Definition: For neither did his brethren believe in him.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from John 7:5. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious passage. Here’s what it means in plain language: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where Jesus was trying to share something with his closest followers – his brethren – but they didn’t believe in him. It's essentially saying that despite his efforts, he wasn’t received as he expected. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “John 7:5” : This is a specific section of the Gospel of John, which tells about Jesus’ final moments and appearances. “For neither did his brethren believe in him.” This is the core of the verse. "Brothers" refers to Jesus' followers – the people he had close relationships with. “Believe” means to accept and understand what he was saying. The fact that neither of them believed suggests a significant level of disbelief. What does this tell us about Jesus? This isn’t just about a disagreement; it speaks to several things: His Power & Authority: Jesus had immense power – he could influence people, heal them, and even defy death. His followers were supposed to believe in him. This verse suggests that his message wasn't received with the same level of faith as his own. A Potential Crisis: It hints at a possible problem within Jesus’s circle – perhaps there was a growing skepticism or doubt among those who followed him. It could be linked to some kind of spiritual conflict. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted symbolically, and it's a key part of the story of Jesus' betrayal. It suggests that even those closest to Jesus weren’t fully convinced of his divinity or importance. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated for centuries. There are various interpretations – some see it as a subtle hint at the events leading up to his crucifixion, while others see it as a commentary on the nature of faith itself. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse in more detail? Discuss the different possible interpretations of this verse?