Abstract:
This article explores a probable motivation for the insertion of the Pericope Adulterae
(John 7:53–8:11) in the Gospel of John in consideration of the motive of ‘living/life’ used
by the gospel writer. Using John 8:12 as the starting point of this investigation, the article focuses
on the warning to the Israelites against idolatry with specific attention to the warning against
worshiping the sun, the moon, and the stars (Deuteronomy 4:15–20). It also deals with the Feast
of Tabernacles, which is the direct context in which Jesus declared that he is the light of the
world. The water ceremony also plays a central role in understanding the bigger picture that
unfolds, as well as the Early Church’s struggle against heretical Christological teachings of who
Jesus was with regard to his human nature and his divine nature.
