὶ μὴ φέρον καρπὸν & καὶ πᾶν τὸ καρπὸν φέρον & ἵνα καρπὸν πλείονα φέρῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

Jesus speaks about people who claim to be his disciples but are not by continuing the metaphor of a vine. In this paragraph, Jesus uses branch to refer to both true and false disciples. He also uses bearing fruit, bears fruit, and bear more fruit to refer to living in a manner that pleases God, especially demonstrating the Christian qualities called the “fruit of the Spirit” in Galatians 5:22–23. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this metaphor as a simile. Alternate translation: “Everyone who claims to be my disciple but does not please God is like a branch in me that does not bear fruit … and every person who pleases God is like a branch that bears fruit … so that he might be like a branch that bears more fruit”

he takes it away

Quote: αἴρει αὐτό (1)

Alternate translation: “he cuts it off of the vine and takes it away” or “he breaks it off of the vine and throws it away”

he prunes it

Quote: καθαίρει αὐτὸ (1)

The word translated prunes could mean: (1) to remove excess parts from a plant. Alternate translation: “he trims it” (2) to cause something to become clean. Alternate translation: “he cleans it” (3) to remove excess parts from a plant in order to make it clean. See the discussion of John’s use of double meaning in Part 3 of the Introduction to this book. Alternate translation: “he prunes it so that it will be clean”

John 15:3

You are already clean

Quote: ἤδη ὑμεῖς καθαροί ἐστε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word translated clean is related to the word translated “prunes” in the previous verse. Here Jesus uses clean to imply that the branches have already been cleaned by pruning off the excess parts. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “You are like branches that have already been pruned and are clean”

the word

Quote: τὸν λόγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the message or teachings of Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the message”

You … to you

Quote: ὑμεῖς & ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The words You and you in this verse are plural and refer to the disciples of Jesus.

John 15:4

Remain in me, and I in you. … you remain in me

Quote: μείνατε ἐν ἐμοί, κἀγὼ ἐν ὑμῖν & ἐν ἐμοὶ μένητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar phrase in 6:56. See also the discussion of Remain in me in the General Notes for this chapter.

John 15:5

I am the vine; you {are} the branches

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ἄμπελος; ὑμεῖς τὰ κλήματα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated vine in 15:1 and “branch” in 15:2.

The one remaining in me and I in him

Quote: ὁ μένων ἐν ἐμοὶ κἀγὼ ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this similar expression in the previous verse.

he bears much fruit

Quote: οὗτος φέρει καρπὸν πολύν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated bears fruit in 15:2.

do nothing

Quote: ποιεῖν οὐδέν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus uses do nothing to refer to doing nothing that pleases God. It does not refer to doing nothing at all. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “do nothing that pleases God” or “do nothing acceptable to God”

John 15:6

If anyone does not remain in me, he is thrown outside like a branch and is dried up, and they gather them and throw {them} into the fire, and they are burned up

Quote: ἐὰν μή τις μένῃ ἐν ἐμοί, ἐβλήθη ἔξω ὡς τὸ κλῆμα καὶ ἐξηράνθη, καὶ συνάγουσιν αὐτὰ καὶ εἰς τὸ πῦρ βάλλουσιν, καὶ καίεται (1)

In the middle of this verse, Jesus changes from referring to the branch in a singular form to a plural form. If this change would be confusing in your language, you could change the singular forms into plural forms. Alternate translation: “If people do not remain in me, they are thrown outside like branches and are dried up, and they gather them into the fire, and they are burned up”

does … remain in me

Quote: μένῃ ἐν ἐμοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated remain in me in the previous two verses.

he is thrown outside like a branch and is dried up

Quote: ἐβλήθη ἔξω ὡς τὸ κλῆμα καὶ ἐξηράνθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the farmer throws him outside like a branch, and he dries up”

a branch

Quote: τὸ κλῆμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses branch to refer to someone who claims to be Jesus’ disciple, but is not. See how you translated the similar use of branch in 15:2.

and they gather them and throw {them} into the fire, and they are burned up

Quote: καὶ συνάγουσιν αὐτὰ καὶ εἰς τὸ πῦρ βάλλουσιν, καὶ καίεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The first they in this verse refers to an indefinite subject, but the second they refers to the object. If this would be confusing in your language, you could translate them differently. Alternate translation: “and some helpers gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned up” or “and someone gathers them and throws them into the fire, and those branches are burned up”

they are burned up

Quote: καίεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 15:7

you remain in me

Quote: μείνητε ἐν ἐμοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated remain in me in the previous three verses.

my words remain in you

Quote: τὰ ῥήματά μου ἐν ὑμῖν μείνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that means to obey Jesus. See how you translated a similar expression in 8:31

ask whatever you desire

Quote: ὃ ἐὰν θέλητε, αἰτήσασθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

it will be done for you

Quote: γενήσεται ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 15:8

My Father was glorified in this

Quote: ἐν τούτῳ ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Jesus is using the past tense in order to refer to something that will happen in the future. He is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If this is confusing in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “My Father will be glorified in this”

My Father was glorified in this

Quote: ἐν τούτῳ ἐδοξάσθη ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You have glorifed my Father in this”

My Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

you would bear much fruit

Quote: καρπὸν πολὺν φέρητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar expression in 15:5.

you would be my disciples

Quote: γένησθε ἐμοὶ μαθηταί (1)

Alternate translation: “show that you are my disciples” or “demonstrate that you are my disciples”

John 15:9

the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

Remain in my love

Quote: μείνατε ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐμῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses Remain in to refer to continuing in a certain state. Jesus is commanding his disciples to continue being in a close and loving relationship with him by obeying his commands. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Continue having a loving relationship with me” or “Live in a way that enables you to continue experiencing my love”

John 15:10

you keep … have kept

Quote: τηρήσητε & τετήρηκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, keep and kept refer to obeying. See how you translated this word in 14:15.

you will remain in my love, … remain in his love

Quote: μενεῖτε ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ μου & μένω αὐτοῦ ἐν τῇ ἀγάπῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar clause in the previous verse.

of the Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 15:11

I have spoken these things to you so that my joy might be in you

Quote: ταῦτα λελάληκα ὑμῖν, ἵνα ἡ χαρὰ ἡ ἐμὴ ἐν ὑμῖν ᾖ (1)

Alternate translation: “I have told you these things so that you will have the same kind of joy that I have”

and your joy might be complete

Quote: καὶ ἡ χαρὰ ὑμῶν πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 15:13

No one has greater love than this—that he would lay down his life for his friends

Quote: μείζονα ταύτης ἀγάπην οὐδεὶς ἔχει, ἵνα τις τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ θῇ ὑπὲρ τῶν φίλων αὐτοῦ (1)

Alternate translation: “The greatest love a person can have for his friends is to voluntarily die for them” or “The best way that a person can show that he loves his friends is to willingly die for them”

life

Quote: τὴν ψυχὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to physical life. It does not refer to eternal life. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “physical life”

would lay down his life

Quote: τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ θῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the similar phrase in 10:11.

John 15:15

my Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρός μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 15:16

would bear fruit

Quote: καρπὸν φέρητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, bear fruit could mean: (1) preach the gospel to people who respond by trusting in Jesus, as suggested by the use of go before bear. Alternate translation: “would lead people to believe in me” (2) live in a manner that pleases God, as bear fruit is used in 15:2–8. Alternate translation: “would do what pleases God”

and your fruit would remain

Quote: καὶ ὁ καρπὸς ὑμῶν μένῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, remain means to last forever. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and your fruit should last forever”

so that whatever you would ask

Quote: ἵνα ὅ τι ἂν αἰτήσητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces a purpose clause. It could mean: (1) the content of this clause is the purpose for Jesus choosing his disciples. Alternate translation: “and he chose you so that whatever you would ask” (2) the content of this clause is the purpose for the disciples’ fruit remaining. Alternate translation: “and this fruit would remain so that whatever you would ask”

of the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

in my name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated in my name in 14:13.

John 15:17

These things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)

Here, These things could refer to: (1) the commands Jesus referred to in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “These commands” (2) the command in the second half of this verse. Alternate translation: “This”

John 15:18

If the world hates you

Quote: εἰ ὁ κόσμος ὑμᾶς μισεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to the people in the world who oppose God. See how you translated world in 14:17.

John 15:19

If you were from the world

Quote: εἰ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου ἦτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that his disciples are not from the world. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If you were from the world, but you are not”

the world, the world … the world, … the world, … the world

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου & ὁ κόσμος & τοῦ κόσμου & τοῦ κόσμου & ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in the previous verse.

But because you are not from the world, but I chose you from the world, on account of this the world hates you

Quote: ὅτι δὲ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου οὐκ ἐστέ, ἀλλ’ ἐγὼ ἐξελεξάμην ὑμᾶς ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου, διὰ τοῦτο μισεῖ ὑμᾶς ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “But because you are not from the world, this world hates you, but I chose you from the world”

John 15:20

Remember the word that I said to you

Quote: μνημονεύετε τοῦ λόγου οὗ ἐγὼ εἶπον ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses word to refer to what he says later in this sentence. If this use of word might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Remember the teaching that I said to you”

A slave is not greater than his master

Quote: οὐκ ἔστιν δοῦλος μείζων τοῦ κυρίου αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 13:16.

if they kept my word, they will … keep

Quote: εἰ τὸν λόγον μου ἐτήρησαν & τηρήσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 8:51.

John 15:21

they will do all these things to you

Quote: ταῦτα πάντα ποιήσουσιν εἰς ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, all these things refers to the bad things Jesus told his disciples that the unbelievers in the world would do to them in 15:18–20. If this use of these things might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they will hate and persecute you”

because of my name

Quote: διὰ τὸ ὄνομά μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses my name to refer to himself. People will make his followers suffer because they belong to him. If this use of name would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “because you belong to me”

the one having sent me

Quote: τὸν πέμψαντά με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

John 15:22

If I had not come and spoken to them

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦλθον καὶ ἐλάλησα αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he knows that the condition is not true. He knows that he did come and speak to the world. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If I had not come and spoken to them, but I did”

they would not have sin

Quote: ἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus speaks of sin as if it were an object that a person could possess. See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:41.

sin, … sin

Quote: ἁμαρτίαν & ἁμαρτίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus uses sin to refer specifically to the sin of rejecting Jesus and his teachings. It does not refer to sin in general, because everyone is guilty of sin. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the sin of rejecting me and my teachings … sin of rejecting me”

John 15:23

Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 15:24

If I had not done the works that no one else did among them, they would have no sin, but

Quote: εἰ τὰ ἔργα μὴ ἐποίησα ἐν αὐτοῖς ἃ οὐδεὶς ἄλλος ἐποίησεν, ἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν & δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “Because I have done the works that no one else did among them, they have sin, and”

If I had not done the works that no one else did among them, they would have no sin

Quote: εἰ τὰ ἔργα μὴ ἐποίησα ἐν αὐτοῖς ἃ οὐδεὶς ἄλλος ἐποίησεν, ἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he knows that the condition is not true. He has done works that no one else did among the people. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If I had not done the works that no one else did among them, but I did, they would have no sin, but they do have sin”

they would have no sin

Quote: ἁμαρτίαν οὐκ εἴχοσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 15:22.

they have both seen

Quote: καὶ ἑωράκασιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The object of the verb seen could be: (1) the works referred to earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “they have both seen the works” (2) Jesus and the Father, referred to at the end of the verse. Alternate translation: “they have both seen me and my Father”

my Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 15:25

the word

Quote: ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses word to refer to a specific prophecy in the Old Testament. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the prophecy”

the word that is written in their law

Quote: ὁ λόγος ὁ ἐν τῷ νόμῳ αὐτῶν γεγραμμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here Jesus uses the word that is written to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 35:19 or 69:4). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that John is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “the statement that has been written in their scriptures”

the word that is written in their law might be fulfilled

Quote: πληρωθῇ ὁ λόγος ὁ ἐν τῷ νόμῳ αὐτῶν γεγραμμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they might fulfill the word that a prophet wrote in their law”

law

Quote: τῷ νόμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jesus is using the name of the first part of the Hebrew Scriptures, the law, to represent the entire Hebrew Scriptures in general. See how you translated a similar expression in 10:34.

They hated me without a cause

Quote: ἐμίσησάν με δωρεάν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 35:19 or 69:4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

John 15:26

the Helper

Quote: ὁ Παράκλητος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated Helper in 14:16.

Father—… Father

Quote: Πατρός & Πατρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

the Spirit of Truth

Quote: τὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the Spirit of Truth in 14:17.

John 15:27

the beginning

Quote: ἀρχῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses beginning to refer to the first days of his ministry. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the very first days when I began teaching the people and doing miracles”

John 16

John 16 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus promises that his disciples will be persecuted (15:18–16:4)
Jesus describes the work of the Holy Spirit (16:5–15)
Jesus says that he will return to his Father (16:16–28)
Jesus says that his disciples will soon abandon him (16:29–33)

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 Helper (14:16) who is always with God’s people to help them and to speak to God for them. He is also the Spirit of Truth (14:17) who tells God’s people what is true about God so they know him better and serve him well. (See: Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit)

“The hour is coming”

Jesus used the words, “the hour is coming,” to begin prophecies about events that were about to occur. He is not referring to the 60 minute hour, but to a point in time when these prophecies will be fulfilled. “The hour” in which people would persecute his followers (16:2) lasted for many years. However, “the hour” in which his disciples would scatter and leave him alone (16:32) was less than sixty minutes long. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Simile

Jesus said that just as a woman is in pain when she gives birth to a baby, so also his followers would be sad when he died. But just as the woman is happy after the baby is born, so also his followers would be happy when Jesus became alive again. (See: Simile)

John 16:1

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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

Verses 1–4 are part of the same topic Jesus began in 15:18. He is speaking about the persecution that his disciples will experience.

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to what Jesus has just said in 15:18–25 about the coming persecution of his disciples. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the warnings that you will be hated by everyone”

you might not fall away

Quote: μὴ σκανδαλισθῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Jesus uses fall away to refer to no longer trusting in him or no longer being his disciple. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you might not stop trusting me” or “you might not stop being my disciple”

John 16:2

put out of the synagogues

Quote: ἀποσυναγώγους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar phrase in 9:22.

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 4:21 and see the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes to Chapter 4.

for everyone having killed you

Quote: ἵνα πᾶς ὁ ἀποκτείνας ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here, for could indicate: (1) time, as in the UST. (2) an explanation of to what an hour refers. Alternate translation: “that everyone who kills you wants”

John 16:3

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 16:4

I have spoken these things to you

Quote: ταῦτα λελάληκα ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to what Jesus has just said in 16:2–3 regarding what the Jews will do to his disciples. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I have told you that the Jews will persecute you”

when their hour comes

Quote: ὅταν ἔλθῃ ἡ ὥρα αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated hour in 16:2.

in the beginning

Quote: ἐξ ἀρχῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated beginning in 15:27.

John 16:5

the one having sent me

Quote: τὸν πέμψαντά με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the one having sent me refers to God. See how you translated this phrase in 4:34.

and none of you asks

Quote: καὶ οὐδεὶς ἐξ ὑμῶν ἐρωτᾷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus uses and to emphasize his surprise that they are not asking him where he is going, as they had done previously in 13:36 and 14:5. Use a natural form in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “but none of you are even asking” or “but how is it that none of you asks”

asks me, ‘Where are you going

Quote: ἐρωτᾷ με, ποῦ ὑπάγεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

John 16:6

sadness has filled your heart

Quote: ἡ λύπη πεπλήρωκεν ὑμῶν τὴν καρδίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus speaks of sadness as if it were a thing that could fill someone. If this use of sadness would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your heart is very sad”

sadness has filled your heart

Quote: ἡ λύπη πεπλήρωκεν ὑμῶν τὴν καρδίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated heart in 14:1.

John 16:7

if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you

Quote: ἐὰν & μὴ ἀπέλθω, ὁ Παράκλητος οὐκ ἐλεύσεται πρὸς ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If it would be more natural in your language, you can translate this double negative expression in a positive form. Alternate translation: “the Helper will come to you only if I go away”

Helper

Quote: Παράκλητος (1)

See how you translated Helper in 14:26.

John 16:8

that one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, that one refers to the Holy Spirit, who is called “the Helper” in the previous verse. If this use of that one might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit”

world

Quote: κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated world in 1:29.

about sin and about righteousness and about judgment

Quote: περὶ ἁμαρτίας, καὶ περὶ δικαιοσύνης, καὶ περὶ κρίσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sin, righteousness, and judgment, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “about what is sinful and about what is righteous and about the fact that God will judge them”

about righteousness

Quote: περὶ δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, righteousness could refer to: (1) God’s righteousness, which the world does not have. Alternate translation: “about the righteousness that the world lacks” (2) the false righteousness in the world, such as the actions of the Pharisees, which people thought were righteous. Alternate translation: “about the world’s false righteousness”

John 16:9

about sin, because they do not believe in me

Quote: περὶ ἁμαρτίας μέν, ὅτι οὐ πιστεύουσιν εἰς ἐμὲ (1)

Alternate translation: “about their sinfulness, because they are guilty of sin by not believing in me”

John 16:10

about righteousness

Quote: περὶ δικαιοσύνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the phrase about righteousness in 16:8.

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

you will no longer see me

Quote: οὐκέτι θεωρεῖτέ με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses this phrase to imply that anyone who could see him saw true righteousness. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will no longer see my righteous example”

John 16:11

about judgment

Quote: περὶ & κρίσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the phrase about judgment in 16:8.

the ruler of this world

Quote: ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the ruler of this world refers to Satan. See how you translated this in 12:31.

the ruler of this world has been judged

Quote: ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου κέκριται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Jesus implies that God did it. Alternate translation: “God has judged the ruler of this world”

has been judged

Quote: κέκριται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

This could mean: (1) Satan has already been condemned to future judgment. Alternate translation: “has already been condemned” (2) Satan’s future judgment is so certain that Jesus uses the past tense. Alternate translation: “will be judged”

John 16:13

the Spirit of Truth

Quote: τὸ Πνεῦμα τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the phrase the Spirit of Truth in 14:17.

he will guide you into the whole truth

Quote: ὁδηγήσει ὑμᾶς ἐν τῇ ἀληθείᾳ πάσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, truth refers to true information about Jesus and God. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will guide you into all truth about me”

from himself

Quote: ἀφ’ ἑαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 5:19. Alternate translation: “on his own authority”

he will say whatever he will hear

Quote: ὅσα ἀκούσει, λαλήσει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus implies that God the Father will speak to the Spirit. If this might confuse to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will say whatever God tells him to say”

the things coming

Quote: τὰ ἐρχόμενα (1)

Alternate translation: “things that are about to happen” or “things that will soon take place”

John 16:14

That one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, That one refers to the Holy Spirit, who is called “the Spirit of Truth” in the previous verse. If this use of That one might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit”

from the things of mine

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the things of mine could refer to: (1) what Jesus has said. Alternate translation: “from the things I have said” (2) who Jesus is and what he has said and done. Alternate translation: “from my true identity and the things I have done”

John 16:15

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

from the things of mine

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ ἐμοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

John 16:16

you no longer see me

Quote: οὐκέτι θεωρεῖτέ με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Jesus uses see in the present tense to refer to something that will happen in the near future. If this is confusing in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “you will no longer see me”

John 16:17

What is this that he says to us, ‘A little {while} and you do not see me, and again a little {while} and you will see me,’ and, ‘Because I go to the Father

Quote: τί ἐστιν τοῦτο ὃ λέγει ἡμῖν, μικρὸν καὶ οὐ θεωρεῖτέ με; καὶ πάλιν μικρὸν καὶ ὄψεσθέ με; καί ὅτι ὑπάγω πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If the direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “What is this that he says to us when he says that in a little while we will not see him, and again a little while and we will see him, and also says that it is because he goes to the Father”

What is this that he says to us

Quote: τί ἐστιν τοῦτο ὃ λέγει ἡμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The disciples use this clause to indicate that they do not understand what Jesus has just said about his death that will happen soon. Use the most natural way in your language to express this confusion. Alternate translation: “What is he talking about when he says to us”

A little {while} and you do not see me, and again a little {while} and you will see me

Quote: μικρὸν καὶ οὐ θεωρεῖτέ με; καὶ πάλιν μικρὸν καὶ ὄψεσθέ με (1)

See how you translated the similar statement in the previous verse.

Because I go to the Father

Quote: ὅτι ὑπάγω πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα (1)

See how you translated this statement in 16:10.

the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 16:18

A little {while

Quote: τὸ μικρόν (1)

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

John 16:19

Are you seeking among yourselves concerning this, that I said, ‘A little {while} and you do not see me, and again a little {while} and you will see me

Quote: περὶ τούτου ζητεῖτε μετ’ ἀλλήλων, ὅτι εἶπον, μικρὸν καὶ οὐ θεωρεῖτέ με; καὶ πάλιν μικρὸν καὶ ὄψεσθέ με? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using this question to get his disciples to focus on what he has just told them so that he can give an explanation. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are seeking among yourselves concerning this, that I said, ‘A little while and you do not see me, and again a little while and you will see me.’”

that I said

Quote: ὅτι εἶπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word that introduces a clause that explains to what the preceding this refers. Use a word or phrase that introduces a further explanation or elaboration in your language. Alternate translation: “namely, that I said,”

A little {while} and you do not see me, and again a little {while} and you will see me

Quote: μικρὸν καὶ οὐ θεωρεῖτέ με; καὶ πάλιν μικρὸν καὶ ὄψεσθέ με (1)

See how you translated this statement in 16:16.

John 16:20

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

but the world will be glad

Quote: ὁ δὲ κόσμος χαρήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to the people in the world who oppose God. See how you translated world 14:17.

You will be grieved

Quote: ὑμεῖς λυπηθήσεσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You will have grief” or “What happens will grieve you”

your sorrow will become joy

Quote: ἡ λύπη ὑμῶν εἰς χαρὰν γενήσεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sorrow and joy, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “you will change from being sorrowful to being joyful”

John 16:21

When a woman gives birth, she has pain because her hour has come, but when she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers her suffering, because of the joy that a man has been born into the world

Quote: ἡ γυνὴ ὅταν τίκτῃ, λύπην ἔχει, ὅτι ἦλθεν ἡ ὥρα αὐτῆς; ὅταν δὲ γεννήσῃ τὸ παιδίον, οὐκέτι μνημονεύει τῆς θλίψεως διὰ τὴν χαρὰν, ὅτι ἐγεννήθη ἄνθρωπος εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of women in general, not of one particular woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “When women give birth, they have pain because their hour has come, but when they have given birth to their children, they no longer remember their suffering, because of the joy that men have been born into the world”

her hour

Quote: ἡ ὥρα αὐτῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, her hour refers to the time when the woman gives birth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the time for her to give birth”

she no longer remembers her suffering

Quote: οὐκέτι μνημονεύει τῆς θλίψεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of suffering, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “she no longer remembers that she suffered”

John 16:22

your heart will be glad

Quote: χαρήσεται ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated heart in 14:1.

John 16:23

in that day

Quote: ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in that day refers to the time that Jesus’ disciples would see him again after his resurrection. See how you translated this phrase in 14:20.

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

of the Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

in my name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the phrase in my name in 14:13.

John 16:24

in my name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

your joy may be fulfilled

Quote: ἡ χαρὰ ὑμῶν ᾖ πεπληρωμένη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated a similar phrase in 15:11.

John 16:25

figures of speech; … figures of speech

Quote: παροιμίαις (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables

See how you translated this phrase in 10:6.

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 4:21 and see the discussion of this phrase in the General Notes to Chapter 4.

I will tell you plainly about the Father

Quote: παρρησίᾳ περὶ τοῦ Πατρὸς ἀπαγγελῶ ὑμῖν (1)

Alternate translation: “I will tell you about the Father in a way that you will clearly understand.”

Father

Quote: Πατρὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 16:26

In that day

Quote: ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 14:20.

in my name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 14:13.

I do not say to you that I will ask the Father

Quote: οὐ λέγω ὑμῖν, ὅτι ἐγὼ ἐρωτήσω τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Jesus implies that he will not have to ask the Father on behalf of his disciples, because they can ask God directly after Jesus becomes alive again. If this statement would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I do not say to you that I will need to ask the Father”

Father

Quote: Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 16:27

the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 16:28

the Father, … the Father

Quote: τοῦ Πατρὸς & τὸν Πατέρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

into the world. … I am leaving the world

Quote: εἰς τὸν κόσμον & ἀφίημι τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the earth on which people live. It does not refer to the people in the world or to the entire universe. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the earth … I am leaving the earth”

John 16:29

say

Quote: λέγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

in figures of speech

Quote: παροιμίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parables

See how you translated this word in 16:25.

John 16:30

you do not have need that anyone would question you

Quote: οὐ χρείαν ἔχεις, ἵνα τίς σε ἐρωτᾷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By saying that Jesus does not need anyone to ask him questions, his disciples are implying that Jesus already knows what people will ask him before they ask. Since he already knows what they will ask him, he does not need them to ask him. If this statement would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “so, now you finally place your trust in me!”

John 16:31

Just now do you believe

Quote: ἄρτι πιστεύετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This could mean: (1) Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize what he is saying. Alternate translation: “So, now you finally place your trust in me!” (2) Jesus is asking a question in order to express doubt that the disciples really believe in him, since he knows they will soon leave him. Alternate translation: “Do you really trust me now?”

John 16:32

an hour is coming

Quote: ἔρχεται ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 16:25.

and has come

Quote: καὶ ἐλήλυθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Jesus uses has come in the past tense to refer to something that will happen in the very near future. If this use of has come might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and will come right away”

you might be scattered

Quote: σκορπισθῆτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “others will scatter you”

to his own

Quote: εἰς τὰ ἴδια (1)

Alternate translation: “each of you to his own place” or “every one of you to his own place”

the Father

Quote: ὁ Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 16:33

so that you might have peace in me

Quote: ἵνα ἐν ἐμοὶ εἰρήνην ἔχητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun peace in another way. Alternate translation: “so that you might experience a peaceful feeling in me”

you might have peace … you have troubles

Quote: εἰρήνην ἔχητε & θλῖψιν ἔχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Jesus speaks of peace and troubles as if they were objects that someone can possess. If these uses of peace and troubles might confuse your readers, you could use different expressions. Alternate translation: “you might be peaceful … you experience troubles”

in me

Quote: ἐν ἐμοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, in me refers to being united with Jesus or having a close relationship with him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “because of your relationship with me”

I have conquered the world

Quote: ἐγὼ νενίκηκα τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to the people in the world who oppose God. See how you translated world in 14:17.

John 17

John 17 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is one long prayer that can be divided into three parts according to the topics of Jesus’ prayer requests: 1. Jesus prays for himself (17:1–5) 2. Jesus prays for his disciples (17:6–19) 3. Jesus prays for all Christians (17:20–26)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Glory

Scripture often speaks of God’s glory as a great, bright light that visually represents how great God is. When people see this light, they are afraid. In this chapter Jesus asks God to show his followers his true glory (17:1). (See: glory, glorious, glorify)

Jesus is eternal

Jesus existed before God created the world (17:5). John wrote about this in 1:1.

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Prayer

Jesus is God’s one and only Son (3:16), so he could pray differently from the way other people pray. He used many words that might seem to be 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 honored.

John 17:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting 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.

said these things

Quote: ταῦτα ἐλάλησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to everything that Jesus told his disciples in chapters 13–16. If this use of these things might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “described what would happen to him and his disciples”

having lifted up his eyes

Quote: ἐπάρας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in 6:5.

to the heaven

Quote: εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, heaven refers to the sky. The Jews believed that heaven, the place where God dwells, was located above the sky. If this use of heaven might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “beyond the sky toward God in heaven”

Father, … Son

Quote: Πάτερ & Υἱὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father and Son are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus.

the hour has come

Quote: ἐλήλυθεν ἡ ὥρα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses hour to refer to the time when Jesus would suffer and die. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the time for me to suffer and die has come”

Glorify

Quote: δόξασόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Glorify here is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please glorify”

your Son … the Son

Quote: σου τὸν Υἱόν & ὁ Υἱὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

John 17:2

since you gave him authority {over} all flesh

Quote: καθὼς ἔδωκας αὐτῷ ἐξουσίαν πάσης σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, since indicates that this clause is the reason for the request given in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “because you gave him authority over all flesh”

him … him, he would give

Quote: αὐτῷ & αὐτῷ & δώσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Throughout this verse Jesus is referring to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

all flesh

Quote: πάσης σαρκός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jesus is describing people by referring to something associated with them, the flesh that they are made of. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “over all human beings”

John 17:3

Now this is eternal life

Quote: αὕτη δέ ἐστιν ἡ αἰώνιος ζωὴ (1)

The clause could mean: (1) the rest of the verse describes what eternal life is. Alternate translation: “Now this is what it means to have eternal life” (2) the rest of the verse describes the means by which one receives eternal life. Alternate translation: “Now this is how people live forever”

the one you sent, Jesus Christ

Quote: ὃν ἀπέστειλας, Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jesus uses the one you sent and Jesus Christ to refer to himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person, as in the UST.

John 17:4

the work that you have given me

Quote: τὸ ἔργον & ὃ δέδωκάς μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Jesus uses work to refer to Jesus’ entire ministry while on the earth. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the ministry that you have given me here”

John 17:5

Father, glorify me along with yourself with the glory that I had with you

Quote: δόξασόν με σύ, Πάτερ, παρὰ σεαυτῷ, τῇ δόξῃ ᾗ εἶχον & παρὰ σοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, with yourself and with you refer to Jesus and God the Father being physically near to each other. If this use of with might be confusing to your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Father, glorify me at your side with the glory that I had at your side”

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

glorify

Quote: δόξασόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Here, glorify is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “please glorify”

with the glory

Quote: τῇ δόξῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “with the glorious characteristics”

before the world was made

Quote: πρὸ τοῦ τὸν κόσμον, εἶναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “before we made the world”

John 17:6

I revealed your name

Quote: ἐφανέρωσά σου τὸ ὄνομα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jesus uses name to refer to God himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I revealed you”

from the world

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated world in 1:29.

they have kept your word

Quote: τὸν λόγον σου τετήρηκαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 8:51.

John 17:8

the words

Quote: τὰ ῥήματα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated words in 5:47.

John 17:9

the world

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to the people in the world who oppose God. See how you translated world in 14:17.

John 17:10

I am glorified in them

Quote: δεδόξασμαι ἐν αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they glorify me”

in them

Quote: ἐν αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) all things are the means by which Jesus is glorified. Alternate translation: “by means of them” (2) Jesus is glorified in all things. Alternate translation: “within them”

John 17:11

I am no longer … am coming to you

Quote: οὐκέτι εἰμὶ & πρὸς σὲ ἔρχομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Jesus uses am in the present tense to refer to something that will happen in the near future. If this is confusing in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “I will no longer … I am about to come to you”

in the world, but they are in the world

Quote: ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ αὐτοὶ ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ εἰσίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to both being on the earth and being among the people in the world who oppose God. If this use of world would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in this world with people who oppose you, but they are in this hostile world”

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

keep

Quote: τήρησον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Here, keep is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “please keep”

keep them in your name

Quote: τήρησον αὐτοὺς ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name could refer to: (1) God’s power. Alternate translation: “keep them by your power” (2) God himself, as in 17:6. In this case, Jesus would be requesting that God keep his disciples united with God. Alternate translation: “keep them in unity with you”

John 17:12

I kept them in your name

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐτήρουν αὐτοὺς ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in the previous verse.

not one of them perished, except for the son of destruction

Quote: οὐδεὶς ἐξ αὐτῶν ἀπώλετο, εἰ μὴ ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses perished and destruction to refer to spiritual death, which is eternal punishment in hell that occurs after physical death. If this use of these words might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not one of them died spiritually, except for the son of spiritual death” or “not one of them experienced spiritual death, except for the son of spiritual death”

not one of them perished, except for the son of destruction

Quote: οὐδεὶς ἐξ αὐτῶν ἀπώλετο, εἰ μὴ ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Jesus uses the past tense perished to refer to eternal punishment as if it had already happened, even though the son of destruction had not yet perished. If this use of the past tense might confuse your readers, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “not one of them will perish, except for the son of destruction”

the son of destruction

Quote: ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, son of destruction refers to Judas, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Judas, the son of destruction”

the son of destruction

Quote: ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, son of is an idiom used to describe what a person is like. The defining characteristic of Judas was that he would be destroyed because he betrayed Jesus. If this use of son of might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the one characterized by destruction”

the son of destruction

Quote: ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of destruction, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the son that must be destroyed” or “the son whom you will destroy”

so that the scripture would be fulfilled

Quote: ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that he would fulfill the scripture”

John 17:13

the world

Quote: τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in 17:11.

so that they would have my joy fulfilled in themselves

Quote: ἵνα ἔχωσιν τὴν χαρὰν τὴν ἐμὴν, πεπληρωμένην ἐν ἑαυτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that I might give them my full joy”

John 17:14

your word

Quote: τὸν λόγον σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated your word in 17:6.

the world … from the world, … I am not from the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος & ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου & ἐγὼ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world refers to the people in the world who oppose God. If this use of the world might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people who oppose you … from those who oppose you … I am not from them”

they are not from the world, just as I am not from the world

Quote: οὐκ εἰσὶν ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου, καθὼς ἐγὼ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase from the world could refer to: (1) the place where the subject belongs. Alternate translation: “they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world” (2) the origin of the subject. Alternate translation: “they did not come from the world, just as I did not come from the world”

John 17:15

the world

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses world to refer to both being on the earth and being among the people in the world who oppose God. See how you translated this use of world in 17:11.

you would keep them from the evil one

Quote: τηρήσῃς αὐτοὺς ἐκ τοῦ πονηροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the evil one refers to Satan. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you would keep them from Satan, the evil one”

John 17:16

They are not from the world, just as I am not from the world

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου οὐκ εἰσὶν, καθὼς ἐγὼ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated from the world in 17:14.

John 17:17

Sanctify

Quote: ἁγίασον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

Sanctify is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please sanctify”

Sanctify them by the truth

Quote: ἁγίασον αὐτοὺς ἐν τῇ ἀληθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase by the truth could refer to: (1) the means by which Jesus’ disciples would be sanctified. Alternate translation: “Sanctify them by means of the truth” (2) the realm in which Jesus’ disciples would be sanctified. Alternate translation: “Sanctify them in the truth” (3) both the means and realm of the disciples’ sanctification. See the discussion of John’s use of double meaning in Part 3 of the Introduction to this book. Alternate translation: “Sanctify them by means of and in the truth”

your word

Quote: ὁ λόγος ὁ σὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated your word in 17:6.

John 17:18

into the world, … into the world

Quote: εἰς τὸν κόσμον (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world refers to the people who live in the world. See how you translated the world in 1:29.

John 17:19

for their sakes I have sanctified myself

Quote: ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν ἐγὼ ἁγιάζω ἐμαυτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses the phrases for their sakes and sanctified together to refer to his sacrificial death on the cross. If this clause might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “for their sakes I have sanctified myself to die as a sacrifice”

so that they themselves may also be sanctified in truth

Quote: ἵνα ὦσιν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἡγιασμένοι ἐν ἀληθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that they may also sanctify themselves in truth”

sanctified in truth

Quote: ἡγιασμένοι ἐν ἀληθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase in truth could refer to: (1) the means by which Jesus’ disciples would be sanctified. Alternate translation: “sanctified by means of truth” (2) the nature or degree of their sanctification. Alternate translation: “truly sanctified”

John 17:20

through their word

Quote: διὰ τοῦ λόγου αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to the message that Jesus and his disciples proclaimed. If this use of word might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “through their message”

John 17:21

that … that

Quote: ἵνα & ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The first that in this verse indicates one of Jesus’ prayer requests, namely, that all those who believe in Jesus would be united to each other. The second that indicates another prayer request, namely, that all those who believe in Jesus would be united to Jesus and God the Father. If this would not be clear in your language, you could make these two prayer requests more explicit by making them into two sentences. Alternate translation: “I request that … I also request that”

you, Father, {are} in me, and I in you

Quote: σύ, Πάτερ, ἐν ἐμοὶ, κἀγὼ ἐν σοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. See how you translated a similar phrase in 10:38. Alternate translation: “you, Father, and I are completely joined together as one”

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

so that the world would believe that you have sent me

Quote: ἵνα ὁ κόσμος πιστεύῃ ὅτι σύ με ἀπέστειλας (1)

Here, so that could indicate: (1) that what follows is the purpose for believers to be united to Jesus and God the Father, as in the UST. (2) that what follows is the result of believers being united to Jesus and God the Father. Alternate translation (with a comma preceding): “with the result that the world would believe that you have sent me”

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world is used to refer to all the people in the world. See how you translated the world in 1:29.

John 17:22

The glory that you gave to me, I also have given to them

Quote: κἀγὼ τὴν, δόξαν ἣν δέδωκάς μοι, δέδωκα αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “I have also given to them the glory that you gave to me” or “I have honored them just as you have honored me”

John 17:23

I in them

Quote: ἐγὼ ἐν αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This verse explains the statement “they would be one, just as we are one,” which is in the previous verse. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I mean that I am in them”

so that they may be made complete as one

Quote: ἵνα ὦσιν τετελειωμένοι εἰς ἕν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that indicates that this is the second purpose for Jesus giving the glory he received from God to those who believe in him, which he stated in the previous verse. If this use of so that might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly by repeating the idea from the previous verse and starting a new sentence. Alternate translation: “I have given them your glory so that they may be completely united”

so that the world may know that you sent me

Quote: ἵνα γινώσκῃ ὁ κόσμος ὅτι σύ με ἀπέστειλας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that could refer to: (1) the purpose for those who believe in Jesus being complete as one. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of the world knowing that you send me” (2) a third purpose for Jesus giving the glory he received from God to those who believe in him. This interpretation would require making a new sentence. Alternate translation: “I have also given them your glory so that the world may know that you sent me”

the world

Quote: ὁ κόσμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the world in 17:21.

you loved them

Quote: ἠγάπησας αὐτοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, them refers to those who believe in Jesus, just like them does at the beginning of the verse. These believers are also the main subject of Jesus’ prayer in 17:20–26. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you loved those who believe in me”

John 17:24

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

where I am

Quote: ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

where I am

Quote: ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses where I am to refer to heaven. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “where I am in heaven”

before the foundation of the world

Quote: πρὸ καταβολῆς κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of foundation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “before we founded the world”

of the world

Quote: κόσμου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, world refers to the universe that God created. It does not refer only to the people in the world or only to the earth. Alternate translation: “the whole universe”

John 17:25

Father

Quote: Πάτερ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

the world did not know you

Quote: ὁ κόσμος σε οὐκ ἔγνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world refers to the people in the world who are opposed to God. Alternate translation: “those who are against you did not know you”

John 17:26

name

Quote: τὸ ὄνομά (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name refers to God himself. See how you translated this word in 17:6.

the love with which you have loved me may be in them

Quote: ἡ ἀγάπη ἣν ἠγάπησάς με, ἐν αὐτοῖς ᾖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus speaks of God’s love as if it were an object that could be inside a person. If this use of love might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they may love others in the same way that you have loved me” or “the love with which you have loved me may be experienced by them”

and I in them

Quote: κἀγὼ ἐν αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, Jesus uses the word in to express the close personal relationship between himself and those who believe in him. See how you translated a similar phrase in 10:38.

John 18

John 18 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Soldiers and guards arrest Jesus (18:1–11)
The priests question Jesus, and Peter denies Jesus (18:12–27)
Pilate questions Jesus (18:28–40)

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 (18:31).

King of the Jews

When Pilate asked if Jesus were the King of the Jews (18:33), he was asking if Jesus were claiming to be a political leader like King Herod, whom the Romans allowed to rule Judea. When he asked the crowd if he should release the King of the Jews (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: Irony)

John 18:1-2

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

18:1–2 give background information for the events that follow. Verse 1 says where the events took place. Verse 2 gives background information about Judas. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 18:1

Having spoken these things, Jesus

Quote: ταῦτα εἰπὼν, Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

John uses this phrase to mark the beginning of a new event that happened soon after the events that the story has just told. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Soon after Jesus spoke these words, he”

the brook of the Kidron

Quote: τοῦ χειμάρρου τοῦ Κεδρὼν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe a brook that is called Kidron. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the Kidron Brook” or “the brook that people called ‘Kidron’”

the brook of the Kidron

Quote: τοῦ χειμάρρου τοῦ Κεδρὼν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Kidron is a valley in Jerusalem that is between the Temple Mount and the Mount of Olives.

where there was a garden

Quote: ὅπου ἦν κῆπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated garden can refer to a place with flowers, vegetables, or trees. Matthew 26:36 and Mark 14:32 indicate that the garden that Jesus and his disciples went to was a grove of olive trees. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “where there was a grove of olive trees”

John 18:3

officers

Quote: ὑπηρέτας (1)

See how you translated officers in 7:32.

comes

Quote: ἔρχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 18:4

knowing all the things happening to him

Quote: εἰδὼς πάντα τὰ ἐρχόμενα ἐπ’ αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, knowing introduces a clause that indicates the reason why Jesus went out to meet the soldiers and guards. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “since he knew all things happening to him”

John 18:5

Jesus the Nazarene

Quote: Ἰησοῦν τὸν Ναζωραῖον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The soldiers and guards call Jesus the Nazarene because he was from the town of Nazareth in Galilee. If this might confuse your readers, you could use a more natural expression in your language. Alternate translation: “Jesus, from the town of Nazareth”

He says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

I am

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This could mean: (1) Jesus is just answering their question. In this case he is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Alternate translation: “I am he” or “I am whom you are looking for” (2) Jesus is not only answering their question but also identifying himself as Yahweh, who identified himself to Moses as “I AM” in Exodus 3:14. Alternate translation: “I am God” or “I am the I AM”

Now Judas, the one betraying him, was also standing with them

Quote: ἵστήκει δὲ καὶ Ἰούδας, ὁ παραδιδοὺς αὐτὸν, μετ’ αὐτῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this sentence John provides background information about Judas’ location when he was betraying Jesus. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Now Judas was also there with them to betray Jesus”

John 18:6

I am

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

See how you translated I am in the previous verse.

fell to the ground

Quote: ἔπεσαν χαμαί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here John implies that the men fell to the ground involuntarily because of Jesus’ power. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “fell to the ground because of Jesus’ power”

John 18:7

Jesus the Nazarene

Quote: Ἰησοῦν τὸν Ναζωραῖον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated Jesus the Nazarene in 18:5.

John 18:8

I am

Quote: ἐγώ εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

See how you translated I am in 18:5.

John 18:9

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John provides some background information about Jesus fulfilling Scripture. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

This was} so that would be fulfilled the word that he said

Quote: ἵνα πληρωθῇ ὁ λόγος ὃν εἶπεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “This happened in order to fulfill the word that he had said”

the word that he said

Quote: ὁ λόγος ὃν εἶπεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the word refers to what Jesus said while praying to God the Father in 17:12. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “what he had said when he was praying to his Father”

John 18:10

Simon Peter

Quote: Σίμων & Πέτρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated Simon Peter in 1:40.

a sword

Quote: μάχαιραν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated sword here refers to a small sword that is similar to a dagger or long knife. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “a dagger”

Malchus

Quote: Μάλχος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Malchus is the name of a man.

John 18:11

The cup which the Father has given me, should I certainly not drink it

Quote: τὸ ποτήριον ὃ δέδωκέν μοι ὁ Πατὴρ, οὐ μὴ πίω αὐτό? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the form of a question to add emphasis to his statement. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I should certainly drink the cup that the Father has given to me!”

The cup which the Father has given me, should I certainly not drink it

Quote: τὸ ποτήριον ὃ δέδωκέν μοι ὁ Πατὴρ, οὐ μὴ πίω αὐτό (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses cup to refer to the sufferings he will soon experience as if they were a cup of bitter-tasting liquid that God would give him to drink. If this use of cup and drink would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “My suffering which the Father wants me to endure, should I certainly not endure it”

Father

Quote: Πατὴρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

John 18:12

of the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

tied him up

Quote: ἔδησαν αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The soldiers tied Jesus’ hands together in order to prevent him from escaping. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “tied his hands to prevent him from escaping”

John 18:13

first to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year

Quote: πρὸς Ἅνναν πρῶτον, ἦν γὰρ πενθερὸς τοῦ Καϊάφα, ὃς ἦν ἀρχιερεὺς τοῦ ἐνιαυτοῦ ἐκείνου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Usually there would only have been one high priest, but at this time the Romans were appointing the high priests for Judea, and it caused a controversy. One Roman official had appointed Annas, but ten years later another official deposed him and caused Caiaphas to be high priest instead. However, the Jews still considered Annas to be high priest. It would probably be best to state the matter as simply as possible for your readers. Alternate translation: “first to the high priest Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was the other high priest that year”

John 18:14

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John interrupts the main storyline in order to provide some background information about Caiaphas. This information helps the reader understand why they took Jesus to Caiaphas. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the Jews

Quote: τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated to the Jews in 18:12.

it would be better for one man to die on behalf of the people

Quote: συμφέρει ἕνα ἄνθρωπον ἀποθανεῖν ὑπὲρ τοῦ λαοῦ (1)

See how you translated the similar clause in 11:50.

it would be better for one man to die on behalf of the people

Quote: συμφέρει ἕνα ἄνθρωπον ἀποθανεῖν ὑπὲρ τοῦ λαοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Caiaphas is leaving out a clause that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from his original statement in 11:50. Alternate translation: “it would be better for one man to die on behalf of the people than to let the Romans kill all of the Jewish people”

John 18:15

another disciple followed Jesus. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and he entered

Quote: ἠκολούθει & τῷ Ἰησοῦ & ἄλλος μαθητής. ὁ δὲ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος ἦν γνωστὸς τῷ ἀρχιερεῖ, καὶ συνεισῆλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, another disciple and that disciple could refer to: (1) the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. This interpretation would mean that these phrases would be similar to the phrase “the other disciple, whom Jesus loved” that occurs in (20:2). Alternate translation: “I, another disciple, followed Jesus. Now I was known to the high priest, and I entered” (2) an unknown disciple. Alternate translation: “a certain disciple, followed Jesus. Now that other disciple was known to the high priest, and he entered”

Now that disciple was known to the high priest

Quote: ὁ δὲ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος ἦν γνωστὸς τῷ ἀρχιερεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

to the high priest, … of the high priest

Quote: τῷ ἀρχιερεῖ & τοῦ ἀρχιερέως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In verses 15–23, the high priest refers to Annas, which is indicated in 18:13. It does not refer to Caiaphas. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the high priest Annas … of Annas”

John 18:16

the other disciple

Quote: ὁ μαθητὴς ὁ ἄλλος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the other disciple in the previous verse.

who was known to the high priest

Quote: ὅς ἦν γνωστὸς τοῦ ἀρχιερέως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

John 18:17

says … says

Quote: λέγει (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Are you not also from the disciples of this man

Quote: μὴ καὶ σὺ ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν εἶ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τούτου? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The female servant is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that she believes Peter is one of Jesus’ disciples. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are certainly also from the disciples of this man!”

John 18:18

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John interrupts the main storyline in order to provide some background information about the people who were warming themselves around the fire. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

Now the servants and the officers were standing there, having made a charcoal fire, for it was cold, and they were warming themselves

Quote: ἵστήκεισαν δὲ οἱ δοῦλοι καὶ οἱ ὑπηρέται, ἀνθρακιὰν πεποιηκότες, ὅτι ψῦχος ἦν, καὶ ἐθερμαίνοντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “Now because it was cold, the servants and the officers had made a charcoal fire and were standing there, warming themselves”

the servants

Quote: οἱ δοῦλοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the servants refers to the personal servants of the high priest. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the servants of the high priest”

John 18:19

the high priest

Quote: ὁ & ἀρχιερεὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

According to 18:13 the high priest here is Annas. He would later send Jesus to Caiaphas in 18:24. If this use of high priest might confuse your readers, you could state who the person is explicitly. Alternate translation: “Annas, the high priest”

John 18:20

to the world

Quote: τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Jesus uses the world to refer to all of the people in the world. If this use of world would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to all people”

I have spoken openly to the world

Quote: ἐγὼ παρρησίᾳ λελάληκα τῷ κόσμῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, to the world is an exaggeration that Jesus uses to emphasize that he spoke publicly. If this would confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows emphasis. Alternate translation: “I have spoken openly to the people” or “I have spoken openly for everyone to hear”

in a synagogue

Quote: ἐν συναγωγῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Jesus is speaking of synagogues in general, not of one particular synagogue. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “in synagogues”

where all the Jews come together

Quote: ὅπου πάντες οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι συνέρχονται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, all the Jews is an exaggeration that Jesus uses to emphasize that Jesus spoke where many Jewish people could hear him. If this would confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows emphasis. Alternate translation: “where so many Jews come together”

the Jews

Quote: οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish people in general. It does not refer to the Jewish leaders. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish people”

John 18:21

Why do you ask me

Quote: τί με ἐρωτᾷς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. The Jewish law required the Jewish leaders to question witnesses first in legal cases. Therefore, Jesus is using this question to emphasize that the Jewish leaders are breaking their own law by questioning him instead of questioning witnesses. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not be asking me these questions!”

Behold

Quote: ἴδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses Behold to call attention to what he is about to say. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use here. Alternate translation: “Take notice”

John 18:22

gave Jesus a slap, saying

Quote: ἔδωκεν ῥάπισμα τῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰπών (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “gave Jesus a slap and said”

Do you answer the high priest in this manner

Quote: οὕτως ἀποκρίνῃ τῷ ἀρχιερεῖ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The officer is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation, and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not answer the high priest in this manner!”

John 18:23

testify about the wrong

Quote: μαρτύρησον περὶ τοῦ κακοῦ (1)

Alternate translation: “tell me what I said that was wrong”

but if rightly, why do you strike me

Quote: εἰ δὲ καλῶς, τί με δέρεις? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using the form of a question to add emphasis to what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “but if rightly, you should not strike me!”

John 18:24

Annas … to Caiaphas the high priest

Quote: ὁ Ἅννας & πρὸς Καϊάφαν τὸν ἀρχιερέα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For political reasons both Annas and Caiaphas were high priests at this time. See how you translated these names in 18:13.

John 18:25

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

Now here indicates that John is changing topics to return to the story about Peter in the high priest’s courtyard. 18:25–27 describe what Peter was doing in the courtyard while the high priest was questioning Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “In the meantime,” or “While Jesus was being questioned,”

Are you not also from among his disciples

Quote: μὴ καὶ σὺ ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ εἶ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Someone in the high priest’s courtyard is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he believes Peter is one of Jesus’ disciples. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are certainly also from the disciples of this man!”

John 18:26

Did I not see you in the garden with him

Quote: οὐκ ἐγώ σε εἶδον ἐν τῷ κήπῳ μετ’ αὐτοῦ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

One of the high priest’s servants is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he believes Peter is one of Jesus’ disciples. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I surely saw you in the garden with him!”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the garden

Quote: τῷ κήπῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated garden in 18:1.

John 18:27

Peter then denied {it} again

Quote: πάλιν οὖν ἠρνήσατο Πέτρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, it refers to Peter knowing and being with Jesus. If this use of it might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Peter then denied again that he knew Jesus or had been with him”

a rooster

Quote: ἀλέκτωρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated rooster in 13:38.

John 18:28

General Information:

Here John changes topics from describing what Peter was doing to describing what was happening to Jesus. In the next section, Jesus’ accusers bring him to Caiaphas to be questioned by him.

they led

Quote: ἄγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to the Jewish leaders and temple guards who were accusing Jesus. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Jewish authorities and their guards led”

Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas

Quote: ἄγουσιν οὖν τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἀπὸ τοῦ Καϊάφα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here John implies that they are leading Jesus away from Caiaphas’ house. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas’ house”

to the governor’s palace

Quote: εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The governor’s palace refers to the headquarters of the Roman governor. The next verse indicates that the Roman governor’s name was Pilate. If this would confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the house of the Roman governor, Pilate”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ἦν δὲ πρωΐ. καὶ αὐτοὶ οὐκ εἰσῆλθον εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον, ἵνα μὴ μιανθῶσιν, ἀλλὰ φάγωσιν τὸ Πάσχα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this sentence John interrupts the main storyline in order to provide some background information about why the Jewish people with Jesus did not enter the governor’s palace. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

they did not enter into the governor’s palace so that they would not be defiled, but might eat the Passover

Quote: αὐτοὶ οὐκ εἰσῆλθον εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον, ἵνα μὴ μιανθῶσιν, ἀλλὰ φάγωσιν τὸ Πάσχα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “they remained outside the governor’s palace so that they would remain ceremonially clean, and might eat the Passover”

they did not enter into the governor’s palace so that they would not be defiled, but might eat the Passover

Quote: αὐτοὶ οὐκ εἰσῆλθον εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον, ἵνα μὴ μιανθῶσιν, ἀλλὰ φάγωσιν τὸ Πάσχα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Pilate, the Roman governor, was not a Jew. The Jewish leaders believed that they would become ceremonially unclean if they entered the house of someone who was not a Jew. If they became ceremonially unclean, then they would not be allowed to celebrate the Passover festival. Therefore, the Jewish leaders did not enter the governor’s palace. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this in the simplest way possible. Alternate translation: “they themselves did not enter into the governor’s palace because the governor was a Gentile. They believed that entering a Gentile’s home would defile them, so that they would not be allowed to eat the Passover.”

the Passover

Quote: τὸ Πάσχα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

John is using the name of this part of the festival, Passover, to refer to the meal that people shared on that occasion. If your readers might not understand this, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Passover meal”

John 18:29

What accusation do you bring against this man

Quote: τίνα κατηγορίαν φέρετε κατὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of accusation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “What crime do you accuse this man of committing”

John 18:30

this one

Quote: οὗτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the Jewish leaders say this one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus without saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

If this one were not an evildoer, we would not have handed him over to you

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦν οὗτος κακὸν ποιῶν, οὐκ ἄν σοι παρεδώκαμεν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

The Jewish leaders are making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but they are already convinced that the condition is not true. They have concluded that Jesus is an evildoer. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If this one were not an evildoer, but he is, we would not have handed him over to you, but we did”

If this one were not an evildoer, we would not have handed him over to you

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦν οὗτος κακὸν ποιῶν, οὐκ ἄν σοι παρεδώκαμεν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “This man is an evildoer, so we have brought him to you”

John 18:31

The Jews said to him

Quote: εἶπον αὐτῷ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death

Quote: ἡμῖν οὐκ ἔξεστιν ἀποκτεῖναι οὐδένα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

According to Roman law, the Jews could not put anyone to death. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “According to Roman law, it is not lawful for us to put anyone to death”

John 18:32

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

In this verse John interrupts the main storyline in order to provide some background information about Jesus predicting how he would die. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

This was so that the word of Jesus would be fulfilled

Quote: ἵνα ὁ λόγος τοῦ Ἰησοῦ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

to indicate by what kind of death he was about to die

Quote: σημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ ἤμελλεν ἀποθνῄσκειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, kind of death refers to the manner in which Jesus would die. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to indicate in what manner he was about to die”

John 18:33

summoned Jesus

Quote: ἐφώνησεν τὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, summoned implies that Pilate ordered some of his soldiers to bring Jesus to him inside his headquarters. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “ordered his soldiers to bring Jesus inside to him”

John 18:34

from yourself

Quote: ἀπὸ σεαυτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from indicates the origin of Pilate’s question. Jesus is asking Pilate if the question Pilate asked in the previous verse was his own idea. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “based on your own idea” or “on your own initiative”

John 18:35

I am not a Jew, am I

Quote: μήτι ἐγὼ Ἰουδαῖός εἰμι? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Pilate is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he was not interested in Jewish religious disagreements. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Well I am certainly not a Jew, and I have no interest in these matters!”

Your own nation

Quote: τὸ ἔθνος τὸ σὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, nation refers to the people who were part of the Jewish nation. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Your fellow Jews”

John 18:36

from this world. … from this world

Quote: ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated from this world in 8:23.

this world. … this world, … from here

Quote: τοῦ κόσμου τούτου & τοῦ κόσμου τούτου & ἐντεῦθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this verse, Jesus uses this world and here to refer to everything in the universe that has been corrupted by sin and is hostile to God. See how you translated a similar use of this world in 8:23.

If my kingdom were from this world, my servants would fight so that I would not be handed over to the Jews

Quote: εἰ ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου ἦν ἡ βασιλεία ἡ ἐμή, οἱ ὑπηρέται οἱ ἐμοὶ ἠγωνίζοντο ἄν, ἵνα μὴ παραδοθῶ τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

Jesus is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he already knows that the condition is not true. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “If my kingdom were from this world, but it is not, my servants would fight so that I would not be handed over to the Jews, but they do not”

so that I would not be handed over to the Jews

Quote: ἵνα μὴ παραδοθῶ τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that someone would not have handed me over to the Jews”

to the Jews

Quote: τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

John 18:37

You say that … am a king

Quote: σὺ λέγεις ὅτι βασιλεύς εἰμι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here Jesus is probably answering Pilate’s question in the affirmative. However, since he doesn’t clearly say, ‘Yes, I am a king,’ you do not need to explain the meaning further here.

I … For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world

Quote: ἐγὼ εἰς τοῦτο γεγέννημαι, καὶ εἰς τοῦτο ἐλήλυθα εἰς τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that Jesus came to the earth to tell people the truth about God. If stating the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “For this reason I came here”

the world

Quote: τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, world refers to the universe that God created. It does not refer only to the people in the world or only to the earth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the universe”

to the truth

Quote: τῇ ἀληθείᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, truth refers to what Jesus reveals about God, which would include his plan for forgiving sinful people through Jesus’ death on the cross. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to the true things about God”

Everyone being from the truth

Quote: ὁ ὢν ἐκ τῆς ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to someone who believes the truth about God. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Everyone who believes the truth”

hears

Quote: ἀκούει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, hears means to listen to something with the intent to heed it and respond appropriately. See how you translated this word in 8:43. Alternate translation: “heeds”

my voice

Quote: μου τῆς φωνῆς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jesus uses voice to refer to what Jesus says. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the things I say” or “to me”

John 18:38

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

What is truth

Quote: τί ἐστιν ἀλήθεια? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Pilate is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he does not believe anyone really knows what truth is. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “No one can know the truth!”

truth

Quote: ἀλήθεια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, truth refers to any true information. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “What is true”

the Jews

Quote: τοὺς Ἰουδαίους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

I find no guilt in him

Quote: ἐγὼ οὐδεμίαν αἰτίαν εὑρίσκω ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Pilate speaks of guilt as if it were an object that can be inside a person. If your readers would not understand this, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “I find no evidence that he is guilty of any crime”

John 18:39

I would release one {person} to you

Quote: ἕνα ἀπολύσω ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Pilate implies that he would release a prisoner when the Jewish leaders asked him to do so. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I would release one prisoner to you at your request” or “I would release one prisoner to you when you asked”

at the Passover

Quote: ἐν τῷ Πάσχα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the Passover refers to the entire Passover festival. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the Passover festival”

John 18:40

they cried out again, saying

Quote: ἐκραύγασαν & πάλιν λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “they cried out again and said”

Not this one, but Barabbas

Quote: μὴ τοῦτον, ἀλλὰ τὸν Βαραββᾶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The Jewish leaders are leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Do not release this one, but release Barabbas”

this one

Quote: τοῦτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Now Barabbas was a robber

Quote: ἦν δὲ ὁ Βαραββᾶς λῃστής (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this sentence John provides background information about Barabbas. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

a robber

Quote: λῃστής (1)

The word usually translated robber can also refer to an insurrectionist, as is indicated by the description of Barabbas in Mark 15:7. Alternate translation: “an insurrectionist”

John 19

John 19 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Soldiers beat and mock Jesus (19:1–3)
The Jewish leaders convince Pilate to crucify Jesus (19:4–16)
Soldiers crucify Jesus (19:17–27)
Jesus dies on the cross (19:28–37)
Jesus’ friends put his body in a tomb (19:38–42)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text in order 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 that is from a mixture of red and blue. The soldiers mocked Jesus by putting a purple garment on him. 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: Irony)

“You are not Caesar’s 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 Caesar’s laws (19:12).

Ancient Jewish burial customs

According to the burial customs of that time, a dead person’s family would wrap the dead body with many strips of linen cloth and place it on a table inside a tomb. The tomb was either a cave or a room cut out of the side a large rock. According to Jewish tradition, the body was left to decompose in the tomb for one year. Then the family would then place the bones in a stone box. If your readers would be unfamiliar with these burial customs, then you may need to provide explanations in your translation or in a note for 19:39–42.

The tomb

The tomb in which Jesus was buried (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: Irony)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Gabbatha, Golgotha

John explained the meanings of these two Aramaic words (“The Pavement” and “The Place of a Skull”). Then he used Greek letters to express the sound of these words. You should also use the letters of your language to express the sounds of these Aramaic words.

John 19:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

The part of the story from the previous chapter continues. Pilate has been speaking outside his headquarters with the Jewish leaders who are accusing Jesus.

Therefore, Pilate then took Jesus and whipped {him

Quote: τότε οὖν ἔλαβεν ὁ Πειλᾶτος τὸν Ἰησοῦν καὶ ἐμαστίγωσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Pilate himself did not whip Jesus. John uses Pilate to refer to the soldiers whom Pilate ordered to whip Jesus. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Pilate then ordered his soldiers to take Jesus and whip him”

John 19:2

twisted together a crown from thorns

Quote: πλέξαντες στέφανον ἐξ ἀκανθῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

John uses thorns to refer to small branches with thorns on them. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “twisted together a crown from thorny branches”

They put {it} on his head and put a purple garment on him

Quote: ἐπέθηκαν αὐτοῦ τῇ κεφαλῇ, καὶ ἱμάτιον πορφυροῦν περιέβαλον αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In Roman culture, a crown and purple garment were worn by kings. The soldiers put a crown made from thorns and a purple garment on Jesus in order to mock him. If your readers would not understand this, you could express the meaning explicitly. See the discussion of this idea in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “They put it on his head and put a purple garment on him in order to ridicule him by pretending that he was a king”

John 19:3

and were saying, “Hail, King of the Jews

Quote: καὶ ἔλεγον, χαῖρε, ὁ Βασιλεὺς τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

Hail was a common greeting, but the soldiers use this greeting in order to mock Jesus. They also did not believe that Jesus was really the King of the Jews. They actually mean to communicate the opposite of the literal meaning of their words. If this might confuse your readers, you could provide a brief explanation. Alternate translation: “and they said in a mocking manner, ‘Hail, King of the Jews’”

John 19:4

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

to them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun them refers to the Jewish leaders who had brought Jesus to Pilate. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the Jewish authorities”

I find no guilt in him

Quote: αἰτίαν ἐν αὐτῷ οὐχ εὑρίσκω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar clause in 18:38.

John 19:5

went

Quote: ἐξῆλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Your language may state “came” rather than went in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural in your language.

the crown of thorns and the purple garment

Quote: τὸν ἀκάνθινον στέφανον καὶ τὸ πορφυροῦν ἱμάτιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated crown, thorns, and purple garment in 19:2.

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 19:6

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

they cried out, saying

Quote: ἐκραύγασαν λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “they cried out and said”

I find no guilt in him

Quote: ἐγὼ & οὐχ εὑρίσκω ἐν αὐτῷ αἰτίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar clause in 19:4 and 18:38.

John 19:7

The Jews answered him

Quote: ἀπεκρίθησαν αὐτῷ οἱ Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, The Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

he made himself to be the Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸν Θεοῦ ἑαυτὸν ἐποίησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, made himself is an idiom that refers to pretending to be something they think he is not. If this might confuse your readers, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “he pretended to be the Son of God”

the Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸν Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

John 19:8

this word

Quote: τοῦτον τὸν λόγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to what the Jewish leaders said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “what they said about Jesus claiming to be the Son of God”

he became even more afraid

Quote: μᾶλλον ἐφοβήθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “he grew even more afraid of condemning Jesus” or “he grew even more afraid than before of what might happen to him if he condemned Jesus”

John 19:9

he entered into the governor’s palace again and says to Jesus

Quote: εἰσῆλθεν εἰς τὸ πραιτώριον πάλιν, καὶ λέγει τῷ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies that the soldiers brought Jesus back into the governor’s palace so Pilate could speak with him. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he entered into the governor’s palace again and told the soldiers to bring Jesus back inside. Then he says to Jesus”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 19:10

Are you not speaking to me

Quote: ἐμοὶ οὐ λαλεῖς? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Pilate is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize his surprise that Jesus does not answer his question. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I cannot believe you are refusing to speak to me!” or “Answer me!”

Do you not know that I have authority to release you, and I have authority to crucify you

Quote: οὐκ οἶδας ὅτι ἐξουσίαν ἔχω ἀπολῦσαί σε, καὶ ἐξουσίαν ἔχω σταυρῶσαί σε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Pilate is using a rhetorical question here to emphasize what he is saying. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should know that I am able to release you or to order my soldiers to crucify you!”

John 19:11

You do not have any authority over me, except for what has been given to you from above

Quote: οὐκ εἶχες ἐξουσίαν κατ’ ἐμοῦ οὐδεμίαν, εἰ μὴ ἦν δεδομένον σοι ἄνωθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “You only have authority over me because that authority has been given to you from above”

except for what has been given to you from above

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦν δεδομένον σοι ἄνωθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, above is used to refer to God who dwells in heaven above. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “from heaven”

except for what has been given to you from above

Quote: εἰ μὴ ἦν δεδομένον σοι ἄνωθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “except for what God has given to you”

has a greater sin

Quote: μείζονα ἁμαρτίαν ἔχει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

has a greater sin

Quote: μείζονα ἁμαρτίαν ἔχει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus speaks of sin as if it were an object that a person could possess in varying amounts. If this use of sin might be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are more sinful” or “has committed worse sin”

John 19:12

At this

Quote: ἐκ τούτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, this refers to Jesus’ answer. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “When Pilate heard Jesus’ answer”

the Jews

Quote: οἱ & Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

this one

Quote: τοῦτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jewish leaders say this one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “this so-and-so”

cried out, saying

Quote: ἐκραύγασαν λέγοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “cried out and said”

you are not a friend of Caesar

Quote: οὐκ εἶ φίλος τοῦ Καίσαρος (1)

Alternate translation: “you do not support Caesar” or “you are opposing the emperor”

making himself a king

Quote: βασιλέα ἑαυτὸν ποιῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in 19:7.

John 19:13

these words

Quote: τῶν λόγων τούτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, these words refers to what the Jewish leaders had said in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “what the Jewish leaders said to him”

brought Jesus out

Quote: ἤγαγεν ἔξω τὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies that Pilateordered his soldiers to bring Jesus out. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “commanded the soldiers to bring Jesus out”

sat down

Quote: ἐκάθισεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since a person would sit down to teach or make official statements, the phrase sat down here implies that Pilate was going to speak to the people about what he had decided to do with Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “he sat down to judge”

in the judgment seat

Quote: ἐπὶ βήματος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The judgment seat was a special chair in which a leader sat when he was making an official judgment. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in the seat used for judging people”

in a place called “The Pavement

Quote: εἰς τόπον λεγόμενον Λιθόστρωτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in a place the people called ‘The Pavement’”

in Hebrew

Quote: Ἑβραϊστὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 5:2.

Gabbatha

Quote: Γαββαθᾶ (1)

Here John writes out the sounds of this Jewish Aramaic word with Greek letters. Since John translates the meaning earlier in the verse, you should write out this word using the most similar sounds in your language.

John 19:14

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now marks a break in the storyline. Here John provides information about the upcoming Passover festival and the time of day when Pilate presented Jesus to the Jewish leaders. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

It was about the sixth hour

Quote: ὥρα ἦν ὡς ἕκτη (1)

In this culture, people counted the hours each day beginning around daybreak at six o’clock in the morning. Here, the sixth hour indicates noon. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this in the way the people of your culture reckon time. Alternate translation: “about noon” or “about 12:00 PM”

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

he says to the Jews

Quote: λέγει τοῖς Ἰουδαίοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

John 19:15

Take {him} away! Take {him} away

Quote: ἆρον! ἆρον! (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Take him away here implies taking a person away to be executed. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Take him away to be killed! Take him away to be killed!”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Should I crucify your king

Quote: τὸν βασιλέα ὑμῶν σταυρώσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Pilate uses I to imply that he would order his soldiers to crucify Jesus. Pilate himself did not crucify people. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Should I command my soldiers to crucify your king”

Pilate says to them, “Should I crucify your king

Quote: λέγει αὐτοῖς ὁ Πειλᾶτος, τὸν βασιλέα ὑμῶν σταυρώσω? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

Pilate does not believe that Jesus is a king. He actually means to communicate the opposite of the literal meaning of his words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could provide a brief explanation. Alternate translation: “Pilate says to them in a mocking manner, ‘Should I crucify your king’”

John 19:16

he then handed him over to them so that he might be crucified

Quote: τότε & παρέδωκεν αὐτὸν αὐτοῖς, ἵνα σταυρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronouns them and they refer to the Roman soldiers who would crucify Jesus. These pronouns do not refer to “the chief priests” in the previous verse because they did not crucify people. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as in the UST.

so that he might be crucified

Quote: ἵνα σταυρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the soldiers might crucify him”

and} led {him} away

Quote: ἀπήγαγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase led him away implies that the soldiers led Jesus away in order crucify him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and led him away to be crucified”

John 19:17

to the {place} called “The Place of a Skull,” which in Hebrew is called “Golgotha

Quote: εἰς τὸν λεγόμενον, Κρανίου Τόπον, ὃ λέγεται Ἑβραϊστὶ, Γολγοθᾶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to the place that the people called ‘The Place of a Skull,’ which the Jews call ‘Golgotha’ in Hebrew”

in Hebrew

Quote: Ἑβραϊστὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 5:2.

Golgotha

Quote: Γολγοθᾶ (1)

Here John writes out the sounds of this Jewish Aramaic word using Greek letters. Since John translates the meaning earlier in the verse, you should write out this word using the most similar sounds in your language.

John 19:18

with him two others

Quote: μετ’ αὐτοῦ ἄλλους δύο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “they also crucified two others with him”

John 19:19

Pilate also wrote a title and put it on the cross

Quote: ἔγραψεν & καὶ τίτλον ὁ Πειλᾶτος, καὶ ἔθηκεν ἐπὶ τοῦ σταυροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John uses Pilate to imply that Pilate ordered his soldiers to write the title and put it on the cross. Pilate probably would not have done this himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Pilate also commanded his soldiers to write a title on a sign and put it on the cross”

on the cross

Quote: ἐπὶ τοῦ σταυροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the cross refers specifically to the cross on which Jesus was crucified. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the cross they used to crucify Jesus”

on it was written: JESUS THE NAZARENE, THE KING OF THE JEWS

Quote: ἦν & γεγραμμένον, Ἰησοῦς ὁ Ναζωραῖος, ὁ Βασιλεὺς τῶν Ἰουδαίων. (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that person wrote on it these words: Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews”

John 19:20

the place where Jesus was crucified

Quote: ὁ τόπος & ὅπου ἐσταυρώθη ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the place where they crucified Jesus”

the city

Quote: τῆς πόλεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the city refers to Jerusalem. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the city called Jerusalem”

And it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek

Quote: καὶ ἦν γεγραμμένον Ἑβραϊστί, Ῥωμαϊστί, Ἑλληνιστί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The one who prepared the sign wrote the words in three languages: Hebrew, Latin, and Greek”

in Hebrew

Quote: Ἑβραϊστί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase, in Hebrew, in 5:2.

in Latin

Quote: Ῥωμαϊστί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Latin was the language spoken by the Roman government and Roman soldiers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the language spoken by the Romans”

John 19:21

Therefore, the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate

Quote: ἔλεγον οὖν τῷ Πειλάτῳ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The chief priests had to go back to Pilate’s headquarters in order to speak to him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Then the chief priests of the Jews went back to Pilate and said to him”

That one

Quote: ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jewish leaders say That one as a disrespectful way to refer to Jesus and to avoid saying his name. If your language has a similar way to refer to someone in an indirect but derogatory manner, you may use it here. Alternate translation: “That so-and-so”

That one said, “I am King of the Jews

Quote: ἐκεῖνος εἶπεν, Βασιλεὺς εἰμι τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

John 19:22

What I have written I have written

Quote: ὃ γέγραφα, γέγραφα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Pilate implies that he will not change the words on the notice. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “I have written what I wanted to write, and I will not change it”

What I have written I have written

Quote: ὃ γέγραφα, γέγραφα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Pilate uses I to imply that he ordered his soldiers to write the title and put it on the cross. Pilate probably would not have done this himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “What I told them to write is what they have written”

John 19:23

and the tunic

Quote: καὶ τὸν χιτῶνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The next verse implies that the soldiers kept the tunic separate from the clothes that they divided. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the tunic they did not divide”

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

There is a break from the main storyline that begins with the word Now and continues to the end of the next verse. In this break John tells us how this event fulfills Scripture. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

woven in one piece

Quote: ὑφαντὸς δι’ ὅλου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone had woven it in one piece”

John 19:24

we should cast lots for it, whose it will be

Quote: λάχωμεν περὶ αὐτοῦ, τίνος ἔσται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The soldiers are leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. The soldiers will cast lots and the winner will receive the shirt. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “we should cast lots for it in order to decide whose it will be” or “we should cast lots for it and the winner will get to keep it”

we should cast lots for it, … cast lots

Quote: λάχωμεν περὶ αὐτοῦ & ἔβαλον κλῆρον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The term lots refers to objects with different markings on various sides that were used to decide randomly among several possibilities. They were tossed onto the ground to see which marked side would come up on top. If your readers would not be familiar with lots, you could use a general expression for gambling. Alternate translation: “we should gamble for it … gambled”

This happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled which says

Quote: ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ ἡ λέγουσα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here John uses that the scripture would be fulfilled to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 22:18). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Jesus is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “This happened so that what is written in the Psalms might be fulfilled”

This happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled which says

Quote: ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ ἡ λέγουσα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “This fulfilled the scripture that said”

They divided my garments among themselves and cast lots for my clothing

Quote: διεμερίσαντο τὰ ἱμάτιά μου ἑαυτοῖς, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν ἱματισμόν μου ἔβαλον κλῆρον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

In these phrases, John quotes Psalm 22:19. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

John 19:25

the cross of Jesus

Quote: τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe the cross on which the soldiers had crucified Jesus. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the cross on which Jesus was crucified”

John 19:26

the disciple whom he loved

Quote: τὸν μαθητὴν & ὃν ἠγάπα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar phrase in 13:23.

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Woman

Quote: γύναι (1)

See how you translated Woman in 2:4.

behold, your son

Quote: ἰδοὺ, ὁ υἱός σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Jesus uses son to indicate that he wants his disciple, John, to be like a son to his mother. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “here is the man who will act like a son to you”

John 19:27

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

to the disciple, “… the disciple took her into his own {home

Quote: τῷ μαθητῇ & ἔλαβεν ὁ μαθητὴς αὐτὴν εἰς τὰ ἴδια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, the disciple and his refer to John, who calls himself “the disciple whom he loved” in the previous verse and who is the author of this Gospel. If this would be confusing in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “to the disciple whom Jesus loved … that disciple took her into his own home” or “to me … I took her into my own home”

Behold, your mother

Quote: ἴδε, ἡ μήτηρ σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Jesus uses mother to indicate that he wants his mother to be like a mother to his disciple, John. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Here is the woman to whom you will be like a mother”

from that hour

Quote: ἀπ’ ἐκείνης τῆς ὥρας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, hour refers to a point in time. It does not refer to a 60-minute length of time. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from that time”

John 19:28

After this

Quote: μετὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

After this introduces a new event that happened soon after the events the story has just told. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternate translation: “Soon afterward”

all things had already been completed

Quote: ἤδη πάντα τετέλεσται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he had already completed all things”

all things

Quote: πάντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, all things refers to everything that God sent Jesus to the world to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “all the things that God had sent him to do”

the scripture might be completed

Quote: τελειωθῇ ἡ Γραφὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he might fulfill the scripture”

so that the scripture might be completed

Quote: ἵνα τελειωθῇ ἡ Γραφὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here John uses that the scripture might be completed to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 69:21).If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Jesus is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “so that what is written in the Psalms might be fulfilled”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 19:29

A container full of sour wine was placed there

Quote: σκεῦος ἔκειτο ὄξους μεστόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Someone had placed there a container full of sour wine”

of sour wine … of the sour wine

Quote: ὄξους & τοῦ ὄξους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, sour wine refers to the inexpensive wine that common people in Jesus’ culture would usually drink to quench thirst. Therefore, the person who gave Jesus this sour wine was acting kindly and responding to what he had said in the previous verse. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “of common wine … of that wine”

so having put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop

Quote: σπόγγον οὖν μεστὸν τοῦ ὄξους ὑσσώπῳ περιθέντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies that someone dipped the sponge into the container full of sour wine so that the sponge would be full of the sour wine. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “so having dipped a sponge in the container so that it was full of sour wine, they put it on a hyssop”

a sponge

Quote: σπόγγον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A sponge is a small object that can soak up and hold liquid that comes out of it when the sponge is squeezed. If your readers would not be familiar with this thing, you could use the name of something your readers would use for soaking up liquid, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “something to soak up liquid”

on a hyssop

Quote: ὑσσώπῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here, hyssop refers to the stalk from a plant that grows in Israel. Matthew and Mark called this stalk a “reed” in Matthew 27:48 and Mark 15:36. If your readers would not be familiar with this plant, you could use the name of a plant in your area that has stalks or reeds, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “a reed of a plant called hyssop”

John 19:30

the sour wine

Quote: τὸ ὄξος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase, the sour wine, in the previous verse.

It is finished

Quote: τετέλεσται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The thing Jesus finished could be: (1) all the work that God had sent Jesus to the world to do. This interpretation would connect this phrase to the statement Jesus made in 17:4 when he said that he had “completed the work” that God had given him to do. Alternate translation: “I finished all that I came here to do” (2) all the Old Testament prophecies about what Jesus would do the first time he came to the earth. This interpretation would connect this phrase to the statement in verse 28, “knowing that all things had already been completed, so that the scripture might be completed.” Alternate translation: “I completed all that the scripture has said about me”

he gave up his spirit

Quote: παρέδωκεν τὸ πνεῦμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause is an idiom that means “willingly die.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “he allowed himself to die”

John 19:31

Then the Jews, because it was a day of preparation, so that the bodies would not remain on the cross during the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was an especially important day), asked Pilate that their legs would be broken and they would be taken away

Quote: οἱ οὖν Ἰουδαῖοι, ἐπεὶ παρασκευὴ ἦν, ἵνα μὴ μείνῃ ἐπὶ τοῦ σταυροῦ τὰ σώματα ἐν τῷ Σαββάτῳ (ἦν γὰρ μεγάλη ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνου τοῦ Σαββάτου), ἠρώτησαν τὸν Πειλᾶτον, ἵνα κατεαγῶσιν αὐτῶν τὰ σκέλη, καὶ ἀρθῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “Then, because it was the day of preparation, the Jews asked Pilate that the men’s legs would be broken and they would be taken away, so that the bodies would not remain on the cross during the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was an especially important day)”

the Jews

Quote: οἱ & Ἰουδαῖοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

a day of preparation

Quote: παρασκευὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, day of preparation refers to the day when the Jewish people prepared for both the Passover festival and the Sabbath. See how you translated a similar phrase in 19:14. Alternate translation: “the day when the Jews prepared for both the Passover festival and the Sabbath”

so that the bodies would not remain on the cross during the Sabbath

Quote: ἵνα μὴ μείνῃ ἐπὶ τοῦ σταυροῦ τὰ σώματα ἐν τῷ Σαββάτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

According to Jewish religious law, dead bodies could not remain on crosses during the Sabbath. Therefore, the Jewish leaders wanted Pilate to order his soldiers to execute the three men on crosses and remove their bodies before the Sabbath began at sundown. If this clause might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that the bodies would not remain on the cross during the Sabbath, which the Jewish law forbids” or “so that the bodies would not remain on the cross during the Sabbath and thereby violate Jewish law”

on the cross

Quote: ἐπὶ τοῦ σταυροῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

John is speaking of the three crosses on which the men were hanging. He is not referring to one particular cross. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “on the three crosses”

for that Sabbath was an especially important day

Quote: ἦν γὰρ μεγάλη ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνου τοῦ Σαββάτου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John notes that this Sabbath was an especially important day because it was the first day of the Passover celebration. If this statement would confuse your readers, express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “for that Sabbath was especially important because it occurred during the Passover festival”

that their legs would be broken and they would be taken away

Quote: ἵνα κατεαγῶσιν αὐτῶν τὰ σκέλη, καὶ ἀρθῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to have someone break their legs and take them away”

their legs would be broken and they would be taken away

Quote: κατεαγῶσιν αὐτῶν τὰ σκέλη, καὶ ἀρθῶσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Jewish leaders wanted Pilate’s soldiers to break the legs of the men who were hanging on crosses because doing that would cause the men to die quickly. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “their legs would be broken so that they would die quickly and their bodies could be taken away”

John 19:32

of the other one having been crucified with him

Quote: τοῦ ἄλλου τοῦ συνσταυρωθέντος αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “of the other man with whom they had crucified him”

John 19:35

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This verse is a break from the main storyline in which John provides some background information about himself. John is telling readers that they can trust what he has written because he saw these events happen. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

the one that had seen this … his … that one knows that he speaks the truth

Quote: ὁ ἑωρακὼς & αὐτοῦ & ἐκεῖνος οἶδεν ὅτι ἀληθῆ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

These phrases refer to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. He is speaking of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: “I, the one who saw this … my … I know that I speak the truth”

so that you would also believe

Quote: ἵνα καὶ ὑμεῖς πιστεύητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that this clause would need in many languages in order to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “so that you would also believe that Jesus is the Messiah”

John 19:36-37

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

19:36–37 are another break from the main storyline in which John tells us that the two events in 19:33–34 made some prophecies in scripture come true. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 19:36

these things happened in order that the scripture would be fulfilled

Quote: ἐγένετο & ταῦτα, ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here John uses that the scripture would be fulfilled to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Psalm 34:20). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Jesus is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “these things happened in order that what is written in the Psalms might be fulfilled”

these things happened

Quote: ἐγένετο & ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things refers to the two events described in 19:33–34. If it would be more natural in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the soldiers did not break Jesus’ legs but pierced his side”

in order that the scripture would be fulfilled

Quote: ἵνα ἡ Γραφὴ πληρωθῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in order to fulfill the words that someone wrote in scripture”

Not one of his bones will be broken

Quote: ὀστοῦν οὐ συντριβήσεται αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Psalm 34:20. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

Not one of his bones will be broken

Quote: ὀστοῦν οὐ συντριβήσεται αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This is a quotation from Psalm 34:20. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one will break even one of his bones”

John 19:37

another scripture says

Quote: ἑτέρα Γραφὴ λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here John uses another scripture says to introduce a quotation from an Old Testament book (Zechariah 12:10). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Jesus is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “the prophet Zechariah wrote in another scripture that”

They will look at him whom they pierced

Quote: ὄψονται εἰς ὃν ἐξεκέντησαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This sentence is a quotation from Zechariah 12:10. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by setting off all of this material with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

John 19:38

after these things

Quote: μετὰ & ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Joseph from Arimathea

Quote: Ἰωσὴφ ὁ ἀπὸ Ἁριμαθαίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since Luke 23:50 indicates that Joseph was a member of the Sanhedrin, he was likely dwelling in Jerusalem. Therefore, John would mean here that Joseph was originally from Arimathea. Joseph had not come from Arimathea to Jerusalem for this occasion. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Joseph, who was originally from Arimathea”

Joseph from Arimathea

Quote: Ἰωσὴφ ὁ ἀπὸ Ἁριμαθαίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Arimathea was a city in Judea. Alternate translation: “Joseph who was from the city called Arimathea”

for fear of the Jews

Quote: διὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

John is using of to describe the fear that Joseph felt for the Jewish leaders. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “because he feared the Jews”

for fear of the Jews

Quote: διὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

that he might take away the body of Jesus. … took away his body

Quote: ἵνα ἄρῃ τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ & ἦρεν τὸ σῶμα αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies that Joseph wanted to take away the body of Jesus in order to bury it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “that he might take away the body of Jesus in order to bury it … took away and buried his body”

Pilate gave him permission

Quote: ἐπέτρεψεν ὁ Πειλᾶτος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John implies that Pilate gave Joseph permission to take away Jesus’ body. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Pilate gave him permission to take away the body of Jesus”

John 19:39

Nicodemus

Quote: Νικόδημος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Nicodemus was one of the Pharisees who respected Jesus. See how you translated this name in 3:1.

the one having come to him at first at night

Quote: ὁ ἐλθὼν πρὸς αὐτὸν νυκτὸς τὸ πρῶτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to the meeting between Jesus and Nicodemus that is described in chapter 3. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who had met Jesus before when he visited him at night”

bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes

Quote: φέρων μίγμα σμύρνης καὶ ἀλόης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

According to the burial customs of Jesus’ time, people prepared this mixture in order to put it on Jesus’ body as a way to honor him and to counteract the smell of decay. If this would confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes to put on Jesus’ body”

of myrrh and aloes

Quote: σμύρνης καὶ ἀλόης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

This mixture of myrrh and aloes consisted of pleasant-smelling substances that were mixed together into an ointment that was put on a dead body in order to counteract the smell of decay. If your readers would not be familiar with these substances, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “of pleasant-smelling substances”

about 100 litras in weight

Quote: ὡς λίτρας ἑκατόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this weight in terms of modern measurements either in the text or a footnote. One litra is about one third of a kilogram or three quarters of a pound. Alternate translation: “about 33 kilograms in weight” or “weighing about thirty-three kilograms”

John 19:40

wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices

Quote: ἔδησαν αὐτὸ ὀθονίοις μετὰ τῶν ἀρωμάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Wrapping a dead body in strips of cloth was the burial custom in this culture. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. If your readers would not be familiar with such a custom, you could describe it more specifically, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “wrapped strips of linen cloth around his body and put spices under the strips of cloth”

John 19:41

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In this verse John interrupts the main storyline in order to provide some background information about the location of the tomb where they would bury Jesus. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden

Quote: ἦν δὲ ἐν τῷ τόπῳ ὅπου ἐσταυρώθη κῆπος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Now in the place where they crucified Jesus there was a garden”

in which no one had yet been buried

Quote: ἐν ᾧ οὐδέπω οὐδεὶς ἦν τεθειμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in which people had not yet buried anyone”

no one had yet been buried

Quote: οὐδέπω οὐδεὶς ἦν τεθειμένος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The phrase no one had yet translates two negative words in Greek. John uses them together to emphasize that the tomb had never been used. If your language can use two negatives together for emphasis without them cancelling each other to create a positive meaning, it would be appropriate to use that construction here.

John 19:42

because of the day of preparation of the Jews

Quote: διὰ τὴν παρασκευὴν τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

According to Jewish law, no one could work after sundown on the day of preparation because sundown marked the beginning of the Sabbath and Passover. This meant that they had to bury Jesus’ body quickly. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “because the Passover and Sabbath were about to begin that evening”

because of the day of preparation of the Jews and because the tomb was close by, they laid Jesus there

Quote: ἐκεῖ & διὰ τὴν παρασκευὴν τῶν Ἰουδαίων, ὅτι ἐγγὺς ἦν τὸ μνημεῖον, ἔθηκαν τὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “they laid Jesus there because of the day of preparation of the Jews and because the tomb was close by”

the day of preparation of the Jews

Quote: τὴν παρασκευὴν τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar phrase in 19:14.

they laid Jesus

Quote: ἔθηκαν τὸν Ἰησοῦν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

John is referring to putting Jesus’ dead body in a tomb as laying him down. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant, and it accurately describes the Jewish burial practice of laying a dead body on a table inside the tomb. See how you translated a similar expression in 11:34. Alternate translation: “they entombed Jesus”

John 20

John 20 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John go to Jesus’ tomb and find it empty (20:1–10)
Mary Magdalene meets Jesus (20:11–18)
Ten disciples meet Jesus (20:19–25)
Thomas meets Jesus (20:26–29)
John states the purpose for this Gospel (20:30–31)

Special Concepts in this Chapter

The tomb

The tomb in which Jesus was buried (20:1) was the kind of tomb in which wealthy Jewish families buried their dead. It was a 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 look 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 blowing air out of his mouth, and that Jesus was referring to the Holy Spirit, not his breath. (See: Symbolic Action and Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

Rabboni

John used Greek letters to express the sound of this Aramaic word. Then he explained that the word means “Teacher.” You should also use the letters of your language to express the sounds of the Aramaic word.

Jesus’ resurrection body

We do not know what Jesus’ body looked like after he became alive again. His disciples knew he was Jesus because they could see his face and touch the places where the soldiers had put the nails through his hands and feet and pierced his side. However, he could also walk through solid walls and doors and sometimes people didn’t recognize him. It is best not to say more than what the ULT says about Jesus’ resurrection body.

