When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

JOHN 19:26KJV
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John 19:26 (KJV)

What does John 19:26 mean?

John 19:26 describes Jesus, while on the cross, seeing his mother and the disciple he loved standing nearby, and saying to his mother, "Woman, behold your son!" In this moment, Jesus is drawing attention to the disciple, signaling a new relationship of care between his mother and this disciple.

Jesus is speaking from the cross, addressing his mother Mary and the disciple "whom he loved" (traditionally understood as John). The situation is deeply personal and emotional, taking place during Jesus’ crucifixion. By saying "Woman, behold your son," Jesus is entrusting his mother to the disciple’s care, showing concern for her well-being even in his final moments.

The Greek behind John 19:26

  • Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous): This is the Greek form of "Jesus," clearly identifying who is speaking in the verse.
  • μαθητής (mathētēs): This word means "disciple," and here it refers to the specific disciple standing near Mary, highlighting the personal nature of Jesus’ words.
  • ἠγάπα (ēgapa): This is the verb for "loved," indicating a special affection or close relationship between Jesus and this disciple.
  • γυνή (gynē): Translated as "Woman," this is a respectful term in Greek, not cold or dismissive, but a formal address.
  • ἴδε (ide): Translated as "behold," this word means "look" or "see," used here to draw Mary’s attention to the disciple as someone important for her future.

Why John 19:26 matters

  • John 19:26 clarifies that even during his suffering, Jesus was attentive to the needs of his family, showing deep personal care.
  • The verse highlights the special relationship between Jesus and the "disciple whom he loved," which is a recurring theme in John’s Gospel.
  • This moment sets up the following verse, where Jesus entrusts his mother to the disciple, showing the formation of a new spiritual family among his followers.

Where else these words appear

“by” Greek G3936 · used in 40 verses

  • Matthew 26:53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
  • Acts 4:10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
  • Romans 6:19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

“mother” Greek G3384 · used in 79 verses

  • Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
  • Mark 3:32 And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.
  • Luke 8:20 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.

“loved” Greek G25 · used in 109 verses

  • Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
  • John 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
  • 2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.