John 6:4
And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh.
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πάσχα
the passover
G3957
πάσχα
the passover
Strong's:
G3957
Word #:
5 of 9
the passover (the meal, the day, the festival or the special sacrifices connected with it)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
John 2:13And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem,John 11:55And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.John 5:1After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.Deuteronomy 16:1Observe the month of Abib, and keep the passover unto the LORD thy God: for in the month of Abib the LORD thy God brought thee forth out of Egypt by night.
Historical Context
This is the third Passover mentioned in John's Gospel (2:13, 6:4, 11:55), helping establish Jesus' three-year ministry. The Passover context explains the large crowds traveling to Jerusalem and Jesus' subsequent bread of life discourse.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Passover context enrich our understanding of Jesus as the bread of life?
- What connections exist between Israel's exodus deliverance and Christ's provision for His people?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The notation 'the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh' provides chronological context and theological significance. This miracle's proximity to Passover connects it to Israel's exodus deliverance and manna provision. Jesus will use this setting to present Himself as the true bread from heaven, superior to Moses' manna. God's redemptive acts occur within divinely appointed times.