John 16:17
Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?
John 16:17 · King James Version
Meaning
Some of Jesus' disciples were puzzled by his statement about going away for a little while and then returning. They were confused about what he meant by saying they would not see him for a short time and then see him again. Jesus was referring to his upcoming death, resurrection, and ascension to heaven. He was trying to prepare his disciples for the fact that he would soon leave them physically, but would return to them after his resurrection and eventual ascension to the Father in heaven.
Jesus' statement was a foreshadowing of the events that were about to unfold, namely his crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and return to the Father. This was a pivotal moment in his ministry, and he was trying to help his disciples understand the significance of what was about to happen. He knew they would be grief-stricken by his death, but he wanted to reassure them that his departure was not permanent and that they would see him again soon. Ultimately, Jesus' departure paved the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit and the spread of the gospel to all nations.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to understand the context in which Jesus spoke these words to his disciples. Jesus is preparing his disciples for his imminent death and resurrection, which will bring about a significant change in their relationship with him. The phrase "A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me" refers to the brief period of time between Jesus' crucifixion and his resurrection. During this time, the disciples will experience deep sorrow and loss at Jesus' absence, but their sorrow will turn to joy when they see him risen from the dead. Jesus' departure to the Father signifies his return to Heaven after his resurrection, where he will be reunited with the Father and send the Holy Spirit to empower his disciples for their ministry. This verse highlights the temporary nature of Jesus' absence from his disciples and foreshadows the joy and victory that will come through his resurrection.
John 16:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
[ Some] of his disciples therefore said one to another, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye behold me not; and again a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?
World English Bible
Some of his disciples therefore said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you won’t see me, and again a little while, and you will see me;’ and, ‘Because I go to the Father’?”
Douay-Rheims
Then some of his disciples said one to another: What is this that he saith to us: A little while, and you shall not see me: and again a little while, and you shall see me, and, Because I go to the Father?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then said some of his disciples among them selues, What is this that he saieth vnto vs, A litle while, and ye shall not see me, and againe, a litle while, and ye shall see me, and, For I goe to the Father.