Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 9:1

"And as he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth." — John 9:1 (ASV)

Although Jesus had healed blind persons on other occasions (Matthew 9:27–31; Matthew 12:22; Matthew 15:30; Matthew 21:14; et al.), this “sign” (GK 4958) was an outstanding case because (1) the man had been born blind; (2) the sign was related to the issue of fate, raised by the disciples; and (3) it illustrates the origination and development of faith, a theme of this gospel. The encounter of Jesus and the blind man seems to have been a casual one. Since blind beggars had little opportunity for employment, they were dependent on charity for their sustenance.