The Jews regarded blind people as especially worthy of charity. [1] The disciples" question reflected popular Jewish opinion of their day. Clearly the Old Testament taught that sin brings divine punishment (e.g, Exodus 20:5; Exodus 34:7; Ezekiel 18:4). This cause and effect relationship led many of the Jews, as well as many modern people, to conclude that every bad effect had an identifiable sinful cause. [2] That conclusion goes farther than the Bible does (cf. Job; 2 Corinthians 12:7; Galatians 4:13). Sin does lie behind all the suffering and evil in the world, but the connection between sin and suffering is not always immediate or observable. [source][source][source]
The disciples, like their contemporaries, assumed that either one or both of the blind man"s parents had sinned, or he had, and that this sin was the cause of his blindness. [source][source][source]
"It is not absolutely certain they were thinking of the possibility of the man having sinned in a pre-natal condition. As R. A. Knox points out, they may not have known that the man was born blind, and the Greek might be understood to mean, "Did this man sin? or did his parents commit some sin with the result that he was born blind?"" [3][source]
"The disciples did not look at the man as an object of mercy but rather as a subject for a theological discussion. It is much easier to discuss an abstract subject like "sin" than it is to minister to a concrete need in the life of a person." [1][source]
Context Summary
John 9:1-12 - Jesus Opens Blind Eyes
At the close of the previous chapter our Lord bore the contradiction of sinners against Himself. The Jews had caught up the stones gathered to repair the Temple, in order to inflict the doom of the blasphemer; but Jesus passed through them unscathed and began to descend the great steps. To human gaze there was need for Jesus to hasten from His foes, John 8:59; in His thought there was greater need to heal this blind beggar. In the most leisurely manner, therefore, He made clay and wrought this miracle of sight. His heart was at rest in God. No great thing is wrought by those who live in perpetual ferment. Through the quiet heart God works His own works, and there will be time enough to get them all done before "the night cometh when no man can work," John 9:4.
Our Lord perceived that beneath the unpromising exterior of this man were elements of nobility, which He set Himself to elicit. The clay which the man found suddenly applied to his eyes awakened wonder, hope, expectation, and faith. It was a ladder by which he climbed from the pit of despair to the mount of joy. The walk to Siloam was a further venture of faith; but there were other steps to be taken ere he attained to the full stature of his discipleship. Some were forced on him by opposition; to others he was led by Christ Himself. [source]
Chapter Summary: John 9
1The man born blind is restored to sight 8He is brought to the Pharisees 13They are offended at it; 35but he is received of Jesus, and confesses him 39Who they are whom Jesus enlightens
Greek Commentary for John 9:2
Who did sin? [τις ημαρτεν] Second aorist active indicative of αμαρτανω hamartanō See Acts 3:2; Acts 14:8 for two examples of lameness from birth. Blindness is common in the Orient and Jesus healed many cases (cf. Mark 8:23; Mark 10:46) and mentions this fact as one of the marks of the Messiah in the message to the Baptist (Matthew 11:5). This is the only example of congenital blindness healed. It is not clear that the disciples expected Jesus to heal this case. They are puzzled by the Jewish notion that sickness was a penalty for sin. The Book of Job had shown that this was not always the case and Jesus shows it also (Luke 13:1-5). If this man was guilty, it was due to prenatal sin on his part, a curious notion surely. The other alternative charged it upon his parents. That is sometimes true (Exodus 20:5, etc.), but by no means always. The rabbinical casuists loved to split hairs on this problem. Ezekiel (Ezekiel 18:20) says: “The soul that sinneth it shall die” (individual responsibility for sin committed). There is something in heredity, but not everything. That he should be born blind Probably consecutive (or sub-final) use of ινα hina with first aorist passive subjunctive of γενναω gennaō f0). [source]
This man, or his parents [] It was a common Jewish view that the merits or demerits of the parents would appear in the children, and that the thoughts of a mother might affect the moral state of her unborn offspring. The apostasy of one of the greatest Rabbis had, in popular belief, been caused by the sinful delight of his mother in passing through an idol grove. [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for John 9:2
Luke 12:25Stature [ἡλικίαν] The original meaning of the word is time of life, age. So, commonly, in classical Greek. See, also, John 9:21,John 9:23; Hebrews 11:11. The other meaning, stature, also occurs. Herodotus speaks of one who was of the same height ( ἡλικιήν ) with another (3:16). But both the usage and the connection are in favor of the meaning age. A measure of time is sometimes represented by a measure of length, as in Psalm 39:5; but, most of all, the addition of a cubit (a foot and a half) to one's stature would not be a small one, as the text implies (that which is least )but a very large one. Moreover, Christ is speaking of food and clothing, the object of which is to foster and prolong life. Rev., age, in margin. [source]
Luke 22:5Covenanted [συνετεντο] Second aorist indicative middle of συντιτημι suntithēmi An old verb to put together and in the middle with one another. In the N.T. outside of John 9:22 only in Luke (here and Acts 23:20; Acts 24:9). Luke only mentions “money” (αργυριον argurion), but not “thirty pieces” (Matthew 26:15). [source]
John 9:31We know [] Here the pronoun is not expressed, and the we is not emphatic, like the pronouns in John 9:24,John 9:29, but expresses the common information of all concerning a familiar fact. [source]
John 12:42Lest they should be put out of the synagogue [ἵνα μὴ ἀποσυνάγωγοι γένωνται] Better, that they should not be, etc. Compare Rev., John 12:35. On the phrase, be put out of the synagogue, see on John 9:22. [source]
John 10:1Verily, verily [ἀμὴν, ἀμὴν] The formula never begins anything quite new, but connects what follows with what precedes. This discourse grows out of the assumption of the Pharisees to be the only authoritative guides of the people (John 9:24,John 9:29). They have already been described as blind and sinful. [source]
John 12:38That might be fulfilled [ινα πληρωτηι] It is usually assumed that ινα hina here with the first aorist passive subjunctive of πληροω plēroō has its full telic force. That is probable as God‘s design, but it is by no means certain since ινα hina is used in the N.T. with the idea of result, just as ut in Latin is either purpose or result, as in John 6:7; John 9:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:4; Galatians 5:17; Romans 11:11 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 998). Paul in Romans 10:16 quotes Isaiah 53:1 as John does here but without ινα hina See note on Romans 10:16 for discussion of the quotation. The next verse adds strength to the idea of design. [source]
John 13:7I thou [εγω συ] Jesus repeats the pronouns used by Peter in similar contrast. Not now Just now γνωσηι δε μετα ταυτα arti means (John 9:19,John 9:25). Used again by Jesus (John 13:33) and Peter (John 13:37). But thou shalt understand hereafter Future middle of οιδα ginōskō (instead of the verb oida) to know by experience. “Thou shalt learn after these things,” even if slowly. [source]
John 10:1Verily, Verily [Αμην αμην] Solemn prelude by repetition as in John 1:51. The words do not ever introduce a fresh topic (cf. John 8:34,John 8:51,John 8:58). So in John 10:7. The Pharisees had previously assumed (Vincent) they alone were the authoritative guides of the people (John 9:24,John 9:29). So Jesus has a direct word for them. So Jesus begins this allegory in a characteristic way. John does not use the word παροιμια parabolē but εις την αυλην των προβατων paroimia (John 10:6), and it really is an allegory of the Good Shepherd and self-explanatory like that of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. He first tells it in John 10:1-5 and then explains and expands it in John 10:7-18. Into the fold of the sheep (αυλη eis tēn aulēn tōn probatōn). Originally αω aulē (from αναβαινων aō to blow) in Homer‘s time was just an uncovered space around the house enclosed by a wall, then a roofless enclosure in the country where flocks were herded as here and John 10:16. It later came to mean the house itself or palace (Matthew 26:3,Matthew 26:58, etc.). In the papyri it means the court attached to the house. Climbeth up (αναβαινω anabainōn). Present active participle of αλλαχοτεν anabainō to go up. One who goes up, not by the door, has to climb up over the wall. Some other way (αλλοτεν allachothen). Rare word for old εκεινος allothen but in 4Macc 1:7 and in a papyrus. Only here in N.T. The same (κλεπτης εστιν και ληιστης ekeinos). “That one” just described. Is a thief and a robber (κλεπτω kleptēs estin kai lēistēs). Both old and common words (from ληιζομαι kleptō to steal, κλεπτης lēizomai to plunder). The distinction is preserved in the N.T. as here. Judas was a kleptēs (John 12:6), Barabbas a robber (John 18:40) like the two robbers (Matthew 27:38,Matthew 27:44) crucified with Jesus erroneously termed thieves like “the thief on the cross” by most people. See Mark 11:17. Here the man jumping over the wall comes to steal and to do it by violence like a bandit. He is both thief and robber. [source]
John 12:42Nevertheless even [ομως μεντοι και] For the old ομως homōs see 1 Corinthians 14:7; Galatians 3:15 (only other examples in N.T.), here only with μεντοι mentoi “but yet,” and και kai “even.” In spite of what has just been said “many These actually “believed on him” Like the whispered talk in John 7:13 “because of the fear of the Jews.” Once the Pharisees sneeringly asked the officers (John 7:48): “Hath any one of the rulers believed on him?” And now “many of the rulers have believed on him.” They did not confess Negative imperfect in contrast to the punctiliar aorist επιστευσαν episteusan “They kept on not confessing.” How like the cowardly excuses made today by those under conviction who refuse to step out for Christ. Lest they should be put out of the synagogue Cf. John 9:22 where this very word occurs in a purpose clause like this. Only once more in the N.T. (John 16:2), a Jewish word not in profane authors. This ostracism from the synagogue was dreaded by the Jews and made cowards of these “believing elders.” More than They preferred the glory and praise of men more than the glory and praise of God. How apropos these words are to some suave cowards today. [source]
John 13:33Little children [τεκνια] Diminutive of τεκνα tekna and affectionate address as Jesus turns to the effect of his going on these disciples. Only here in this Gospel, but common in 1John (1 John 2:1, etc.), and nowhere else in N.T. Yet a little while Accusative of extent of time. See also John 7:33; John 8:21 (to which Jesus here refers); John 16:16-19. So now I say unto you This juncture point (αρτι arti) of time relatively to the past and the future (John 9:25; John 16:12,John 16:31). [source]
John 9:9Nay but he is like him [Ουχι αλλα ομοιος αυτωι εστιν] Vigorous denial (αυτοι ouchi) and mere similarity suggested. Associative instrumental case ομοιος autoi after εκεινος ελεγεν homoios The crowd is divided. He said (ekeinos elegen). Emphatic demonstrative (as in John 9:11,John 9:12,John 9:25,John 9:36), “That one spake up.” He knew. [source]
John 9:27I told you even now [ειπον υμιν ηδη] In John 9:15,John 9:17,John 9:25. Would ye also become his disciples? Negative answer formally expected, but the keenest irony in this gibe. Clearly the healed man knew from the use of “also” (και kai) that Jesus had some “disciples” (ματηται mathētai predicate nominative with the infinitive γενεσται genesthai) and that the Pharisees knew that fact. “Do ye also (like the Galilean mob) wish, etc.” See John 7:45-52. It cut to the bone. [source]
