King James Version
John 12:8 in the King James Version says “For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.” — study this verse from John chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.”
John 12:8 · KJV
This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.
Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.
For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.
Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.
But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;
KJV Study — Public Domain
“the poor”
G4434akin to g4422 and the alternate of g4098); a beggar (as cringing), i.e., pauper (strictly denoting absolute or public mendicancy, although also used i
“For”
G1063properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
“ye have”
G2192to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
“with”
G3326properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
“ye have”
G2192to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
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.
John 12:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to John 12:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge