Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from John 1:48. It's a really fascinating piece of storytelling! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is talking to Nathanael. Nathanael was a man who was very interested in Jesus and knew him well. He asks, “When do you know me?” This isn't just a casual question; it’s a way of testing his knowledge and connection with Jesus. Jesus answers: "I don’t know." This is the key part! What does this really mean? It’s a bit mysterious, but here’s a possible interpretation: “Before Philip called you” : This refers to a specific time and place. Philip was a traveler who came to the region where Nathanael was. "When you were under the fig tree..." : Nathanael was in a forest with a fig tree nearby. It’s a very significant location! Putting it all together: Jesus is telling Nathanael that he knows him, but he doesn't know how he came to be known. He suggests he remembers meeting him in this particular place – the fig tree. It’s like saying, “I’ve met you before, but I don’t remember exactly when.” Why is this significant? This verse highlights a few important things: Jesus' Mystery: It shows that Jesus isn't always clear and easily understood. He has a way of being present in our lives, but we don’t always know exactly where or when he appears. A Beginning of Relationship: It’s the beginning of a relationship between Jesus and Nathanael – a connection made in a specific moment. In short, it's a story about a first meeting and a gentle acknowledgment that we don’t always know how or when Jesus comes into our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from John 1? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?