Hope and Prophecy

What Did Jesus Write in the Sand?

The Bible does not tell us what Jesus wrote.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Biblical explanation

describes religious leaders bringing a woman caught in adultery to Jesus. They demanded an answer about whether she should be stoned. Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground: “Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground” (). They continued questioning Him. Jesus then said: “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” (). One by one, the accusers left. Jesus then told the woman: “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (). The text never tells us what Jesus wrote. Various theories exist, but they are speculation. The Bible tells us that Jesus wrote on the ground, but not what He wrote. A responsible biblical answer should leave that question where Scripture leaves it.

In brief

describes religious leaders bringing a woman caught in adultery to Jesus.

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.