John 13:23

KJV

Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G1161} there was {G2258} leaning {G345} on {G1722} Jesus {G2424}' bosom {G2859} one {G1520} of his {G846} disciples {G3101}, whom {G3739} Jesus {G2424} loved {G25}.

Complete Jewish Bible

One of his talmidim, the one Yeshua particularly loved, was reclining close beside him.

Berean Standard Bible

One of His disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at His side.

American Standard Version

There was at the table reclining in Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 13:23 introduces "the disciple whom Jesus loved," positioned intimately at Jesus' side during the Last Supper, immediately following the unsettling announcement of betrayal. This verse sets the stage for a pivotal moment of revelation, highlighting the unique closeness and profound affection Jesus held for this particular disciple, who would serve as a conduit for Peter's urgent inquiry about the betrayer and a witness to crucial events in the Gospel narrative.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** John 13:23 is situated within the highly intimate and dramatic setting of the Last Supper, often referred to as the Farewell Discourse. The preceding verses (John 13:1-20) describe Jesus' humble act of washing the disciples' feet, an object lesson in servant leadership. This act is immediately followed by Jesus' profound distress and the shocking declaration that one of His own disciples will betray Him (John 13:21-22). The disciples are understandably perplexed and deeply troubled, looking at each other, unsure of whom Jesus speaks. It is into this atmosphere of confusion and sorrow that verse 23 introduces the unnamed "disciple whom Jesus loved," whose close proximity to Jesus becomes central to the unfolding narrative as Peter prompts him to inquire about the betrayer. This moment underscores the unique relationship between Jesus and this disciple, positioning him as a privileged confidant.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The scene takes place during a Passover meal, which in Jesus' time would have been observed with guests reclining on low couches around a U-shaped table. This ancient dining custom meant that individuals would lean on their left elbow, with their head near the chest or "bosom" of the person to their left. The position described in John 13:23—"leaning on Jesus' bosom"—indicates a place of honor and intimacy, typically reserved for a close friend or a host's favored guest. It facilitated private conversation and demonstrated a deep bond of trust. This physical arrangement is crucial for understanding the subsequent interaction where Peter motions to this disciple, implying a level of access and confidentiality that others did not share at that moment. The Passover meal itself was a deeply symbolic event, commemorating Israel's liberation from slavery, which Jesus was now reinterpreting through His imminent sacrifice.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in the Gospel of John. Firstly, it emphasizes the theme of **intimacy and personal relationship** with Jesus, portraying a discipleship that goes beyond mere adherence to teachings, moving into a profound, personal bond. The "beloved disciple" serves as an archetype for all who are deeply loved by Christ. Secondly, it highlights the **nature of divine love (agape)**, a central theological concept in John's Gospel, as seen in passages like [God so loved the world that He gave His only Son](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love for the World"). The disciple's identity is defined not by his actions or merits, but by Jesus' love for him. Thirdly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **witness and revelation**, as this disciple's unique position grants him access to insights and truths that others might miss, foreshadowing his role as a primary witness to Jesus' crucifixion ([John 19:26-27](/john/19-26-27 "John 19:26-27 - Jesus' Mother and the Beloved Disciple")) and resurrection ([John 20:2-10](/john/20-2-10 "John 20:2-10 - Peter and the Beloved Disciple at the Tomb")). Finally, it underscores the **contrast between loyalty and betrayal**, setting the stage for the identification of Judas and the stark difference between true intimacy and ultimate treachery within the circle of disciples.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **leaning (Greek, _anakeîmai'_):** This verb describes the customary posture of reclining at a meal. It literally means "to lie back" or "to recline." In this context, it vividly portrays the ancient dining practice where guests would lie on couches, propped on one arm, allowing their head to be near the chest of the person to their left. This position signifies not just physical proximity but often a place of honor, trust, and intimate conversation, distinct from merely sitting upright.
* **bosom (Greek, _kólpos'_):** Referring to the chest or the fold of a garment over the chest, "bosom" here denotes a place of extreme closeness and intimacy. In ancient culture, to be "in the bosom" of someone was to share a profound bond, often implying a relationship of deep affection, trust, and even shared secrets. For instance, [Jesus is described as being in the bosom of the Father](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - The Son in the Bosom of the Father"), signifying ultimate intimacy and revelation.
* **loved (Greek, _agapáō'_):** This verb signifies a divine, unconditional, and self-sacrificial love, characteristic of God's love for humanity. Unlike _phileō_ (which denotes brotherly affection or fondness), _agapáō_ speaks to a volitional, principled love that seeks the highest good of the beloved, regardless of their merit. The repeated use of this term in relation to this disciple emphasizes that his identity and privilege are rooted not in his own worthiness, but in the profound, electing love of Jesus.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom":** This phrase immediately establishes a scene of profound intimacy and physical closeness. The Greek term for "leaning" (anakeîmai) describes the reclining posture common at banquets, where one's head would naturally rest near the chest of the person to their left. This position, "on Jesus' bosom," highlights a unique level of access and trust, indicating that this disciple occupied a place of honor and deep personal connection with Jesus. It sets a tone of vulnerability and confidence, allowing for private communication.
* **"one of his disciples":** While unnamed, this designation points to a specific individual within the inner circle of Jesus' followers. The anonymity is striking, especially given the profound significance attached to him in John's Gospel. This anonymity, coupled with the subsequent descriptor, invites readers to identify with this disciple, suggesting that the intimacy he experienced with Jesus is potentially available to all who embrace Christ's love.
* **"whom Jesus loved":** This is the defining characteristic of the unnamed disciple, repeated throughout John's Gospel. The Greek word used here, _agapáō_, signifies a deep, unconditional, and self-sacrificial love, distinct from mere affection. This phrase emphasizes that the disciple's identity and privilege stem not from his own achievements or merits, but solely from Jesus' profound and unwavering love for him. It underscores a central theme of John's Gospel: that true discipleship is rooted in being the object of Christ's divine love.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Symbolism** and **Irony**. The physical act of "leaning on Jesus' bosom" is highly symbolic, representing not just physical proximity but a profound spiritual intimacy, trust, and a privileged position in Jesus' heart. It symbolizes the ideal of discipleship—one characterized by closeness to the Master and an open heart to receive His deepest truths. This intimate scene is juxtaposed with the profound **Irony** of the immediate context: Jesus has just announced His betrayal, and the disciples are filled with turmoil. Amidst this impending treachery and confusion, one disciple enjoys unparalleled closeness, highlighting the stark contrast between ultimate loyalty and impending betrayal. The unnamed "disciple whom Jesus loved" also serves as a **Type** or **Archetype**, representing not just a historical figure (traditionally John) but also the ideal believer who understands their identity as rooted in Christ's unconditional love, inviting all readers to seek such intimacy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 13:23 offers a profound theological statement about the nature of God's love and the ideal of discipleship. The "disciple whom Jesus loved" embodies the truth that our relationship with Christ is not primarily about our performance or merit, but about His initiating, unconditional love. His position of intimacy signifies the privilege of knowing Jesus deeply and being known by Him, a relationship characterized by trust and open communication. This intimacy is not exclusive but serves as an invitation for all believers to draw near to Christ, to rest in His love, and to find their identity in being cherished by Him. It foreshadows the New Covenant reality where believers are invited into a familial relationship with God, no longer as distant servants but as beloved children.

* [John 15:9](/john/15-9 "John 15:9 - Abiding in Christ's Love"): "As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love."
* [Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38-39 "Romans 8:38-39 - God's Unfailing Love"): "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
* [1 John 4:7-8](/1_john/4-7-8 "1 John 4:7-8 - God Is Love"): "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The image of the beloved disciple leaning on Jesus' bosom is a powerful invitation to contemplate the depth of intimacy available to every believer. It challenges us to move beyond a superficial understanding of faith to a profound, personal relationship with Christ, one characterized by trust, vulnerability, and the assurance of His unconditional love. In a world that often measures worth by achievement or status, John 13:23 reminds us that our primary identity in Christ is simply that we are "loved." This truth should be the foundation of our security, the source of our courage, and the wellspring of our joy. To lean on Jesus' bosom means to rest in His grace, to bring our anxieties and questions to Him, and to find peace in His presence, knowing that He desires to share His heart with us. It encourages us to cultivate a posture of humility and receptivity, allowing His love to define and transform us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "leaning on Jesus' bosom" symbolize for your personal relationship with Christ today?**
* **How does understanding yourself as "one whom Jesus loved" impact your self-perception and your daily walk of faith?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to lean more fully on Jesus, trusting in His love and wisdom?**
* **How can you cultivate a greater sense of intimacy and vulnerability in your relationship with Christ?**

### FAQ

**Who is "the disciple whom Jesus loved" mentioned in John 13:23?**

Answer: While the Gospel of John never explicitly names him, Christian tradition universally identifies "the disciple whom Jesus loved" as John, the son of Zebedee, and the author of the Fourth Gospel. This identification is supported by the fact that this disciple is consistently present at pivotal moments where John himself would logically be (e.g., at the Last Supper, at the foot of the cross in [John 19:26-27](/john/19-26-27 "John 19:26-27 - Jesus entrusts His mother to the beloved disciple"), and at the empty tomb in [John 20:2-10](/john/20-2-10 "John 20:2-10 - Peter and the beloved disciple at the empty tomb")), yet he is never named directly. This self-referential title emphasizes the profound nature of Jesus' love rather than the disciple's personal identity, inviting readers to see themselves as similarly beloved.

**What is the significance of "leaning on Jesus' bosom" in this context?**

Answer: "Leaning on Jesus' bosom" refers to the ancient custom of reclining at banquets. Guests would lie on low couches, propped on their left elbow, with their head near the chest of the person to their left. This position signifies a place of honor, deep intimacy, and trust. It allowed for private conversation and indicated a profound personal bond. In the context of the Last Supper, it highlights the unique closeness and privileged access this disciple had to Jesus, especially during a moment of intense emotional revelation regarding the impending betrayal. It symbolizes the depth of relationship Jesus desired with His followers, inviting them into His innermost thoughts and feelings, much like [Moses spoke with God face to face](/exodus/33-11 "Exodus 33:11 - God spoke with Moses face to face").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 13:23, with its depiction of the beloved disciple leaning on Jesus' bosom, finds its Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus Himself as the ultimate embodiment of divine intimacy and love. Jesus is the one who perfectly reveals the Father, existing eternally "in the bosom of the Father" ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - The Son in the Bosom of the Father")), thus making God's heart known to humanity. His willingness to allow a disciple such close proximity foreshadows the new covenant reality where, through His sacrifice, believers are no longer kept at a distance but are invited into a profound, familial relationship with God. The love shown to the beloved disciple is the very _agape_ love that motivated Christ to lay down His life for His friends ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater love has no one than this")), thereby reconciling humanity to God. Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), opens the way for all who believe to "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith" ([Hebrews 10:22](/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Drawing Near to God")), experiencing the same spiritual intimacy and beloved status that the unnamed disciple enjoyed. He is the ultimate fulfillment of the desire for God's presence, making it possible for us to "abide in Him" ([John 15:4](/john/15-4 "John 15:4 - Abide in Me")) and receive His love, just as He abides in the Father's love.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 19:26

When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

John 20:2

Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.

John 21:7

Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt [his] fisher's coat [unto him], (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

John 21:20

¶ Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?

Revelation 1:16

And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance [was] as the sun shineth in his strength.

Revelation 1:18

[I am] he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

John 11:5

Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.