Bible Strands
John 1:48
“How do You know me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus replied, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.”
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Jesus speaks to Nathanael immediately after identifying him as a true Israelite without deceit. Nathanael asks how Jesus recognizes him, and Jesus answers by stating He saw Nathanael under a fig tree before Philip called him.
The words — πόθεν (pothen) means "from where" and γινώσκεις (ginōskeis) means "you know," capturing Nathanael’s demand for the source of Jesus’ knowledge. ἀπεκρίθη (apekrithē) translates as "answered," marking Jesus’ direct response to the inquiry.
The thread — This motif of unseen divine knowledge runs through Isaiah 65:24, where God answers before the call, and Psalm 139:1, which declares God has searched and known the individual. Matthew 6:6 extends the theme of hidden spiritual reality into the practice of private prayer.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to acknowledge that Jesus perceives individuals beyond physical sight and social introduction. It demands recognition that divine knowledge precedes human disclosure and warrants immediate confession.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee.
Cross-references
- Isaiah 65:24 Even before they call, I will answer, and while they are still speaking, I will hear.
- Psalms 139:1 For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. O LORD, You have searched me and known me.
- Matthew 6:6 But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
- John 2:25 He did not need any testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man.
- Revelation 2:18 To the angel of the church in Thyatira write: These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like a blazing fire and whose feet are like polished bronze.
- Genesis 32:24 So Jacob was left all alone, and there a man wrestled with him until daybreak.
- 1 Corinthians 14:25 and the secrets of his heart will be made known. So he will fall facedown and worship God, proclaiming, “God is truly among you!”
- 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.