King James Version
What Does John 7:10 Mean?
“But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret.”
Context
8
Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet full come.
9
When he had said these words unto them, he abode still in Galilee.
10
But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret.
11
Then the Jews sought him at the feast, and said, Where is he?
12
And there was much murmuring among the people concerning him: for some said, He is a good man: others said, Nay; but he deceiveth the people.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast.**—The words “unto the feast” are misplaced in the Received text, upon which our version is based. The right reading is, *But when His brethren were gone up unto the feast, then went He also up*; and the difference is not unimportant. We have seen that, even with the ordinary reading, there is no ground for the frequent objection (John 7:8), but it is really nowhere said that He went up to the feast at all. As a matter of fact, the special feast day—the day of Holy Convocation—was on the 15th of Tishri, the 14th being the preparation day. From the 16th to the 20th was what was called “The Lesser Festival,” or “The Middle of the Feast” (John 7:14), and it is at this we find Him present. (Comp. also John 7:37.)
**Not openly, but as it were in secret**—i.e., not with the usual company. Judging from His practice at another time (John 4:4), He would go through Samaria, while the caravan would go on the Eastern side of the Jordan.
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 7:10 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 7:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge