John 13:5

"arose from supper, and laid aside his outer garments. He took a towel and wrapped a towel around his waist."

Key Reflection

In this passage, Jesus strips away his outer garment to symbolize giving up his dignity and power, preparing himself as a humble servant. By wrapping the towel around his waist, he illustrates how even in service, one remains prepared for action and responsibility.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 5. Began to wash, &c. It was uniformly the office of a servant to wash the feet of guests, 1 Sa 25:41. It became a matter of necessity where they travelled without shoes, and where they reclined on couches at meals. It should be remembered here that the disciples were not sitting at the table, as we do, but were lying with their feet extended from the table, so that Jesus could easily have access to them. See Barnes "Mt 23:6". __________________________________________________________________

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