John 8:10 (KJV)

What does John 8:10 mean?

John 8:10 describes Jesus looking up and seeing only the woman who had been accused of adultery, then asking her where her accusers have gone and whether anyone has condemned her. The verse shows Jesus directly addressing the woman after the crowd has left, highlighting her situation now that she stands alone before him.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a woman who had been brought before him by religious leaders, accused of a serious crime. The crowd that wanted to condemn her has dispersed, leaving only Jesus and the woman. By asking, “Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?” Jesus draws attention to the fact that no one remains to pass judgment on her, setting up the next moment in their conversation.

The Greek behind John 8:10

• ἡ γυνή (hē gynē, “woman”): This word is a respectful way to address a woman, not a harsh or dismissive term. Jesus uses it here to speak to her with dignity.
• κατήγοροι (katēgoroi, “accusers”): This word refers to those who formally bring charges against someone. The absence of her accusers means there is no one left to press charges or demand punishment.
• κατακρίνω (katakrinō, “condemn”): This verb means to judge someone as guilty and deserving of punishment. Jesus’ question highlights that no one has officially declared her guilty.

Why John 8:10 matters

• John 8:10 makes clear that the woman is no longer surrounded by hostile accusers, shifting the focus from public condemnation to a personal encounter with Jesus.
• The verse prepares the reader for Jesus’ response in the next verse, emphasizing his authority and the absence of human judgment against the woman.
• This moment highlights the contrast between the harshness of the crowd and the approach Jesus takes, which is central to understanding the message of mercy and justice in this passage.