What does John 13:4 mean?

Explanation

John 13:4 describes a moment of humbling service performed by Jesus at the Last Supper.

The act of Jesus rising from supper, laying aside his outer garments, and taking a towel to gird himself is a prelude to the washing of his disciples' feet.

This scene is filled with symbolism, as it shows Jesus taking the position of a servant, an act which subverts the typical social roles of the time.

The gesture did not merely serve to clean the feet but also carried a deeper meaning of spiritual purification and the embodiment of servitude leadership.

Historical Context

At the time of this event, the washing of the feet was a common practice in the Hebrew culture.

It was typically carried out by servants as guests would arrive with dusty feet from walking in sandals on dirt roads.

This story is situated during the time of the Passover, a significant Jewish festival.

The act of Jesus washing his disciples' feet took place during the Last Supper, which is the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion and is commemorated by Christians as the institution of the Eucharist or Holy Communion.

Theological Insights

From a theological point of view, this verse carries significant implications.

Many Christian theologians view this act as a demonstration of Jesus' humility and his teaching about serving others.

In the broader Christian doctrine, it prefigures the ultimate service and sacrifice that Jesus would perform in giving his life on the cross.

The act is an inversion of social norms, portraying the highest as taking the lowest place.

For many Christian denominations, it also symbolizes the cleansing from sin that Jesus offers.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical applications, this verse inspires believers to embody humility and service in their own lives.

It challenges individuals to consider how they can serve others in their communities and to embrace roles that society might deem as lowly or insignificant.

The act of Jesus can serve as a model for leadership that prioritizes service over authority, compassion over power, and the welfare of others over personal advancement.

Cross-References

• John 13:5 - "After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded."
• John 13:14 - "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet."
• Philippians 2:5-7 - "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men."
• Matthew 20:26-28 - "But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek language of this passage include:

• "Laid aside" (τιθησιν, tithēsin): implies a deliberate action, setting something down.
• "Garments" (τα ἱμάτια, ta himatia): typically refers to outer clothing, which in this context suggests Jesus removed his outer robe.
• "Girded" (διέζωσεν, diezōsen): akin to tying a belt around oneself, it indicates that Jesus wrapped the towel around his waist in preparation for service.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures and religions, the act of feet washing was a sign of hospitality and was often performed by the lowest of servants or slaves.

In this respect, Jesus' action could be compared to the practices of hospitality in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and other cultures where feet washing was prominent.

Additionally, the scene may invite comparison with various myths wherein deities disguise themselves as humble figures to convey important lessons or to test humanity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, feet washing has practical hygienic benefits which were particularly important in an era without modern sanitation.

While the practical aspect is relevant, the scientific community typically does not provide commentary on the symbolic or theological implications of such practices.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have provided various interpretations of John 13:4.

Some commentaries focus on the identification of Jesus as a servant-leader, which is considered a model for Christian leadership.

Others emphasize the symbolic act of washing feet as a metaphor for the cleansing of sins, seeing this as a precursor to the sacrifice Jesus would make on the cross.

There is also discussion about the reaction of the disciples, particularly Peter, who first refuses and then requests to be entirely washed by Jesus, and what this can tell us about the human condition and acceptance of grace.