King James Version
What Does John 19:32 Mean?
“Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him.”
Context
30
When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
31
The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.
32
Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him.
33
But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs:
34
But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(32) **Then came the soldiers,. . . .—**The words do not mean, as they have sometimes been understood, that other soldiers came, but refer to the quaternion before named (John 19:23), who had naturally fallen back from the crosses, and are here represented as coming forward to complete their work. The mention of the “first” and the “other” suggests that they formed two pairs, and began on either side breaking the legs of the thieves crucified with Jesus.
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 19:32 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 19:32
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge