John 4:18
For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 15
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἔχεις
hast
G2192
ἔχεις
hast
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
4 of 15
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
νῦν
now
G3568
νῦν
now
Strong's:
G3568
Word #:
6 of 15
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
ὃν
he whom
G3739
ὃν
he whom
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
7 of 15
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἔχεις
hast
G2192
ἔχεις
hast
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
8 of 15
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
Historical Context
While five marriages seems extreme, possibilities include death, desertion, and divorce. Her current relationship outside marriage compounded her social marginalization, explaining her isolated water-drawing at noon.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's complete knowledge of our past failures both convict and comfort us?
- Why is acknowledging truth about ourselves essential to receiving grace?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' revelation of her five husbands and current cohabitation demonstrates divine omniscience and prophetic insight. This knowledge serves pastoral purpose—not to shame but to awaken consciousness of sin and need for forgiveness. The phrase 'in that saidst thou truly' shows Christ values honesty, even when it reveals failure.