[1] 1:1 Word The Greek word is "logos," meaning any kind of communication. It could be translated "message." Here, it means Christ-the way God told the world about himself. Also in verses 10, 14, 16.

[2] 1:5 light Meaning Christ, the Word, who brought to the world understanding about God. Also in verse 7.

[3] 1:5 darkness A symbol of sin and evil, which characterize Satan's kingdom.

[4] 1:5 defeated Or, "understood."

[5] 1:6 John See "John the Baptizer."

[6] 1:14 divine greatness Literally, "glory," a word that refers to the special qualities of God. See "glory."

[7] 1:14 grace The love and kindness that God shows in his complete willingness to give people favors he does not owe them and blessings they don't deserve.

[8] 1:16 one blessing after another Literally, "grace in place of grace."

[9] 1:17 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[10] 1:18 The only Son . Father Or, more literally, "The only God, who is very close to the Father, has shown us what he is like." Some other Greek copies say, "The only Son is very close to the Father and has shown us what he is like."

[11] 1:19 Levite Any of the men from the tribe of Levi, who helped the Israelite priests in the Holy Tent (Tabernacle) and Temple. In later periods some Levites worked for the civil government.

[12] 1:19 John See "John the Baptizer."

[13] 1:20 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[14] 1:21 Elijah A very important Israelite leader and prophet who spoke for God during a 25-year period ending about 850 b.c. In the time of Jesus, the Jews were expecting Elijah to come again before the Messiah. See Mal. 4:5-6.

[15] 1:21 Prophet They probably meant the prophet that God told Moses he would send. See Deut. 18:15-19. Also in verse 24.

[16] 1:23 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[17] 1:24 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[18] 1:25 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[19] 1:29 Lamb A symbolic name for Jesus Christ. It means that he was an offering for sin like the lambs that were offered as a sacrifice to God in the Old Testament.

[20] 1:31 Israel The Israelite nation, descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was also called "Israel."

[21] 1:31 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[22] 1:32-33 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[23] 1:32-33 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[24] 1:36 Lamb A symbolic name for Jesus Christ. It means that he was an offering for sin like the lambs that were offered as a sacrifice to God in the Old Testament.

[25] 1:41 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[26] 1:42 Peter The Greek name "Peter," like the Aramaic name "Cephas," means "rock."

[27] 1:45 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[28] 1:45 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[29] 1:47 Israelite Belonging to the nation of Israel (see "Israel").

[30] 1:47 you can trust Literally, "in whom is no deceit." In the Old Testament, Israel's other name, Jacob, is explained with words that mean "deceit" or "trickery," for which he was well-known. See Gen. 27:35, 36.

[31] 1:49 Israel The Israelite nation, descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was also called "Israel."

[32] 1:51 Quote from Gen. 28:12.

[33] 1:51 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[34] 2:6 washing ceremonies The Jews had religious rules about washing in special ways before eating, before worshiping in the Temple, and at other special times.

[35] 2:6 20 or 30 gallons Literally, "2 or 3 metretas," about 80 to 120 liters.

[36] 2:9 bridegroom A man who is getting married.

[37] 2:11 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[38] 2:11 divine greatness Literally, "glory," a word that refers to the special qualities of God. See "glory."

[39] 2:12 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[40] 2:13 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[41] 2:14 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[42] 2:17 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[43] 2:18 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[44] 2:23 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[45] 3:1 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[46] 3:2 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[47] 3:3 God's kingdom The "reign" or "rule" of God over all humanity-a time of great blessing for those who submit to him by accepting Jesus as the Christ (appointed king), who represents God's kingdom on earth, being the perfect example of submission to the will of God. When people give control of their lives to Jesus, they become a part of God's kingdom and begin to enjoy the blessings he has promised his people from the beginning. (Note that in Matthew this term also translates the Greek phrase, "the kingdom of the heavens," which was used by Jews as a way to avoid saying the divine name.)

[48] 3:5 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[49] 3:10 Israel The Israelite nation, descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was also called "Israel."

[50] 3:13 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[51] 3:14 Moses lifted . desert When God's people were dying from snake bites, God told Moses to put a brass snake on a pole for them to look at and be healed. See Num. 21:4-9.

[52] 3:15 Some scholars think that this quotation of Jesus' words continues in verses 16-21.

[53] 3:19 light This means Christ, the Word, who brought to the world understanding about God.

[54] 3:19 darkness A symbol of sin and evil, which characterize Satan's kingdom.

[55] 3:22 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[56] 3:25 religious washing The Jews had religious rules about washing in special ways before eating, before worshiping in the Temple, and at other special times.

[57] 3:28 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[58] 3:29 bridegroom A man who is getting married.

[59] 3:34 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[60] 4:1 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[61] 4:1 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[62] 4:7 Samaritans During New Testament times, the people who lived in Samaria, the region north of Judea. They were part Jewish and followed the law of Moses, but the Jews of Judea did not accept them as pure descendants of Israel.

[63] 4:9 Jews are not friends with Samaritans Or, "Jews don't use things that Samaritans have used."

[64] 4:12 Jacob Another name for Israel. (See Gen. 32:22-28.) He was an important ancestor of the Israelites or Jews, the father of twelve sons from whom the twelve tribes of Israel descended.

[65] 4:19 prophet A prophet often knows things that are hidden to other people.

[66] 4:25 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[67] 4:44 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[68] 4:45 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[69] 4:46 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[70] 4:48 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[71] 4:48 wonders Miracles that cause people to react with amazement and fear of God.

[72] 5:2 Aramaic The official language of the ancient Persian empire. Similar to Hebrew, it later became the common language of many Jews and is the spoken "Hebrew" referred to in the New Testament.

[73] 5:2 Bethzatha Also called Bethsaida or Bethesda, a pool of water north of the Temple in Jerusalem.

[74] 5:3 At the end of verse 3 some Greek copies add "and they waited for the water to move."

[75] 5:4 A few later copies add verse 4: "Sometimes an angel of the Lord came down to the pool and shook the water. After the angel did this, the first person to go into the pool was healed from any sickness he had."

[76] 5:9 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[77] 5:14 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[78] 5:27 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[79] 5:33 John See "John the Baptizer."

[80] 5:39 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[81] 5:45 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[82] 6:2 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[83] 6:4 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[84] 6:14 Prophet They probably meant the prophet that God told Moses he would send. See Deut. 18:15-19.

[85] 6:17 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[86] 6:19 three or four miles Literally, "25 or 30 stadia," about 5 or 6 km.

[87] 6:24 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[88] 6:26 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[89] 6:27 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[90] 6:31 ancestors Literally, "fathers," meaning a person's parents, grandparents, and all the other people that person is descended from. In the New Testament it usually refers to people who lived during Old Testament times.

[91] 6:31 manna The special food provided by God that the Israelites gathered daily from the ground during the 40 years they wandered through the desert. See Ex. 16:4-36.

[92] 6:31 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[93] 6:31 Quote from Ps. 78:24.

[94] 6:32 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[95] 6:45 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[96] 6:45 Quote from Isa. 54:13.

[97] 6:59 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[98] 6:59 Capernaum A town on the northern shore of Lake Galilee where Jesus often spent time and taught.

[99] 6:62 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[100] 6:63 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[101] 6:67 apostle A follower of Jesus chosen to represent him in a special way. During his earthly ministry, Jesus named twelve men as apostles, to whom he gave the specific responsibility and authority to represent him and proclaim his message throughout the world. Later, he appeared to Paul and gave him a similar commission, especially to non-Jewish people. Barnabas, Paul's missionary companion, and James, the brother of Jesus, are also called apostles, as well as several others in the New Testament. Some of these occurrences of the word, however, have the more general sense of "messenger" or "emissary."

[102] 7:2 Festival of Shelters A special week each year when the Israelites, and later the Jews, lived in tents to remember that their people wandered in the desert for 40 years during the time of Moses.

[103] 7:3 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[104] 7:14 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[105] 7:19 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[106] 7:19 law This usually refers to God's law as it is represented in the Mosaic Law, the rules he gave to the Israelites through Moses (See Ex. 34:29-32). Sometimes it may mean the principle of law rather than a specific law or set of laws.

[107] 7:20 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[108] 7:21 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[109] 7:21 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[110] 7:22 circumcise, circumcision Cutting off the foreskin of the male sex organ, which was done to every Jewish baby boy. It was a mark of the agreement God made with Abraham. Read Gen. 17:9-14.

[111] 7:22 ancestors Literally, "fathers," meaning a person's parents, grandparents, and all the other people that person is descended from. In the New Testament it usually refers to people who lived during Old Testament times.

[112] 7:26 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[113] 7:28 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[114] 7:31 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[115] 7:32 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[116] 7:32 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[117] 7:38 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[118] 7:39 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[119] 7:39 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[120] 7:40 Prophet They probably meant the prophet that God told Moses he would send. See Deut. 18:15-19.

[121] 7:41 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[122] 7:42 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[123] 7:42 David King of Israel about 1000 years before Christ.

[124] 7:45 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[125] 7:45 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[126] 7:49 law This usually refers to God's law as it is represented in the Mosaic Law, the rules he gave to the Israelites through Moses (See Ex. 34:29-32). Sometimes it may mean the principle of law rather than a specific law or set of laws.

[127] 7:50 He was the one . before The story about Nicodemus going and talking to Jesus is in Jn. 3:1-21.

[128] 7:52 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[129] 7:52 a prophet Two early Greek copies have "the Prophet," which would mean the "prophet like Moses" mentioned in Deut. 18:15. In Acts 3:22 and 7:37 this is understood to be the Messiah, as in verse 40 above.

[130] 8:1 Mount of Olives A hill east of the city of Jerusalem from which one could see the Temple area.

[131] 8:2 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[132] 8:3 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[133] 8:4 adultery Breaking a marriage promise by committing sexual sin.

[134] 8:5 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[135] 8:11 The oldest and best Greek copies do not have verses 7:53-8:11. Other copies have this section in different places.

[136] 8:12 darkness A symbol of sin and evil, which characterize Satan's kingdom.

[137] 8:13 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[138] 8:20 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[139] 8:24 I AM This is like the name of God used in the Old Testament. See Isa. 41:4; 43:10; Ex. 3:14. However, it can also mean "I am he (the Christ)." Also in verse 28.

[140] 8:28 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[141] 8:33 Abraham The most respected ancestor of the Jewish people. Through him God promised to make a great nation and bless all the people of the earth. Read Gen. 12:1-3.

[142] 8:48 Samaritans During New Testament times, the people who lived in Samaria, the region north of Judea. They were part Jewish and followed the law of Moses, but the Jews of Judea did not accept them as pure descendants of Israel.

[143] 8:48 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[144] 8:52 Abraham The most respected ancestor of the Jewish people. Through him God promised to make a great nation and bless all the people of the earth. Read Gen. 12:1-3.

[145] 8:52 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[146] 8:56 fathers Important ancestors of the Jewish people, especially the leaders of the tribes of Israel.

[147] 8:58 I AM This is like the name of God used in the Old Testament. See Isa. 41:4; 43:10; Ex. 3:14. However, it can also mean "I am he (the Christ)."

[148] 8:59 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[149] 9:13 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[150] 9:14 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[151] 9:16 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[152] 9:17 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[153] 9:22 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[154] 9:22 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[155] 9:28 Moses One of the most important leaders of the Israelites during the time of the Old Testament. God used him to give the people his law, which is often called "the law of Moses."

[156] 9:35 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[157] 9:39 people who are blind Jesus is talking about people who are spiritually blind (without understanding), not physically blind.

[158] 9:40 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[159] 10:16 I have other sheep . shepherd Jesus means he has followers who are not Jews. See Jn. 11:52.

[160] 10:20 demon An evil spirit from the devil.

[161] 10:22 Festival of Dedication Hanukkah, a special week in December, when the Jewish people celebrated the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple in 165/164 b.c.

[162] 10:23 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[163] 10:23 Solomon's Porch An area on the east side of the Temple, covered by a roof.

[164] 10:24 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[165] 10:25 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[166] 10:29 he . than all Some Greek copies have "They are greater than all."

[167] 10:34 Quote from Ps. 82:6.

[168] 10:35 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[169] 10:40 John See "John the Baptizer."

[170] 10:40 baptize To perform the act of baptism. See "baptism."

[171] 10:41 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[172] 11:4 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[173] 11:9 from the sun Literally, "of this world."

[174] 11:17 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[175] 11:18 two miles Literally, "15 stadia," almost 3 km.

[176] 11:24 resurrection Being raised from death to live again.

[177] 11:27 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[178] 11:31 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[179] 11:38 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[180] 11:40 divine greatness Literally, "glory," a word that refers to the special qualities of God. See "glory."

[181] 11:46 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[182] 11:47 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[183] 11:48 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[184] 11:49 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[185] 11:51 prophesy To speak or teach things from God.

[186] 11:55 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[187] 12:1 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[188] 12:3 pint Literally, litra or a Roman pound, equal to 327 grams (11.5 ounces).

[189] 12:3 nard Very expensive oil from the root of the nard plant. It was used as a perfume.

[190] 12:5 a full year's pay Literally, "300 denarii (silver coins)." One coin, a Roman denarius, was the average pay for one day's work.

[191] 12:8 You will . with you See Deut. 15:11.

[192] 12:12 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[193] 12:13 Praise Literally, "Hosanna," a Hebrew word used in praying to God for help. Here, it was probably a shout of celebration used in praising God or his Messiah.

[194] 12:14 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[195] 12:15 city of Zion Literally, "daughter of Zion," meaning Jerusalem.

[196] 12:16 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[197] 12:17 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[198] 12:18 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[199] 12:19 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[200] 12:20 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[201] 12:23 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[202] 12:23 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[203] 12:28 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[204] 12:31 ruler of this world See Satan.

[205] 12:32 lifted up Meaning to be nailed to a cross and "lifted up" on it to die. It may also have a second meaning: to be "lifted up" from death to heaven. Also in verse 34.

[206] 12:34 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[207] 12:34 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[208] 12:35 light This means Christ, as in Jn. 1:5-9. Also, it is a symbol of goodness and truth, qualities associated with Christ and his kingdom.

[209] 12:35 darkness A symbol of sin and evil, which characterize Satan's kingdom.

[210] 12:37 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[211] 12:38 prophet A person who speaks a message from God. Many of the books in the Old Testament are messages spoken or written by "the prophets," who were some of those God chose to speak for him. God often used dreams or visions to tell or show his prophets what they should say.

[212] 12:41 divine greatness Literally, "glory," a word that refers to the special qualities of God. See "glory."

[213] 12:42 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[214] 12:42 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[215] 13:1 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[216] 13:5 wash . feet A social custom of the first century, because people wore open sandals on very dusty roads. It was a humble duty, usually done by a servant. Also in verses 6-14.

[217] 13:18 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[218] 13:18 has turned against me' Literally, "has lifted up his heel against me." Quote from Ps. 41:9.

[219] 13:19 I AM This is like the name of God used in the Old Testament. See Isa. 41:4; 43:10; Ex. 3:14. However, it can also mean "I am he (the Christ)."

[220] 13:27 Satan A name for the devil meaning "the enemy," or "the accuser."

[221] 13:31 Son of Man The name that Jesus most often used for himself. The phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic means "human being" or "mankind," but in Dan. 7:13-14 it is used of a future savior and king, and this was later understood to be the Messiah, the one God would send to save his people.

[222] 13:31 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[223] 14:11 miracle An amazing act done by the power of God.

[224] 14:13 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[225] 14:16 Helper Or, "Comforter," the Holy Spirit. Also in verse 26.

[226] 14:17 Spirit of truth The Holy Spirit. It was his work to help Jesus' followers understand God's truth. See Jn. 16:13.

[227] 14:26 Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. In union with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world.

[228] 14:30 ruler of this world See Satan.

[229] 15:2 branch The "branches" are Jesus' followers. See verse 5.

[230] 15:2 produce fruit Meaning the way Jesus' followers must live to show they belong to him. See verses 7-10.

[231] 15:8 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[232] 15:25 'They hated me for no reason' These words could be from Ps. 35:19 or Ps. 69:4.

[233] 15:26 Helper Or, "Comforter," the Holy Spirit. Also in 16:7, 8.

[234] 15:26 Spirit of truth The Holy Spirit. It was his work to help Jesus' followers understand God's truth. See Jn. 16:13.

[235] 16:2 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[236] 16:11 their leader Literally, "the ruler of this world." See "Satan" in the Word List.

[237] 16:13 Spirit See "Holy Spirit."

[238] 16:14 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[239] 17:1 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

[240] 17:12 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[241] 17:15 Evil One The devil or Satan, the ruler of demons and enemy of God.

[242] 18:3 Pharisee A person who belonged to a Jewish religious group that claimed to follow carefully all Jewish laws and customs.

[243] 18:5 "I am Jesus" Literally, "I am," which could have the same meaning here that it has in 8:24, 28, 58; 13:19. Also in verse 8.

[244] 18:10 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[245] 18:11 cup A symbol of suffering. Jesus used the idea of drinking from a cup to mean accepting the suffering he would face in the terrible events that were soon to come.

[246] 18:13 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[247] 18:15 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[248] 18:19 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[249] 18:20 synagogue A place in many cities where Jews gathered for prayer, study of the Scriptures, and other public meetings.

[250] 18:20 Temple The permanent building in Jerusalem that replaced the portable Holy Tent (Tabernacle) that was used by the Israelites from the time of their wandering in the desert to the reign of king Solomon, when the first Temple was built. Like the Tabernacle, the Temple was the center of Israelite worship, although provision was made for it to be "a house of prayer for all nations" (Isa. 56:7).

[251] 18:26 high priest The most important priest and leader of the Israelites or the Jews, God's people under the "old agreement." Under the "new agreement" the high priest for God's people is Jesus Christ. Read Heb. 7:11-8:13.

[252] 18:28 unclean Going into a non-Jewish place would ruin the special cleansing the Jews did to make themselves fit for worship. See Jn. 11:55.

[253] 18:28 Passover A very important holy day for the people of Israel and their descendants. They ate a special meal on this day every year to remember that God freed them from slavery in Egypt in the time of Moses. The name may come from the word in Ex. 12:13, 23, 27 that means "to pass over" or "to protect."

[254] 19:12 Caesar The name or title given to the emperor (ruler) of Rome.

[255] 19:13 Aramaic The official language of the ancient Persian empire. Similar to Hebrew, it later became the common language of many Jews and is the spoken "Hebrew" referred to in the New Testament.

[256] 19:14 Preparation day Friday, the day before the Sabbath day.

[257] 19:17 Aramaic The official language of the ancient Persian empire. Similar to Hebrew, it later became the common language of many Jews and is the spoken "Hebrew" referred to in the New Testament.

[258] 19:23 tunic A piece of clothing like a long undershirt.

[259] 19:24 lots Stones, sticks, or bones used like dice for making decisions. See Prov. 16:33.

[260] 19:24 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[261] 19:28 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[262] 19:28 "I am thirsty" See Ps. 22:15; 69:21.

[263] 19:31 Preparation day Friday, the day before the Sabbath day.

[264] 19:31 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[265] 19:32 broke the legs The legs were broken to make those on the crosses die more quickly.

[266] 19:36 Quote from Ps. 34:20. The idea is from Ex. 12:46; Num. 9:12.

[267] 19:37 Quote from Zech. 12:10.

[268] 19:39 100 pounds Literally, 100 litras or Roman pounds, equal to 32.7 kg (72 pounds).

[269] 19:39 myrrh Sweet-smelling sap from the bark of trees or other plants that was used for perfume and also to prepare bodies for burial. Mixed with wine, it was probably used to relieve pain (Mk. 15:23).

[270] 19:39 aloes The oil from a sweet-smelling wood that was used to make perfume (Ps. 45:8; Prov. 7:17) or the bitter juice from a cactus-like plant that was used to prepare bodies for burial (Jn. 19:39).

[271] 19:41 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[272] 19:42 Sabbath Saturday, the seventh day of the week and a special day for Israelites or Jews. By God's command it was set aside as a time for the people to rest and honor God.

[273] 20:1 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[274] 20:9 Scripture Part of the Scriptures or "Holy Writings"-the Old Testament.

[275] 20:11 tomb A grave dug in a wall of rock or a building where a dead body is buried. It can also be a small building made to show respect for important people who had died.

[276] 20:16 Aramaic The official language of the ancient Persian empire. Similar to Hebrew, it later became the common language of many Jews and is the spoken "Hebrew" referred to in the New Testament.

[277] 20:17 followers Literally, "brothers."

[278] 20:22 Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. In union with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world.

[279] 20:30 miraculous sign An amazing act that demonstrates the power of God.

[280] 20:31 Christ Literally, "Anointed," a title that comes from the Old Testament ceremony in which perfumed oil was poured or rubbed on someone being appointed to a high office, especially that of prophet, priest, or king, to show that this person was chosen by God for that role. The Hebrew word is "Messiah," a title used for Old Testament kings and for the one God would send as prophet, priest, and king to bring people back to a good relationship with him.

[281] 21:1 Lake Galilee Literally, "Lake of Tiberias," another name for Lake Galilee. See Jn 6:1.

[282] 21:15 lambs Jesus uses this word and the word "sheep" in verses 16 and 17 to mean his followers, as in Jn. 10.

[283] 21:19 glory A word that refers to the special qualities of God. Often it means brightness, referring to the way he appears to people. Sometimes it means majesty or power, referring to a kind of greatness that cannot be compared to anything in human experience. It can also include the ideas of honor, fame or respect, especially in expressions of praise.

© Copyright 2004 World Bible Translation Center.