John 11:13

13 Jesus, however, was speaking about his death, but they thought He was speaking about natural sleep.

John 11:13 Meaning and Commentary

John 11:13

Howbeit Jesus spake of his death
Under the figurative phrase of sleeping:

but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep;
in a literal and natural sense.

John 11:13 In-Context

11 He said this, and then He told them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I'm on My way to wake him up."

12 Then the disciples said to Him, "Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will get well."

13 Jesus, however, was speaking about his death, but they thought He was speaking about natural sleep.

14 So Jesus then told them plainly, "Lazarus has died.

15 I'm glad for you that I wasn't there so that you may believe. But let's go to him."