John 8:59
Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
John 8:59 · King James Version
Meaning
When Jesus was teaching in the temple, the religious leaders became angry and wanted to stone Him for His claims of deity. They picked up stones to cast at Him, but He miraculously escaped their grasp. This event symbolizes Jesus' divine authority and power over his enemies. Despite the danger He faced, Jesus calmly and confidently passed through the midst of the angry crowd and left the temple unharmed. This verse highlights the supernatural protection and control that Jesus had over His own life and destiny. It also demonstrates the fulfillment of His mission on earth, as He would eventually lay down His life willingly on the cross to atone for the sins of mankind. Through this act, Jesus showed His ultimate love and sacrifice for all people, fulfilling the prophecy of being the sacrificial Lamb of God.
Theological Overview
When Jesus encountered opposition from the religious leaders in the temple, they were so furious that they picked up stones to stone him. This act was in accordance with Mosaic law which prescribed stoning as a punishment for blasphemy. However, Jesus did not allow them to carry out their violent intentions. Instead, he miraculously escaped their grasp by hiding himself and walking through the crowd unharmed. This incident showcases Jesus' divine power and ability to control his own destiny. By eluding the crowd, he demonstrated that his mission on earth was not yet complete and that he would decide when and how he would fulfill his destiny. This passage also highlights the theme of protection and divine intervention, as Jesus was able to evade the danger that confronted him. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes Jesus' sovereignty over his own life and his eventual sacrifice for humanity.
John 8:59 in other translations
American Standard Version
They took up stones therefore to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple.
World English Bible
Therefore they took up stones to throw at him, but Jesus was hidden, and went out of the temple, having gone through their midst, and so passed by.
Douay-Rheims
They took up stones therefore to cast at him. But Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then tooke they vp stones, to cast at him, but Iesus hid himselfe, and went out of the Temple: And hee passed through the middes of them, and so went his way.