John 13:22
Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
Original Language Analysis
εἰς
one on another
G1519
εἰς
one on another
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
3 of 10
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀπορούμενοι
doubting
G639
ἀπορούμενοι
doubting
Strong's:
G639
Word #:
7 of 10
to have no way out, i.e., be at a loss (mentally)
περὶ
of
G4012
περὶ
of
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
Cross References
Luke 22:23And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.Mark 14:19And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I?Matthew 26:22And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
Historical Context
The disciples' bewilderment emphasizes Judas' deception. As treasurer (John 12:6), he held trusted position. Ancient readers familiar with the betrayal narrative see dramatic irony—we know what they don't. John writes decades after the event, reflecting on how completely Judas fooled everyone except Jesus.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the disciples' inability to identify Judas teach about the deceptiveness of sin?
- How should healthy self-awareness lead us to examine our own hearts for potential betrayal of Christ?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Then the disciples looked one on another (ἔβλεπον εἰς ἀλλήλους, blepōn eis allēlous)—the imperfect tense suggests they kept looking, scanning faces. Each wonders if he might be the traitor. Doubting of whom he spake (ἀπορούμενοι, aporoumenoi)—complete perplexity and confusion. The word suggests being at a loss, unable to determine the answer. No one suspects Judas specifically.
This reveals two realities: First, Judas had concealed his betrayal so perfectly that the closest companions didn't suspect him. His hypocrisy was seamless. Second, the disciples knew their own hearts enough to wonder if they might betray Christ. Self-knowledge produces healthy uncertainty—"Lord, is it I?" (Matthew 26:22). The disciples' confusion contrasts with Jesus' certainty. He knows all things (John 2:24-25, 21:17); they know nothing. This moment creates dramatic tension—all remain in suspense except Jesus and Judas.