New Testament
John 8:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the religious leaders, specifically the scribes and Pharisees, bring a woman accused of adultery to Jesus.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
The religious scholars and Pharisees dragged in a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in front of everyone.
And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the religious leaders, specifically the scribes and Pharisees, bring a woman accused of adultery to Jesus. They do this publicly, placing her in front of a crowd, likely to shame her and test Jesus. The act of dragging her in front of everyone highlights their intent to expose her sin and challenge Jesus' authority. According to the Law of Moses, adultery was punishable by stoning, and they want to see if Jesus will uphold the law or show mercy. This moment sets the stage for a deeper discussion about sin, judgment, and forgiveness. The woman's humiliation is palpable, and the situation raises questions about justice, mercy, and the nature of sin. It also reflects the hypocrisy of the accusers, as they focus on her sin while ignoring their own shortcomings. This encounter is pivotal in illustrating Jesus' teachings on compassion and grace, contrasting the rigid legalism of the Pharisees with His message of love and redemption.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 8:3 to your life
This verse reminds us to approach others with compassion rather than judgment. We should reflect on our own faults before condemning others. It encourages us to offer grace and understanding, recognizing that everyone struggles with sin and deserves a chance for redemption.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 8:3 mean?
John 8:3 describes a situation where religious leaders bring a woman accused of adultery before Jesus. This act is meant to publicly shame her and test Jesus' response to the Law of Moses regarding punishment for adultery.
What is the significance of the Pharisees in John 8:3?
The Pharisees in John 8:3 represent the religious authority and legalism of the time. Their actions highlight their intent to expose sin and challenge Jesus, showcasing their hypocrisy as they focus on the woman's wrongdoing while ignoring their own.
What does the phrase 'caught in adultery' mean in John 8:3?
The phrase 'caught in adultery' indicates that the woman was discovered in the act of committing adultery, which was considered a serious sin under Jewish law. This accusation sets the stage for the confrontation with Jesus.
How does John 8:3 relate to themes of mercy and judgment?
John 8:3 illustrates the tension between mercy and judgment, as the Pharisees seek to enforce the law strictly while Jesus offers a message of compassion and forgiveness. This encounter challenges the notion of legalism in favor of grace.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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