John 16:22

KJV

And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} ye {G5210}{G3303} now {G3568} therefore {G3767} have {G2192} sorrow {G3077}: but {G1161} I will see {G3700} you {G5209} again {G3825}, and {G2532} your {G5216} heart {G2588} shall rejoice {G5463}, and {G2532} your {G5216} joy {G5479} no man {G3762} taketh {G142} from {G575} you {G5216}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So you do indeed feel grief now, but I am going to see you again. Then your hearts will be full of joy, and no one will take your joy away from you.

Berean Standard Bible

So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.

American Standard Version

And ye therefore now have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no one taketh away from you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 16:22 is a profound promise from Jesus to His disciples, delivered during the intimate setting of the Last Supper discourse. It speaks to the transformation of their impending sorrow into an unshakeable and eternal joy, a joy rooted in His victorious return and secured by His divine power.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is nestled within Jesus' extensive farewell discourse, spanning [John 13-17](/john/13 "John 13 - The Last Supper and Washing of Feet"). Specifically, [John 16](/john/16 "John 16 - The Work of the Holy Spirit") focuses on preparing the disciples for His departure, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and the world's hostility. Jesus has just used the vivid analogy of a woman in labor in [John 16:21](/john/16-21 "John 16:21 - The Analogy of Childbirth"), explaining that her intense sorrow during childbirth is quickly forgotten in the joy of a new life. This sets the immediate stage for [John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Sorrow to Joy Transformed"), directly applying that principle to their impending grief over His crucifixion and subsequent joy at His resurrection and ultimate return. The discourse is marked by themes of comfort, promise, and the assurance of God's presence even in absence.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Jerusalem, likely in an upper room, during the Passover Feast. This was a time of immense spiritual and national anticipation for the Jewish people, yet Jesus was reinterpreting the traditional understanding of the Messiah's kingdom. The disciples, expecting a political king, were about to witness their hopes shattered by His crucifixion. Their sorrow would be compounded by fear of persecution from Jewish authorities and Roman power, as they were followers of a condemned man. The concept of a suffering Messiah was alien to their cultural expectations, making Jesus' words about sorrow and subsequent joy particularly challenging yet profoundly comforting in their context. The promise of "seeing again" would have resonated with their eschatological hopes, though its immediate fulfillment would be unexpected.

* **Key Themes:**
* **Sorrow Transformed into Joy:** This is central. Jesus assures them that their temporary pain will give way to enduring gladness, mirroring the childbirth analogy. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, from the lament Psalms to the promise of [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears").
* **The Promise of Christ's Return:** "I will see you again" is multifaceted. It primarily points to His post-resurrection appearances, which indeed brought immense joy as seen in [John 20:20](/john/20-20 "John 20:20 - Disciples' Joy at Jesus' Appearance"). However, it also carries eschatological weight, foreshadowing His ultimate second coming, a hope that sustains believers through all ages ([1 Thessalonians 4:16-17](/1_thessalonians/4-16-17 "1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 - The Lord's Return")).
* **Indomitable, Divinely-Given Joy:** The declaration "and your joy no man taketh from you" is a powerful statement about the nature of true joy. It is not circumstantial or fleeting, but a deep, spiritual reality rooted in their relationship with Christ and His victory. This joy, a fruit of the Spirit, transcends worldly tribulations and human interference, as emphasized in passages like [Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sorrow (Greek, _lypē'_):** From G3077, this word denotes deep grief, distress, or sadness. It accurately describes the emotional state the disciples would soon face upon Jesus' crucifixion and departure. It signifies a profound inner pain, not merely superficial disappointment.
* **See (Greek, _optánomai'_):** From G3700, this verb implies a gazing with wide-open eyes, as at something remarkable, differing from mere observation. It suggests a profound, impactful vision, underscoring the significance of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances which would transform their grief into awe and joy.
* **Joy (Greek, _chará'_):** From G5479, this term signifies cheerfulness or calm delight. It describes a deep, inner gladness that is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in a profound spiritual reality. This joy is a gift, a fruit of God's grace, and is intrinsically linked to the presence and promises of Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And ye now therefore have sorrow":** This clause directly addresses the disciples' present state and immediate future. The "now therefore" (G3568 _nŷn_ and G3767 _oûn_) emphasizes the imminence and certainty of their impending grief. Jesus acknowledges their current distress and the profound sorrow (G3077 _lypē_) they will experience due to His departure and crucifixion, validating their emotional turmoil before offering comfort.
* **"but I will see you again":** The particle "but" (G1161 _dé_) introduces a sharp contrast and a pivotal promise. Jesus assures them of a future encounter. While this primarily refers to His resurrection appearances, it also carries the broader implication of His ultimate return. This promise is the turning point, transforming the prospect of sorrow into one of hope and anticipation.
* **"and your heart shall rejoice":** This describes the profound internal transformation that will occur upon His return. The "heart" (G2588 _kardía_) refers to the core of their being—their thoughts, feelings, and will. Their deepest emotional center, previously afflicted with sorrow, will now be filled with overflowing joy (G5463 _chaírō_), a joy that is complete and deeply satisfying.
* **"and your joy no man taketh from you":** This powerful declaration underscores the supernatural and secure nature of the promised joy. The phrase "no man" (G3762 _oudeís_) emphasizes its divine origin and invulnerability to external forces, human opposition, or worldly circumstances. The verb "taketh" (G142 _aírō_), meaning to lift up or take away, highlights that this joy is not fleeting or conditional; it is a permanent possession, secured by Christ's victory.

#### Literary Devices
The most prominent device in [John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Sorrow to Joy Transformed") is the stark **Contrast** between "sorrow" and "joy." Jesus sets up a clear dichotomy, emphasizing the transition from a temporary state of grief to a permanent state of gladness. This contrast is reinforced by the preceding analogy of childbirth in [John 16:21](/john/16-21 "John 16:21 - The Analogy of Childbirth"), where the pain of labor is contrasted with the joy of a newborn child. The phrase "no man taketh from you" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the absolute and unassailable nature of the joy Christ bestows. While human experiences can certainly bring temporary sadness, the underlying, divinely-rooted joy remains untouched and cannot be ultimately eradicated by any external force or human adversary. Furthermore, the "heart" (G2588 _kardía_) is used as a **Metaphor** for the inner person, the seat of emotions, intellect, and will. When Jesus says "your heart shall rejoice," He is not speaking merely of superficial happiness, but of a deep, pervasive gladness that permeates the very core of their being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The promise of [John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Sorrow to Joy Transformed") encapsulates a profound theological truth woven throughout Scripture: God's redemptive plan often involves a journey through suffering to ultimate glory and joy. This pattern is evident from the Old Testament narratives of exile and return, to the prophetic promises of a new heavens and new earth. Jesus' words here establish His resurrection as the pivotal event that transforms human despair into divine delight, demonstrating His sovereignty over sorrow and death. The joy He promises is not a fleeting emotion but a spiritual state, a foretaste of the eternal joy found in His presence, secured by His victory over sin and death. It is a joy that transcends circumstances because its source is the unchangeable character and victorious work of God Himself.

* [Psalm 30:5](/psalms/30-5 "Psalm 30:5 - Weeping May Endure for a Night")
* [Romans 8:18](/romans/8-18 "Romans 8:18 - Present Sufferings and Future Glory")
* [1 Peter 1:8](/1_peter/1-8 "1 Peter 1:8 - Rejoicing with Inexpressible Joy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, [John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Sorrow to Joy Transformed") serves as a powerful anchor in a world filled with tribulation. It reminds us that our present sufferings, no matter how intense or prolonged, are temporary. Just as the disciples' grief was transformed by the resurrection, our hope is fixed on the ultimate triumph of Christ and His promised return. This verse encourages us to cultivate a Christ-centered perspective on joy, understanding that true gladness is not contingent upon favorable circumstances but flows from our secure relationship with Jesus. It empowers us to face adversity with resilience, knowing that the joy that comes from Him is unassailable, a divine gift that no earthly power or personal tragedy can ultimately diminish or remove. This deep-seated joy enables us to persevere, offering a testimony to the world of the enduring hope found only in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the temporary nature of sorrow, as described in this verse, impact your perspective on current difficulties?**
* **In what ways have you experienced the "joy no man taketh from you" in your own life, particularly during challenging times?**
* **How does the promise of Christ's return strengthen your hope and joy amidst the uncertainties of life?**

### FAQ
**What is the "sorrow" Jesus refers to in John 16:22?**

Answer: The "sorrow" (G3077 _lypē_) Jesus refers to is the profound grief and distress the disciples would experience due to His imminent departure, crucifixion, and death. They would feel abandoned, confused, and fearful, as their hopes for an earthly kingdom led by Jesus seemed to be shattered. This sorrow is distinct from mere sadness; it encompasses deep emotional pain and a sense of loss, as described in [John 16:6](/john/16-6 "John 16:6 - Disciples' Sorrow").

**How does Jesus "see you again" and bring joy?**

Answer: The primary fulfillment of "I will see you again" (G3700 _optánomai_) refers to Jesus' post-resurrection appearances to His disciples. After His crucifixion, He appeared to them multiple times, transforming their fear and sorrow into overwhelming joy and belief, as vividly depicted in [John 20:20](/john/20-20 "John 20:20 - Disciples' Joy at Jesus' Appearance"). Beyond this immediate fulfillment, the promise also carries eschatological significance, pointing to His ultimate return at the end of the age, which will bring eternal, unadulterated joy to all believers ([Acts 1:11](/acts/1-11 "Acts 1:11 - Jesus' Ascension and Promise to Return")).

**What makes this joy "no man taketh from you"?**

Answer: The joy promised in [John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Sorrow to Joy Transformed") is not a fleeting emotion based on circumstances, but a deep, spiritual reality rooted in a secure relationship with Jesus Christ. Its source is divine, not human or circumstantial. Because it is a gift from God, secured by Christ's victory over sin and death, no external force—no persecution, suffering, or worldly tribulation—can ultimately diminish or remove it. It is an internal, abiding joy that transcends outward circumstances, a fruit of the Holy Spirit ([Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit")) that is eternally secure.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Sorrow to Joy Transformed") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the transformation of sorrow into unassailable joy. His own journey from the anguish of Gethsemane and the cross—where He bore the sorrow of the world's sin ([Isaiah 53:3-5](/isaiah/53-3-5 "Isaiah 53:3-5 - The Suffering Servant"))—to the triumph of His resurrection, provides the foundational pattern for all believer's experience. The "seeing again" is not merely a reunion but a revelation of His victorious Lordship, confirming His identity as the [resurrection and the life](/john/11-25 "John 11:25 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life"). The joy promised is a direct result of His accomplished work on the cross, which secured reconciliation with God and eternal life. This joy is not earned but freely given through His grace, a spiritual inheritance that flows from His presence through the indwelling Holy Spirit ([John 14:16-18](/john/14-16-18 "John 14:16-18 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the disciples' joy, and indeed the joy of all believers, is intrinsically tied to Christ's victory over sin, death, and the grave, making it a joy that no earthly power or tribulation can ever truly "take away" ([Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38-39 "Romans 8:38-39 - God's Love in Christ")). It is a joy rooted in the finished work of the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), a joy that anticipates His glorious return ([Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "Titus 2:13 - The Blessed Hope")).

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

1 Peter 1:8

Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see [him] not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

Acts 13:52

And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

John 16:6

But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.

2 Thessalonians 2:16

¶ Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given [us] everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,

1 Peter 4:13

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

1 Peter 4:14

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

Acts 16:25

¶ And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.