John 9:17
They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.
John 9:17 · King James Version
Meaning
When the Pharisees questioned the man born blind after Jesus had healed him, they were seeking his opinion on the miraculous event. By asking him his thoughts on the one who had opened his eyes, they were trying to determine if Jesus was simply a man or if he held some divine authority. The man's response, "He is a prophet," revealed his belief that Jesus was sent by God and had the power to perform miracles. In Jewish tradition, prophets were seen as messengers of God, who spoke on His behalf and performed miraculous signs to authenticate their message. By acknowledging Jesus as a prophet, the blind man was affirming his faith in Jesus' authority and divine mission. This interaction highlights the significance of Jesus' miracles in confirming his identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Theological Overview
Upon examining the theological interpretation of the verse where the blind man refers to Jesus as a prophet, it is important to note that this declaration holds significant meaning within the context of the gospel of John. In Jewish tradition, prophets were seen as messengers of God who had the ability to perform miraculous acts. By acknowledging Jesus as a prophet, the blind man is recognizing that Jesus has a special connection to God and is capable of divine works. This interpretation aligns with the overarching theme of the Gospel of John, which emphasizes the divinity of Jesus and his role as the Son of God. Additionally, the word "prophet" carries connotations of authority and wisdom, indicating that the blind man views Jesus as a figure worthy of respect and reverence. This declaration sets the stage for further revelations about Jesus' identity and mission as the narrative unfolds.
John 9:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
They say therefore unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, in that he opened thine eyes? And he said, He is a prophet.
World English Bible
Therefore they asked the blind man again, “What do you say about him, because he opened your eyes?” He said, “He is a prophet.”
Douay-Rheims
They say therefore to the blind man again: What sayest thou of him that hath opened thy eyes? And he said: He is a prophet.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then spake they vnto the blinde againe, What sayest thou of him, because he hath opened thine eyes? And he sayd, He is a Prophet.