John 12:6
New International Version
He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.

New Living Translation
Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

English Standard Version
He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it.

Berean Standard Bible
Judas did not say this because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief. As keeper of the money bag, he used to take from what was put into it.

Berean Literal Bible
But he said this, not because he was caring for the poor, but because he was a thief; and having the money bag, he used to pilfer that being put into it.

King James Bible
This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

New King James Version
This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.

New American Standard Bible
Now he said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he kept the money box, he used to steal from what was put into it.

NASB 1995
Now he said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to pilfer what was put into it.

NASB 1977
Now he said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to pilfer what was put into it.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now he said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to take from what was put into it.

Amplified Bible
Now he said this, not because he cared about the poor [for he had never cared about them], but because he was a thief; and since he had the money box [serving as treasurer for the twelve disciples], he used to pilfer what was put into it.

Christian Standard Bible
He didn’t say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief. He was in charge of the money-bag and would steal part of what was put in it.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
He didn’t say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief. He was in charge of the money-bag and would steal part of what was put in it.

American Standard Version
Now this he said, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and having the bag took away what was put therein.

Contemporary English Version
Judas did not really care about the poor. He asked this because he carried the moneybag and sometimes would steal from it.

English Revised Version
Now this he said, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and having the bag took away what was put therein.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
(Judas didn't say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief. He was in charge of the moneybag and carried the contributions.)

Good News Translation
He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief. He carried the money bag and would help himself from it.

International Standard Version
He said this, not because he cared about the destitute, but because he was a thief. He was in charge of the moneybag and would steal what was put into it.

Majority Standard Bible
Judas did not say this because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief. As keeper of the money bag, he used to take from what was put into it.

NET Bible
(Now Judas said this not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief. As keeper of the money box, he used to steal what was put into it.)

New Heart English Bible
Now he said this, not because he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and having the money box, used to steal what was put into it.

Webster's Bible Translation
This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bore what was put in it.

Weymouth New Testament
The reason he said this was not that he cared for the poor, but that he was a thief, and that being in charge of the money-box, he used to steal what was put into it.

World English Bible
Now he said this, not because he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and having the money box, used to steal what was put into it.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And he said this, not because he was caring for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and what things were put in he was carrying.

Berean Literal Bible
But he said this, not because he was caring for the poor, but because he was a thief; and having the money bag, he used to pilfer that being put into it.

Young's Literal Translation
and he said this, not because he was caring for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and what things were put in he was carrying.

Smith's Literal Translation
And this he said, not that care was to him for the poor: but because he was a thief, and had the small coffer, and carried things deposited.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Now he said this, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and having the purse, carried the things that were put therein.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now he said this, not out of concern for the needy, but because he was a thief and, since he held the purse, he used to carry what was put into it.

New American Bible
He said this not because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief and held the money bag and used to steal the contributions.

New Revised Standard Version
(He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.)
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
He said this, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and the purse was with him, and he carried whatever was put in it.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
He said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief and he had the money box and anything which fell into it he carried.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
But he said this, not because he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the purse, and took what was put in it.

Godbey New Testament
And He spoke this, not because there was a care to him for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the purse, and was carrying those things cast in.

Haweis New Testament
Now he said this, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and kept the purse, and carried the money put therein.

Mace New Testament
this he said, not out of any concern for the poor; but because being purse-bearer he used to pilfer what was in bank.

Weymouth New Testament
The reason he said this was not that he cared for the poor, but that he was a thief, and that being in charge of the money-box, he used to steal what was put into it.

Worrell New Testament
And he said this, not because he cared about the poor; but because he was a thief; and, having the money-box, he was wont to carry what was put therein.

Worsley New Testament
He said this, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and having the common purse he carried what was put into it.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Mary Anoints Jesus
5“Why wasn’t this perfume sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” 6 Judas did not say this because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief. As keeper of the money bag, he used to take from what was put into it. 7“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “She has kept this perfume in preparation for the day of My burial.…

Cross References
John 13:29
Since Judas kept the money bag, some thought that Jesus was telling him to buy what was needed for the feast, or to give something to the poor.

John 6:70-71
Jesus answered them, “Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!” / He was speaking about Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. For although Judas was one of the Twelve, he was later to betray Jesus.

John 13:2
The evening meal was underway, and the devil had already put into the heart of Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.

John 13:27
And when Judas had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus said to Judas, “What you are about to do, do quickly.”

Matthew 26:14-16
Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests / and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. / So from then on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

Mark 14:10-11
Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. / They were delighted to hear this, and they promised to give him money. So Judas began to look for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

Luke 22:3-6
Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve. / And Judas went to discuss with the chief priests and temple officers how he might betray Jesus to them. / They were delighted and agreed to give him money. ...

Matthew 26:47-50
While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and elders of the people. / Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him.” / Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. ...

Mark 14:43-46
While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, scribes, and elders. / Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him and lead Him away securely.” / Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Rabbi!” and kissed Him. ...

Luke 22:47-48
While He was still speaking, a crowd arrived, led by the man called Judas, one of the Twelve. He approached Jesus to kiss Him. / But Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

Acts 1:16-18
“Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled that the Holy Spirit foretold through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide for those who arrested Jesus. / He was one of our number and shared in this ministry.” / (Now with the reward for his wickedness Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong and burst open in the middle, and all his intestines spilled out.

1 Timothy 6:10
For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

2 Kings 5:20-27
Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, “Look, my master has spared this Aramean, Naaman, by not accepting what he brought. As surely as the LORD lives, I will run after him and get something from him.” / So Gehazi pursued Naaman. And when Naaman saw him running toward him, he got down from the chariot to meet him and asked, “Is everything all right?” / “Everything is all right,” Gehazi replied. “My master has sent me to say, ‘Look, two young men from the sons of the prophets have just now come to me from the hill country of Ephraim. Please give them a talent of silver and two sets of clothing.’” ...

Exodus 20:15
You shall not steal.

Proverbs 1:19
Such is the fate of all who are greedy, whose unjust gain takes the lives of its possessors.


Treasury of Scripture

This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bore what was put therein.

not.

John 10:13
The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.

Psalm 14:1
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

Proverbs 29:7
The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.

because.

John 10:8-10
All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them…

2 Kings 5:20-27
But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, as the LORD liveth, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him…

Psalm 50:16-20
But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? …

the bag.

John 13:29
For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.

2 Kings 12:14,15
But they gave that to the workmen, and repaired therewith the house of the LORD…

Ezra 8:24-34
Then I separated twelve of the chief of the priests, Sherebiah, Hashabiah, and ten of their brethren with them, …

Jump to Previous
Bag Bare Bore Box Cared Caring Carried Carrying Charge Concerned Help Keeper Love Money Money-Bag Money-Box Pilfer Poor Reason Steal Therein Thief Used
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Bag Bare Bore Box Cared Caring Carried Carrying Charge Concerned Help Keeper Love Money Money-Bag Money-Box Pilfer Poor Reason Steal Therein Thief Used
John 12
1. Jesus excuses Mary anointing his feet.
9. The people flock to see Lazarus.
10. The chief priests consult to kill him.
12. Jesus rides into Jerusalem.
20. Greeks desire to see Jesus.
23. He foretells his death.
37. The people are generally blinded;
42. yet many chief rulers believe, but do not confess him;
44. therefore Jesus calls earnestly for confession of faith.














