John Chapter 6 · Verse 20

Authorized King James Version

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But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.

Original Language Analysis

ὁ G3588
ὁ
Strong's: G3588
Word #: 1 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δὲ But G1161
δὲ But
Strong's: G1161
Word #: 2 of 8
but, and, etc
λέγει he saith G3004
λέγει he saith
Strong's: G3004
Word #: 3 of 8
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
αὐτοῖς unto them G846
αὐτοῖς unto them
Strong's: G846
Word #: 4 of 8
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
Ἐγώ I G1473
Ἐγώ I
Strong's: G1473
Word #: 5 of 8
i, me
εἰμι It is G1510
εἰμι It is
Strong's: G1510
Word #: 6 of 8
i exist (used only when emphatic)
μὴ not G3361
μὴ not
Strong's: G3361
Word #: 7 of 8
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
φοβεῖσθε afraid G5399
φοβεῖσθε afraid
Strong's: G5399
Word #: 8 of 8
to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

Analysis & Commentary

Jesus' words 'It is I; be not afraid' (Greek: egō eimi) use the divine name (Exodus 3:14) while offering comfort. His self-identification transforms fear to peace. The command 'be not afraid' appears throughout Scripture when God reveals Himself—His presence is meant to comfort, not terrify, His people.

Historical Context

The 'egō eimi' (I AM) declaration links Jesus to Yahweh's self-revelation to Moses. What appeared as a terrifying apparition reveals itself as the Lord's gracious presence with His disciples.

Questions for Reflection