John 9:36
He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
Original Language Analysis
ἀπεκρίθη
answered
G611
ἀπεκρίθη
answered
Strong's:
G611
Word #:
1 of 11
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
ἐκεῖνος
He
G1565
ἐκεῖνος
He
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
2 of 11
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τίς
Who
G5101
τίς
Who
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
5 of 11
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
κύριε
Lord
G2962
κύριε
Lord
Strong's:
G2962
Word #:
7 of 11
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
πιστεύσω
I might believe
G4100
πιστεύσω
I might believe
Strong's:
G4100
Word #:
9 of 11
to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch
Historical Context
The man's developing faith continues. He recognized Jesus as prophet (verse 17); now he's ready to acknowledge higher identity. His question isn't skepticism but seeking. He will believe when he knows the object of faith.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the man's question reveal about the posture of genuine faith-seeking?
- How does willingness to believe precede full understanding?
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Analysis & Commentary
'He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?' The man's response shows willing but uninformed faith. He wants to believe but needs to know who the Son of God is. His question combines humility (I don't know), willingness (that I might believe), and respect (Lord). This is the posture of genuine seeking.