He said this
This phrase refers to Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve disciples, who is speaking in the context of the preceding verses. The Greek word for "said" is "eipen," which is a common term used throughout the New Testament to denote speech or declaration. In this context, it highlights Judas's outward expression of concern, which is later revealed to be disingenuous. Historically, Judas is known for his eventual betrayal of Jesus, and this moment foreshadows his duplicitous nature.

not because he cared about the poor
The phrase reveals Judas's true intentions. The Greek word for "cared" is "emelen," which implies a deep concern or interest. However, the text explicitly states that Judas's concern was not genuine. This serves as a moral lesson about the importance of sincerity in our actions and intentions. The historical context of the early Christian community emphasized caring for the poor, making Judas's hypocrisy even more pronounced.

but because he was a thief
Here, Judas's character is further exposed. The Greek word for "thief" is "kleptes," which denotes someone who steals, often secretly or deceitfully. This term is used to describe Judas's habitual behavior, not just a one-time act. Theologically, this highlights the danger of unchecked sin and the way it can corrupt an individual's character over time.

As keeper of the money bag
This phrase indicates Judas's role among the disciples. The Greek term "glossokomon" refers to a box or bag used for holding money. Judas was entrusted with the group's finances, which was a position of responsibility and trust. This detail underscores the gravity of his betrayal, as he abused his position for personal gain.

he used to help himself to what was put into it
This final phrase reveals Judas's ongoing theft. The Greek verb "ebastazen" means "to carry" or "to bear," implying that Judas regularly took from the communal funds. This habitual sin is a stark warning against the love of money and the way it can lead to greater moral failings. Scripturally, it serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and stewardship in all areas of life.

(6) This verse which follows from the reference to Judas is of course, like it, peculiar to St. John.

But because he was a thief, and had the bag.--Comp. Notes on John 13:29 and Luke 8:1-3. We have to think of Judas as treasurer of the common fund which supplied the wants of the little band, and from which gifts to the poor were made. The word rendered "bag" here, the only passage where it occurs in the New Testament, and "chest," in 2Chronicles 24:8-11, means literally the "key-chest," in which musicians carried their flute-keys. Hence it was applied to a chest in the wider sense, and especially, as here, to a small and portable chest.

And bare what was put therein.--This is but to say over again, if we take the ordinary sense of the words, what is already implied in the fact that he kept the bag. The form of the word expresses continuance of the act, and may refer to the recurring opportunities of fraud as distinct from the mere fact of carrying the chest with a known sum in it. But we may certainly render the word "bare away," for St. John himself uses it in this sense in John 20:15; and this clause would then mean "and purloined what was put therein."



Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
[Judas] did not say
εἶπεν (eipen)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2036: Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.

this
τοῦτο (touto)
Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it.

because
ὅτι (hoti)
Conjunction
Strong's 3754: Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.

he
αὐτῷ (autō)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

cared
ἔμελεν (emelen)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 3199: It is a care, it is an object of anxiety, it concerns. A primary verb; to be of interest to, i.e. To concern.

about
περὶ (peri)
Preposition
Strong's 4012: From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time.

the
τῶν (tōn)
Article - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

poor,
πτωχῶν (ptōchōn)
Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 4434: Poor, destitute, spiritually poor, either in a good sense (humble devout persons) or bad.

but
ἀλλ’ (all’)
Conjunction
Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.

because
ὅτι (hoti)
Conjunction
Strong's 3754: Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.

he was
ἦν (ēn)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

a thief.
κλέπτης (kleptēs)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2812: A thief. From klepto; a stealer.

As keeper
ἔχων (echōn)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

of the
τὸ (to)
Article - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

money bag,
γλωσσόκομον (glōssokomon)
Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 1101: From glossa and the base of kosmos; properly, a case i.e. a casket or purse.

he used to take
ἐβάσταζεν (ebastazen)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 941: Perhaps remotely derived from the base of basis; to lift, literally or figuratively.

from what
τὰ (ta)
Article - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

was put into [it].
βαλλόμενα (ballomena)
Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 906: (a) I cast, throw, rush, (b) often, in the weaker sense: I place, put, drop. A primary verb; to throw.


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NT Gospels: John 12:6 Now he said this not because he (Jhn Jo Jn)
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