New Testament
John 9:20
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 parents of a man who was healed of blindness confirm his identity and the fact that he was born blind.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
His parents answered, "We know that this is our son and that he was born blind.
His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the parents of a man who was healed of blindness confirm his identity and the fact that he was born blind. They are responding to questioning from the religious leaders about their son's miraculous healing. Their statement emphasizes their certainty about their son's condition before the miracle occurred. This moment highlights the tension between the parents' acknowledgment of their son's past and the skepticism of the authorities who are trying to understand the miracle. The parents' response also reflects their fear of the consequences of speaking too freely about Jesus, as they later express their reluctance to answer further questions about how their son was healed. This situation illustrates the challenges faced by those who witness miracles and the pressures from society to conform to certain beliefs or narratives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 9:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to stand firm in our truths, even when faced with pressure from others. It reminds us of the importance of supporting loved ones in their struggles and being honest about our experiences, regardless of societal expectations or fears.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 9:20 mean?
In John 9:20, the parents of a man who was healed of blindness confirm that he is indeed their son and that he was born blind. This statement is made in response to questioning from religious leaders, highlighting their awareness of their son's past condition.
What is the significance of the parents' response in John 9:20?
The parents' response in John 9:20 emphasizes their certainty about their son's identity and condition before the miracle. It also reflects their fear of the consequences of speaking openly about Jesus and the miracle, illustrating the pressure they feel from the authorities.
What does the phrase 'born blind' in John 9:20 refer to?
The phrase 'born blind' in John 9:20 refers to the man's condition from birth, indicating that he had never been able to see prior to his healing. This detail is crucial as it underscores the miraculous nature of the healing that took place.
What themes are present in John 9:20?
John 9:20 touches on themes such as identity, miracles, fear of authority, faith, truth, and parental support. These themes highlight the challenges faced by the parents as they navigate their son's miraculous healing amidst societal pressures.

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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