His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?

JOHN 11:8KJV
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John 11:8 (KJV)

What does John 11:8 mean?

John 11:8 shows the disciples warning Jesus that returning to Judea is dangerous because the Jewish leaders there recently tried to stone him. The disciples are surprised and concerned that Jesus would consider going back to a place where his life was threatened.

In this verse, the disciples are speaking directly to Jesus, calling him "Master" and reminding him of the recent hostility from "the Jews"—a term here referring to the religious authorities in Judea. The situation takes place just after Jesus tells them he wants to go to Lazarus in Bethany, which is near Jerusalem. The disciples’ reaction highlights both their fear for Jesus’ safety and their confusion about his decision.

The Greek behind John 11:8

  • "Master" (ῥαββί, rhabbi): This is a respectful term meaning "teacher." The disciples use it to address Jesus, showing their respect and their close relationship with him.
  • "Sought" (ἐζήτουν, ezētoun): This verb means "were seeking" or "tried." It suggests ongoing intent, not just a one-time event, emphasizing that the threat to Jesus was real and recent.
  • "Stone" (λιθάσαι, lithasai): This word means "to stone" (with rocks), referring to the method of execution used by the crowd or authorities. Mentioning this action underlines the seriousness of the threat.

Why John 11:8 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the disciples were fully aware of the danger facing Jesus in Judea, which sets the stage for the courage and purpose behind his decision to go anyway.
  • The disciples’ question reveals their human fear and limited understanding, which contrasts with Jesus’ determination and mission.
  • The verse connects to the larger story of Lazarus, showing that Jesus’ actions are deliberate and not careless, even when facing real threats.

Where else these words appear

“stone” Greek G3034 · used in 8 verses

  • John 10:31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.
  • John 10:33 The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.
  • Acts 14:19 And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

“Master” Greek G4461 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 23:7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
  • Mark 9:5 And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
  • John 3:2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.

“thou” Greek G5217 · used in 77 verses

  • Matthew 4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
  • Mark 6:38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes.
  • John 9:11 He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.

“thither” Greek G1563 · used in 98 verses

  • Matthew 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
  • Mark 6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.
  • John 6:3 And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples.