King James Bible
"Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end."
John situates this pivotal moment just before Passover, the Jewish festival commemorating liberation from Egypt. This timing is significant as Jesus will become the ultimate Passover lamb, with his death bringing spiritual liberation. Jesus possesses full awareness that his crucifixion is imminent—what John calls 'his hour' throughout the Gospel. This departure isn't mere death but a return to glory with the Father, framing the passion as purposeful rather than tragic. John identifies the disciples as belonging to Jesus ('his own'), emphasizing the intimate relationship between shepherd and sheep. Though they remain in the hostile world, they are objects of Christ's particular, protective love. This phrase carries double meaning: Jesus loved them until his final breath and loved them completely/perfectly. The foot washing that follows demonstrates this love's practical, humble expression even as death approaches.