New Testament
John 9:40
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, some Pharisees, who were religious leaders, overheard Jesus speaking about spiritual blindness.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Some of the Pharisees who were with him heard these things and said to him, "Are we blind too?"
And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, some Pharisees, who were religious leaders, overheard Jesus speaking about spiritual blindness. They questioned whether they were also blind, indicating their defensiveness and unwillingness to accept Jesus' message. The Pharisees prided themselves on their knowledge of the law and their spiritual insight, so the suggestion that they could be blind was offensive to them. This moment highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, as He often challenged their understanding and practices. The Pharisees' question reflects a common human tendency to resist acknowledging one's own faults or limitations. Jesus had just healed a man born blind, symbolizing the spiritual insight He offers, contrasting with the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees. Their question serves as a pivotal moment, prompting readers to reflect on their own spiritual awareness and openness to truth. Explore related discernment.
How to apply John 9:40 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own spiritual sight. Just as the Pharisees questioned their blindness, we should be open to recognizing our own shortcomings and biases. Embracing humility allows us to grow in understanding and faith, leading to deeper spiritual insight.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 9:40 mean about spiritual blindness?
In John 9:40, the Pharisees question whether they are blind after hearing Jesus speak about spiritual blindness. This reflects their defensiveness and unwillingness to accept that they might lack true spiritual insight. The verse highlights the contrast between the physical healing of a blind man and the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees, who were more focused on their religious authority than on understanding Jesus' message.
Why did the Pharisees ask if they were blind?
The Pharisees asked if they were blind as a defensive response to Jesus' teachings about spiritual blindness. They were religious leaders who prided themselves on their knowledge and authority, so the implication that they could be spiritually blind was offensive to them. This question reveals their resistance to acknowledging their own faults and the challenge Jesus posed to their understanding of faith.
How can we apply John 9:40 to our lives today?
John 9:40 encourages us to reflect on our own spiritual awareness. Just as the Pharisees questioned their blindness, we should be open to recognizing our own shortcomings and biases. This verse invites us to practice humility, allowing us to grow in understanding and faith. By acknowledging our limitations, we can become more receptive to truth and deeper spiritual insight.
What is the significance of the Pharisees in this verse?
The Pharisees in John 9:40 represent the religious authority of the time, often seen as guardians of the law. Their question about blindness signifies their defensiveness against Jesus' challenge to their understanding of spirituality. This moment underscores the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, illustrating how their pride and self-righteousness hindered their ability to accept the truth He offered.

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.
Unlock the full John summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of John — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 21 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of John summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.