John 2:8

New Testament Gospel ASV (1901)

What does John 2:8 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the ruler of the feast. And they bare it.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the ruler of the feast. And they bare it.
John 2:8 — American Standard Version

Context — John 2

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
8And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the ruler of the feast. And they bare it.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“And he saith unto them, draw out now, etc.] As soon as ever the vessels were filled with water, without any more delay, he ordered the servants to draw out of those larger, into lesser vessels; he does not say what, water or wine: and bear unto the governor of the feast; who either had the ordering and management of the feast, and the command of the whole affair; hence the Ethiopic version calls him, “the master of the waiters”, or servants: or he was the chief guest, as the word seems to import, who sat, or rather lay, on the chief couch at the table; and so a proper person to begin with, and put the cup round: or else he might be doctor or chaplain: for such an one was necessary at a…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Draw out now - This command was given to the servants. It showed that the miracle had been performed immediately. As soon as they were filled the servants were directed to take to the governor of the feast. Jesus made no parade about it, and it does not even appear that he approached the waterpots. He willed it, and it was done. This was a clear exertion of divine power, and made in such a manner as to leave no doubt of its reality. The governor - One who presided on the occasion. The one who stood at the “head” or upper end of the table. He had the charge of the entertainment, provided the food, gave directions to the servants, etc. return to 'Top of Page'”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Draw: Joh 2:9; Pro 3:5, Pro 3:6; Ecc 9:6 the governor: Rom 13:7 John 2:9”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification