The Meaning of John 12:1 Explained

John 12:1

KJV: Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.

YLT: Jesus, therefore, six days before the passover, came to Bethany, where was Lazarus, who had died, whom he raised out of the dead;

Darby: Jesus therefore, six days before the passover, came to Bethany, where was the dead man Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from among the dead.

ASV: Jesus therefore six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus raised from the dead.

KJV Reverse Interlinear

Then  Jesus  six  days  before  the passover  came  to  Bethany,  where  Lazarus  was  which  had been dead,  whom  he raised  from  the dead. 

What does John 12:1 Mean?

Verse Meaning

The day when Jesus arrived in Bethany was evidently Saturday. [1] As noted before, John frequently grouped the events he recorded around the Jewish feasts and related them to those feasts. At this Passover the Lamb of God would die as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. John"s reference to Lazarus helps the reader identify which of the two Bethanys that John mentioned is in view here. It also shows that Lazarus was still alive, another testimony to the reality of the resurrection miracle that Jesus had performed.

Context Summary

John 12:1-11 - Love's Fragrant Gift
Martha's service reminds us of Luke 10:41. The earlier Gospels (Matthew 26:1-75; Mark 14:1-72) do not mention Mary's name, probably because the whole family might have suffered for their intimate identification with Jesus; see John 12:10. But when this Gospel was written the beloved trio had been gathered home to God.
There was no value in the spikenard except to refresh and comfort, but this was sufficient to warrant Mary's act. We must not always be considering the utilitarian side of service. There are hours of holy ecstasy when we are lifted out of ourselves, in the expression of our love to Jesus, in ways that to cold and calculating onlookers seem mere extravagance. In her absorption in Him whom she loved, Mary has incited myriads to similar acts. But her love stirred up the evil in the heart of Judas, as summer's lovely sunshine extracts poison from stagnant ponds. Our Advocate will screen us from our dread accuser. He interpreted Mary's motive. She knew that her Lord would be crucified, and as she thought that there would be no opportunity for love to perform the last offices, she beforehand anointed Him for the burial. [source]

Chapter Summary: John 12

1  Jesus excuses Mary anointing his feet
9  The people flock to see Lazarus
10  The chief priests consult to kill him
12  Jesus rides into Jerusalem
20  Greeks desire to see Jesus
23  He foretells his death
37  The people are generally blinded;
42  yet many chief rulers believe, but do not confess him;
44  therefore Jesus calls earnestly for confession of faith

Greek Commentary for John 12:1

Jesus therefore [Ιησους ουν]
Here ουν — oun is not causal, but simply copulative and transitional, “and so” (Bernard), as often in John (John 1:22, etc.). Six days before the passover This idiom, transposition of προ — pro is like the Latin use of ante, but it occurs in the old Doric, in the inscriptions and the papyri. See Amos 1:1 for it also (cf. Moulton, Proleg., pp. 100ff.; Robertson, Grammar, pp. 621f.). If the crucifixion was on Friday, as seems certain from both John and the Synoptics, then six days before would be the Jewish Sabbath preceding or more probably the Friday afternoon before, since Jesus would most likely arrive before the Sabbath. Probably we are to put together in one scene for the atmosphere John 11:55-57; John 12:1, John 12:9-11. Came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus raised from the dead Each phrase explains the preceding. There is no reason for thinking this a gloss as Bernard does. It was a place of danger now after that great miracle and the consequent rage of the Sanhedrin (John 12:9-11). The crowd of eager spectators to see both Lazarus and Jesus would only intensify this rage. [source]
Which had been dead []
(Omit.) [source]
He raised []
For He, read Jesus. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for John 12:1

Matthew 21:4 By the prophet [δια του προπητου]
The first line is from Isaiah 62:11, the rest from Zechariah 9:9. John (John 12:14.) makes it clear that Jesus did not quote the passage himself. In Matthew it is not so plain, but probably it is his own comment about the incident. It is not Christ‘s intention to fulfil the prophecy, simply that his conduct did fulfil it. [source]
Matthew 26:6 In the house of Simon the leper [εν οικιαι Σιμωνος του λεπρου]
Evidently a man who had been healed of his leprosy by Jesus who gave the feast in honour of Jesus. All sorts of fantastic theories have arisen about it. Some even identify this Simon with the one in Luke 7:36., but Simon was a very common name and the details are very different. Some hold that it was Martha‘s house because she served (John 12:2) and that Simon was either the father or husband of Martha, but Martha loved to serve and that proves nothing. Some identify Mary of Bethany with the sinful woman in Luke 7 and even with Mary Magdalene, both gratuitous and groundless propositions. For the proof that Mary of Bethany, Mary Magdalene, and the sinful woman of Luke 7 are all distinct see my Some Minor Characters in the New Testament. John (John 12:1) apparently locates the feast six days before the passover, while Mark (Mark 14:3) and Matthew (Matthew 26:6) seem to place it on the Tuesday evening (Jewish Wednesday) just two days before the passover meal. It is possible that John anticipates the date and notes the feast at Bethany at this time because he does not refer to Bethany again. If not, the order of Mark must be followed. According to the order of Mark and Matthew, this feast took place at the very time that the Sanhedrin was plotting about the death of Jesus (Mark 14:1.). [source]
Mark 11:8 Branches [στιβαδας]
A litter of leaves and rushes from the fields. Textus Receptus spells this word στοιβαδας — stoibadas Matthew 21:8 has κλαδους — kladous from κλαω — klaō to break, branches broken or cut from trees. John 12:13 uses the branches of the palm trees That is to say, some of the crowd did one of these things, some another. See notes on Matthew 21:4-9 for discussion of other details. The deliberate conduct of Jesus on this occasion could have but one meaning. It was the public proclamation of himself as the Messiah, now at last for his “hour” has come. The excited crowds in front (hoi proagontes) and behind (hoi akolouthountes) fully realize the significance of it all. Hence their unrestrained enthusiasm. They expect Jesus, of course, now to set up his rule in opposition to that of Caesar, to drive Rome out of Palestine, to conquer the world for the Jews. [source]
Luke 10:38 Received him into her house [υπεδεχατο αυτον εις την οικιαν]
Aorist middle indicative of υποδεχομαι — hupodechomai an old verb to welcome as a guest (in the N.T. only here and Luke 19:6; Acts 17:7; James 2:25). Martha is clearly the mistress of the home and is probably the elder sister. There is no evidence that she was the wife of Simon the leper (John 12:1.). It is curious that in an old cemetery at Bethany the names of Martha, Eleazar, and Simon have been found. [source]
Luke 19:39 Some of the Pharisees [τινες των Παρισαιων]
Luke seems to imply by “from the multitude” (απο του οχλου — apo tou ochlou) that these Pharisees were in the procession, perhaps half-hearted followers of the mob. But John 12:19 speaks of Pharisees who stood off from the procession and blamed each other for their failure and the triumph of Jesus. These may represent the bolder spirits of their same group who dared to demand of Jesus that he rebuke his disciples. [source]
Luke 9:51 To go to Jerusalem [του πορευεσται εις Ιερουσαλημ]
Genitive infinitive of purpose. Luke three times mentions Christ making his way to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51; Luke 13:22; Luke 17:11) and John mentions three journeys to Jerusalem during the later ministry (John 7:10; John 11:17; John 12:1). It is natural to take these journeys to be the same in each of these Gospels. Luke does not make definite location of each incident and John merely supplements here and there. But in a broad general way they seem to correspond. [source]
Luke 9:51 That he should be received up [της αναλημπσεως αυτου]
Literally, “of his taking up.” It is an old word (from Hippocrates on), but here alone in the N.T. It is derived from αναλαμβανω — analambanō (the verb used of the Ascension, Acts 1:2, Acts 1:11, Acts 1:22; 1 Timothy 3:16) and refers here to the Ascension of Jesus after His Resurrection. Not only in John‘s Gospel (John 17:5) does Jesus reveal a yearning for a return to the Father, but it is in the mind of Christ here as evidently at the Transfiguration (Luke 9:31) and later in Luke 12:49.He steadfastly set his face (αυτος το προσωπον εστηρισεν — autos to prosōpon estērisen). Note emphatic αυτος — autos he himself, with fixedness of purpose in the face of difficulty and danger. This look on Christ‘s face as he went to his doom is noted later in Mark 10:32. It is a Hebraistic idiom (nine times in Ezekiel), this use of face here, but the verb (effective aorist active) is an old one from στηριζω — stērizō (from στηριγχ — stērigx a support), to set fast, to fix.To go to Jerusalem Genitive infinitive of purpose. Luke three times mentions Christ making his way to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51; Luke 13:22; Luke 17:11) and John mentions three journeys to Jerusalem during the later ministry (John 7:10; John 11:17; John 12:1). It is natural to take these journeys to be the same in each of these Gospels. Luke does not make definite location of each incident and John merely supplements here and there. But in a broad general way they seem to correspond. [source]
John 7:39 Was glorified [ἐδοξάσθη]
We have here one of John's characteristic terms, even as the idea is central to his Gospel - to show forth Jesus as the manifested glory of God (John 1:14). The beginning of our Lord's miracles was a manifestation of His glory (John 2:11). His glory was the expression of the Father's will (John 8:54). By His work He glorified the Father upon earth (John 12:28; John 17:4), and in this was Himself glorified (John 17:10). The sickness and resurrection of Lazarus were for the glory of God (John 11:4). The consummation of His work was marked by the words, “Now was the Son of man glorified, and God was glorified in Him” (John 13:31). His glory He had with the Father before the world was (John 17:5). It is consummated at His ascension (John 7:39; John 12:16). The passion is the way to glory (John 12:23, John 12:24; John 13:31). The fruitfulness of believers in Him is for the glory of God (John 15:8), and the office of the Spirit is to glorify Christ (John 16:14).sa40 [source]
