Then took they up stones to stone him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by — the authorities attempt to execute Jesus on the spot, taking up stones to stone him (as prescribed for blasphemy). Yet Jesus 'hid himself' (ekrybē) and 'went out of the temple... and so passed by.' The text does not say they did not see him; it suggests Jesus departed unharmed. Once again, 'his hour was not yet come' (8:20)—the protection is divine. Jesus's greatest claim (the I-am statement) triggers the greatest violence, yet he remains untouched. The chapter ends with Jesus's withdrawal, the revelation made, the judgment rendered (those who hear reject; those with faith accept), and the division complete.

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