King James Version
What Does John 21:9 Mean?
“As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.”
Context
7
Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.
8
And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.
9
As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.
10
Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.
11
Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(9) **They saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.**—In the original the tenses are present, describing the scene as it was impressed on the mind of the writer. *They saw a fire of coals and fish lying thereon, and bread,* or, perhaps,. . . . *and a fish lying thereon, and a loaf.*
For “fire of coals” comp. Note on John 18:18.
For the word rendered “fish,” comp. John 21:10; John 21:13, and Notes on John 6:9; John 6:11. In this passage and in John 21:13 only it occurs in the singular, but it seems clear that it may be collective, as our word “fish.”
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 21:9 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 21:9
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge