Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?

JOHN 8:5KJV
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John 8:5 (KJV)

What does John 8:5 mean?

John 8:5 records people reminding Jesus that Moses’ law commanded that someone caught in a certain sin—here, adultery—should be punished by stoning, and they ask Jesus what he thinks should be done. The verse sets up a challenge, putting Jesus in a position to respond to the strict requirements of the Jewish law.

In this scene, religious leaders are speaking to Jesus as they bring before him a woman accused of adultery. Their question is not just about the law itself, but is meant to test Jesus, seeing if he will uphold the law of Moses or show mercy, possibly putting him at odds with either the law or Roman authorities. The verse highlights the tension between justice as prescribed in the law and how Jesus might respond.

The Greek behind John 8:5

  • νόμος (nomos): This word means "law" and refers specifically to the Law of Moses, the set of commandments and instructions given to Israel. Here, it grounds the accusation in the authority of Scripture.
  • λιθάζειν (lithazein): Translated as "to stone," this verb refers to the specific method of execution prescribed for certain offenses in the Mosaic law. Its use makes clear that the question is about a very serious, life-and-death matter.
  • ἐνετείλατο (eneteilato): This verb means "commanded." It emphasizes that the action being discussed is not just a suggestion but a direct order from Moses as lawgiver, increasing the pressure on Jesus to respond carefully.

Why John 8:5 matters

  • John 8:5 clarifies that the religious leaders are not simply seeking justice but are using the law to trap Jesus, which is important for understanding their motives in the story.
  • The verse draws attention to the seriousness of the accusation and the potential consequences for the woman, highlighting the weight of the decision Jesus is being asked to make.
  • By referencing Moses and the law, the verse connects this moment to the broader biblical tradition and sets up a key moment where Jesus’ response will reveal something about his approach to law, mercy, and authority.

Where else these words appear

“stoned” Greek G3036 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 21:35 And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another.
  • Mark 12:4 And again he sent unto them another servant; and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled.
  • Acts 7:59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

“commanded” Greek G1781 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
  • Mark 10:3 And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you?
  • John 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

“such” Greek G5108 · used in 59 verses

  • Matthew 9:8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.
  • Acts 26:29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

“Moses” Greek G3475 · used in 79 verses

  • Matthew 8:4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
  • John 1:45 Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.
  • Acts 21:21 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.