John 20:26
And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
John 20:26 · King James Version
Meaning
After the resurrection of Jesus, His disciples were gathered together in a room, with Thomas among them. Despite the doors being shut, Jesus appeared in their midst and greeted them with words of peace. This verse depicts a powerful display of Jesus' divinity, as He was able to transcend physical barriers to be with His followers. The act of appearing in a closed room further solidifies the miraculous nature of Jesus' resurrection. Additionally, the greeting of peace symbolizes the reconciliation and restoration that Jesus brings to His disciples after His victory over death. It serves as a reminder of the comfort and reassurance that Jesus offers to all who believe in Him. This verse not only highlights Jesus' supernatural abilities but also emphasizes His constant presence and desire for peace among His followers.
Theological Overview
One interesting theological interpretation of this verse comes from the fact that Jesus appeared to his disciples after eight days, which has been seen by some scholars as symbolic of new beginnings or completion. The number eight signifies a new start or a fresh beginning in biblical numerology, as seen in the creation account where God rested on the seventh day and began a new week on the eighth day. This can be seen as Jesus offering his disciples a new beginning or a fresh start after his resurrection. Additionally, the fact that Jesus entered the room when the doors were shut demonstrates his divine nature and power over physical limitations. His ability to appear in their midst despite the closed doors showcases his authority over all creation. Furthermore, the greeting of 'Peace be unto you' not only emphasizes Jesus' offer of peace and forgiveness to his disciples but also reflects the theme of peace that runs throughout the gospel of John, where Jesus is portrayed as the Prince of Peace. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus' divine authority, his offer of new beginnings, and his ultimate message of peace to all who believe in him.
John 20:26 in other translations
American Standard Version
And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them. Jesus cometh, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you.
World English Bible
After eight days again his disciples were inside, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, the doors being locked, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace be to you.”
Douay-Rheims
And after eight days, again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them. Jesus cometh, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst and said: Peace be to you.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And eight dayes after, againe his disciples were within, and Thomas with them. Then came Iesus, when the doores were shut, and stood in the middes, and said, Peace be vnto you.