King James Version
What Does John 13:12 Mean?
“So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?”
Context
10
Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.
11
For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.
12
So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
13
Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
14
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **And was set down again.**—This means in the reclining position customary at meals. Comp. Luke 11:37; Luke 22:14; and in this Gospel John 6:10; John 21:20. Here it implies that the washing the feet preceded the supper (John 13:1).
**Know ye what I have done to you?**—This question is asked, not to be answered, but to direct their attention to what He had done, and to the interpretation which follows—“Do ye perceive what I have done? This is the meaning of it.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 13:12 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 13:12
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge