He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
JOHN 9:36KJVWhat does John 9:36 mean?
John 9:36 shows the man who was healed of blindness asking Jesus, “Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?” The man is expressing a genuine desire to know who the “Son of God” is so that he can put his faith in him, showing openness and readiness to believe.
In this moment, the man is speaking directly to Jesus, though he does not yet realize Jesus is the one he should believe in. This exchange happens after the man has been questioned by religious leaders and cast out for defending Jesus. The verse captures his honest curiosity and willingness to trust, setting up Jesus’ direct revelation of his identity in the next verse.
The Greek behind John 9:36
- κύριε (kurie): This word, translated “Lord,” can mean “sir” or “master” as a respectful address, not always implying full recognition of divinity. Here, it shows the man’s respect for Jesus, even before he knows who he truly is.
- πιστεύσω (pisteusō): Translated “believe,” this Greek word means to trust in, rely on, or have faith in someone. The man’s use of it shows he is ready to put his trust in the person Jesus identifies.
- εἰς (eis): This preposition, translated “on” or “in,” carries the sense of moving toward or placing trust upon someone. The man is not just asking for information but is prepared to commit himself to the one Jesus reveals.
Why John 9:36 matters
- John 9:36 highlights the healed man’s humility and openness, contrasting with the stubbornness of the religious leaders earlier in the chapter.
- The verse sets up a turning point where the man moves from physical healing to spiritual understanding, showing a journey from ignorance to faith.
- This question draws attention to the importance of knowing who Jesus is before genuine belief can happen, emphasizing that faith is not blind but based on revelation and relationship.