King James Version
What Does John 4:17 Mean?
“The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:”
Context
15
The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
16
Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.
17
The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:
18
For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.
19
The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **I have no husband.**—The stroke has left its mark. It lays bare to her own consciousness the past and present life, but she does not know that it is laid bare to His. The reply is no longer prefaced by the half-sarcastic “Thou, being a Jew,” or the reverential “Sir.” The tone has passed from vivacity to earnestness, and from earnestness to sadness. That one word—what a history it has revealed! But she will hide it from Him and from herself. “I have no husband” (or, according to the Sinaitic MS., more emphatically still, *A husband I have not*)*.*
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 4:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.