King James Version

What Does John 12:33 Mean?

John 12:33 in the King James Version says “This he said, signifying what death he should die.” — study this verse from John chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“This he said, signifying what death he should die.”

John 12:33 · KJV

Context

31

Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.

32

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

33

This he said, signifying what death he should die.

34

The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man?

35

Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
John provides editorial explanation: Jesus spoke of the manner of His death—crucifixion, lifted up on the cross. The verb 'signifying' indicates symbolic teaching requiring interpretation. 'What death he should die' specifically points to Roman crucifixion, the only form of capital punishment involving being 'lifted up.' This fulfills Jesus' earlier prediction (3:14) comparing His lifting to the bronze serpent. John's clarification aids readers, demonstrating the Gospel's catechetical purpose. The lifting encompasses both crucifixion and exaltation—degradation becomes glorification.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Crucifixion was Roman execution method; Jewish capital punishment was stoning. Jesus' prediction that He'd be 'lifted up' specifically foretold Roman execution, requiring religious leaders to involve Pilate (18:31).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the double meaning of 'lifted up' (crucified and exalted) demonstrate God's redemptive irony?
  2. What does the specific manner of death teach about prophecy's precision?
  3. In what ways does your degradation become God's platform for glorification?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
τοῦτο1 of 8

“This”

G5124

that thing

δὲ2 of 8
G1161

but, and, etc

ἔλεγεν3 of 8

“he said”

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

σημαίνων4 of 8

“signifying”

G4591

to indicate

ποίῳ5 of 8

“what”

G4169

individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one

θανάτῳ6 of 8

“death”

G2288

(properly, an adjective used as a noun) death (literally or figuratively)

ἤμελλεν7 of 8

“he should”

G3195

to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili

ἀποθνῄσκειν8 of 8

“die”

G599

to die off (literally or figuratively)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 12:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 12:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 18:32John 21:19

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