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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>John 19:20 Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/john/19-20.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/9/43_Jhn_19_20.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="John 19:20 - The Crucifixion" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. <a href="/nasb_/john/19.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Therefore many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/nasb/john/19.htm">NASB 1995</a> Therefore many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin and in Greek. <a href="/nasb77/john/19.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Therefore this inscription many of the Jews read, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/lsb/john/19.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Therefore many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/amp/john/19.htm">Amplified Bible</a> And many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/csb/john/19.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/hcsb/john/19.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/asv/john/19.htm">American Standard Version</a> This title therefore read many of the Jews, for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city; and it was written in Hebrew, and in Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/cev/john/19.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The words were written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. The place where Jesus was taken wasn't far from the city, and many of the people read the charge against him. <a href="/erv/john/19.htm">English Revised Version</a> This title therefore read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and in Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/gwt/john/19.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Many Jews read this notice, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city. The notice was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/gnt/john/19.htm">Good News Translation</a> Many people read it, because the place where Jesus was crucified was not far from the city. The notice was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/isv/john/19.htm">International Standard Version</a> Many Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city. It was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/msb/john/19.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. <a href="/net/john/19.htm">NET Bible</a> Thus many of the Jewish residents of Jerusalem read this notice, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the notice was written in Aramaic, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/nheb/john/19.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Therefore many Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/wbt/john/19.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Many of the Jews then read this title: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. <a href="/wey/john/19.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Many of the Jews read this notice, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the notice was in three languages--Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/web/john/19.htm">World English Bible</a> Therefore many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/john/19.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> therefore many of the Jews read this title, because the place was near to the city where Jesus was crucified, and it was having been written in Hebrew, in Greek, in Latin. <a href="/blb/john/19.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. <a href="/ylt/john/19.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> this title, therefore, read many of the Jews, because the place was nigh to the city where Jesus was crucified, and it was having been written in Hebrew, in Greek, in Roman. <a href="/slt/john/19.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Then read many of the Jews this title: for the place was near the city where Jesus was crucified: and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, Roman.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/john/19.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> This title therefore many of the Jews did read: because the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, in Greek, and in Latin. <a href="/cpdv/john/19.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Therefore, many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was close to the city. And it was written in Hebrew, in Greek, and in Latin. <a href="/nabre/john/19.htm">New American Bible</a> Now many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/nrsvce/john/19.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/john/19.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And a great many Jews read this tablet, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew and in Greek and in Roman. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/john/19.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And many of the Judeans read this tablet, because the place in which Yeshua was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic and in Greek and in Latin.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/john/19.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Therefore many of the Jews read this superscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city. And it was written in Hebrew and in Greek and in Latin. <a href="/godbey/john/19.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Then many of the Jews read this title: because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city: And it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Roman. <a href="/haweis/john/19.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> This title then many of the Jews read: for the spot where Jesus was crucified was nigh unto the city: and it was written in Hebrew, in Greek, and in Latin. <a href="/mace/john/19.htm">Mace New Testament</a> now this inscription was read by many of the Jews: for Jesus was crucified nigh the city: and it was written in Syriac, Greek, and Latin. <a href="/wey/john/19.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Many of the Jews read this notice, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the notice was in three languages--Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. <a href="/worrell/john/19.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> This title, therefore, many of the Jews read; because the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, in Greek. <a href="/worsley/john/19.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Many of the Jews therefore read this inscription; for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. <a href="/parallel/john/19-20.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ixy2bchmXZ0?start=6786" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/john/19.htm">The Crucifixion</a> …19Pilate also had a notice posted on the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20<a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly."></a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: polloi (Adj-NMP) -- Much, many; often. ">Many</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/2453.htm" title="2453: Ioudaiōn (Adj-GMP) -- Jewish. From Iouda; Judaean, i.e. Belonging to Jehudah.">Jews</a> <a href="/greek/314.htm" title="314: anegnōsan (V-AIA-3P) -- To read, know again, know certainly, recognize, discern. From ana and ginosko; to know again, i.e. to read.">read</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: Touton (DPro-AMS) -- This; he, she, it. ">this</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5102.htm" title="5102: titlon (N-AMS) -- A title, inscription. Of Latin origin; a titulus or title.">sign,</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">because</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/5117.htm" title="5117: topos (N-NMS) -- Apparently a primary word; a spot, i.e. Location; figuratively, condition, opportunity; specially, a scabbard.">place</a> <a href="/greek/3699.htm" title="3699: hopou (Adv) -- Where, whither, in what place. From hos and pou; what(-ever) where, i.e. At whichever spot.">where</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2424.htm" title="2424: Iēsous (N-NMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.">Jesus</a> <a href="/greek/4717.htm" title="4717: estaurōthē (V-AIP-3S) -- From stauros; to impale on the cross; figuratively, to extinguish passion or selfishness.">was crucified</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ēn (V-IIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">was</a> <a href="/greek/1451.htm" title="1451: engys (Prep) -- Near. From a primary verb agcho; near.">near</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4172.htm" title="4172: poleōs (N-GFS) -- A city, the inhabitants of a city. Probably from the same as polemos, or perhaps from polus; a town.">city,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ēn (V-IIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">it was</a> <a href="/greek/1125.htm" title="1125: gegrammenon (V-RPM/P-NNS) -- A primary verb; to grave, especially to write; figuratively, to describe.">written</a> <a href="/greek/1447.htm" title="1447: Hebraisti (Adv) -- In the Hebrew, or rather, in the Aramaic dialect. Adverb from Hebrais; Hebraistically or in the Jewish language.">in Hebrew,</a> <a href="/greek/4515.htm" title="4515: Rhōmaisti (Adv) -- In the Latin language. Adverb from a presumed derivative of Rhome; Romaistically, i.e. In the Latin language.">Latin,</a> <a href="/greek/1676.htm" title="1676: Hellēnisti (Adv) -- In the Greek language. Adverb from the same as Hellenistes; Hellenistically, i.e. In the Grecian language.">and Greek.</a> 21So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but only that He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’ ”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/luke/23-38.htm">Luke 23:38</a> Above Him was posted an inscription: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. <a href="/matthew/27-37.htm">Matthew 27:37</a> Above His head they posted the written charge against Him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS. <a href="/mark/15-26.htm">Mark 15:26</a> And the charge inscribed against Him read: THE KING OF THE JEWS. <a href="/acts/2-5.htm">Acts 2:5-11</a> Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. / And when this sound rang out, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking his own language. / Astounded and amazed, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? ... <a href="/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37</a> As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?” “Do you speak Greek?” he replied. <a href="/acts/22-2.htm">Acts 22:2</a> When they heard him speak to them in Hebrew, they became even more silent. Then Paul declared, <a href="/acts/26-14.htm">Acts 26:14</a> We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice say to me in Hebrew, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ <a href="/revelation/9-11.htm">Revelation 9:11</a> They were ruled by a king, the angel of the Abyss. His name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek it is Apollyon. <a href="/john/7-35.htm">John 7:35</a> At this, the Jews said to one another, “Where does He intend to go that we will not find Him? Will He go where the Jews are dispersed among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks? <a href="/john/12-20.htm">John 12:20</a> Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the feast. <a href="/isaiah/2-2.htm">Isaiah 2:2-3</a> In the last days the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it. / And many peoples will come and say: “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways so that we may walk in His paths.” For the law will go forth from Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. <a href="/isaiah/56-7.htm">Isaiah 56:7</a> I will bring them to My holy mountain and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on My altar, for My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations.” <a href="/isaiah/66-18.htm">Isaiah 66:18</a> “And I, knowing their deeds and thoughts, am coming to gather all nations and tongues, and they will come and see My glory. <a href="/zechariah/8-23.htm">Zechariah 8:23</a> This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “In those days ten men from the nations of every tongue will tightly grasp the robe of a Jew, saying, ‘Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’” <a href="/psalms/22-27.htm">Psalm 22:27</a> All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD. All the families of the nations will bow down before Him.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was near to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin.in.<a href="/john/19-13.htm">John 19:13</a> When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha.<a href="/john/5-2.htm">John 5:2</a> Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.<a href="/acts/21-40.htm">Acts 21:40</a> And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,and Greek.<a href="/acts/21-37.htm">Acts 21:37</a> And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?<a href="/revelation/9-11.htm">Revelation 9:11</a> And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/john/19-17.htm">Aramaic</a> <a href="/john/11-54.htm">City</a> <a href="/john/19-18.htm">Crucified</a> <a href="/john/19-16.htm">Death</a> <a href="/luke/23-38.htm">Greek</a> <a href="/john/19-17.htm">Hebrew</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Inscription</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Jews</a> <a href="/john/11-55.htm">Nigh</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Notice</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Read</a> <a href="/john/18-28.htm">Roman</a> <a href="/john/13-24.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/john/13-38.htm">Three</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Title</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Writing</a> <a href="/john/19-19.htm">Written</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/john/20-16.htm">Aramaic</a> <a href="/acts/1-12.htm">City</a> <a href="/john/19-23.htm">Crucified</a> <a href="/john/19-32.htm">Death</a> <a href="/acts/6-1.htm">Greek</a> <a href="/john/20-16.htm">Hebrew</a> <a href="/acts/17-23.htm">Inscription</a> <a href="/john/19-23.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/john/19-21.htm">Jews</a> <a href="/john/19-42.htm">Nigh</a> <a href="/acts/21-26.htm">Notice</a> <a href="/acts/8-28.htm">Read</a> <a href="/acts/6-9.htm">Roman</a> <a href="/acts/4-16.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/john/21-11.htm">Three</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-21.htm">Title</a> <a href="/john/19-22.htm">Writing</a> <a href="/john/19-22.htm">Written</a><div class="vheading2">John 19</div>1. <a href="/john/19-1.htm">Jesus is scourged, crowned with thorns, and beaten.</a> 4. <a href="/john/19-4.htm">Pilate is desirous to release him, </a> 15. <a href="/john/19-15.htm">but being overcome with the outrage of the crowd, he delivers him to be crucified.</a> 23. <a href="/john/19-23.htm">They cast lots for his garments.</a> 25. <a href="/john/19-25.htm">He commends his mother to John.</a> 28. <a href="/john/19-28.htm">He dies.</a> 31. <a href="/john/19-31.htm">His side is pierced.</a> 38. <a href="/john/19-38.htm">He is buried by Joseph and Nicodemus.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/19.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/john/19.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Many of the Jews read this sign The sign referred to is the inscription placed above Jesus on the cross, which read "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." This was a common practice in Roman crucifixions to display the charge against the condemned. The fact that many Jews read it indicates the public nature of the crucifixion and the significant number of people present. This event took place during Passover, a time when Jerusalem was filled with Jewish pilgrims from various regions, increasing the number of witnesses.because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city Jesus was crucified at Golgotha, also known as "the Place of the Skull," which was located just outside the city walls of Jerusalem. Roman executions were typically held in prominent locations to serve as a public deterrent. The proximity to the city ensured that many people, including those entering and leaving Jerusalem, would see the crucifixion and the sign. This location fulfills the typology of Jesus as the sacrificial lamb, as sacrifices were made outside the camp in the Old Testament (<a href="/hebrews/13-11.htm">Hebrews 13:11-12</a>).and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek The trilingual inscription highlights the universality of Jesus' kingship. Hebrew was the language of the Jewish people and their religious texts, Latin was the official language of the Roman Empire, and Greek was the lingua franca of the Eastern Mediterranean. This ensured that the message could be understood by a diverse audience, symbolizing the reach of Jesus' message to all nations. The use of these three languages also reflects the cultural and political context of the time, with Roman authority, Jewish religious tradition, and Greek cultural influence all intersecting in Jerusalem.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> Central figure of the crucifixion, whose identity and mission are proclaimed through the inscription on the cross. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_jews.htm">The Jews</a> The local population who witnessed the crucifixion and read the inscription. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_place_of_crucifixion.htm">The Place of Crucifixion</a> Near the city of Jerusalem, emphasizing the public nature of Jesus' death. 4. <a href="/topical/l/languages.htm">Languages (Aramaic, Latin, Greek)</a> The inscription was written in these three languages, representing the diverse audience and the universal significance of Jesus' crucifixion. 5. <a href="/topical/p/pontius_pilate.htm">Pontius Pilate</a> The Roman governor who ordered the inscription, highlighting the political and religious tensions of the time.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_universality_of_the_gospel.htm">The Universality of the Gospel</a> The use of three languages signifies the Gospel's reach to all people, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. <a href="/topical/p/public_declaration_of_jesus'_kingship.htm">Public Declaration of Jesus' Kingship</a> The inscription serves as a public proclamation of Jesus' identity, inviting all to recognize His authority and kingship. <a href="/topical/t/the_irony_of_the_cross.htm">The Irony of the Cross</a> While intended as a mockery, the inscription truthfully declares Jesus as King, illustrating God's sovereignty in using human actions for divine purposes. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_witnesses.htm">The Role of Witnesses</a> The presence of many witnesses underscores the historical reality of the crucifixion and the importance of testimony in the Christian faith. <a href="/topical/l/language_and_communication_in_evangelism.htm">Language and Communication in Evangelism</a> The multilingual inscription challenges believers to communicate the Gospel effectively across cultural and linguistic divides.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_john_19.htm">Top 10 Lessons from John 19</a> <a href="/q/day_21_insights_on_spiritual_growth.htm">What events transpired during the crucifixion of Jesus?</a> <a href="/q/what_did_the_cross_inscription_say.htm">What was the wording on the cross in the Gospels? Matthew: "This is Jesus the King of the Jews," Mark: "The King of the Jews," Luke: "This is the King of the Jews," John: "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'place_of_the_skull'_mean.htm">What is the meaning of "Place of the Skull"?</a> <a href="/q/which_language_did_jesus_speak.htm">Which language did Jesus speak?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/john/19.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(20) This and the following verses are peculiar to St. John, and furnish another instance of his exact knowledge of what took place at Jerusalem.Many of the Jews.--That is, of the hierarchical party, as generally in this Gospel. (Comp. Note on <a href="/john/1-19.htm" title="And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who are you?">John 1:19</a>.) It has been sometimes understood here of the people generally, because the inscription was written in the three languages; but the last clause of the verse furnishes the reason for the action of the chief priests in the next verse. It would be better to punctuate the verses thus: "This title therefore read many of the Jews, because the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city. And it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. Therefore said the chief priests . . ."Nigh to the city.--Comp. Note on <a href="/matthew/27-33.htm" title="And when they were come to a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,">Matthew 27:33</a>.Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin.--"Hebrew," i.e., the current Syro-Chaldaic, was the language of the people generally. The precise form which occurs here is used in the New Testament only by St. John (<a href="/john/5-2.htm" title="Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.">John 5:2</a>; <a href="/john/19-13.htm" title="When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha.">John 19:13</a>; <a href="/john/19-17.htm" title="And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:">John 19:17</a>; <a href="/john/19-20.htm" title="This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was near to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin.">John 19:20</a>; <a href="/john/20-16.htm" title="Jesus said to her, Mary. She turned herself, and said to him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.">John 20:16</a>; <a href="/revelation/9-11.htm" title="And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue has his name Apollyon.">Revelation 9:11</a>; <a href="/revelation/16-16.htm" title="And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.">Revelation 16:16</a>). "Greek" was the most widely-known language of the time. "Latin" was the official language of the Roman Empire. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/john/19.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 20. - This title therefore many of the Jews read: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh unto the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Roman (Latin), and in Greek. The word Ἑβραῖστί occurs four times in this Gospel and twice in the Revelation, and nowhere else in the New Testament. Codex B reads Ῥωμαῖστι first. The Latin form of the trilingual inscription may very naturally have been placed at the top. The reference to this peculiarity of the inscription as also given by Luke, in T.R., is there omitted by Tischendorf (8th edit.), Tregelles, Westcott and Herr, and R.T., M'Clellan, and others; it looks as if the reading had been borrowed from John, or rather from the spurious 'Acts of Pilate,' with which it verbally agrees. The proclamation of Christ's royalty to the three great divisions of the civilized world is a providential fact of supreme interest. Thousands of Jews would carry the news of the mysterious "title" to far-off places, and ponder it in their homes. This was part of the preparation made by Divine providence for announcing to the whole world the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Since the cross from the very first thus became a throne, and the Crucifixion an installation into the kingdom, we learn thence the meaning of the Christian principle, "If we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him." <a href="/commentaries/john/19-20.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Many πολλοὶ (polloi) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. of the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Jews Ἰουδαίων (Ioudaiōn) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2453.htm">Strong's 2453: </a> Jewish. From Iouda; Judaean, i.e. Belonging to Jehudah. read ἀνέγνωσαν (anegnōsan) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_314.htm">Strong's 314: </a> To read, know again, know certainly, recognize, discern. From ana and ginosko; to know again, i.e. to read. this Τοῦτον (Touton) Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. sign, τίτλον (titlon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5102.htm">Strong's 5102: </a> A title, inscription. Of Latin origin; a titulus or 'title'. because ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. place τόπος (topos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5117.htm">Strong's 5117: </a> Apparently a primary word; a spot, i.e. Location; figuratively, condition, opportunity; specially, a scabbard. where ὅπου (hopou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3699.htm">Strong's 3699: </a> Where, whither, in what place. From hos and pou; what(-ever) where, i.e. At whichever spot. Jesus Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2424.htm">Strong's 2424: </a> Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. was crucified ἐσταυρώθη (estaurōthē) Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4717.htm">Strong's 4717: </a> From stauros; to impale on the cross; figuratively, to extinguish passion or selfishness. was ἦν (ēn) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. near ἐγγὺς (engys) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1451.htm">Strong's 1451: </a> Near. From a primary verb agcho; near. the τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. city, πόλεως (poleōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4172.htm">Strong's 4172: </a> A city, the inhabitants of a city. Probably from the same as polemos, or perhaps from polus; a town. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. it was ἦν (ēn) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. written γεγραμμένον (gegrammenon) Verb - Perfect Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1125.htm">Strong's 1125: </a> A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe. in Aramaic, Ἑβραϊστί (Hebraisti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_1447.htm">Strong's 1447: </a> In the Hebrew, or rather, in the Aramaic dialect. Adverb from Hebrais; Hebraistically or in the Jewish language. Latin, Ῥωμαϊστί (Rhōmaisti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_4515.htm">Strong's 4515: </a> In the Latin language. Adverb from a presumed derivative of Rhome; Romaistically, i.e. In the Latin language. [and] Greek. Ἑλληνιστί (Hellēnisti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_1676.htm">Strong's 1676: </a> In the Greek language. Adverb from the same as Hellenistes; Hellenistically, i.e. In the Grecian language. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/john/19-20.htm">John 19:20 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/john/19-20.htm">NT Gospels: John 19:20 Therefore many of the Jews read this (Jhn Jo Jn) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/john/19-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="John 19:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="John 19:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/john/19-21.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="John 19:21"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="John 19:21" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>