Paragraph 4:4–6

This paragraph tells why Jesus was sitting by a well in Samaria. Jesus was returning to Galilee with his disciples. On the way he passed through Samaria. When they reached Jacob’s well, he sat down to rest.

4:4

Now: In this context the Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as Now introduces a new thought. It does not indicate time. Some English translations do not translate it explicitly. Introduce this new thought in a way that is natural in your language. For example:

And (English Standard Version)

He had to pass through Samaria: The Greek phrase that the Berean Standard Bible translates as had to pass through Samaria indicates that it was necessary for Jesus to go through Samaria. This was the short and natural route between Judea and Galilee. It was not, however, necessary to go this way. Therefore many scholars think that here the idea of necessity refers to God’s plan and purpose. See the notes on 3:14b and 3:30, where the word “must” refers to this same idea.

pass through Samaria: Samaria was not Jesus’ final destination (place he was going to). He was just passing through this area on his way from Judea to Galilee. Samaria was north of Judea but south of Galilee. Here are other ways to translate this phrase:

go through Samaria (New Revised Standard Version)
-or-
cross Samaria

Samaria: Samaria was a province or region. In some languages it is more natural to make this explicit. For example:

⌊the area called⌋ Samaria

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