John 2:25
And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 19
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὅτι
G3754
χρείαν
needed
G5532
χρείαν
needed
Strong's:
G5532
Word #:
4 of 19
employment, i.e., an affair; also (by implication) occasion, demand, requirement or destitution
εἶχεν
G2192
εἶχεν
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
5 of 19
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
μαρτυρήσῃ
should testify
G3140
μαρτυρήσῃ
should testify
Strong's:
G3140
Word #:
8 of 19
to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)
περὶ
of
G4012
περὶ
of
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
9 of 19
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτὸς
he
G846
αὐτὸς
he
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
12 of 19
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
13 of 19
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἐγίνωσκεν
knew
G1097
ἐγίνωσκεν
knew
Strong's:
G1097
Word #:
14 of 19
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
τί
what
G5101
τί
what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
15 of 19
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
Cross References
John 13:11For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.Matthew 9:4And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?John 6:64But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.John 6:61When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?
Historical Context
This verse establishes a theme developed throughout John—Jesus knows hearts (1:47-48, 4:29, 6:64, 13:11). This knowledge enabled Him to teach appropriately, to choose disciples wisely, and to anticipate betrayal. It also confirms His deity—only God knows hearts (Jeremiah 17:10).
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' perfect knowledge of human hearts comfort and challenge you?
- What does it mean that Jesus knows 'what is in man' regarding your own heart?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus needed no human testimony about anyone—'he knew what was in man.' This omniscience distinguishes Him from other teachers. He didn't need informants or investigations; He perceived hearts directly. This knowledge both protected Him from false disciples and enabled Him to reach the genuinely seeking. It also explains why He could trust some (like Nathanael) while withholding trust from others.