John 16:2They shall put you out of the synagogues [αποσυναγωγους ποιησουσιν υμας] “They will make you outcasts from the synagogues.” Predicate accusative of the compound adjective αποσυναγωγος aposunagōgos for which see John 9:22; John 12:42. Yea Use of αλλα alla as coordinating conjunction, not adversative. That Shall think First aorist active subjunctive of δοκεω dokeō “So blind will he be” (Bernard). That he offereth service unto God Infinitive (present active) indirect discourse after δοχηι doxēi For the phrase see Hebrews 6:1.; Hebrews 8:3.; Hebrews 9:7. The rabbis so felt when they crucified Jesus and when they persecuted the disciples (Acts 6:13; Acts 7:57.). No persecution is more bitter than when done by religious enthusiasts and bigots like the Spanish Inquisition. [source]
John 9:34Thou wast altogether born in sin [εν αμαρτιαις συ εγεννητης ολος] First aorist passive indicative of γενναω gennaō “In sins thou wast begotten (or born) all of thee.” ολος Holos is predicate nominative and teaches total depravity in this case beyond controversy, the Pharisees being judges. And dost thou teach us? The audacity of it all. Note emphasis on συ su (thou). It was insufferable. He had not only taught the rabbis, but had utterly routed them in argument. And they cast him out Effective second aorist active indicative of εκβαλλω ekballō intensified by the addition of εχω exō Probably not yet expulsion from the synagogue (John 9:22) which required a formal meeting of the Sanhedrin, but certainly forcible driving of the gifted upstart from their presence. See note on John 6:37 for another use of εκβαλλω εχω ekballō exō besides John 9:35. [source]
Acts 23:20Have agreed [συνετεντο] Second aorist middle indicative of συντιτημι suntithēmi old verb to join together, to agree. Already this form in Luke 22:5 which see. See also John 9:22; Acts 24:9. To bring down (οπως καταγαγηις hopōs katagagēis). Very words of the conspirators in Acts 23:15 as if the young man overheard. Second aorist active subjunctive of καταγω katagō with οπως hopōs in final clause, still used, but nothing like so common as ινα hina though again in Acts 23:23 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 985). As though thou wouldest inquire Just as in Acts 23:15 except that here μελλων mellōn refers to Lysias instead of to the conspirators as in Acts 23:15. The singular is used by the youth out of deference to the authority of Lysias and so modifies a bit the scheming of the conspirators, not “absurd” as Page holds. [source]
Romans 3:23The glory of God [τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ] Interpretations vary greatly. The glory of personal righteousness; that righteousness which God judges to be glory; the image of God in man; the glorying or boasting of righteousness before God; the approbation of God; the state of future glory. The dominant meanings of δόξα in classical Greek are notion, opinion, conjecture, repute. See on Revelation 1:6. In biblical usage: 1. Recognition, honor, Philemon 1:11; 1 Peter 1:7. It is joined with τιμή honor 1 Timothy 1:17; Hebrews 2:7,Hebrews 2:9; 2 Peter 1:17. Opposed to ἀτιμὶα dishonor 1 Corinthians 11:14,1 Corinthians 11:15; 1 Corinthians 15:43; 2 Corinthians 6:8. With ζητέω toseek, 1 Thessalonians 2:6; John 5:44; John 7:18. With λαμβάνω toreceive, John 5:41,John 5:44. With δίδωμι togive, Luke 17:18; John 9:24. In the ascriptive phrase glory be to, Luke 2:14, and ascriptions in the Epistles. Compare Luke 14:10. 2. The glorious appearance which attracts the eye, Matthew 4:8; Luke 4:6; Luke 12:27. Hence parallel with εἰκών image μορφή form ὁμοίωμα likeness εἶδος appearancefigure, Romans 1:23; Psalm 17:15; Numbers 12:8. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The glory of God is used of the aggregate of the divine attributes and coincides with His self-revelation, Exodus 33:22; compare πρόσωπον face Exodus 33:23. Hence the idea is prominent in the redemptive revelation (Isaiah 60:3; Romans 6:4; Romans 5:2). It expresses the form in which God reveals Himself in the economy of salvation (Romans 9:23; 1 Timothy 1:11; Ephesians 1:12). It is the means by which the redemptive work is carried on; for instance, in calling, 2 Peter 1:3; in raising up Christ and believers with Him to newness of life, Romans 6:4; in imparting strength to believers, Ephesians 3:16; Colossians 1:11; as the goal of Christian hope, Romans 5:2; Romans 8:18,Romans 8:21; Titus 2:13. It appears prominently in the work of Christ - the outraying of the Father's glory (Hebrews 1:3), especially in John. See John 1:14; John 2:11, etc. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The sense of the phrase here is: they are coming short of the honor or approbation which God bestows. The point under discussion is the want of righteousness. Unbelievers, or mere legalists, do not approve themselves before God by the righteousness which is of the law. They come short of the approbation which is extended only to those who are justified by faith. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]
1 Corinthians 1:15Lest any man should say [ινα μη τις ειπηι] Certainly sub-final ινα hina again or contemplated result as in 1 Corinthians 7:29; John 9:2. Ellicott thinks that already some in Corinth were laying emphasis on the person of the baptizer whether Peter or some one else. It is to be recalled that Jesus himself baptized no one (John 4:2) to avoid this very kind of controversy. And yet there are those today who claim Paul as a sacramentalist, an impossible claim in the light of his words here. [source]
Ephesians 4:13Measure of the stature [μέτρον ἡλικίας] Defining perfect man. For stature, see on Luke 12:25. The word is rendered age, John 9:21,John 9:23; Hebrews 11:11. So here, by some, the age when the fullness of Christ is received. But fullness and grow up (Ephesians 4:15) suggest rather the idea of magnitude. [source]
Ephesians 4:13Unto the unity of the faith [εις την ενοτητα της πιστεως] “Unto oneness of faith” (of trust) in Christ (Ephesians 4:3) which the Gnostics were disturbing. And of the knowledge of the Son of God (και της επιγνωσεως του υιου του τεου kai tēs epignōseōs tou huiou tou theou). Three genitives in a chain dependent also on την ενοτητα tēn henotēta “the oneness of full (επι epi̇) knowledge of the Son of God,” in opposition to the Gnostic vagaries. Unto a full-grown man Same figure as in Ephesians 2:15 and τελειος teleios in sense of adult as opposed to νηπιοι nēpioi (infants) in Ephesians 4:14. Unto the measure of the stature (εις μετρον ηλικιας eis metron hēlikias). So apparently ηλικια hēlikia here as in Luke 2:52, not age (John 9:21). Boys rejoice in gaining the height of a man. But Paul adds to this idea “the fulness of Christ” (του πληρωματος του Χριστου tou plērōmatos tou Christou), like “the fulness of God” in Ephesians 3:19. And yet some actually profess to be “perfect” with a standard like this to measure by! No pastor has finished his work when the sheep fall so far short of the goal. [source]
Ephesians 4:13Unto a full-grown man [εις ανδρα τελειον] Same figure as in Ephesians 2:15 and τελειος teleios in sense of adult as opposed to νηπιοι nēpioi (infants) in Ephesians 4:14. Unto the measure of the stature (εις μετρον ηλικιας eis metron hēlikias). So apparently ηλικια hēlikia here as in Luke 2:52, not age (John 9:21). Boys rejoice in gaining the height of a man. But Paul adds to this idea “the fulness of Christ” (του πληρωματος του Χριστου tou plērōmatos tou Christou), like “the fulness of God” in Ephesians 3:19. And yet some actually profess to be “perfect” with a standard like this to measure by! No pastor has finished his work when the sheep fall so far short of the goal. [source]
Ephesians 4:13Unto the measure of the stature [εις μετρον ηλικιας] So apparently ηλικια hēlikia here as in Luke 2:52, not age (John 9:21). Boys rejoice in gaining the height of a man. But Paul adds to this idea “the fulness of Christ” (του πληρωματος του Χριστου tou plērōmatos tou Christou), like “the fulness of God” in Ephesians 3:19. And yet some actually profess to be “perfect” with a standard like this to measure by! No pastor has finished his work when the sheep fall so far short of the goal. [source]
James 5:15Shall save [σωσει] Future active of σωζω sōzō to make well. As in Matthew 9:21.; Mark 6:56. No reference here to salvation of the soul. The medicine does not heal the sick, but it helps nature (God) do it. The doctor cooperates with God in nature.The sick (τον καμνοντα ton kamnonta). Present active articular participle of καμνω kamnō old verb, to grow weary (Hebrews 12:3), to be sick (here), only N.T. examples.The Lord shall raise him up Future active of εγειρω egeirō Precious promise, but not for a professional “faith-healer” who scoffs at medicine and makes merchandise out of prayer.And if he have committed sins (καν αμαρτιας ηι πεποιηκως kan hamartias ēi pepoiēkōs). Periphrastic perfect active subjunctive (unusual idiom) with και εαν kai ean (crasis καν kan) in condition of third class. Supposing that he has committed sins as many sick people have (Mark 2:5.; John 5:14; John 9:2.; 1 Corinthians 11:30).It shall be forgiven him Future passive of απιημι aphiēmi (impersonal passive as in Matthew 7:2,Matthew 7:7; Romans 10:10). Not in any magical way, not because his sickness has been healed, not without change of heart and turning to God through Christ. Much is assumed here that is not expressed. [source]
James 5:15And if he have committed sins [καν αμαρτιας ηι πεποιηκως] Periphrastic perfect active subjunctive (unusual idiom) with και εαν kai ean (crasis καν kan) in condition of third class. Supposing that he has committed sins as many sick people have (Mark 2:5.; John 5:14; John 9:2.; 1 Corinthians 11:30). [source]
James 5:15The Lord shall raise him up [εγερει αυτον ο κυριος] Future active of εγειρω egeirō Precious promise, but not for a professional “faith-healer” who scoffs at medicine and makes merchandise out of prayer.And if he have committed sins (καν αμαρτιας ηι πεποιηκως kan hamartias ēi pepoiēkōs). Periphrastic perfect active subjunctive (unusual idiom) with και εαν kai ean (crasis καν kan) in condition of third class. Supposing that he has committed sins as many sick people have (Mark 2:5.; John 5:14; John 9:2.; 1 Corinthians 11:30).It shall be forgiven him Future passive of απιημι aphiēmi (impersonal passive as in Matthew 7:2,Matthew 7:7; Romans 10:10). Not in any magical way, not because his sickness has been healed, not without change of heart and turning to God through Christ. Much is assumed here that is not expressed. [source]
1 Peter 2:23When he was reviled [λοιδορουμενος] Present passive participle of λοιδορεω loidoreō old verb (from λοιδορος loidoros reviler, 1 Corinthians 5:11) as in John 9:28. [source]
1 John 4:2That Jesus Christ is come in the flesh [Ιησουν Χριστον εν σαρκι εληλυτοτα] The correct text (perfect active participle predicate accusative), not the infinitive The predicate participle (see John 9:22 for predicate accusative with ομολογεω homologeō) describes Jesus as already come in the flesh (his actual humanity, not a phantom body as the Docetic Gnostics held). See this same idiom in 2 John 1:7 with ερχομενον erchomenon (coming). A like test is proposed by Paul for confessing the deity of Jesus Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:3 and for the Incarnation and Resurrection of Jesus in Romans 10:6-10. [source]
1 John 4:3And now already [και νυν ηδη] As in 1 John 2:18 also (many have come). “The prophecy had found fulfilment before the Church had looked for it” (Westcott). It is often so. For ηδη ēdē see John 4:35; John 9:27. [source]
1 John 4:3The spirit of the antichrist [το του αντιχριστου] Πνευμα Pneuma (spirit) not expressed, but clearly implied by the neuter singular article to. It is a repetition of the point about antichrists made in 1 John 2:18-25.Whereof (ο ho). Accusative of person (grammatical neuter referring to πνευμα pneuma) with ακουω akouō along with accusative of the thing (οτι ερχεται hoti erchetai as in 1 John 2:18, futuristic present middle indicative). Here the perfect active indicative (ακηκοατε akēkoate), while in 1 John 2:18 the aorist (ηκουσατε ēkousate).And now already As in 1 John 2:18 also (many have come). “The prophecy had found fulfilment before the Church had looked for it” (Westcott). It is often so. For ηδη ēdē see John 4:35; John 9:27. [source]
Revelation 11:13Fell [επεσεν] Second aorist active indicative of πιπτω piptō to fall. Only the tenth First aorist passive indicative of αποκτεινω apokteinō as in Revelation 9:18.Seven thousand persons This use of ονοματα onomata (names of men here) is like that in Revelation 3:4; Acts 1:15 and occurs in the papyri (Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 196f.).Were affrighted (εμποβοι εγενοντο emphoboi egenonto). “Became terrified,” old adjective (εν ποβος enεδωκαν δοχαν phobos fear) as in Luke 24:5; Acts 10:4; Acts 24:5. “A general movement toward Christianity, induced by fear or despair - a prediction fulfilled more than once in ecclesiastical history” (Swete).Gave glory First aorist active indicative of didōmi when they saw the effect of the earthquake, recognition of God‘s power (John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20). [source]
Revelation 11:13Seven thousand persons [ονοματα αντρωπων χιλιαδες επτα] This use of ονοματα onomata (names of men here) is like that in Revelation 3:4; Acts 1:15 and occurs in the papyri (Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 196f.).Were affrighted (εμποβοι εγενοντο emphoboi egenonto). “Became terrified,” old adjective (εν ποβος enεδωκαν δοχαν phobos fear) as in Luke 24:5; Acts 10:4; Acts 24:5. “A general movement toward Christianity, induced by fear or despair - a prediction fulfilled more than once in ecclesiastical history” (Swete).Gave glory First aorist active indicative of didōmi when they saw the effect of the earthquake, recognition of God‘s power (John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20). [source]
What do the individual words in John 9:2 mean?
AndaskedHimthedisciplesof HimsayingRabbiwhosinnedthis [man]orparentsthatblindhe should be born
Greek Commentary for John 9:2
Second aorist active indicative of αμαρτανω hamartanō See Acts 3:2; Acts 14:8 for two examples of lameness from birth. Blindness is common in the Orient and Jesus healed many cases (cf. Mark 8:23; Mark 10:46) and mentions this fact as one of the marks of the Messiah in the message to the Baptist (Matthew 11:5). This is the only example of congenital blindness healed. It is not clear that the disciples expected Jesus to heal this case. They are puzzled by the Jewish notion that sickness was a penalty for sin. The Book of Job had shown that this was not always the case and Jesus shows it also (Luke 13:1-5). If this man was guilty, it was due to prenatal sin on his part, a curious notion surely. The other alternative charged it upon his parents. That is sometimes true (Exodus 20:5, etc.), but by no means always. The rabbinical casuists loved to split hairs on this problem. Ezekiel (Ezekiel 18:20) says: “The soul that sinneth it shall die” (individual responsibility for sin committed). There is something in heredity, but not everything. That he should be born blind Probably consecutive (or sub-final) use of ινα hina with first aorist passive subjunctive of γενναω gennaō f0). [source]
It was a common Jewish view that the merits or demerits of the parents would appear in the children, and that the thoughts of a mother might affect the moral state of her unborn offspring. The apostasy of one of the greatest Rabbis had, in popular belief, been caused by the sinful delight of his mother in passing through an idol grove. [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for John 9:2
The original meaning of the word is time of life, age. So, commonly, in classical Greek. See, also, John 9:21, John 9:23; Hebrews 11:11. The other meaning, stature, also occurs. Herodotus speaks of one who was of the same height ( ἡλικιήν ) with another (3:16). But both the usage and the connection are in favor of the meaning age. A measure of time is sometimes represented by a measure of length, as in Psalm 39:5; but, most of all, the addition of a cubit (a foot and a half) to one's stature would not be a small one, as the text implies (that which is least )but a very large one. Moreover, Christ is speaking of food and clothing, the object of which is to foster and prolong life. Rev., age, in margin. [source]
Second aorist indicative middle of συντιτημι suntithēmi An old verb to put together and in the middle with one another. In the N.T. outside of John 9:22 only in Luke (here and Acts 23:20; Acts 24:9). Luke only mentions “money” (αργυριον argurion), but not “thirty pieces” (Matthew 26:15). [source]
Here the pronoun is not expressed, and the we is not emphatic, like the pronouns in John 9:24, John 9:29, but expresses the common information of all concerning a familiar fact. [source]
See on John 9:22. [source]
Better, that they should not be, etc. Compare Rev., John 12:35. On the phrase, be put out of the synagogue, see on John 9:22. [source]
The formula never begins anything quite new, but connects what follows with what precedes. This discourse grows out of the assumption of the Pharisees to be the only authoritative guides of the people (John 9:24, John 9:29). They have already been described as blind and sinful. [source]
It is usually assumed that ινα hina here with the first aorist passive subjunctive of πληροω plēroō has its full telic force. That is probable as God‘s design, but it is by no means certain since ινα hina is used in the N.T. with the idea of result, just as ut in Latin is either purpose or result, as in John 6:7; John 9:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:4; Galatians 5:17; Romans 11:11 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 998). Paul in Romans 10:16 quotes Isaiah 53:1 as John does here but without ινα hina See note on Romans 10:16 for discussion of the quotation. The next verse adds strength to the idea of design. [source]
Jesus repeats the pronouns used by Peter in similar contrast. Not now Just now γνωσηι δε μετα ταυτα arti means (John 9:19, John 9:25). Used again by Jesus (John 13:33) and Peter (John 13:37). But thou shalt understand hereafter Future middle of οιδα ginōskō (instead of the verb oida) to know by experience. “Thou shalt learn after these things,” even if slowly. [source]
Solemn prelude by repetition as in John 1:51. The words do not ever introduce a fresh topic (cf. John 8:34, John 8:51, John 8:58). So in John 10:7. The Pharisees had previously assumed (Vincent) they alone were the authoritative guides of the people (John 9:24, John 9:29). So Jesus has a direct word for them. So Jesus begins this allegory in a characteristic way. John does not use the word παροιμια parabolē but εις την αυλην των προβατων paroimia (John 10:6), and it really is an allegory of the Good Shepherd and self-explanatory like that of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. He first tells it in John 10:1-5 and then explains and expands it in John 10:7-18. Into the fold of the sheep (αυλη eis tēn aulēn tōn probatōn). Originally αω aulē (from αναβαινων aō to blow) in Homer‘s time was just an uncovered space around the house enclosed by a wall, then a roofless enclosure in the country where flocks were herded as here and John 10:16. It later came to mean the house itself or palace (Matthew 26:3, Matthew 26:58, etc.). In the papyri it means the court attached to the house. Climbeth up (αναβαινω anabainōn). Present active participle of αλλαχοτεν anabainō to go up. One who goes up, not by the door, has to climb up over the wall. Some other way (αλλοτεν allachothen). Rare word for old εκεινος allothen but in 4Macc 1:7 and in a papyrus. Only here in N.T. The same (κλεπτης εστιν και ληιστης ekeinos). “That one” just described. Is a thief and a robber (κλεπτω kleptēs estin kai lēistēs). Both old and common words (from ληιζομαι kleptō to steal, κλεπτης lēizomai to plunder). The distinction is preserved in the N.T. as here. Judas was a kleptēs (John 12:6), Barabbas a robber (John 18:40) like the two robbers (Matthew 27:38, Matthew 27:44) crucified with Jesus erroneously termed thieves like “the thief on the cross” by most people. See Mark 11:17. Here the man jumping over the wall comes to steal and to do it by violence like a bandit. He is both thief and robber. [source]
For the old ομως homōs see 1 Corinthians 14:7; Galatians 3:15 (only other examples in N.T.), here only with μεντοι mentoi “but yet,” and και kai “even.” In spite of what has just been said “many These actually “believed on him” Like the whispered talk in John 7:13 “because of the fear of the Jews.” Once the Pharisees sneeringly asked the officers (John 7:48): “Hath any one of the rulers believed on him?” And now “many of the rulers have believed on him.” They did not confess Negative imperfect in contrast to the punctiliar aorist επιστευσαν episteusan “They kept on not confessing.” How like the cowardly excuses made today by those under conviction who refuse to step out for Christ. Lest they should be put out of the synagogue Cf. John 9:22 where this very word occurs in a purpose clause like this. Only once more in the N.T. (John 16:2), a Jewish word not in profane authors. This ostracism from the synagogue was dreaded by the Jews and made cowards of these “believing elders.” More than They preferred the glory and praise of men more than the glory and praise of God. How apropos these words are to some suave cowards today. [source]
Diminutive of τεκνα tekna and affectionate address as Jesus turns to the effect of his going on these disciples. Only here in this Gospel, but common in 1John (1 John 2:1, etc.), and nowhere else in N.T. Yet a little while Accusative of extent of time. See also John 7:33; John 8:21 (to which Jesus here refers); John 16:16-19. So now I say unto you This juncture point (αρτι arti) of time relatively to the past and the future (John 9:25; John 16:12, John 16:31). [source]
Vigorous denial (αυτοι ouchi) and mere similarity suggested. Associative instrumental case ομοιος autoi after εκεινος ελεγεν homoios The crowd is divided. He said (ekeinos elegen). Emphatic demonstrative (as in John 9:11, John 9:12, John 9:25, John 9:36), “That one spake up.” He knew. [source]
In John 9:15, John 9:17, John 9:25. Would ye also become his disciples? Negative answer formally expected, but the keenest irony in this gibe. Clearly the healed man knew from the use of “also” (και kai) that Jesus had some “disciples” (ματηται mathētai predicate nominative with the infinitive γενεσται genesthai) and that the Pharisees knew that fact. “Do ye also (like the Galilean mob) wish, etc.” See John 7:45-52. It cut to the bone. [source]
“They will make you outcasts from the synagogues.” Predicate accusative of the compound adjective αποσυναγωγος aposunagōgos for which see John 9:22; John 12:42. Yea Use of αλλα alla as coordinating conjunction, not adversative. That Shall think First aorist active subjunctive of δοκεω dokeō “So blind will he be” (Bernard). That he offereth service unto God Infinitive (present active) indirect discourse after δοχηι doxēi For the phrase see Hebrews 6:1.; Hebrews 8:3.; Hebrews 9:7. The rabbis so felt when they crucified Jesus and when they persecuted the disciples (Acts 6:13; Acts 7:57.). No persecution is more bitter than when done by religious enthusiasts and bigots like the Spanish Inquisition. [source]
First aorist passive indicative of γενναω gennaō “In sins thou wast begotten (or born) all of thee.” ολος Holos is predicate nominative and teaches total depravity in this case beyond controversy, the Pharisees being judges. And dost thou teach us? The audacity of it all. Note emphasis on συ su (thou). It was insufferable. He had not only taught the rabbis, but had utterly routed them in argument. And they cast him out Effective second aorist active indicative of εκβαλλω ekballō intensified by the addition of εχω exō Probably not yet expulsion from the synagogue (John 9:22) which required a formal meeting of the Sanhedrin, but certainly forcible driving of the gifted upstart from their presence. See note on John 6:37 for another use of εκβαλλω εχω ekballō exō besides John 9:35. [source]
Second aorist middle indicative of συντιτημι suntithēmi old verb to join together, to agree. Already this form in Luke 22:5 which see. See also John 9:22; Acts 24:9. To bring down (οπως καταγαγηις hopōs katagagēis). Very words of the conspirators in Acts 23:15 as if the young man overheard. Second aorist active subjunctive of καταγω katagō with οπως hopōs in final clause, still used, but nothing like so common as ινα hina though again in Acts 23:23 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 985). As though thou wouldest inquire Just as in Acts 23:15 except that here μελλων mellōn refers to Lysias instead of to the conspirators as in Acts 23:15. The singular is used by the youth out of deference to the authority of Lysias and so modifies a bit the scheming of the conspirators, not “absurd” as Page holds. [source]
Interpretations vary greatly. The glory of personal righteousness; that righteousness which God judges to be glory; the image of God in man; the glorying or boasting of righteousness before God; the approbation of God; the state of future glory. The dominant meanings of δόξα in classical Greek are notion, opinion, conjecture, repute. See on Revelation 1:6. In biblical usage: 1. Recognition, honor, Philemon 1:11; 1 Peter 1:7. It is joined with τιμή honor 1 Timothy 1:17; Hebrews 2:7, Hebrews 2:9; 2 Peter 1:17. Opposed to ἀτιμὶα dishonor 1 Corinthians 11:14, 1 Corinthians 11:15; 1 Corinthians 15:43; 2 Corinthians 6:8. With ζητέω toseek, 1 Thessalonians 2:6; John 5:44; John 7:18. With λαμβάνω toreceive, John 5:41, John 5:44. With δίδωμι togive, Luke 17:18; John 9:24. In the ascriptive phrase glory be to, Luke 2:14, and ascriptions in the Epistles. Compare Luke 14:10. 2. The glorious appearance which attracts the eye, Matthew 4:8; Luke 4:6; Luke 12:27. Hence parallel with εἰκών image μορφή form ὁμοίωμα likeness εἶδος appearancefigure, Romans 1:23; Psalm 17:15; Numbers 12:8. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- The glory of God is used of the aggregate of the divine attributes and coincides with His self-revelation, Exodus 33:22; compare πρόσωπον face Exodus 33:23. Hence the idea is prominent in the redemptive revelation (Isaiah 60:3; Romans 6:4; Romans 5:2). It expresses the form in which God reveals Himself in the economy of salvation (Romans 9:23; 1 Timothy 1:11; Ephesians 1:12). It is the means by which the redemptive work is carried on; for instance, in calling, 2 Peter 1:3; in raising up Christ and believers with Him to newness of life, Romans 6:4; in imparting strength to believers, Ephesians 3:16; Colossians 1:11; as the goal of Christian hope, Romans 5:2; Romans 8:18, Romans 8:21; Titus 2:13. It appears prominently in the work of Christ - the outraying of the Father's glory (Hebrews 1:3), especially in John. See John 1:14; John 2:11, etc. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- The sense of the phrase here is: they are coming short of the honor or approbation which God bestows. The point under discussion is the want of righteousness. Unbelievers, or mere legalists, do not approve themselves before God by the righteousness which is of the law. They come short of the approbation which is extended only to those who are justified by faith. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- [source]
Certainly sub-final ινα hina again or contemplated result as in 1 Corinthians 7:29; John 9:2. Ellicott thinks that already some in Corinth were laying emphasis on the person of the baptizer whether Peter or some one else. It is to be recalled that Jesus himself baptized no one (John 4:2) to avoid this very kind of controversy. And yet there are those today who claim Paul as a sacramentalist, an impossible claim in the light of his words here. [source]
Defining perfect man. For stature, see on Luke 12:25. The word is rendered age, John 9:21, John 9:23; Hebrews 11:11. So here, by some, the age when the fullness of Christ is received. But fullness and grow up (Ephesians 4:15) suggest rather the idea of magnitude. [source]
“Unto oneness of faith” (of trust) in Christ (Ephesians 4:3) which the Gnostics were disturbing. And of the knowledge of the Son of God (και της επιγνωσεως του υιου του τεου kai tēs epignōseōs tou huiou tou theou). Three genitives in a chain dependent also on την ενοτητα tēn henotēta “the oneness of full (επι epi̇) knowledge of the Son of God,” in opposition to the Gnostic vagaries. Unto a full-grown man Same figure as in Ephesians 2:15 and τελειος teleios in sense of adult as opposed to νηπιοι nēpioi (infants) in Ephesians 4:14. Unto the measure of the stature (εις μετρον ηλικιας eis metron hēlikias). So apparently ηλικια hēlikia here as in Luke 2:52, not age (John 9:21). Boys rejoice in gaining the height of a man. But Paul adds to this idea “the fulness of Christ” (του πληρωματος του Χριστου tou plērōmatos tou Christou), like “the fulness of God” in Ephesians 3:19. And yet some actually profess to be “perfect” with a standard like this to measure by! No pastor has finished his work when the sheep fall so far short of the goal. [source]
Same figure as in Ephesians 2:15 and τελειος teleios in sense of adult as opposed to νηπιοι nēpioi (infants) in Ephesians 4:14. Unto the measure of the stature (εις μετρον ηλικιας eis metron hēlikias). So apparently ηλικια hēlikia here as in Luke 2:52, not age (John 9:21). Boys rejoice in gaining the height of a man. But Paul adds to this idea “the fulness of Christ” (του πληρωματος του Χριστου tou plērōmatos tou Christou), like “the fulness of God” in Ephesians 3:19. And yet some actually profess to be “perfect” with a standard like this to measure by! No pastor has finished his work when the sheep fall so far short of the goal. [source]
So apparently ηλικια hēlikia here as in Luke 2:52, not age (John 9:21). Boys rejoice in gaining the height of a man. But Paul adds to this idea “the fulness of Christ” (του πληρωματος του Χριστου tou plērōmatos tou Christou), like “the fulness of God” in Ephesians 3:19. And yet some actually profess to be “perfect” with a standard like this to measure by! No pastor has finished his work when the sheep fall so far short of the goal. [source]
Lit. in the interest of reviling. Const. with give on occasion. Λοιδορία revilingonly here and 1 Peter 3:9. For the verb λοιδορεῖν to revile see John 9:28; Acts 23:4; 1 Corinthians 4:12; and note on John 9:28. [source]
Future active of σωζω sōzō to make well. As in Matthew 9:21.; Mark 6:56. No reference here to salvation of the soul. The medicine does not heal the sick, but it helps nature (God) do it. The doctor cooperates with God in nature.The sick (τον καμνοντα ton kamnonta). Present active articular participle of καμνω kamnō old verb, to grow weary (Hebrews 12:3), to be sick (here), only N.T. examples.The Lord shall raise him up Future active of εγειρω egeirō Precious promise, but not for a professional “faith-healer” who scoffs at medicine and makes merchandise out of prayer.And if he have committed sins (καν αμαρτιας ηι πεποιηκως kan hamartias ēi pepoiēkōs). Periphrastic perfect active subjunctive (unusual idiom) with και εαν kai ean (crasis καν kan) in condition of third class. Supposing that he has committed sins as many sick people have (Mark 2:5.; John 5:14; John 9:2.; 1 Corinthians 11:30).It shall be forgiven him Future passive of απιημι aphiēmi (impersonal passive as in Matthew 7:2, Matthew 7:7; Romans 10:10). Not in any magical way, not because his sickness has been healed, not without change of heart and turning to God through Christ. Much is assumed here that is not expressed. [source]
Periphrastic perfect active subjunctive (unusual idiom) with και εαν kai ean (crasis καν kan) in condition of third class. Supposing that he has committed sins as many sick people have (Mark 2:5.; John 5:14; John 9:2.; 1 Corinthians 11:30). [source]
Future active of εγειρω egeirō Precious promise, but not for a professional “faith-healer” who scoffs at medicine and makes merchandise out of prayer.And if he have committed sins (καν αμαρτιας ηι πεποιηκως kan hamartias ēi pepoiēkōs). Periphrastic perfect active subjunctive (unusual idiom) with και εαν kai ean (crasis καν kan) in condition of third class. Supposing that he has committed sins as many sick people have (Mark 2:5.; John 5:14; John 9:2.; 1 Corinthians 11:30).It shall be forgiven him Future passive of απιημι aphiēmi (impersonal passive as in Matthew 7:2, Matthew 7:7; Romans 10:10). Not in any magical way, not because his sickness has been healed, not without change of heart and turning to God through Christ. Much is assumed here that is not expressed. [source]
Present passive participle of λοιδορεω loidoreō old verb (from λοιδορος loidoros reviler, 1 Corinthians 5:11) as in John 9:28. [source]
Constative aorist active indicative summing up the life of Christ on earth with the emphatic use of the demonstrative εκεινος ekeinos in reference to Christ as in 1 John 3:3, 1 John 3:5, 1 John 3:7, 1 John 3:16; 1 John 4:17; John 7:11; John 9:12, John 9:28; John 19:21. [source]
The correct text (perfect active participle predicate accusative), not the infinitive The predicate participle (see John 9:22 for predicate accusative with ομολογεω homologeō) describes Jesus as already come in the flesh (his actual humanity, not a phantom body as the Docetic Gnostics held). See this same idiom in 2 John 1:7 with ερχομενον erchomenon (coming). A like test is proposed by Paul for confessing the deity of Jesus Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:3 and for the Incarnation and Resurrection of Jesus in Romans 10:6-10. [source]
As in 1 John 2:18 also (many have come). “The prophecy had found fulfilment before the Church had looked for it” (Westcott). It is often so. For ηδη ēdē see John 4:35; John 9:27. [source]
Πνευμα Pneuma (spirit) not expressed, but clearly implied by the neuter singular article to. It is a repetition of the point about antichrists made in 1 John 2:18-25.Whereof (ο ho). Accusative of person (grammatical neuter referring to πνευμα pneuma) with ακουω akouō along with accusative of the thing (οτι ερχεται hoti erchetai as in 1 John 2:18, futuristic present middle indicative). Here the perfect active indicative (ακηκοατε akēkoate), while in 1 John 2:18 the aorist (ηκουσατε ēkousate).And now already As in 1 John 2:18 also (many have come). “The prophecy had found fulfilment before the Church had looked for it” (Westcott). It is often so. For ηδη ēdē see John 4:35; John 9:27. [source]
The phrase signifies not conversion, nor repentance, nor thanksgiving, but recognition, which is its usual sense in scripture. Compare Joshua 7:19(Sept.). John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20. [source]
First aorist active indicative of didōmi when they saw the effect of the earthquake, recognition of God‘s power (John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20). [source]
Second aorist active indicative of πιπτω piptō to fall. Only the tenth First aorist passive indicative of αποκτεινω apokteinō as in Revelation 9:18.Seven thousand persons This use of ονοματα onomata (names of men here) is like that in Revelation 3:4; Acts 1:15 and occurs in the papyri (Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 196f.).Were affrighted (εμποβοι εγενοντο emphoboi egenonto). “Became terrified,” old adjective (εν ποβος enεδωκαν δοχαν phobos fear) as in Luke 24:5; Acts 10:4; Acts 24:5. “A general movement toward Christianity, induced by fear or despair - a prediction fulfilled more than once in ecclesiastical history” (Swete).Gave glory First aorist active indicative of didōmi when they saw the effect of the earthquake, recognition of God‘s power (John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20). [source]
This use of ονοματα onomata (names of men here) is like that in Revelation 3:4; Acts 1:15 and occurs in the papyri (Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 196f.).Were affrighted (εμποβοι εγενοντο emphoboi egenonto). “Became terrified,” old adjective (εν ποβος enεδωκαν δοχαν phobos fear) as in Luke 24:5; Acts 10:4; Acts 24:5. “A general movement toward Christianity, induced by fear or despair - a prediction fulfilled more than once in ecclesiastical history” (Swete).Gave glory First aorist active indicative of didōmi when they saw the effect of the earthquake, recognition of God‘s power (John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20). [source]