John 9:36
What does John 9:36 mean?
A plain-English look at John 9:36 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 9:36 means
The man responds humbly and eagerly: “And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him?” He is ready to believe but needs revelation. His openness contrasts sharply with the leaders’ resistance. Calling Jesus “Lord” here likely expresses respect, showing a posture inclined toward faith. His question reveals that his understanding, though growing, is not yet complete. He desires to place his trust rightly, and he looks to Jesus to make the truth plain. This is the posture Christ honors—willingness to believe upon clear identification of the One who saves.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him?
KJV
King James Version · 1611He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him?
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He said in answer, And who is he, Lord? Say, so that I may have faith in him.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862he answered and said, `Who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He answered, and said: Who is he, Lord, that I may believe in him?
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him?
Context
This answer follows Jesus’ invitation to believe on the Son of God. It shows the healed man’s teachable spirit and prepares for Jesus’ self-revelation. The narrative has moved from public controversy to personal encounter. What was previously known about Jesus through works and inference will now be disclosed directly by His word. The stage is set for the climactic confession of faith that defines the chapter’s true miracle: not only opened eyes, but a heart brought to worship.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 30:3
And I have not learned wisdom, Neither have I the knowledge of the Holy One.
- Romans 10:14
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
- Song of Solomon 5:9
What is thy beloved more than another beloved, O thou fairest among women? What is thy beloved more than another beloved, That thou dost so adjure us?
- John 1:38
And Jesus turned, and beheld them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? And they said unto him, Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Teacher), where abidest thou?
- Matthew 11:3
and said unto him, Art thou he that cometh, or look we for another?
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