But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.
But {G1161} he that hateth {G3404} his {G846} brother {G80} is {G2076} in {G1722} darkness {G4653}, and {G2532} walketh {G4043} in {G1722} darkness {G4653}, and {G2532} knoweth {G1492} not {G3756} whither {G4226} he goeth {G5217}, because {G3754} that darkness {G4653} hath blinded {G5186} his {G846} eyes {G3788}.
But the person who hates his brother is in the dark — yes, he is walking in the dark, and he doesn’t know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness. He does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
But he that hateth his brother is in the darkness, and walketh in the darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because the darkness hath blinded his eyes.
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John 12:35
Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. -
Titus 3:3
For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, [and] hating one another. -
Revelation 3:17
Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: -
1 John 1:6
If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: -
John 12:40
He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with [their] eyes, nor understand with [their] heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. -
2 Corinthians 4:4
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. -
1 John 2:9
He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.
1 John 2:11 (KJV)
"But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes."
Commentary
This verse stands in stark contrast to the preceding one, which declares that he who loves his brother abides in the light. Here, the Apostle John describes the spiritual state of someone who harbors hatred towards a fellow believer.
Historical and Cultural Context: John's first epistle was written to a community likely facing internal divisions and external false teachings (possibly Gnosticism or similar ideologies) that downplayed the importance of ethical conduct and love for fellow Christians. John emphasizes that true faith is not just about correct doctrine but is demonstrated by a transformed life, particularly in the area of love for one another.
Key Themes and Messages: The central theme is the profound spiritual darkness that results from hatred. John uses powerful imagery: being "in darkness," "walking in darkness," and being "blinded" by darkness. This isn't just a physical state but a spiritual one, signifying ignorance of God's truth, separation from His presence (which is light), and an inability to discern the right path or purpose in life. Hatred is presented as fundamentally incompatible with walking in God's light and fellowship.
Linguistic Insights: The word "hateth" (Greek: miseō) is a strong term, indicating active aversion or hostility, not mere dislike. "Darkness" (Greek: skotia) is a recurring motif in John's writings, symbolizing spiritual ignorance, sin, and separation from God. The phrase "hath blinded his eyes" (Greek: etyphlōsen tous ophthalmous autou) emphasizes that the darkness itself, brought on by hatred, renders a person incapable of seeing spiritual truth or the way of God.
Cross-references: This verse contrasts with 1 John 2:10. The concept of walking in darkness is found elsewhere, such as John 12:35. The command to love one another as a mark of discipleship is central to Jesus' teaching (John 13:34-35) and reiterated throughout 1 John (1 John 4:7-8).
Practical Application: This verse serves as a sober warning. Harboring hatred, bitterness, or unresolved anger towards fellow believers is not a minor issue; it indicates a serious spiritual problem. It hinders our ability to see God clearly, understand His will, and walk in His path. It challenges believers to actively pursue love and reconciliation, recognizing that the absence of love is a sign of spiritual blindness.