When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!
When Jesus {G2424} therefore {G3767} saw {G1492} his mother {G3384}, and {G2532} the disciple {G3101} standing by {G3936}, whom {G3739} he loved {G25}, he saith {G3004} unto his {G846} mother {G3384}, Woman {G1135}, behold {G2400} thy {G4675} son {G5207}!
When Yeshua saw his mother and the talmid whom he loved standing there, he said to his mother, “Mother, this is your son.”
When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, here is your son.”
When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold, thy son!
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John 21:24
This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true. -
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 2:4
Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. -
John 13:23
Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. -
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?
John 19:26 presents a profoundly tender and significant moment during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. As He hangs on the cross, enduring immense physical and spiritual agony, Jesus demonstrates His unwavering love and concern, particularly for His mother, Mary, and for the "disciple whom he loved," traditionally identified as John, the author of this Gospel.
Context
This verse is set at the harrowing scene of Jesus' crucifixion on Golgotha, mere hours before His death. Surrounded by Roman soldiers, religious leaders, and a small group of followers, Jesus' attention turns to two individuals standing near the cross: His earthly mother, Mary, and the beloved disciple, John. This moment underscores Jesus' humanity and His deep personal relationships, even as He fulfills His divine mission. The scene is one of profound sorrow and suffering for Mary, who witnesses her Son's agonizing death, a sorrow prophesied by Simeon in Luke 2:35.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
Jesus' address to His mother as "Woman" (Greek: gynai) might sound harsh to modern ears, but in ancient Near Eastern culture, it was a respectful or formal term of address, not one of disrespect. Jesus uses it elsewhere in the Gospel of John, such as during His first miracle at Cana. The phrase "the disciple whom he loved" is a unique identifier for John in this Gospel, emphasizing his intimate relationship with Jesus and his unique perspective as an eyewitness.
Cross-References & Significance
This poignant scene has profound theological and practical implications. It highlights Jesus' unwavering commitment to the fifth commandment, to honor one's father and mother, even in His final moments. Furthermore, Jesus' act of entrusting His mother to John's care beautifully illustrates the formation of a new spiritual family among believers. This echoes Jesus' teaching about those who do the will of God as His true family, emphasizing that spiritual bonds can transcend biological ones, creating a community of mutual care and responsibility.
Practical Application
John 19:26 calls believers to reflect on several important aspects of Christian living. Firstly, it reminds us of the importance of caring for our own families, especially our parents and elders, fulfilling our earthly responsibilities with love and honor. Secondly, it underscores the principle of Christian community: as members of God's spiritual family, we are called to bear one another's burdens, extend compassion, and provide practical support to fellow believers, especially those in need or distress. Finally, it serves as a powerful example of Christ's selfless love, demonstrating that true love puts the needs of others before one's own, even in the face of extreme adversity.