John 13:23 Meaning and Explanation
“Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →One disciple, the one Jesus loved, reclines next to him, leaning on his bosom.
What Does John 13:23 Mean?
At such a meal the guests reclined on cushions, each propped on the left arm, and the one placed at the right of Jesus would rest back against his chest. There lies "the disciple whom Jesus loved," John, who across this Gospel names himself only by the love he received (John 21:20, 24).
John was not loved instead of the others; verse 1 says Jesus loved them all to the end. But being loved had become the whole of how John knew himself. "Bosom" is this Gospel's own picture of closeness, for the Son is in the bosom of the Father (John 1:18), and now a disciple rests in the bosom of the Son. That place of nearness is where questions can be asked and answered (verse 25), and it stands open to any disciple who will take it.
John 13:23 in the Original Language
kolpos (κόλπος), 'bosom' -- the place of closest fellowship at a meal; the same word describes the Son in the bosom of the Father (John 1:18).
Frequently Asked Questions About John 13:23
What does John 13:23 mean?
One disciple, the one Jesus loved, reclines next to him, leaning on his bosom.