John 2:5
What does John 2:5 mean?
A plain-English look at John 2:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 2:5 means
Despite Jesus' seemingly cautionary words about His hour not yet coming, Mary's instruction to the servants, "Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it," reveals her unwavering faith in His ability and willingness to act. She understands that even if His timing wasn't immediate, He possessed the power to intervene. Her command is a testament to her trust and serves as a vital bridge, preparing the way for the servants' immediate obedience, which is essential for the miracle to unfold and for the disciples to witness His glory.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
KJV
King James Version · 1611His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949His mother said to the servants, Whatever he says to you, do it.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862His mother saith to the ministrants, `Whatever he may say to you--do.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752His mother saith to the waiters: Whatsoever he shall say to you, do ye.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890His mother says to the servants, Whatever he may say to you, do.
Context
Following Jesus' initial, seemingly deflective reply to His mother, this verse presents Mary's decisive instruction to the servants. Her words are critical, as they demonstrate her trust and directly set the stage for the servants' action, which is indispensable for the miracle to occur according to Jesus' instructions. This serves as a vital transition from the problem and the discussion to the actual execution of the miracle.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Judges 13:14
She may not eat of anything that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing; all that I commanded her let her observe.
- Luke 6:46
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
- Hebrews 5:9
and having been made perfect, he became unto all them that obey him the author of eternal salvation;
- Hebrews 11:8
By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed to go out unto a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
- Genesis 6:22
Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.
- Luke 5:5
And Simon answered and said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing: but at thy word I will let down the nets.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore John 2
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on John 2.
Topics that quote it
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 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 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.