John 7:23 Meaning and Explanation
“If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If a boy may be circumcised on the sabbath without breaking the law, why be angry that Jesus made a whole man well on the sabbath?
What Does John 7:23 Mean?
Jesus completes the argument from lesser to greater. If touching one part of the body is lawful on the sabbath so that the law of Moses is honored, how can healing an entire man — every whit whole — profane the day?
The sabbath was given for blessing, rest, and restoration, and the healing at Bethesda fulfilled its purpose rather than violating it. The phrase every whit whole carries the gospel in miniature: Christ's work is never partial. He restores the whole person — body, soul, and standing before God — and no day is holier for being kept empty of his mercy.
John 7:23 in the Original Language
hygies (ὑγιής), 'whole' -- sound and healthy through and through.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 7:23
What does John 7:23 mean?
If a boy may be circumcised on the sabbath without breaking the law, why be angry that Jesus made a whole man well on the sabbath?