What does John 13:6 mean?

Explanation

The verse John 13:6 is a part of the narrative of Jesus washing His disciples' feet at the Last Supper before His crucifixion.

In this scene, Jesus has taken off His outer garments, wrapped a towel around His waist, and begun to wash the feet of His disciples, an act typically performed by servants.

When Jesus comes to Simon Peter, Peter is taken aback and questions Jesus, addressing Him as Lord, which signifies Peter's recognition of Jesus' authority and exalted position.

However, Peter cannot reconcile the idea of his Lord engaging in such a menial task as foot-washing, which was a practice reserved for the lowest of servants in that culture.

Stating, "Lord, dost thou wash my feet?" Peter's question is full of incredulity, and while it exhibits his respect and recognition of Jesus' lordship, it also reveals his discomfort and confusion about Jesus' actions.

Historical Context

The act of foot washing was a common practice in the ancient Near Eastern culture, especially since people walked long distances in sandals on dusty roads.

It was a sign of hospitality for guests to have their feet washed upon entering a home.

However, as it was considered a very humble task, it was usually performed by servants or those of a lower status.

The fact that Jesus, who Peter recognized as his teacher and Lord, was performing this act, was countercultural and would have been shocking to His disciples at the time.

This event took place during the Last Supper in an upper room in Jerusalem, shortly before Jesus' betrayal and arrest.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints highlight various aspects of this verse.

From a Christian perspective, this verse is often seen as exemplifying Jesus' humility and His teaching on servant leadership.

By washing His disciples' feet, Jesus reverses social norms and illustrates that true greatness comes through serving others.

The act also prefigures Jesus' ultimate service and sacrifice on the cross, where He humbly laid down His life for humanity's redemption.

Furthermore, the interaction between Peter and Jesus points to the necessity of receiving Christ's work for one's own cleansing and participation in His life.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages believers to practice humility and service in their daily lives. It challenges individuals to consider the needs of others before their own and to perform acts of service without seeking recognition or status.

Moreover, it calls Christians to be receptive to the ways Jesus works in their lives, even when it comes as a surprise or challenges societal norms. This teaching can be applied in various contexts, whether in the workplace, community, or personal relationships.

Cross-References

• 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."
• Luke 22:27 - "For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the word used for "wash" is "νίπτω" (niptó), which means "to cleanse," specifically referring to washing parts of the body such as hands and feet.

The word for "feet" is "πόδας" (podas), which can be taken literally but also metaphorically signifies one's walk or life journey. When Peter addresses Jesus as "Κύριος" (Kyrios), it is a term of respect, acknowledging Jesus as Master or Lord.

The phrase "dost thou wash" is in the present indicative active tense, indicating a current and deliberate action by Jesus.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, similar rites of foot washing were practiced as signs of hospitality or preparation for sacred rituals.

For instance, in Hinduism, guests' feet are often washed as a sign of respect.

In Buddhism, water is used in foot washing as a sign of spiritual cleansing.

The act of Jesus washing feet has a unique significance in Christianity, as it not only signifies hospitality and cleanliness but demonstrates a radical form of servanthood and self-giving love.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, foot washing could be considered beneficial for hygiene, especially in a time when walking was the primary mode of transportation and the risk of infection from the dusty roads was high.

While today's society may not require such practices for cleanliness, the act can be seen symbolically in terms of psychological effects, promoting humility and enhancing social bonds among individuals through acts of service.

Commentaries

Commentators provide various insights into this verse.

Matthew Henry's Commentary highlights Peter's surprise and misunderstanding of Jesus' actions, emphasizing Jesus' role-reversal as part of His instruction on what true greatness means in His kingdom.

The MacArthur Bible Commentary discusses how this incident reflects Jesus' model of servant leadership and how it typifies His willingness to cleanse us from sin.

The Pulpit Commentary interprets Peter's reluctance as a manifestation of his sense of unworthiness in the presence of Christ, while also acknowledging Peter's deep reverence for Jesus as evidenced by his use of the title "Lord."