King James Version
What Does John 19:3 Mean?
“And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands.”
Context
1
Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him.
2
And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe,
3
And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands.
4
Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.
5
Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **And said, Hail, King of the Jews.**—The reading of the better MSS. is, *and they kept coming to Him and saying* . . . It is a description of the mock reverence which they paid Him. They kept drawing near and bowing before Him. (Comp. Matthew 27:29.)
**They smote him with their hands.**—Comp. Note on John 18:22.
(3) That St. John is not careful to give the time more than roughly “about the sixth hour.” The hours of that day may well be confused, for their sorrow would have made minutes seem as hours, and the sun, which on other days marked the hours, was on that day itself darkened. St. Matthew is equally uncertain at what exact time there was the cry with a loud voice (Matthew 27:46), and St. Luke does not give the exact time when the darkness commenced (Luke 23:44).
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 19:3 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 19:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge