John 19:21
What does John 19:21 mean?
A plain-English look at John 19:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 19:21 means
The chief priests, recognizing the profound and ironic declaration of Jesus' kingship on the cross, object to Pilate's inscription. They demand that it be changed to reflect merely that Jesus claimed to be the King of the Jews, rather than an affirmative statement of His sovereignty. Their concern reveals their continued fear of Jesus' influence and their resentment that Pilate's words essentially confirmed Jesus' royal identity, even in His death. They want to deny His true kingly status publicly.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000The chief priests of the Jews therefore said to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but, that he said, I am King of the Jews.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901The chief priests of the Jews therefore said to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but, that he said, I am King of the Jews.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Then the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, Do not put, The King of the Jews, but, He said, I am the King of the Jews.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862The chief priests of the Jews said, therefore, to Pilate, `Write not--The king of the Jews, but that one said, I am king of the Jews;'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Then the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate: Write not: The King of the Jews. But that he said: I am the King of the Jews.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890The chief priests of the Jews therefore said to Pilate, Do not write, The king of the Jews, but that he said, I am king of the Jews.
Context
This verse details the chief priests' strong objection to Pilate's inscription, immediately following the explanation of its widespread public reading. Their demand to alter the wording highlights their continued efforts to discredit Jesus. This objection leads directly to Pilate's firm refusal, emphasizing his final act of defiance against their persistent manipulation.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 19:14
Now it was the Preparation of the passover: it was about the sixth hour. And he saith unto the Jews, Behold, your King!
- John 19:19
And Pilate wrote a title also, and put it on the cross. And there was written, JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore John 19
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on John 19.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Authority
Authority in the Bible refers to the divinely instituted right to command and influence, often reflecting God's sovereign rule and delegation to human leaders.
Topic
Bible Verses About Abiding in Christ
Key scriptures reveal what it means to abide in Christ, emphasizing our continuous connection and dependence on Him for spiritual life and fruitfulness.
Topic
Bible Verses About Bible Reading
The Bible encourages us to read, study, and meditate on God’s Word to grow in faith and wisdom.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Losing a Loved One
When you can't stop imagining the worst — verses to put your loved one back in God's hands.
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Death
When you're afraid to die — what scripture promises about the last enemy.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Grief After Losing Someone You Love
When the room is empty — verses that grieve with you, not around you.