John 9:6

KJV

When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,

KJV (with Strong's)

When he had thus {G5023} spoken {G2036}, he spat {G4429} on the ground {G5476}, and {G2532} made {G4160} clay {G4081} of {G1537} the spittle {G4427}, and {G2532} he anointed {G2025}{G1909} the eyes {G3788} of the blind man {G5185} with the clay {G4081},

Complete Jewish Bible

Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, put the mud on the man’s eyes,

Berean Standard Bible

When Jesus had said this, He spit on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes.

American Standard Version

When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes with the clay,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 9:6 details Jesus's unique method for healing a man born blind, an act that immediately follows His declaration as the "light of the world." By spitting on the ground and forming clay, which He then applied to the man's eyes, Jesus initiates a miraculous restoration of sight, showcasing His divine authority and foreshadowing a deeper spiritual illumination. This unconventional action sets the stage for a profound theological discourse on spiritual blindness and the manifestation of God's glory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the larger narrative of John 9, which opens with Jesus and His disciples encountering a man born blind. The disciples' initial question regarding the cause of his blindness, whether due to his sin or his parents' sin ([John 9:2](/john/9-2 "John 9:2 - The Disciples' Question")), is swiftly corrected by Jesus, who declares that the man's condition exists "that the works of God should be made manifest in him" ([John 9:3](/john/9-3 "John 9:3 - God's Glory Revealed")). Immediately preceding John 9:6, Jesus proclaims, "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world" ([John 9:5](/john/9-5 "John 9:5 - Jesus, the Light of the World")), establishing the theological framework for the ensuing miracle. The act of making and applying clay, followed by the instruction to wash in the Pool of Siloam ([John 9:7](/john/9-7 "John 9:7 - The Blind Man's Obedience")), is the physical manifestation of this "light" bringing sight, leading directly into the subsequent controversy and interrogation by the Pharisees that occupies the remainder of [John 9](/john/9 "John 9 - The Healing of the Man Born Blind").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Jewish society, physical ailments, especially congenital ones like blindness, were often attributed to sin, either of the afflicted individual or their parents, reflecting a common theological understanding of cause and effect. This belief is evident in the disciples' question in [John 9:2](/john/9-2 "John 9:2 - The Disciples' Question"). Healing practices in the ancient world varied, but the use of saliva was occasionally associated with medicinal or magical properties, though not typically for profound congenital conditions. The act of making clay from spittle and earth would have been seen as highly unusual, even crude, for a healing ritual. However, it subtly echoes the creation narrative of [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Forms Man from Dust"), where God forms man from the dust of the ground, a significant cultural and theological touchstone for a Jewish audience. The Pool of Siloam, where the man was instructed to wash ([John 9:7](/john/9-7 "The Pool of Siloam")), was a known source of water in Jerusalem, fed by the Gihon Spring, holding both practical and symbolic significance, often associated with purification and divine provision.
* **Key Themes:** John 9:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. The primary theme is **Jesus as the Light of the World**, directly stated in [John 9:5](/john/9-5 "John 9:5 - Jesus, the Light of the World") and powerfully demonstrated by His ability to grant physical sight, which serves as a metaphor for spiritual illumination. Another crucial theme is **Divine Sovereignty and the Purpose of Suffering**, as Jesus explicitly refutes the idea that the man's blindness was due to sin, asserting instead that it was "that the works of God should be made manifest in him" ([John 9:3](/john/9-3 "God's Glory Revealed")). This challenges conventional human understanding of suffering and highlights God's redemptive purposes. The use of clay also introduces the theme of **New Creation and Re-creation**, drawing parallels to God's original act of forming humanity from dust in [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "God Forms Man from Dust"), emphasizing Jesus's creative power and His ability to bring about profound transformation. Finally, the **Unconventional Nature of God's Work** is evident in Jesus's method, which defies traditional medical or religious practices, underscoring that God's power operates beyond human expectations and conventions, often through humble or unexpected means.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **spoken (Greek, _épō'_):** From G2036, a primary verb meaning "to speak or say (by word or writing)." In this context, it emphasizes that Jesus's actions are not random but follow His authoritative declaration in [John 9:5](/john/9-5 "John 9:5 - Jesus, the Light of the World"). His words precede and empower His miraculous deeds, highlighting the divine authority inherent in His ministry.
* **spat (Greek, _ptýō'_):** From G4429, a primary verb meaning "to spit." This action, while seemingly crude or unusual, is a deliberate choice by Jesus. It is not the spittle itself that heals, but the divine power channeled through this physical act. The direct, personal involvement of Jesus in forming the clay underscores His active role as the healer and creator, distinct from a mere spoken command.
* **clay (Greek, _pēlós'_):** From G4081, a primary word meaning "clay." The material itself is highly symbolic. Its use immediately evokes the creation narrative in [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Forms Man from Dust"), where God forms Adam from the dust of the ground. By using clay, Jesus is presented as the Creator re-enacting a creative act, bringing new form and function to that which was previously incomplete or non-functional.
* **anointed (Greek, _epichríō'_):** From G2025, meaning "to smear over." This word, combined with G1909 (_epí_, meaning "upon"), describes the direct application of the clay to the man's eyes. It signifies a deliberate, physical engagement by Jesus with the man's condition. The act of "anointing" carries connotations of setting apart or consecrating, suggesting that this healing is not just a physical remedy but a divine work that sets the man apart for God's glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When he had thus spoken,"**: This opening clause firmly links Jesus's physical action to His preceding declaration in [John 9:5](/john/9-5 "John 9:5 - Jesus, the Light of the World"), "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." It signifies that the miracle that follows is a direct, tangible demonstration and fulfillment of His identity and mission as the source of light and life. His words are not merely informative but performative, setting the stage for divine intervention.
* **"he spat on the ground,"**: This describes Jesus's initial, unconventional action. Spitting on the ground to mix with earth was not a standard medical practice for blindness, though saliva was sometimes used in ancient folk remedies. Jesus's choice highlights His unique methods, demonstrating that His power is not bound by human conventions or expectations. It also emphasizes His direct, personal engagement with the physical world and the man's condition.
* **"and made clay of the spittle,"**: This clause details the formation of the healing agent. The combination of spittle and earth to form clay is highly symbolic. The earth (clay) connects to the creation account of [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Forms Man from Dust"), where God forms humanity from the dust. Jesus, as the divine Creator, is re-enacting a creative act, suggesting a "new creation" for the blind man. The spittle, a bodily fluid, further emphasizes Jesus's personal investment and the intimate nature of the divine intervention.
* **"and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,"**: This final clause describes the direct application of the prepared clay. The act of "anointing" (epichríō) signifies a deliberate, purposeful application. By physically touching and smearing the clay on the man's eyes, Jesus demonstrates His compassion, His authority over physical infirmity, and His willingness to engage personally with human suffering. This direct physical contact is a powerful sign of the imminence of the miracle and the personal nature of God's healing touch.

