This verse begins with three Greek words which may be translated literally “for in this.” The purpose of this expression is to tie the proverb to its application, and it is probable that the application of the proverb is found in verse 38, not in verse 36. Good News Translation does not render these words explicitly, though some translations have “for here…” (Jerusalem Bible “For here the proverb holds good:”).

In some languages it is important to make a distinction in verbs for “planting.” In one instance it may be the process of setting plants into the ground; in another, a matter of scattering seed. In this context a verb for scattering (or planting) seed is appropriate.

In some languages the saying is true may be translated “what people so often say is true” or “what people are in the habit of repeating is true.” The connection between this saying and verse 38 may be indicated by an introductory expression, for example, “it is like this” or “that is how it is.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on the Gospel of John. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1980. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .