Devine Scripture

John 16:6

What does John 16:6 mean?

A plain-English look at John 16:6 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What John 16:6 means

Jesus recognizes the disciples’ emotional state: sorrow has filled their hearts because of His words about leaving. They are not indifferent or hostile; they are overwhelmed. Knowing their sadness, He does not rebuke them harshly but addresses the cause by unveiling the redemptive purpose of His departure. Their grief is both natural and short-sighted, focusing on separation rather than fulfillment. This verse reveals Jesus’ tender knowledge of His friends’ inner lives. He meets them at the level of their feelings to lead them into truth and hope. He will soon show that their sorrow, though real, is not the final word but will be transformed by what His departure secures.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

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

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

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

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But your hearts are full of sorrow because I have said these things.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

but because these things I have said to you, the sorrow hath filled your heart.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But because I have spoken these things to you, sorrow hath filled your heart.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But because I have spoken these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart.

Context

This statement explains why they have not asked better questions about His destination: grief has eclipsed understanding. It prepares readers for the surprising claim in the next verse—that His going is for their advantage. The theme moves from sorrow to benefit, from loss to gain. Jesus will anchor that claim in the promised arrival of the Comforter, whose ministry depends on His departure and will bring clarity and power.

v.5But now I go unto him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou?

v.6This passage

v.7Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I go, I will send him unto you.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • John 14:27

    Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.

  • Luke 22:45

    And when he rose up from his prayer, he came unto the disciples, and found them sleeping for sorrow,

  • John 14:1

    Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me.

  • Luke 24:17

    And he said unto them, What communications are these that ye have one with another, as ye walk? And they stood still, looking sad.

  • John 20:11

    But Mary was standing without at the tomb weeping: so, as she wept, she stooped and looked into the tomb;

  • John 16:20

    Verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.

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