John 6:21 They went [ὑπῆγον]
Imperfect: were going. Literally, were going away. The verb has the sense of retiring from something. Compare John 6:67; John 7:33, on which see note; John 12:11; John 18:8. [source]
John 18:33 King of the Jews []
The civil title. The theocratic title, king of Israel (John 1:49; John 12:13) is addressed to Jesus on the cross (Matthew 27:42; Mark 15:32) in mockery. [source]
John 10:19 There was a division [σχίσμα ἐγένετο]
Rev., more correctly, there arose. The word σχίσμα , division, from σχίζω , to cleave, describes a fact which continually recurs in John's narrative. See John 6:52, John 6:60, John 6:66; John 7:12, John 7:25sqq.; John 8:22; John 9:16, John 9:17; John 10:19, John 10:24, John 10:41; John 11:37sqq.; John 12:19, John 12:29, John 12:42; John 16:18, John 16:19. [source]
John 10:19 There arose a division again [σχισμα παλιν εγενετο]
As in John 7:43 in the crowd (also in John 7:12, John 7:31), so now among the hostile Jews (Pharisees) some of whom had previously professed belief in him (John 8:31). The direct reference of παλιν — palin (again) may be to John 9:16 when the Pharisees were divided over the problem of the blind man. Division of opinion about Jesus is a common thing in John‘s Gospel (John 6:52, John 6:60, John 6:66; John 7:12, John 7:25.; John 8:22; John 9:16.; John 10:19, John 10:24, John 10:41; John 11:41.; John 12:19, John 12:29, John 12:42; John 16:18.). [source]
John 1:49 Thou art the Son of God [συ ει ο υιος του τεου]
Whether Nathanael had heard the Baptist say this of Jesus (John 1:34) we do not know, apparently not, but Nathanael was a student of the Old Testament as Philip implied (John 1:45) and was quick to put together his knowledge, the statement of Philip, and the manifest supernatural knowledge of Jesus as just shown. There is no reason for toning down the noble confession of Nathanael in the light of Christ‘s claim in John 1:51. Cf. the confession of Peter in John 6:69; Matthew 16:16 and Martha‘s in John 11:27. Nathanael goes further. Thou art King of Israel To us this seems an anti-climax, but not so to Nathanael for both are Messianic titles in Psalm 2:1-12 and Jesus is greeted in the Triumphal Entry as the King of Israel (John 12:13). [source]
John 10:40 Again [παλιν]
Referring to John 1:28 (Bethany beyond Jordan). Παλιν — Palin does not mean that the other visit was a recent one. At the first Adverbial accusative (extent of time). Same idiom in John 12:16; John 19:39. Here the identical language of John 1:28 is used with the mere addition of το πρωτον — to prōton And there he abode Imperfect (continued) active of μενω — menō though some MSS. have the constative aorist active εμεινεν — emeinen Probably from here Jesus carried on the first part of the later Perean Ministry (Luke 13:22-16:10) before the visit to Bethany at the raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-44). [source]
John 11:2 And it was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair [ην δε Μαριαμ η αλειπσασα τον κυριον μυρωι και εκμαχασα τους ποδας αυτου ταις τριχιν αυτης]
This description is added to make plainer who Mary is “whose brother Lazarus was sick” There is an evident proleptic allusion to the incident described by John in John 12:1-8 just after chapter 11. As John looks back from the end of the century it was all behind him, though the anointing Note the Aramaic form Μαριαμ — Mariam as usual in John, but Μαριας — Marias in John 11:1. When John wrote, it was as Jesus had foretold (Matthew 26:13), for the fame of Mary of Bethany rested on the incident of the anointing of Jesus. The effort to link Mary of Bethany with Mary Magdalene and then both names with the sinful woman of Luke 7:36-50 is gratuitous and to my mind grotesque and cruel to the memory of both Mary of Bethany and Mary Magdalene. Bernard may be taken as a specimen: “The conclusion is inevitable that John (or his editor) regarded Mary of Bethany as the same person who is described by Luke as αμαρτωλος — hamartōlos This critical and artistic heresy has already been discussed in Vol. 2 on Luke‘s Gospel. Suffice it here to say that Luke introduces Mary Magdalene as an entirely new character in John 8:2 and that the details in Luke 7:36-50; John 12:1-8 have only superficial resemblances and serious disagreements. John is not here alluding to Luke‘s record, but preparing for his own in chapter 12. What earthly difficulty is there in two different women under wholly different circumstances doing a similar act for utterly different purposes? [source]
John 11:5 Now Jesus loved [ηγαπα δε]
Imperfect active of αγαπαω — agapaō picturing the continued love of Jesus for this noble family where he had his home so often (Luke 10:38-42; John 12:1-8). The sisters expected him to come at once and to heal Lazarus. [source]
John 11:45 Beheld that which he did [τεασαμενοι ο εποιησεν]
First aorist middle participle of τεαομαι — theaomai and first aorist active indicative of ποιεω — poieō in the relative Such a result had happened before (John 7:31), and all the more in the presence of this tremendous miracle which held many to Jesus (John 12:11, John 12:17). [source]
John 12:17 Bare witness [εμαρτυρει]
Imperfect active of μαρτυρεω — martureō This crowning triumph of Jesus gave an added sense of importance to the crowds that were actually with Jesus when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead. For this description of this portion of the crowd see John 11:45.; John 12:1, John 12:9-11. [source]
John 12:18 The multitude [ο οχλος]
The multitude of John 12:13, not the crowd just mentioned that had been with Jesus at the raising of Lazarus. There were two crowds (one following Jesus, one meeting Jesus as here). Went and met him First aorist active indicative of υπανταω — hupantaō old compound verb Perfect active infinitive in indirect discourse after ακουω — ēkousan (first aorist active indicative of οτι — akouō to hear) (instead of a αυτον — hoti clause) with the accusative of general reference σημειον — auton (as to him) and another accusative (sēmeion sign) the object of the infinitive. Clearly there was much talk about the raising of Lazarus as the final proof that Jesus in truth is the Messiah of Jewish hope. [source]
John 11:4 Heard it [ακουσας]
The messenger delivered the message of the sisters. The reply of Jesus is for him and for the apostles. Is not unto death Death in the final issue, to remain dead. Lazarus did die, but he did not remain dead. See αμαρτια προς τανατον — hamartia pros thanaton in 1 John 5:16, “sin unto death” (final death). But for the glory of God In behalf of God‘s glory, as the sequel shows. Cf. John 9:3 about the man born blind. The death of Lazarus will illustrate God‘s glory. In some humble sense those who suffer the loss of loved ones are entitled to some comfort from this point made by Jesus about Lazarus. In a supreme way it is true of the death of Christ which he himself calls glorification of himself and God (John 13:31). In John 7:39 John had already used δοχαζω — doxazō of the death of Christ. That the Son of God may be glorified thereby Purpose clause with ινα — hina and the first aorist passive subjunctive of δοχαζω — doxazō Here Jesus calls himself “the Son of God.” In John 8:54 Jesus had said: “It is my Father that glorifieth me.” The raising of Lazarus from the tomb will bring glory to the Son of God. See John 17:1 for this idea in Christ‘s prayer. The raising of Lazarus will also bring to an issue his own death and all this involves the glorification of the Father (John 7:39; John 12:16; John 13:31; John 14:13). The death of Lazarus brings Jesus face to face with his own death. [source]
John 11:47 Gathered a council [συνηγαγον συνεδριον]
Second aorist active indicative of συναγω — sunagō and συνεδριον — sunedrion the regular word for the Sanhedrin (Matthew 5:22, etc.), only here in John. Here a sitting or session of the Sanhedrin. Both chief priests (Sadducees) and Pharisees (mentioned no more in John after John 7:47 save John 12:19, John 12:42) combine in the call (cf. John 7:32). From now on the chief priests (Sadducees) take the lead in the attacks on Jesus, though loyally supported by their opponents (the Pharisees). And said Imperfect active of λεγω — legō perhaps inchoative, “began to say.” What do we? Present active (linear) indicative of ποιεω — poieō Literally, “What are we doing?” Doeth Better, “is doing” (present, linear action). He is active and we are idle. There is no mention of the raising of Lazarus as a fact, but it is evidently included in the “many signs.” [source]
John 12:1 Jesus therefore [Ιησους ουν]
Here ουν — oun is not causal, but simply copulative and transitional, “and so” (Bernard), as often in John (John 1:22, etc.). Six days before the passover This idiom, transposition of προ — pro is like the Latin use of ante, but it occurs in the old Doric, in the inscriptions and the papyri. See Amos 1:1 for it also (cf. Moulton, Proleg., pp. 100ff.; Robertson, Grammar, pp. 621f.). If the crucifixion was on Friday, as seems certain from both John and the Synoptics, then six days before would be the Jewish Sabbath preceding or more probably the Friday afternoon before, since Jesus would most likely arrive before the Sabbath. Probably we are to put together in one scene for the atmosphere John 11:55-57; John 12:1, John 12:9-11. Came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus raised from the dead Each phrase explains the preceding. There is no reason for thinking this a gloss as Bernard does. It was a place of danger now after that great miracle and the consequent rage of the Sanhedrin (John 12:9-11). The crowd of eager spectators to see both Lazarus and Jesus would only intensify this rage. [source]
John 12:2 So they made him a supper there [εποιησαν ουν αυτωι δειπνον εκει]
Here again ουν — oun is not inferential, but merely transitional. This supper is given by Mark (Mark 14:3-9) and Matthew (Matthew 26:6-13) just two days (Mark 14:1) before the passover, that is on our Tuesday evening (beginning of Jewish Wednesday), while John mentions (John 12:2-9) it immediately after the arrival of Jesus in Bethany (John 12:1). One must decide which date to follow. Mark and Matthew and Luke follow it with the visit of Judas to the Sanhedrin with an offer to betray Jesus as if exasperated by the rebuke by Jesus at the feast. Bernard considers that John “is here more probably accurate.” It all turns on John‘s purpose in putting it here. This is the last mention of Jesus in Bethany and he may have mentioned it proleptically for that reason as seems to me quite reasonable. Westcott notes that in chapter 12John closes his record of the public ministry of the Lord relative to the disciples at this feast (John 12:1-11), to the multitude in the triumphal entry (John 12:12-19), to the world outside in the visit of the Greeks (verses 20-36a), and with two summary judgments (John 12:36-50). There is no further reason to refer to the feast in the house of another Simon when a sinful woman anointed Jesus (Luke 7:36-50). It is no credit to Luke or to John with Mark and Matthew to have them all making a jumble like that. There were two anointings by two absolutely different women for wholly different purposes. See the discussion on Luke for further details. And Martha served Imperfect active of διακονεω — diakoneō picturing Martha true to the account of her in Luke 10:40 But this fact does not show that Martha was the wife of this Simon at all. They were friends and neighbours and Martha was following her bent. It is Mark (Mark 14:3) and Matthew (Matthew 26:6) who mention the name of the host. It is not Simon the Pharisee (Luke 7:36), but Simon the leper (Mark 14:3; Matthew 26:6) in whose house they meet. The name is common enough. The Simon in Luke was sharply critical of Jesus; this one is full of gratitude for what Jesus has done for him. That sat at meat “That lay back,” reclined as they did, articular participle (ablative case after εκ — ek) of the common verb ανακειμαι — anakeimai Perhaps Simon gave the feast partly in honour of Lazarus as well as of Jesus since all were now talking of both (John 12:9). It was a gracious occasion. The guests were Jesus, the twelve apostles, and Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. [source]
John 13:31 Now [νυν]
Now at last, the crisis has come with a sense of deliverance from the presence of Judas and of surrender to the Father‘s will (Westcott). Is glorified First aorist passive of δοχαζω — doxazō consummation of glory in death both for the Son and the Father. For this verb in this sense see note on John 7:39; note on John 12:16 and note later on John 17:4. Four times here in John 13:31. [source]
John 19:12 Sought [εζητει]
Imperfect active, “kept on seeking,” “made renewed efforts to release him.” He was afraid to act boldly against the will of the Jews. If thou release this man Condition of third class, a direct threat to Pilate. He knew all the time that the Sanhedrin might tell Caesar on him. Thou art not Caesar‘s friend Later to Vespasian this was an official title, here simply a daring threat to Pilate. Speaketh against Caesar Caesar brooks no rival. Jesus had allowed himself to be acclaimed king of Israel in the Triumphal Entry (John 12:13; Mark 11:10; Luke 19:38). The Sanhedrin have caught Pilate in their toils. [source]
John 12:9 The common people [ο οχλος πολυς]
This is the right reading with the article ο — ho literally, “the people much or in large numbers.” One is reminded of the French idiom. Gildersleeve (Syntax, p. 284) gives a few rare examples of the idiom ο ανηρ αγατος — ho anēr agathos Westcott suggests that οχλος πολυς — ochlos polus came to be regarded as a compound noun. This is the usual order in the N.T. rather than πολυς οχλος — polus ochlos (Robertson, Grammar, p. 774). Mark 12:37 has ο πολυς οχλος — ho polus ochlos Moulton (Proleg., p. 84) terms ο οχλος πολυς — ho ochlos polus here and in John 12:12 “a curious misplacement of the article.” John‘s use of οχλος — ochlos is usually the common crowd as “riff-raff.” That he was Present active indicative retained in indirect discourse after the secondary tense These “Jews” are not all hostile to Jesus as in John 5:10; John 6:41, etc., but included some who were friendly (John 12:11). But that they might see Lazarus also Purpose clause with ινα — hina and second aorist active subjunctive of οραω — horaō Motive enough to gather a great crowd, to see one raised from the dead (cf. John 12:1 for the same phrase, “whom he had raised from the dead”). Some of the very witnesses of the raising of Lazarus will bear witness later (John 12:17). It was a tense situation. [source]
John 12:23 The hour is come [εληλυτεν η ωρα]
The predestined hour, seen from the start (John 2:4), mentioned by John (John 7:30; John 8:20) as not yet come and later as known by Jesus as come (John 13:1), twice again used by Jesus as already come (in the prayer of Jesus, John 17:1; Mark 14:41, just before the betrayal in the Garden). The request from the Greeks for this interview stirs the heart of Jesus to its depths. That the Son of man should be glorified Purpose clause with ινα — hina (not in the sense of οτε — hote when) and the first aorist passive subjunctive of δοχαζω — doxazō same sense as in John 12:16, John 13:31. The Cross must come before Greeks can really come to Jesus with understanding. But this request shows that interest in Jesus now extends beyond the Jewish circles. [source]
John 12:28 Father, glorify thy name [πατερ δοχασον σου το ονομα]
First aorist (note of urgency) active imperative of πνευμα — doxazō and in the sense of his death already in John 12:16, John 12:23 and again in John 13:31; John 17:5. This is the prayer of the πσυχη — pneuma (or σαρχ — psuchē) as opposed to that of the ονομα — sarx (flesh) in John 12:27. The “name” (πωνη εκ του ουρανου — onoma) of God expresses the character of God (John 1:12; John 5:43; John 17:11). Cf. Matthew 6:9. A voice out of heaven (και εδοχασα και παλιν δοχασω — phōnē ek tou ouranou). This was the Father‘s answer to the prayer of Jesus for help. See note on the Father‘s voice at the baptism of Jesus (Mark 1:11) and on the Father‘s voice at the transfiguration (Mark 9:7). The rabbis called the audible voice of God εδοχασα — bath -δοχασω — qol (the daughter of a voice). I have both glorified it and will glorify it again (kai edoxasa kai palin doxasō). This definite assurance from the Father will nerve the soul of Jesus for the coming ordeal. Cf. John 11:40 for edoxasa and John 13:31; John 17:5 for doxasō f0). [source]
John 18:33 Again [παλιν]
Back into the palace where Pilate was before. Called First aorist active indicative of πωνεω — phōneō Jesus was already inside the court (John 18:28). Pilate now summoned him to his presence since he saw that he had to handle the case. The charge that Jesus claimed to be a king compelled him to do so (Luke 23:2). Art thou the King of the Jews? This was the vital problem and each of the Gospels has the question (Mark 15:2; Matthew 27:1; Luke 23:3; John 18:33), though Luke alone (Luke 23:2) gives the specific accusation. Thou Emphatic. Jesus did claim to be the spiritual king of Israel as Nathanael said (John 1:49) and as the ecstatic crowd hailed him on the Triumphal Entry (John 12:13), but the Sanhedrin wish Pilate to understand this in a civil sense as a rival of Caesar as some of the Jews wanted Jesus to be (John 6:15) and as the Pharisees expected the Messiah to be. [source]
John 6:21 They were willing therefore [ητελον ουν]
Inchoative imperfect, “they began to be willing.” This does not contradict Mark 6:51 as Bernard thinks. Both Jesus and Peter climbed into the boat. Whither they were going Progressive imperfect active, “to which land they had been going” (intransitive use of υπαγω — hupagō to lead under, to go under or away as in John 6:67; John 7:33; John 12:11; John 18:8. [source]
John 7:39 Which [ου]
Genitive by attraction of the relative ο — ho (accusative singular object of λαμβανειν — lambanein) to the case of του πνευματος — tou pneumatos (the Spirit) the antecedent. But it is purely grammatical gender (neuter ο — ho because of πνευμα — pneuma) which we do not have in English. Even here one should say “whom,” not which, of the Spirit of God. Were to receive Imperfect active of μελλω — mellō with the present active infinitive λαμβανειν — lambanein to receive, one of the three constructions with μελλω — mellō (present, aorist, or future infinitive). Literally, “whom they were about to receive,” a clear reference to the great pentecost. For the Spirit was not yet given No verb for “given” in the Greek. The reference is not to the existence of the Spirit, but to the dispensation of the Spirit. This same use of ειμι — eimi like παρειμι — pareimi (to be present) appears in Acts 19:2 of the Spirit‘s activity. John, writing at the close of the century, inserts this comment and interpretation of the language of Jesus as an allusion to the coming of the Holy Spirit at pentecost (the Promise of the Father). Because Jesus was not yet glorified Reason for the previous statement, the pentecostal outpouring following the death of Jesus here called “glorified” (εδοχαστη — edoxasthē first aorist passive indicative of δοχαζω — doxazō), used later of the death of Jesus (John 12:16), even by Jesus himself (John 12:23; John 13:31). [source]
John 9:8 Neighbours [γειτονες]
From γη — gē (land), of the same land, old word. See Luke 14:2. Saw him Present active participle of τεωρεω — theōreō who used to observe him. Aforetime Adverbial accusative, “the former time,” formerly. That he was a beggar See John 4:19; John 12:19 for declarative οτι — hoti after τεωρεω — theōreō But it is entirely possible that οτι — hoti here is “because” (Westcott). Προσαιτης — Prosaitēs is a late word for beggar, in N.T. only here and Mark 10:46. It is from προσαιτεω — prosaiteō to ask in addition (see προσαιτων — prosaitōn below), a thing that beggars know how to do. Is not this he that sat and begged? He had his regular place and was a familiar figure. But now his eyes are wide open. [source]
Acts 11:16 I remembered [εμνηστην]
First aorist passive indicative of the common verb μιμνησκω — mimnēskō to remind. Peter recalls the very words of Jesus as reported in Acts 1:5. Peter now understands this saying of Jesus as he had not done before. That is a common experience with us all as new experiences of grace open richer veins in God‘s truth (John 12:16). Peter clearly sees that the water baptism is merely the symbol or picture of the spiritual baptism in the heart. [source]
Acts 27:12 The more part advised [οι πλειονες ετεντο βουλην]
Second aorist middle indicative of τιτημι — tithēmi ancient idiom with βουλην — boulēn to take counsel, give counsel. Lysias held a council of the officers of the ship on the issue raised by Paul. If by any means they could reach Phoenix and winter there (ει πως δυναιντο καταντησαντες εις Ποινικα παραχειμασαι — ei pōs dunainto katantēsantes eis Phoinika paracheimasai). The optative δυναιντο — dunainto (present middle of δυναμαι — dunamai) here with ει — ei is a condition of the fourth class with the notion of purpose implied and indirect discourse (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1021). “We vote for going on the chance that we may be able” (Page). Phoenix is the town of palms (John 12:13), the modern Lutro, the only town in Crete on the southern coast with a harbour fit for wintering, though Wordsworth and Page argue for Phineka which suits Luke‘s description better. The verb παραχειμαζω — paracheimazō to winter, is from παρα — para and χειμων — cheimōn (see also Acts 28:11). Used in several Koiné{[28928]}š writers. Looking northeast and southeast There are two ways of interpreting this language. Λιπς — Lips means the southwest wind and χωρος — chōros the northwest wind. But what is the effect of κατα — kata with these words? Does it mean “facing” the wind? If so, we must read “looking southwest and northwest.” But κατα — kata can mean down the line of the wind (the way the wind is blowing). If so, then it is proper to translate “looking northeast and southeast.” This translation suits Lutro, the other suits Phoenike. Ramsay takes it to be Lutro, and suggests that sailors describe the harbour by the way it looks as they go into it (the subjectivity of the sailors) and that Luke so speaks and means Lutro which faces northeast and southeast. On the whole Lutro has the best of the argument. [source]
Acts 27:12 If by any means they could reach Phoenix and winter there [ει πως δυναιντο καταντησαντες εις Ποινικα παραχειμασαι]
The optative δυναιντο — dunainto (present middle of δυναμαι — dunamai) here with ει — ei is a condition of the fourth class with the notion of purpose implied and indirect discourse (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1021). “We vote for going on the chance that we may be able” (Page). Phoenix is the town of palms (John 12:13), the modern Lutro, the only town in Crete on the southern coast with a harbour fit for wintering, though Wordsworth and Page argue for Phineka which suits Luke‘s description better. The verb παραχειμαζω — paracheimazō to winter, is from παρα — para and χειμων — cheimōn (see also Acts 28:11). Used in several Koiné{[28928]}š writers. [source]
1 Corinthians 4:12 We bless [εὐλογοῦμεν]
See on blessed, John 12:13. [source]
2 Corinthians 12:2 Fourteen years ago [προ ετων δεκατεσσαρων]
Idiomatic way of putting it, the preposition προ — pro (before) before the date (Robertson, Grammar, p. 621f.) as in John 12:1. The date was probably while Paul was at Tarsus (Acts 9:30; Acts 11:25). We have no details of that period. Caught up (αρπαγεντα — harpagenta). Second aorist passive participle of αρπαζω — harpazō to seize (see note on Matthew 11:12). Even to the third heaven It is unlikely that Paul alludes to the idea of seven heavens held by some Jews (Test. of the Twelve Pat., Levi ii. iii.). He seems to mean the highest heaven where God is (Plummer). [source]
Hebrews 11:20 Blessed [εὐλόγησεν]
See on John 12:13. [source]
Hebrews 9:10 Only with meats and drinks and divers washings [μονον επι βρωμασιν και πομασιν και διαποροις βαπτισμοις]
The parenthesis of the Revised Version here is unnecessary. The use of επι — epi here with the locative case is regular, “in the matter of” (Luke 12:52; John 12:16; Acts 21:24). What ritual value these Levitical sacrifices had was confined to minute regulations about diet and ceremonial cleansing (clean and unclean). For “divers” Carnal ordinances But the correct text is undoubtedly simply δικαιωματα σαρκος — dikaiōmata sarkos (nominative case), in apposition with δωρα τε και τυσιαι — dōra te kai thusiai (gifts and sacrifices). See Hebrews 9:1 for δικαιωματα — dikaiōmata Imposed Present middle or passive participle of επικειμαι — epikeimai old verb to lie upon (be laid upon). Cf. 1 Corinthians 9:16. Until a time of reformation Definite statement of the temporary nature of the Levitical system already stated in Hebrews 7:10-17; Hebrews 8:13 and argued clearly by Paul in Galatians 3:15-22. Διορτωσις — Diorthōsis is a late word, here alone in N.T. (from διορτοω — diorthoō to set right or straight), used by Hippocrates for making straight misshapen limbs like ανορτοω — anorthoō in Hebrews 12:12. Here for reformation like διορτωμα — diorthōma (reform) in Acts 24:2. Christianity itself is the great Reformation of the current Judaism (Pharisaism) and the spiritual Judaism foreshadowed by the old Abrahamic promise (see Gal 3; Rom 9). [source]
1 John 4:17 Herein [ἐν τούτῳ]
To what does this refer? Two explanations are given. (1.) To the following that we may have boldness. So Huther, who argues thus on the ground that 1 John 4:18shows that the drift of the writer's thought is toward the fearlessness of love. According to this, therefore, love has its fulfillment in freeing us from fear, and inspiring us with boldness even in view of the final judgment. (2.) To what precedes, viz., our dwelling in God and He in us. So Westcott: “The fellowship of God with man and of man with God, carries with it the consummation of love.” I prefer the latter, principally on the ground that in such phrases as ἐν τούτῳ inthis, διὰ τοῦτο onthis account, therefore, the pronoun usually refers to something preceding, though more fully developed in what follows. See John 5:16, John 5:18; John 6:65; John 8:47; John 10:17; John 12:18; John 16:15. [source]
Jude 1:7 Going after [ἀπελθοῦσαι ὀπίσω]
The aorist participle. Rev., having gone. The phrase occurs Mark 1:20; James and John leaving their father and going after Jesus. “The world is gone after him” (John 12:19). Here metaphorical. The force of ἀπό is away; turning away from purity, and going after strange flesh. [source]
Revelation 10:11 Thou must prophesy again [δει σε παλιν προπητευσαι]
Not a new commission (Revelation 1:19), though now renewed. C.f. Ezekiel 4:7; Ezekiel 6:2; Jeremiah 1:10. The παλιν — palin (again) points to what has preceded and also to what is to come in Revelation 11:15. Here it is predictive prophecy In the case, in regard to as in John 12:16 (with γραπω — graphō), not in the presence of (επι — epi with genitive, Mark 13:9) nor against (επι — epi with the accusative, Luke 22:53). For this list of peoples see Revelation 5:9, occurring seven times in the Apocalypse. [source]
Revelation 10:11 Over [επι]
In the case, in regard to as in John 12:16 (with γραπω — graphō), not in the presence of For this list of peoples see Revelation 5:9, occurring seven times in the Apocalypse. [source]
Revelation 14:20 Unto the bridles [αχρι των χαλινων]
Old word (from χαλαω — chalaō to slacken), in N.T. only here and James 3:3. Bold picture.As far as a thousand and six hundred furlongs (απο σταδιων χιλιων εχακοσιων — apo stadiōn chiliōn hexakosiōn). A peculiar use of απο — apo for “distance from (of)” as also in John 11:18; John 21:8, somewhat like the use of προ — pro in John 12:1. The distance itself covers the length of Palestine, but it is more likely that “the metaphor is worked out with the exuberance of apocalyptic symbolism” (Swete) for the whole earth. [source]
Revelation 14:20 As far as a thousand and six hundred furlongs [απο σταδιων χιλιων εχακοσιων]
A peculiar use of απο — apo for “distance from (of)” as also in John 11:18; John 21:8, somewhat like the use of προ — pro in John 12:1. The distance itself covers the length of Palestine, but it is more likely that “the metaphor is worked out with the exuberance of apocalyptic symbolism” (Swete) for the whole earth. [source]
Revelation 22:16 For the churches [επι ταις εκκλησιαις]
For this use of επι — epi see Revelation 10:11; John 12:16. It is not just for the seven churches (Revelation 1:4), but for all the churches in the world then and now. [source]
Revelation 7:9 In white robes [ποινικες]
Predicate accusative retained with this passive verb of clothing as in Revelation 7:13; Revelation 10:1; Revelation 11:3; Revelation 12:1; Revelation 17:4; Revelation 18:16; Revelation 19:13.Palms (ιδου — phoinikes). Nominative again, back to construction with ειδον — idou not eidon Old word, in N.T. only here for palm branches and John 12:13 for palm trees. Both these and the white robes are signs of victory and joy. [source]
Revelation 7:9 Palms [ιδου]
Nominative again, back to construction with ειδον — idou not eidon Old word, in N.T. only here for palm branches and John 12:13 for palm trees. Both these and the white robes are signs of victory and joy. [source]
Revelation 14:20 Without the city [εχωτεν της πολεως]
Ablative case with εχωτεν — exōthen (like εχω — exō). This was the usual place (Hebrews 13:12). See εχωτεν — exōthen in Revelation 11:2. Joel (Joel 3:12) pictures the valley of Jehoshaphat as the place of the slaughter of God‘s enemies. Cf. Zechariah 14:4.Blood from the winepress (αιμα εκ της ληνου — haima ek tēs lēnou). Bold imagery suggested by the colour of the grapes.Unto the bridles Old word (from χαλαω — chalaō to slacken), in N.T. only here and James 3:3. Bold picture.As far as a thousand and six hundred furlongs (απο σταδιων χιλιων εχακοσιων — apo stadiōn chiliōn hexakosiōn). A peculiar use of απο — apo for “distance from (of)” as also in John 11:18; John 21:8, somewhat like the use of προ — pro in John 12:1. The distance itself covers the length of Palestine, but it is more likely that “the metaphor is worked out with the exuberance of apocalyptic symbolism” (Swete) for the whole earth. [source]
Revelation 22:16 Have sent [επεμπσα]
First aorist active indicative of πεμπω — pempō used here in the same sense as αποστειλας — aposteilas in Revelation 1:1 as his personal messenger. It is the Jesus of history here speaking, who is also the Christ of theology and the Lamb of God.For the churches (επι ταις εκκλησιαις — epi tais ekklēsiais). For this use of επι — epi see Revelation 10:11; John 12:16. It is not just for the seven churches (Revelation 1:4), but for all the churches in the world then and now.I am the root and the offspring of David See Revelation 5:5 for “the root of David,” to which John now adds το γενος — to genos in the sense of “offspring” (Acts 17:28.), not of family or race (Acts 4:6; Acts 7:13). Cf. Matthew 22:42-45.The bright, the morning star (ο αστηρ ο λαμπρος ο πρωινος — ho astēr ho lampros ho prōinos). The Davidic King is called a star in Numbers 24:17; Luke 1:78. This “day-star” (πωσπορος — phōsphoros) is interpreted as Christ (2 Peter 1:19). In Revelation 2:28 the phrase “the morning star” occurs in Christ‘s words, which is here interpreted. Christ is the Light that was coming into the world (John 1:9; John 8:12). [source]
Revelation 7:9 Standing [εστωτες]
Same form in Revelation 7:1, only nominative masculine plural referring to οχλος — ochlos (masculine singular), construction according to sense like the plural λεγοντων — legontōn with οχλου — ochlou in Revelation 19:1.Arrayed (περιβεβλημενους — peribeblēmenous). Perfect passive participle of περιβαλλω — periballō but in the accusative plural (not nominative like εστωτες — hestōtes), a common variation in this book when preceded by ειδον — eidon and ιδου — idou as in Revelation 4:4 (τρονοι πρεσβυτερους — thronoiπεριβεβλημενοι — presbuterous). Charles regards this as a mere slip which would have been changed to στολας λευκας — peribeblēmenoi if John had read the MS. over.In white robes Predicate accusative retained with this passive verb of clothing as in Revelation 7:13; Revelation 10:1; Revelation 11:3; Revelation 12:1; Revelation 17:4; Revelation 18:16; Revelation 19:13.Palms (ιδου — phoinikes). Nominative again, back to construction with ειδον — idou not eidon Old word, in N.T. only here for palm branches and John 12:13 for palm trees. Both these and the white robes are signs of victory and joy. [source]

What do the individual words in John 12:1 mean?

- Therefore Jesus before six days the Passover came to Bethany where was Lazarus whom had raised out from [the] dead
οὖν Ἰησοῦς πρὸ ἓξ ἡμερῶν τοῦ πάσχα ἦλθεν εἰς Βηθανίαν ὅπου ἦν Λάζαρος ὃν ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν

  - 
Parse: Article, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Ἰησοῦς  Jesus 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: Ἰησοῦς  
Sense: Joshua was the famous captain of the Israelites, Moses’ successor.
πρὸ  before 
Parse: Preposition
Root: πρό  
Sense: before.
ἓξ  six 
Parse: Adjective, Genitive Feminine Plural
Root: ἕξ  
Sense: six.
ἡμερῶν  days 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Plural
Root: ἡμέρα  
Sense: the day, used of the natural day, or the interval between sunrise and sunset, as distinguished from and contrasted with the night.
πάσχα  Passover 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Neuter Singular
Root: πάσχα  
Sense: the paschal sacrifice (which was accustomed to be offered for the people’s deliverance of old from Egypt).
ἦλθεν  came 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: ἔρχομαι  
Sense: to come.
Βηθανίαν  Bethany 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: Βηθανία  
Sense: a village at the Mount of Olives, about two miles (3 km) from Jerusalem, on or near the normal road to Jericho.
ὅπου  where 
Parse: Adverb
Root: ὅπου  
Sense: where, whereas.
Λάζαρος  Lazarus 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: Λάζαρος  
Sense: an inhabitant of Bethany, beloved by Christ and raised from the dead by him.
ὃν  whom 
Parse: Personal / Relative Pronoun, Accusative Masculine Singular
Root: ὅς 
Sense: who, which, what, that.
ἤγειρεν  had  raised 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: ἐγείρω  
Sense: to arouse, cause to rise.
ἐκ  out  from 
Parse: Preposition
Root: ἐκ 
Sense: out of, from, by, away from.
νεκρῶν  [the]  dead 
Parse: Adjective, Genitive Masculine Plural
Root: νεκρός  
Sense: properly.