Then some of John's disciples got into a controversy with a Jew in regard to purification; so they came to John and said to him.

He who has the bride is the bridegroom, but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. So then this joy of mine has now complete fulfilment.

"How is it," answered the Samaritan woman, "that you who are a Jew ask a drink from me, a woman, and a Samaritan?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)

No one, however, was speaking openly about him, for fear of the Jews. "But now I am coming to thee, and I am speaking these things while I am in the world, so that they may have my joy in all its fulness in themselves.

"I have told you these things that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

A woman in labor has grief because her hour is come; but when she has given birth to the babe she no longer remembers her anguish, because of joy that a child has been born into the world.

So you also have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy shall no man snatch away from you.

Hitherto you have asked nothing in my name; ask, and you shall receive, that your joy may be full.

"But now I am coming to thee, and I am speaking these things while I am in the world, so that they may have my joy in all its fulness in themselves.

"I am not a Jew, am I?" replied Pilate; "It is your own nation and the high priests who have handed you over to me. What have you done?"