John 3:1
There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
Original Language Analysis
ἐκ
of
G1537
ἐκ
of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
4 of 12
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Φαρισαίων
the Pharisees
G5330
Φαρισαίων
the Pharisees
Strong's:
G5330
Word #:
6 of 12
a separatist, i.e., exclusively religious; a pharisean, i.e., jewish sectary
Νικόδημος
Nicodemus
G3530
Νικόδημος
Nicodemus
Strong's:
G3530
Word #:
7 of 12
victorious among his people; nicodemus, an israelite
ὄνομα
named
G3686
ὄνομα
named
Strong's:
G3686
Word #:
8 of 12
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
αὐτῷ
G846
αὐτῷ
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 12
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
Historical Context
The Pharisees numbered about 6,000 and were known for meticulous Torah observance. The Sanhedrin was the 71-member supreme Jewish council. Nicodemus risked reputation and position by this visit. He appears two more times in John's Gospel—defending Jesus (7:50-52) and assisting His burial (19:39).
Questions for Reflection
- What barriers of reputation or position might hinder people from coming to Christ today?
- How does Nicodemus's journey from secret inquiry to public support encourage patient evangelism?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Nicodemus is introduced with three significant identifiers: 'a man of the Pharisees,' 'named Nicodemus,' and 'a ruler of the Jews.' The name Nicodemus means 'conqueror of the people'—ironically, he comes secretly, conquered by curiosity about Jesus. As a Pharisee, he belonged to the strictest sect of Judaism; as a 'ruler' (archon), he was a Sanhedrin member. This is Israel's religious and political elite coming to Jesus.