John 13:25

KJV

He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?

KJV (with Strong's)

He {G1565} then {G1161} lying on {G1968}{G1909} Jesus {G2424}' breast {G4738} saith {G3004} unto him {G846}, Lord {G2962}, who {G5101} is it {G2076}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Leaning against Yeshua’s chest, he asked Yeshua, “Lord, who is it?”

Berean Standard Bible

Leaning back against Jesus, he asked, “Lord, who is it?”

American Standard Version

He leaning back, as he was, on Jesus’ breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
A profoundly intimate moment during the Last Supper is captured, where the Beloved Disciple, traditionally identified as John, leans back against Jesus and, at Peter's prompting, asks the Lord to identify the betrayer. This verse highlights the unique closeness between Jesus and John, allowing for a private and confidential exchange amidst the disciples' collective confusion and distress over Jesus' announcement of betrayal. It sets the stage for the revelation of Judas Iscariot as the one who would hand Jesus over.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated immediately after Jesus' troubling declaration that one of His own disciples would betray Him, a pronouncement that deeply disturbed the group ([John 13:21](/john/13-21 "John 13:21 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal")). The disciples, bewildered and anxious, began to look at one another, uncertain of whom Jesus spoke ([John 13:22](/john/13-22 "John 13:22 - Disciples' Distress")). Simon Peter, known for his directness and eagerness, signals to "the disciple whom Jesus loved" ([John 13:23](/john/13-23 "John 13:23 - The Beloved Disciple's Position")), who was reclining in a position of honor closest to Jesus, to inquire about the betrayer's identity ([John 13:24](/john/13-24 "John 13:24 - Peter Prompts John")). John's unique physical proximity to Jesus allows him to fulfill Peter's request, leading directly to Jesus' subtle identification of Judas in the subsequent verse ([John 13:26](/john/13-26 "John 13:26 - Jesus Identifies the Betrayer")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The scene unfolds during the Passover meal, which in Jesus' time was typically eaten while reclining on low couches around a U-shaped table, known as a triclinium. Guests would recline on their left elbow, leaving their right hand free to eat. The head of one guest would naturally be near the chest or bosom of the guest to their left. This arrangement meant that the "disciple whom Jesus loved" was in the most intimate and privileged position relative to Jesus, allowing for private conversation. This physical closeness was not merely accidental but reflective of a deep bond of trust and affection, characteristic of a host-guest relationship where the most honored guest would be seated closest to the host.
* **Key Themes:** The passage powerfully underscores themes of **intimacy and privileged access** through John's physical position, symbolizing a deeper spiritual closeness. It highlights the **humanity and distress of the disciples**, who are thrown into confusion and anxiety by Jesus' revelation of betrayal, prompting their desperate search for answers. Furthermore, the scene emphasizes **Jesus' foreknowledge and sovereignty** over the unfolding events, even as He allows the betrayal to proceed. Finally, the **unique role of the Beloved Disciple** is prominently featured, as he serves as the conduit for the disciples' collective question, uniquely positioned to receive a direct, albeit veiled, answer from Jesus. This moment contributes to the broader Johannine theme of light exposing darkness, as Jesus prepares to reveal the true nature of the betrayer.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **lying on (Greek, _epipíptō'_):** This verb (G1968) means "to fall upon," "to embrace," or "to press upon." In this context, combined with the preposition `epí` (G1909, "upon" or "on"), it describes a posture of reclining or leaning back against someone. It conveys a sense of close contact and physical intimacy, suggesting a relaxed and trusted position rather than a sudden or violent action. This posture was common for guests at a banquet, but its specific mention here emphasizes John's unique proximity to Jesus.
* **breast (Greek, _stēthos'_):** The term (G4738) refers to the chest or bosom. In the cultural context of reclining at a meal, resting one's head near the "breast" or "bosom" of the person to their left indicated a position of honor, deep trust, and intimate fellowship. It implies a closeness that allows for private conversation and a sense of security.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** This title (G2962) signifies "supreme in authority," "controller," or "Master." John's use of "Lord" in his question to Jesus acknowledges Jesus' divine authority and sovereignty, even in a moment of profound human confusion and distress. It reflects the disciples' continued reverence and submission to Jesus despite their bewilderment about the impending betrayal.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He then lying on Jesus' breast":** This phrase identifies "He" as the Beloved Disciple (John), whose physical position at the table placed him in intimate proximity to Jesus. "Lying on Jesus' breast" describes the common custom of reclining at a meal, where one's head would be near the chest of the person to their left. This posture signifies a place of honor, trust, and deep personal connection, making it natural for a private exchange.
* **"saith unto him":** This indicates that the Beloved Disciple initiated a direct, verbal communication with Jesus. The context implies a hushed, confidential tone, given the sensitive nature of the inquiry and the general confusion among the other disciples.
* **"Lord, who is it?":** This is the direct question posed by the Beloved Disciple, prompted by Peter. It reflects the collective anxiety and bewilderment of the disciples regarding Jesus' earlier announcement of betrayal. The use of "Lord" underscores their continued reverence for Jesus, even as they seek clarity on such a disturbing matter. The question itself is born out of a desire to understand and identify the source of such a profound betrayal.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Symbolism** through John's physical posture. His "lying on Jesus' breast" is not just a literal description of dining custom but powerfully symbolizes the deep spiritual intimacy and trust shared between Jesus and the Beloved Disciple. This physical closeness mirrors a profound spiritual bond, allowing for the confidential revelation that follows. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the disciples are desperate to know the betrayer's identity, yet the answer is about to be revealed to the one closest to Jesus, highlighting their collective ignorance versus Jesus' complete foreknowledge. Furthermore, the scene serves as **Characterization**, particularly for John, solidifying his identity as the "disciple whom Jesus loved" and emphasizing his unique access to Jesus' heart and mind.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The intimate posture of the Beloved Disciple, "lying on Jesus' breast," serves as a profound theological statement about the nature of fellowship with Christ. Just as John enjoyed a position of unparalleled closeness and trust, believers are invited into a deep, personal, and confidential relationship with Jesus. This intimacy is not merely physical proximity but a spiritual reality where we can bring our deepest questions, anxieties, and uncertainties to the Lord, trusting in His wisdom and revelation. It underscores that true understanding and peace often come not from public pronouncements, but from drawing near to the heart of God in private communion, where sensitive truths can be shared and burdens laid bare. This privileged access is a gift of grace, available to all who seek to abide in Him.

* [John 1:18](/john/1-18 "The Son in the Father's Bosom")
* [Psalm 25:14](/psalms/25-14 "The Lord's Friendship")
* [James 4:8](/james/4-8 "Draw Near to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in [John 13:25](/john/13-25 "John 13:25 - The Beloved Disciple's Intimacy") offers a powerful invitation for every believer to cultivate a profound and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Just as John was physically close enough to Jesus to whisper a question and receive a direct, albeit nuanced, answer, we too are called to draw near to our Savior with our deepest concerns, our most perplexing questions, and our heaviest burdens. In a world full of confusion and uncertainty, this verse reminds us that true clarity and peace are found not in frantic searching, but in quiet, trusting communion with the One who knows all things. It encourages us to lean into His presence, to listen for His voice, and to trust that He will reveal what we need to know in His perfect timing. Our spiritual posture, like John's physical one, should be one of humble dependence and affectionate trust, allowing us to rest securely in His love and wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does John's physical posture, "lying on Jesus' breast," reflect the ideal spiritual posture we should aim for in our relationship with Christ?**
* **What specific questions or anxieties are you currently holding that you need to bring to Jesus in intimate prayer, trusting Him for clarity and peace?**
* **In what ways can cultivating a deeper, more intimate communion with Christ help you navigate moments of confusion or distress in your own life?**

### FAQ
**Who was "the disciple whom Jesus loved" mentioned in this passage?**

Answer: While the Gospel of John never explicitly names "the disciple whom Jesus loved," consistent early church tradition, supported by internal textual evidence, identifies this figure as John, the son of Zebedee and author of the Gospel. This identification is further strengthened by the fact that John is never named directly in the Gospel, a common authorial convention for self-reference in ancient literature. His unique position at the Last Supper and his presence at crucial moments like the crucifixion ([John 19:26-27](/john/19-26-27 "John 19:26-27 - Jesus Commits His Mother to John")) and the empty tomb ([John 20:2-9](/john/20/2-9 "John 20:2-9 - Peter and John at the Empty Tomb")) further solidify this traditional understanding.

**What does "lying on Jesus' breast" mean in the cultural context of the time?**

Answer: The phrase "lying on Jesus' breast" refers to the common dining custom of the ancient world, particularly in Roman and Hellenistic cultures, where guests would recline on low couches (triclinia) while eating. They would typically lean on their left elbow, allowing their head to be near the chest or "bosom" of the person seated to their left. This position was one of intimacy and honor. The guest to the right of the host would have their head near the host's breast, indicating a privileged and trusted relationship. Thus, John's position signifies not only physical closeness but also a deep bond of affection and trust with Jesus.

**Why did Simon Peter ask John to inquire of Jesus, rather than asking Jesus directly himself?**

Answer: Simon Peter's request to John in [John 13:24](/john/13-24 "John 13:24 - Peter's Request to John") likely stemmed from a combination of factors. Firstly, Peter's physical position at the table might have been such that he was not close enough to Jesus for a private, hushed conversation, whereas John was in the most intimate spot. Secondly, Peter, despite his boldness, may have felt that John's unique and beloved relationship with Jesus granted him a more appropriate or effective channel for such a sensitive inquiry. It highlights Peter's eagerness to know the truth and his recognition of John's special access to Jesus' heart.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The profound intimacy depicted in [John 13:25](/john/13-25 "John 13:25 - The Beloved Disciple's Intimacy") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus Himself. Just as the Beloved Disciple rested on Jesus' breast, Jesus, the "only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father," perfectly embodies this divine intimacy ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - The Son in the Father's Bosom")). He is the one who perfectly knows the Father and reveals Him to humanity. Through His atoning work, Jesus, the Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), has opened the way for all believers to enter into this same kind of intimate fellowship with God. No longer are we kept at a distance, but through Christ, we have "boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him" ([Ephesians 3:12](/ephesians/3-12 "Ephesians 3:12 - Access Through Faith")). The New Covenant, inaugurated by Jesus' sacrifice, invites us to draw near to God's throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")) not merely as servants, but as beloved children, sharing in the very life and love that flows from the heart of the Father, revealed and made accessible through the Son. Thus, John's unique position foreshadows the universal privilege of intimacy with God that Christ secured for all who believe.

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 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?

Esther 7:5

Then the king Ahasuerus answered and said unto Esther the queen, Who is he, and where is he, that durst presume in his heart to do so?

Genesis 44:4

[And] when they were gone out of the city, [and] not [yet] far off, Joseph said unto his steward, Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost overtake them, say unto them, Wherefore have ye rewarded evil for good?

Genesis 44:12

And he searched, [and] began at the eldest, and left at the youngest: and the cup was found in Benjamin's sack.