King James Version
What Does John 9:11 Mean?
“He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.”
Context
9
Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.
10
Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?
11
He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.
12
Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.
13
They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **A man that is called Jesus.**—Some of the better MSS. read, “*The* Man that is called Jesus,” implying that He would be known to the blind man and his friends. They can hardly have failed to hear of His teaching at the feast.
**Made clay, and anointed mine eyes.**—He gives the details in order, omitting the spitting on the ground, which he had not seen.
**And I received sight.**—The Greek word means exactly, “to see again.” The power, though given in this instance for the first time, was usually a restored power, and this is expressed in the word. This man uses the ordinary language of men, though, in strictness it was not applicable to his own case. This use of the word is, moreover, justified by other examples.
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 9:11 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 9:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge