John 9:29 (KJV)

What does John 9:29 mean?

John 9:29 records the religious leaders saying they are certain that God spoke to Moses, but they claim not to know where Jesus comes from or who sent him. This shows their skepticism and unwillingness to accept Jesus’ authority, even though they acknowledge Moses’ authority as coming from God.

In this scene, the Pharisees are questioning the man who was born blind and has just been healed by Jesus. The leaders are trying to discredit Jesus by contrasting him with Moses, whom they trust as a prophet. Their statement highlights their resistance to Jesus and their reliance on tradition, even in the face of a miraculous sign.

The Greek behind John 9:29

• οἴδαμεν (oidamen, "we know"): This word carries the sense of settled knowledge or certainty, not just casual awareness. The Pharisees are expressing confidence in their tradition about Moses.
• πόθεν (pothen, "from whence"): This word means "from where" or "from what origin." The Pharisees are emphasizing their ignorance or doubt about Jesus’ true background or authority, which is a key part of their rejection of him.

Why John 9:29 matters

• John 9:29 shows the contrast between the religious leaders’ certainty about the past (Moses) and their uncertainty or refusal to accept something new (Jesus), even when faced with evidence.
• The verse highlights a central tension in the chapter: the leaders’ focus on tradition versus openness to God working in unexpected ways.
• This statement sets up the healed man’s bold response in the next verses, where he challenges the leaders’ unwillingness to see what has happened right in front of them.