John 13:25

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Context

This verse occurs during the solemn setting of the Last Supper, specifically after Jesus has announced that one of His own disciples would betray Him (John 13:21). This declaration causes great distress and confusion among the disciples, who begin to wonder who the betrayer could be (John 13:22). Simon Peter, eager to know but perhaps too far from Jesus to ask directly, signals to "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23), traditionally identified as John himself, to inquire on their behalf (John 13:24). John's unique position, reclining closest to Jesus, allows him this intimate moment.

Key Themes

  • Intimacy and Proximity: John's physical position, "lying on Jesus' breast," highlights his deep personal closeness and affection for Christ. This proximity allows for a private, confidential exchange.
  • Human Curiosity and Distress: The disciples are deeply troubled by the prophecy of betrayal. Their collective anxiety leads to this direct inquiry, reflecting their desire for clarity and understanding in a moment of profound uncertainty.
  • The Role of the Beloved Disciple: John's special relationship with Jesus is underscored, as he is the one uniquely positioned to ask such a sensitive question and receive a direct answer regarding the betrayer, Judas Iscariot.

Linguistic and Cultural Insights

The phrase "lying on Jesus' breast" (KJV) or "leaning back on Jesus' breast" (NIV) refers to the common dining custom of the time, where guests would recline on couches, resting on their left elbow, with their heads near the chest of the person to their left. The Greek word for "breast" here is kolpos (κόλπος), meaning "bosom" or "lap," signifying a position of honor, trust, and intimate fellowship. This posture indicates not only physical closeness but also a deep bond between John and Jesus, making it natural for such a private inquiry to take place.

Practical Application

This verse encourages believers to seek a deep and intimate relationship with Christ. Just as John was close enough to ask sensitive questions and receive direct answers, we too are invited to draw near to Jesus with our concerns, questions, and anxieties. It highlights the importance of personal communion with God, where we can lay our burdens before Him and trust in His guidance and revelation. In moments of confusion or distress, drawing close to Christ is the pathway to clarity and peace.

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Cross-References

  • John 21:20 (3 votes)

    ¶ 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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    [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 (2 votes)

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