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 appeared in human forms. Two of the Gospel 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 rather than trying to make the passages all state the exact same thing. (See: Matthew 28:1–2 and Mark 16:5 and Luke 24:4 and John 20:12)

John 20:1

on the first of the week

Quote: τῇ & μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John uses first to imply the first day of the week. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the first day of the week”

on the first of the week

Quote: τῇ & μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Here John is actually using a cardinal number, “one,” to mean first. If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can also use a cardinal number here in your translation. Alternate translation: “on day one of the week”

comes … sees

Quote: ἔρχεται & βλέπει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

sees the stone having been rolled away

Quote: βλέπει τὸν λίθον ἠρμένον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “sees that someone had rolled away the stone”

John 20:2

she runs … comes … she says

Quote: τρέχει & ἔρχεται & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

disciple whom Jesus loved

Quote: μαθητὴν ὃν ἐφίλει ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. See the discussion of this phrase in Part 1 of the Introduction to the Gospel of John and the General Notes to Chapter 13. See also how you translated similar phrases in 13:23 and 18:15.

to them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated the other disciple whom Jesus loved with a first person form earlier in the verse, then you will need to use the first person plural “us” here. Alternate translation: “to us”

to them

Quote: αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

If you translated the other disciple whom Jesus loved with a third person form and your language marks the dual form, then the pronoun them here would be in the dual form.

the Lord … him

Quote: τὸν Κύριον & αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here Mary speaks of Jesus’ dead body as if it were Jesus himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Lord’s body … it”

we do not know where they have laid him

Quote: οὐκ οἴδαμεν ποῦ ἔθηκαν αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When Mary says we, she is speaking of herself and some women who came to the tomb with her. These women are mentioned in Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:1; and Luke 24:1, 10, 24. Since she is not speaking of the two disciples, we is exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

John 20:3

the other disciple

Quote: ὁ ἄλλος μαθητής (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the other disciple in the previous verse.

went out, … they went

Quote: ἐξῆλθεν & ἤρχοντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-verbs

If you translated the other disciple in the previous verse with a third person form and your language marks the dual form, then the verbs went out and went would be in the dual form here.

they went

Quote: ἤρχοντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

If you translated the other disciple in the previous verse with a third person form and your language marks the dual form, then the pronoun they here would be in the dual form.

they went

Quote: ἤρχοντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated the other disciple in the previous verse with a first person singular form, then you will need to use the first person plural “we” here. Alternate translation: “we went”

John 20:4

the two were running together, and the other disciple quickly ran ahead

Quote: ἔτρεχον & οἱ δύο ὁμοῦ, καὶ ὁ ἄλλος μαθητὴς προέδραμεν τάχειον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated the other disciple with a first person form in 20:2, then you will need to use first person pronouns in this verse. Alternate translation: “we were running together, and I quickly ran ahead”

the other disciple

Quote: ὁ ἄλλος μαθητὴς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the other disciple in 20:2.

John 20:5

he sees … but he did not enter

Quote: βλέπει & οὐ μέντοι εἰσῆλθεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated the other disciple with a first person form in the previous verse, then you will need to use first person pronouns in this verse. Alternate translation: “I saw … but I did not enter”

he sees

Quote: βλέπει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

linen cloths

Quote: ὀθόνια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Wrapping a dead body in strips of cloth was the burial custom in this culture. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for Chapter 19. If your readers would not be familiar with such a custom, you could describe it more specifically, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “the linen cloths in which they had wrapped Jesus’ body for burial”

John 20:6

comes … he sees

Quote: ἔρχεται & θεωρεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

him

Quote: αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated the other disciple with a first person form in 20:4, then you will need to use the first person “me” here.

linen cloths

Quote: ὀθόνια (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated linen cloths in the previous verse.

John 20:7

the cloth that had been on his head

Quote: τὸ σουδάριον, ὃ ἦν ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the cloth that someone had put on his head”

his

Quote: αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun his refers to Jesus, not to Peter or John. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly, as in the UST.

linen cloths

Quote: ὀθονίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated linen cloths in the previous verse.

but having been folded up in one place by itself

Quote: ἀλλὰ χωρὶς ἐντετυλιγμένον εἰς ἕνα τόπον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but someone had folded it up in one place by itself”

John 20:8

the other disciple

Quote: ὁ ἄλλος μαθητὴς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the other disciple in 20:2.

went in, and he saw and believed

Quote: εἰσῆλθεν & καὶ εἶδεν καὶ ἐπίστευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated the other disciple with a first person form in this verse, then you will need to use the first person throughout this verse. Alternate translation: “went in, and I saw and believed”

he saw

Quote: εἶδεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John is leaving out some of the words that this phrase would need in many languages in order to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “he saw the linen cloths where Jesus’ body had lain”

believed

Quote: ἐπίστευσεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 20:9

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

For here indicates that this verse provides background information about the kind of belief that was mentioned in the previous clause. For here does not indicate a reason or cause. At that time, the disciples believed Jesus had risen from the dead only because the tomb was empty. They still did not understand that the scriptures said Jesus would rise from the dead. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “But even then”

to rise from the dead

Quote: ἐκ νεκρῶν ἀναστῆναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, rise from the dead is an idiom that refers to a dead person becoming alive again. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “become alive after he died”

John 20:10

went away again to their {own homes

Quote: ἀπῆλθον & πάλιν πρὸς αὑτοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since the disciples were staying within walking distance of Jesus’ tomb, the homes they went to must have been in Jerusalem. They did not go back to their homes in Galilee. Alternate translation: “went back to where they were staying in Jerusalem”

John 20:11

Mary

Quote: Μαρία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Mary here refers to Mary Magdalene. See how you translated this Mary in 19:25.

John 20:12

she sees

Quote: θεωρεῖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

two angels in white

Quote: δύο ἀγγέλους ἐν λευκοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, white refers to the color of the clothing that the angels were wearing. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “two angels in white clothing”

one at the head and one at the feet of where the body of Jesus had lain

Quote: ἕνα πρὸς τῇ κεφαλῇ, καὶ ἕνα πρὸς τοῖς ποσίν, ὅπου ἔκειτο τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, at the head and at the feet refer to the locations in the tomb where Jesus’ head and feet used to be. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “one at the place of his head and one at the place of his feet where the body of Jesus had been”

had lain

Quote: ἔκειτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone had laid”

John 20:13

say … She says

Quote: λέγουσιν & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Woman

Quote: γύναι (1)

See how you translated the similar use of Woman in 2:4 and 4:21.

my Lord, … him

Quote: τὸν Κύριόν μου & αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, Mary speaks of Jesus’ dead body as if it were Jesus himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “my Lord’s body … it”

John 20:15

says … says

Quote: λέγει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Woman

Quote: γύναι (1)

See how you translated the word Woman in the previous verse.

him … him, … him

Quote: αὐτόν & αὐτόν & αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, Mary speaks of Jesus’ dead body as if it were Jesus himself. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “my Lord’s body … it … it”

and I will take him away

Quote: κἀγὼ αὐτὸν ἀρῶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Mary Magdalene implies that she would take Jesus’ body away and bury it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and I will take him away and bury him again”

John 20:16

says … says

Quote: λέγει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

in Hebrew, “Rabboni” (which means “Teacher

Quote: Ἑβραϊστί, Ραββουνεί (ὃ λέγεται, Διδάσκαλε) (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “‘Rabboni’ (which means ‘Teacher’ in Hebrew)”

in Hebrew

Quote: Ἑβραϊστί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated in Hebrew in 5:2.

Rabboni

Quote: Ραββουνεί (1)

Here John writes out the sounds of this Jewish Aramaic word with Greek letters. Since John translates the meaning later in the verse, you should write out this word using the most similar sounds in your language.

John 20:17

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the Father; … my Father … your Father

Quote: τὸν Πατέρα & τὸν Πατέρα μου & Πατέρα ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

my brothers

Quote: τοὺς ἀδελφούς μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus used the word my brothers here to refer to his disciples. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “my disciples, who are like brothers,”

say to them, ‘I go up to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God

Quote: εἰπὲ αὐτοῖς, ἀναβαίνω πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα μου, καὶ Πατέρα ὑμῶν, καὶ Θεόν μου, καὶ Θεὸν ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If the direct quotation inside a direct quotation would be confusing in your language, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “say to them that I go up to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God”

I go up

Quote: ἀναβαίνω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here Jesus uses the present tense I go up to refer to something that will happen in the near future. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the future tense in your translation. Alternate translation: “I will go up”

to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God

Quote: πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα μου, καὶ Πατέρα ὑμῶν, καὶ Θεόν μου, καὶ Θεὸν ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two long phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize to whom Jesus will return. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “to God, who is my Father and your Father”

John 20:18

comes

Quote: ἔρχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Mary Magdalene comes

Quote: ἔρχεται Μαριὰμ ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Your language may state “goes” rather than comes in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “Mary Magdalene goes”

Mary Magdalene comes

Quote: ἔρχεται Μαριὰμ ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 20:19

the first of the week

Quote: τῇ μιᾷ σαββάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the first of the week in 20:1.

the first of the week

Quote: τῇ μιᾷ σαββάτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

the doors of where the disciples were having been closed

Quote: τῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων ὅπου ἦσαν οἱ μαθηταὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the disciples having closed the doors of where they were”

for fear of the Jews

Quote: διὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 19:38.

of the Jews

Quote: τῶν Ἰουδαίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the Jews refers to the Jewish leaders. See how you translated this term in 1:19.

Peace to you

Quote: εἰρήνη ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiomatic expression, based on the Hebrew word and concept of “shalom.” It was both a greeting and a blessing. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I greet all of you and I wish for God to bless you”

John 20:20

he showed them his hands

Quote: ἔδειξεν τὰς χεῖρας & αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

John uses his hands to refer to the nail marks from crucifixion that were in Jesus’ hands. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he showed them the nail marks in his hands”

his side

Quote: τὴν πλευρὰν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

John uses his side to refer to the wound that a Roman soldier made in Jesus’ side with a spear. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the spear wound in his side”

having seen the Lord

Quote: ἰδόντες τὸν Κύριον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This could refer to: (1) the time when the disciples rejoiced, as in the UST. (2) the reason why the disciples rejoiced. Alternate translation: “because they saw the Lord”

John 20:21

Peace to you

Quote: εἰρήνη ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated Peace to you in the previous verse.

Father

Quote: Πατήρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Father is an important title for God.

Just as the Father has sent me, so I send you

Quote: καθὼς ἀπέσταλκέν με ὁ Πατήρ, κἀγὼ πέμπω ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “I send you just as the Father has sent me”

has sent me, so I send you

Quote: ἀπέσταλκέν με & κἀγὼ πέμπω ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 20:22

he breathed on {them

Quote: ἐνεφύσησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

When Jesus breathed on them, he did this symbolic action in order to show that he would give his disciples the Holy Spirit in the near future. If this would be helpful to your readers, you could explain its significance. Alternate translation: “he breathed on them as a symbolic action” or “he breathed on them to symbolically show that he was going to give them the Holy Spirit”

he breathed on {them

Quote: ἐνεφύσησεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, breathed on refers to Jesus blowing air out of his mouth. It does not refer to the normal act of inhaling and exhaling air into one’s lungs. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “he blew air on them”

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 20:23

they have been forgiven for them

Quote: ἀφέωνται αὐτοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will forgive them”

whoever’s {sins} you retain, they have been retained

Quote: ἄν τινων κρατῆτε, κεκράτηνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

To retain sins means to not forgive someone for the sins that they have committed. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “whoever’s sins you might not forgive, they will not be forgiven”

they have been retained

Quote: κεκράτηνται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will retain them”

John 20:24

the Twelve

Quote: τῶν δώδεκα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the Twelve in 6:67.

the one called Didymus

Quote: ὁ λεγόμενος Δίδυμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom people called Didymus”

John 20:25

Unless 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, I will certainly not believe

Quote: ἐὰν 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 πιστεύσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “I will certainly not believe unless 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”

Unless 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, I will certainly not believe

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. 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”

the mark of the nails … the mark of the nails

Quote: τὸν τύπον τῶν ἥλων (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

In both of these occurrences, Thomas is using of to describe mark made by nails. He is referring to the holes in Jesus’ hands that were made by the nails that soldiers used to crucify him. Alternate translation: “the marks made by nails … those marks”

into his side

Quote: εἰς τὴν πλευρὰν αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated his side in 20:20.

I will certainly not believe

Quote: οὐ μὴ πιστεύσω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Thomas is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “I will certainly not believe that Jesus has become alive again”

John 20:26

comes

Quote: ἔρχεται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the doors having been closed

Quote: τῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated this phrase in 20:19.

Peace to you

Quote: εἰρήνη ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated Peace to you in 20:19.

John 20:27

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

here

Quote: ὧδε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses here to refer to the places on his hands where there were holes. These holes in Jesus’ hands were made by the nails that soldiers used to crucify him. If this might confuse your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in these holes”

my hands

Quote: τὰς χεῖράς μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jesus uses my hands to refer to the holes in Jesus’ hands that were made by the nails that soldiers used to crucify him. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the nail marks in my hands”

my side

Quote: τὴν πλευράν μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jesus uses my side to refer to the wound that a Roman soldier made in his side with a spear. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the spear wound in his side”

do not be unbelieving, but believing

Quote: μὴ γίνου ἄπιστος, ἀλλὰ πιστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that Jesus wants Thomas to believe that he has become alive again. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “you absolutely must believe”

do not be unbelieving, but believing

Quote: μὴ γίνου ἄπιστος, ἀλλὰ πιστός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 20:29

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

you have believed; … having believed

Quote: πεπίστευκας & πιστεύσαντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

blessed {are} the ones not having seen

Quote: μακάριοι οἱ μὴ ἰδόντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God blesses those not having seen”

not having seen

Quote: μὴ ἰδόντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

John 20:30-31

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

General Information:

In 20:30–31 John comments about the story he has written in chapters 1 through 20. He also states his reason for writing this book. He does this in order to indicate that the story is almost finished. Use the natural form in your language for expressing the conclusion of a story.

John 20:30

signs

Quote: σημεῖα (1)

See how you translated the term signs in 2:11. See also the discussion of signs in Part 3 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. Alternate translation: “significant miracles”

which have not been written in this book

Quote: ἃ οὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένα ἐν τῷ βιβλίῳ τούτῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Since John wrote this Gospel, you should use the first person pronoun “I” to indicate who did the action. Alternate translation: “which I have not written in this book”

John 20:31

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these things could mean: (1) the miraculous signs that John wrote about in his Gospel and mentioned in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “these signs” (2) everything that John wrote about in his Gospel. Alternate translation: “everything in this book”

but these things have been written

Quote: ταῦτα δὲ γέγραπται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but the author wrote about these things”

you would believe … you would have

Quote: πιστεύητε & ἔχητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

In this verse you is plural and could refer to: (1) people who are reading this Gospel and do not trust in Jesus for salvation. Alternate translation: “you might believe … you might have” (2) people who are reading this Gospel and already believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “you would continue believing … you would continue to have”

Son of God

Quote: Υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples

Son of God is an important title for Jesus.

believing

Quote: πιστεύοντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

life

Quote: ζωὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to eternal life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. See the UST.

in his name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, in indicates the means by which people can have eternal life. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “by means of his name”

in his name

Quote: ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, his name could refer to: (1) Jesus himself. Alternate translation: “through union with him” or “by the power of his person” (2) calling on Jesus’ name for salvation. Alternate translation: “by calling on his name”

John 21

John 21 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Jesus eats breakfast with his disciples (21:1–14)
Jesus restores Peter as his disciple (21:15–19)
Jesus and Peter speak about John (21:20–23)
John concludes his Gospel (21:24–25)

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 (10:11). After he became alive again, Jesus commanded Peter to take care of other believers in the same way. (See: Metaphor)

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“The disciple whom Jesus loved”

The apostle John referred to himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” twice in this chapter (21:7, 20). Your language may not allow people to speak of themselves as if they were speaking about someone else. If this is the case, then you will need to use a first person pronoun for these references and the other references to John throughout this chapter. You would also need to use first person plural pronouns in this chapter for all references to the disciples as a group, since John was one of them. If your language can retain the third person references, then you may want to make these references to John explicit by adding “John” next to them. See the discussion of this in Part 1 of the General Introduction to the Gospel of John. (See: John (the apostle) and First, Second or Third Person)

Different words for “love”

In 21:15–17, Jesus and Peter speak to each other using two different words in the original language that could both be translated as “love.” These words are often used interchangeably. However, when they are used together, as in 21:15–17, they can have slightly different meanings. One word can refer to a type of love that is based on affection and friendship, but the other word can refer to a type of love that is based on sincere devotion and high esteem for the person being loved. Although the UST translates both of these words as “love,” the notes will provide more specific alternatives.

