John 2:13 (KJV)

What does John 2:13 mean?

John 2:13 describes how, as the Jewish festival of Passover was approaching, Jesus traveled up to Jerusalem. This verse sets the scene for what Jesus will do next in Jerusalem during this important religious time.

The Gospel of John is telling the story of Jesus’ actions around the time of Passover, a major Jewish festival that brought many people to Jerusalem. The verse highlights that Jesus, like other Jews, went to the city for this occasion, which was a central event in Jewish life. This moment leads directly into the account of Jesus entering the temple and what happens there.

The Greek behind John 2:13

• "Passover" (πάσχα, pascha): This word refers to the annual Jewish festival remembering the Israelites’ escape from Egypt. Mentioning it signals a time of large crowds and religious significance in Jerusalem.
• "Went up" (ἀνέβη, anebē): In Greek, this phrase often means traveling to a higher place. Jerusalem sits on a hill, so people commonly spoke of "going up" to the city, especially for festivals.
• "At hand" (ἐγγύς, engys): This means something is near or approaching. The verse uses it to show the Passover was about to happen, giving urgency and context to Jesus’ journey.

Why John 2:13 matters

• John 2:13 marks a transition from Jesus’ earlier activities in Galilee to a key moment in Jerusalem, setting up the events that follow in the temple.
• The verse shows Jesus participating in Jewish customs, underlining his connection to his people and their traditions.
• Noting the Passover context helps readers understand the significance of what Jesus does next, as the festival was a time of heightened religious meaning and expectation.