#### Literary Devices
John 9:6 is rich with **Symbolism**. The **clay** itself is a powerful symbol, directly evoking the creation narrative of [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Forms Man from Dust"), where God forms man from the dust of the ground. By using clay, Jesus is portrayed as the divine Creator, bringing about a "new creation" for the man born blind, not just physical healing but a re-formation. The **spittle** is also symbolic, representing the life-giving essence or power emanating directly from Jesus, the source of life. While a humble substance, its use underscores the unconventional nature of divine power, which works through seemingly ordinary means. The entire act of granting physical sight to the blind man serves as a profound **Metaphor** for spiritual illumination. Just as Jesus brings light to the man's physical eyes, He offers spiritual sight to those in darkness, fulfilling His declaration as the "light of the world." The narrative also employs **Dramatic Irony**, as the Pharisees, who claim to see and understand, remain spiritually blind throughout the chapter, while the physically blind man gains both physical and spiritual sight.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 9:6 profoundly illustrates Jesus's divine authority and His unique approach to demonstrating God's glory. The use of clay and spittle, while unconventional, underscores Jesus's role as the Creator and Re-creator, echoing the primordial act of God forming humanity from dust. This miracle is not merely a physical healing but a tangible manifestation of Jesus's claim to be the "light of the world," bringing both physical and spiritual illumination. It challenges human assumptions about the causes of suffering and highlights God's redemptive purpose in allowing such conditions, ultimately to reveal His power and grace. The passage emphasizes that God's methods often transcend human expectations, calling for faith and obedience in response to His sovereign will.

* [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "God Forms Man from Dust")
* [Mark 7:33](/mark/7-33 "Jesus Heals a Deaf Man with Spittle")
* [John 1:4-5](/john/1-4-5 "Jesus as the Life and Light of Men")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 9:6 offers profound insights for our lives today. It reminds us that God's ways are often not our ways, and His methods may appear unconventional, even illogical, from a human perspective. We are called to trust in His power and wisdom, not in the conventionality or predictability of His actions. This passage encourages us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and perceived limitations, recognizing that God can use any means, however humble or unusual, to bring about His glorious purposes. Just as the blind man had to obey Jesus's instruction to go and wash, we are called to respond in faith and obedience to Christ's commands, even when the path forward seems unclear or the means seem inadequate. This verse also highlights Jesus's deep compassion and His desire to reveal God's glory through tangible acts of grace, inviting us to seek His healing and light in every area of our lives, especially those that feel dark or hopeless. It challenges us to consider where we might be spiritually blind, clinging to our own understanding rather than embracing the divine light Jesus offers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I relying on conventional wisdom rather than trusting in God's unconventional methods?**
* **How does Jesus's use of clay and spittle challenge my expectations of how God works?**
* **What "blind spots" in my spiritual understanding or perception does this passage reveal?**
* **Am I willing to obey Jesus's instructions, even when they seem unusual or require a step of faith?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus use spittle and clay for healing, rather than just speaking a word?**

Answer: Jesus's use of spittle and clay in [John 9:6](/john/9-6 "John 9:6 - Jesus Heals the Blind Man") was a deliberate act, rich with symbolic meaning, rather than merely a practical necessity. While Jesus often healed by a spoken word (e.g., [Matthew 8:8](/matthew/8-8 "Matthew 8:8 - The Centurion's Faith")), His choice here emphasizes several theological truths. First, the clay directly evokes the creation narrative in [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Forms Man from Dust"), where God formed Adam from the dust of the earth. By using clay, Jesus demonstrates His divine authority as the Creator, performing an act of "new creation" for the man born blind. Second, the physical, intimate act of touching the man and applying the clay underscores Jesus's personal engagement with human suffering and His willingness to bridge the gap between the divine and the physical. Third, it highlights the unconventional nature of God's power, which operates beyond human expectations and methods. Jesus also used spittle in other healings (e.g., [Mark 7:33](/mark/7-33 "Mark 7:33 - Jesus Heals a Deaf Man") and [Mark 8:23](/mark/8-23 "Mark 8:23 - Jesus Heals a Blind Man")), suggesting a pattern of using humble, earthy elements to manifest divine power, ensuring that the miracle's efficacy is attributed solely to Him, not to the substance itself.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 9:6 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus's identity as the divine Creator and the "Light of the World." The act of making clay from spittle and earth directly parallels God's original act of forming humanity from dust in [Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Forms Man from Dust"), revealing Jesus as the very agent of creation, as affirmed in [John 1:3](/john/1-3 "John 1:3 - All Things Made Through Him") and [Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ as Creator"). His power to re-create sight for the blind man signifies His authority over all creation and His ability to bring about new life. Furthermore, this physical healing is a profound foreshadowing of the spiritual sight Jesus offers to all humanity. Just as He opened the eyes of the physically blind, He came to open the eyes of those spiritually blind, enslaved by sin and darkness ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")). The "light" He brings is not merely knowledge but salvation, transforming hearts and minds to perceive God's truth ([2 Corinthians 4:6](/2_corinthians/4-6 "2 Corinthians 4:6 - God's Light in Our Hearts") and [Ephesians 1:18](/ephesians/1-18 "Ephesians 1:18 - Enlightenment of the Heart")). Thus, the miracle in John 9:6 is a tangible sign of Jesus's redemptive mission: to illuminate the darkness of sin and bring new spiritual life, fulfilling His role as 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")).

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

Mark 8:23

And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought.

Mark 7:33

And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;

Revelation 3:18

I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.