John 21:1

After these things

Quote: μετὰ ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Sea of Tiberias

Quote: θαλάσσης τῆς Τιβεριάδος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

This Sea was also called “the Sea of Galilee.” See how you translated the similar name in 6:1.

John 21:2-3

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

General Information:

21:2–3 provide background information on what happens in the story before Jesus appears to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

John 21:2

Thomas called Didymus

Quote: Θωμᾶς ὁ λεγόμενος Δίδυμος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated this phrase in 11:16.

Cana of Galilee

Quote: Κανὰ τῆς Γαλιλαίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated Cana of Galilee in 2:1.

the {sons} of Zebedee

Quote: οἱ τοῦ Ζεβεδαίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the disciples John and James, whom Jesus called “sons of thunder” in Mark 3:17. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “James and I, the sons of Zebedee”

John 21:3

says … They say

Quote: λέγει & λέγουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

We

Quote: ἡμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

When the disciples say We, they are speaking of themselves without Peter, so We would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

are coming

Quote: ἐρχόμεθα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Your language may state “going” rather than coming in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural in your language. Alternate translation: “are going”

got into a boat

Quote: ἐνέβησαν εἰς τὸ πλοῖον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, got in a boat implies that they also took the boat out on the Sea of Tiberias in order to fish. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “got into a boat and went fishing”

John 21:4

it is

Quote: ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 21:5

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Children

Quote: παιδία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Jesus uses the word Children as an affectionate way to address his disciples. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “My dear friends”

you do not have any fish to eat, do you

Quote: μή τι προσφάγιον ἔχετε? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus asks this question in a way that expects a negative response. He knows that the disciples did not catch any fish. If your language has a question form that assumes a negative response, you should use it here. Alternate translation: “you were not able to get any fish to eat, were you?”

John 21:6

you will find some

Quote: εὑρήσετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, some refers to fish. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will find some fish”

John 21:7

that disciple whom Jesus loved

Quote: ὁ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the apostle John, who wrote this Gospel. See the discussion of this phrase in Part 1 of the Introduction to the Gospel of John and the General Notes for this chapter. See also how you translated similar phrases in 13:23, 18:15, and 20:2.

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

put on his outer garment

Quote: τὸν ἐπενδύτην διεζώσατο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, outer garment refers to a coat that would be worn over a person’s regular clothing. If this would confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “put on his cloak”

for he was undressed

Quote: ἦν γὰρ γυμνός (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Here, undressed does not mean that Peter was naked. Rather, Peter had taken off his outer garment so that it would be easier for him to work. Now that he was about to greet Jesus, he wanted to wear more clothing. Alternate translation: “for he had taken off most of his clothes”

threw himself into the sea

Quote: ἔβαλεν ἑαυτὸν εἰς τὴν θάλασσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This implies that Peter jumped into the sea in order to swim to the shore. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “threw himself into the sea and swam to shore”

John 21:8

for they were not far from the land, but about 200 cubits away

Quote: οὐ γὰρ ἦσαν μακρὰν ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς, ἀλλὰ ὡς ἀπὸ πηχῶν διακοσίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Here John provides this background information about the location of the boat the disciples were fishing in. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “for the boat was near the land, only about 200 cubits away”

they were

Quote: ἦσαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

If you translated “the disciple whom Jesus loved” in the previous verse with a first person form, then you will need to use the first person plural “we” here. You will also need to use first person plural pronouns in all occurrences of third person plural pronouns that refer to the disciples throughout the rest of this chapter. Alternate translation: “we were”

200 cubits

Quote: πηχῶν διακοσίων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

A cubit is a measurement of distance equivalent to a little less than half of one meter or about one yard. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: “about 90 meters” or “about 100 yards”

John 21:9

they see

Quote: βλέπουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

a charcoal fire kindled and a fish laid on it

Quote: ἀνθρακιὰν κειμένην, καὶ ὀψάριον ἐπικείμενον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a charcoal fire that Jesus had kindled, and a fish that Jesus had laid on it”

a fish laid on it and a bread loaf

Quote: ὀψάριον ἐπικείμενον, καὶ ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The words fish and breadare singular nouns. These could mean: (1) Jesus had one fish and one loaf of bread, as in the UST. (2) Jesus had an unknown amount of fish and bread that are referred to collectively. Alternate translation: “some fish laid on it, and some bread loaves”

John 21:10

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 21:11

Therefore, Simon Peter went up

Quote: ἀνέβη οὖν Σίμων Πέτρος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, went up means that Simon Peter went back to the boat. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Simon Peter went up into the boat”

the net was not torn

Quote: οὐκ ἐσχίσθη τὸ δίκτυον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the fish did not tear the net”

John 21:12

says … it is

Quote: λέγει & ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

to ask him, “Who are you

Quote: ἐξετάσαι αὐτόν, σὺ τίς εἶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “to ask him who he is”

John 21:13

comes … takes … gives {it

Quote: ἔρχεται & λαμβάνει & δίδωσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

John 21:14

the third time that

Quote: τρίτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here. Alternate translation: “time number 3.”

was revealed

Quote: ἐφανερώθη (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “showed himself”

having been raised from the dead

Quote: ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God having raised him from the dead”

having been raised from the dead

Quote: ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, raised from the dead is an idiom that refers to a dead person becoming alive again. See how you translated a similar phrase in 20:9. Alternate translation: “having become alive after he died”

John 21:15

says … He says … He says

Quote: λέγει & λέγει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

do you love me … I love you

Quote: ἀγαπᾷς με & φιλῶ σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The two occurrences of love in this verse are two different words in the original language. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this in your translation. See the discussion of this concept in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “do you love me with great esteem … I love you with affection” or “do you love me deeply … I love you like a friend”

more than these

Quote: πλέον τούτων (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, these could refer to: (1) the other disciples who were there with Jesus and Peter. This meaning would indicate Jesus is asking Peter if he loves Jesus more than the other disciples love him. Alternate translation: “more than these disciples love me” (2) the fish, boat, and other equipment that were used for catching fish, which was Peter’s former job. Alternate translation: “more than these fishing tools” or “more than your former job”

Feed my lambs

Quote: βόσκε τὰ ἀρνία μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jesus uses Feed my lambs to refer to providing for the spiritual needs of people who trust in Jesus. Here Jesus is commanding Peter to take care of other believers in the same way that Jesus took care of them while he was with them. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “Take care of the people who believe in me like a shepherd feeds lambs”

John 21:16

He says … He says … He says

Quote: λέγει & λέγει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

a second {time

Quote: δεύτερον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here. Alternate translation: “time number 2.”

do you love me?” … I love you

Quote: ἀγαπᾷς με & φιλῶ σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The two occurrences of love in this verse are two different words in the original language. See how you translated these phrases in the previous verse.

Take care of my sheep

Quote: ποίμαινε τὰ πρόβατά μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This sentence has the same meaning as “Feed my lambs” in the previous verse. See how you translated that similar sentence there. Alternate translation: “Take care of the people who believe in me like a shepherd takes care of lambs”

John 21:17

He says … he says … says

Quote: λέγει & λέγει & λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the third {time}, “… the third {time

Quote: τὸ τρίτον (-1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “time number 3 … time number 3.”

do you love me?” … Do you love me?” … I love you

Quote: φιλεῖς με & φιλεῖς με & φιλῶ σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The three occurrences of love in this verse are all the same word in the original language. However, this word is different from the word Jesus used for love in the previous two verses when he asked Peter, “Do you love me?” You should use the same word for love in this verse that you used for Peter’s responses in the previous two verses when he said, “You know that I love you.” See the discussion of this concept in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “do you love me with affection … Do you love me with affection … I love you with affection” or “do you love me like a friend … Do you love me like a friend … I love you like a friend”

he said to him the third {time}, “Do you love me

Quote: εἶπεν αὐτῷ τὸ τρίτον, φιλεῖς με (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “he asked him the third time if he loved him”

Feed my sheep

Quote: βόσκε τὰ προβάτια μου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This sentence has the same meaning as “Feed my lambs” in verse 15 and “Take care of my sheep” in the previous verse. See how you translated those similar sentences in the previous two verses. Alternate translation: “Take care of the people who believe in me like a shepherd feeds sheep”

John 21:18

Truly, truly, I say to you

Quote: ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν, λέγω σοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Jesus uses this phrase to emphasize the truth of the statement that follows. See how you translated this phrase in 1:51.

you used to gird yourself … will gird you

Quote: ἐζώννυες σεαυτὸν & ζώσει σε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Although gird means to put on a belt, Jesus uses it in this verse to refer to putting on clothes. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you used to dress yourself … will dress you”

you will stretch out your hands

Quote: ἐκτενεῖς τὰς χεῖράς σου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, stretch out means to extend one’s hands away from one’s sides. This describes the posture of someone who is being crucified. It does not mean that the hands themselves stretch. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “you will extend your hands out from your sides”

John 21:19

Now he said this, indicating with what manner of death he will glorify God

Quote: τοῦτο δὲ εἶπεν σημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ δοξάσει τὸν Θεόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now here indicates that in this sentence John is giving background information in order to explain what Jesus said in the previous verse. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information.

he says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

Follow me

Quote: ἀκολούθει μοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the phrase Follow me in 1:43.

John 21:20

sees

Quote: βλέπει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

the disciple whom Jesus loved

Quote: τὸν μαθητὴν ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

following them

Quote: ἀκολουθοῦντα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

If your language marks the dual form, then the pronoun them here would be in the dual form.

at the dinner

Quote: ἐν τῷ δείπνῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

John here refers to the dinner Jesus had with his disciples on the night before he was crucified. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the last dinner they had together before Jesus died”

Lord, who is the one betraying you

Quote: Κύριε, τίς ἐστιν, ὁ παραδιδούς σε (1)

See how you translated the similar sentence in 13:25.

John 21:21

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

But Lord, what about this one

Quote: Κύριε, οὗτος δὲ τί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Peter implies that he wants to know what will happen to John in the future. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “Lord, what will happen to this one?”

John 21:22

says

Quote: λέγει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here John uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story.

If I want him to remain

Quote: ἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to John, the “disciple whom Jesus loved” in John 21:20.

I come

Quote: ἔρχομαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesus uses come here to refer to the time in the future when he will return to earth from heaven. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “I come back to this world”

what {is that} to you

Quote: τί πρὸς σέ? (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jesus is using a rhetorical question here to mildly rebuke Peter. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “that has nothing to do with you!”

follow me

Quote: μοι ἀκολούθει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this sentence in 1:43.

John 21:23

this word

Quote: οὗτος ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, this word refers to what the brothers say about John’s future in the next clause. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the following report about John’s future”

this word spread

Quote: ἐξῆλθεν & οὗτος ὁ λόγος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

John uses spread to refer to this word being repeated among the believers. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “this word was repeated”

the brothers

Quote: τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brothers is masculine, John is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “the fellow believers”

that disciple

Quote: ὁ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, that disciple refers to the apostle John. If this might confuse your readers, you could state that explicitly, as in the UST.

does not die. … that he does not die

Quote: οὐκ ἀποθνῄσκει & ὅτι οὐκ ἀποθνῄσκει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

John is using the present tense in order to refer to something that will happen in the future. If this might confuse your readers, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: “will not die … that he will not die”

to him

Quote: αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun him here refers to Peter. If this might confuse your readers, you could state that explicitly, as in the UST.

that he does not die, … him

Quote: ὅτι οὐκ ἀποθνῄσκει & αὐτὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronouns he and him here refer to John. If this might confuse your readers, you could state that explicitly, as in the UST.

If I want him to remain until I come, what {is that} to you

Quote: ἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν ἕως ἔρχομαι, τί πρὸς σέ (1)

See how you translated this sentence in the previous verse.

John 21:24-25

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

General Information:

In 21:24–25 John indicates the end of his Gospel by giving a closing comment about himself and what he has written in this book. Use the natural form in your language for expressing the conclusion of a story.

John 21:24

This is the disciple testifying about these things and the one having written these things, and we know that his testimony is true

Quote: οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ μαθητὴς ὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ τούτων, καὶ ὁ γράψας ταῦτα, καὶ οἴδαμεν ὅτι ἀληθὴς αὐτοῦ ἡ μαρτυρία ἐστίν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

In this verse John is speaking about himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person. Alternate translation: “I am the disciple who testifies about these things and who wrote these things, and we know that my testimony is true”

these things … these things

Quote: τούτων & ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, these things refers to everything that John has written in this Gospel. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “everything in this book … all these things”

we know

Quote: οἴδαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here the pronoun we is exclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form.

we know

Quote: οἴδαμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here, we could refer to: (1) John and the other eyewitnesses to the earthly life of Jesus, as in 1:14 and 1 John 1:2–7. Alternate translation: “We eyewitnesses of Jesus’ life know” (2) the elders in the church at Ephesus where John lived at the end of his life. Alternate translation: “We elders of the church at Ephesus know” However, since who we refers to is uncertain, it would be best not to explain the meaning further.

John 21:25

if each one were written down

Quote: ἐὰν γράφηται καθ’ ἕν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if someone wrote down each one”

not even the world itself to have enough room for the books being written

Quote: οὐδ’ αὐτὸν & τὸν κόσμον χωρήσειν τὰ γραφόμενα βιβλία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

John exaggerates to emphasize that Jesus did very many good things. If this would confuse your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language to show this emphasis. Alternate translation: “a very large amount of books about these miracles would be written”

the world

Quote: τὸν κόσμον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the world refers to either the surface of the earth or the universe. Either meaning would achieve John’s purpose. If your language does not have a general expression for world, you could use an alternate expression. Alternate translation: “the whole earth” or “the whole universe”

the books being written

Quote: τὰ γραφόμενα βιβλία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the books that someone would write”

open-licensed biblical content

John

John front

Introduction to the Gospel of John

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Gospel of John

What is the Gospel of John about?

How should the title of this book be translated?

Who wrote the Gospel of John?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

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

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Why does Jesus refer to himself as the “Son of Man”?

What does the word “sign” mean in the Gospel of John?

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

What is double meaning in the Gospel of John?

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

John 1

John 1 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Special Concepts in this Chapter

“The Word”

Light and Darkness

“Children of God”

Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter

Metaphors

Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

“In the beginning”

“Son of Man”

John 1:1

In the beginning was

the Word

John 1:2

He

in the beginning

John 1:3

All things came into being through him

him

without him came into being not one thing that has come into being

without him came into being not one thing that has come into being

John 1:4

life

and the life

the light of men

the light of men

of men

John 1:5

the light shines

in the darkness, and the darkness

did not overcome it

did not overcome it

John 1:6

having been sent from God

was} John

John 1:7

He

about the light

through him

John 1:8

That one

the light, … the light

John 1:9

The true light, which

which gives light to all men

men

John 1:10

He was … through him, … him

in the world

the world

and the world did not know him

the world

did not know

John 1:11

his own, … his own

and

did not receive him

John 1:12

But as many as received him, he gave to them the authority to become children of God, to the ones believing in his name

received him

he gave to them the authority