John 4:26
Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
Original Language Analysis
λέγει
saith
G3004
λέγει
saith
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
αὐτῇ
unto her
G846
αὐτῇ
unto her
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
2 of 9
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
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
4 of 9
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
Historical Context
This explicit messianic claim to a Samaritan contrasts with Jesus' usual reticence about messianic titles among Jews. The setting shows that Christ's mission transcended ethnic boundaries from the beginning.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Christ's self-revelation to this woman teach about God's choice to reveal Himself to unlikely people?
- How should Christ's 'I am' declaration shape our understanding of His identity and authority?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' declaration 'I that speak unto thee am he' (Greek: egō eimi, 'I am') represents His clearest messianic claim thus far in John's Gospel. That He reveals this to a Samaritan woman of questionable character demonstrates the gospel's universality and grace. God's election includes unlikely recipients, confounding human expectations of who deserves revelation.