John 13:28
What does John 13:28 mean?
A plain-English look at John 13:28 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 13:28 means
Those at the table do not know why Jesus speaks to Judas in this manner. The private sign and the ordinary appearance of events leave them unaware of the betrayal’s immediacy. This ignorance underscores how controlled and quiet the revelation has been. Jesus has kept turmoil from erupting at the table. It also shows Judas’s skill at concealment; he was trusted enough that suspicious words did not cling to him. The disciples must live by Jesus’ word, not by their impressions.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Now it was not clear to anyone at table why he said this to him.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and none of those reclining at meat knew for what intent he said this to him,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Now no man at the table knew to what purpose he said this unto him.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But none of those at table knew why he said this to him;
Context
This verse highlights the secrecy surrounding Judas’s role and paves the way for the plausible interpretations given in verse 29. The narrative will then reach a turning point in verse 30 as Judas departs. Only after his exit does Jesus launch into His discourse on glorification and the new commandment (verses 31–35).
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