2JN 1:12-13

Conclusion

12Though he had much to write to them, he did not wish to do so with papyrus and ink. Instead, he hoped to come to them and speak face to face, so that their joy might be made complete. [1:13] The children of your elect sister greet you.

In the world it was spoken into

In the 1st century, written communication was costly and time-consuming. Papyrus was imported from Egypt and expensive, while ink required careful preparation. Writing was reserved for formal or necessary correspondence, as face-to-face interaction was preferred for personal or sensitive matters. The author’s decision to delay writing in favor of a future visit reflects this cultural preference for direct, oral communication , which carried greater relational weight and authenticity. The mention of 'mouth to mouth' speaking underscores the intimacy and immediacy valued in Greco-Roman and early Christian communities. The greeting to 'the children of your elect sister' reflects the familial language common in early Christian circles, where believers often referred to one another as siblings, emphasizing spiritual kinship. The term 'elect' would resonate with Jewish and Gentile Christians familiar with the biblical concept of God’s chosen people. The concluding 'Amen' signals a formal benediction, affirming the letter’s authority and the shared faith of its recipients.

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How other translations render this

2JN 1:12

KJV: Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.
BSB: I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come and speak with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
Koinōnos: Though he had much to write to them, he did not wish to do so with papyrus and ink. Instead, he hoped to come to them and speak face to face, so that their joy might be made complete.

2JN 1:13

KJV: The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen.
BSB: The children of your elect sister send you greetings.
Koinōnos: The children of your elect sister greet you.

Only verses where the wording diverges meaningfully are shown. Identical phrasings are suppressed.

Translator's notes

2JN 1:12

paper:The word translated 'paper' refers specifically to papyrus, a common writing material made from reeds in the ancient world, often rolled into scrolls.
ink;:The term used here for 'ink' referred to a black liquid, typically made from soot or gall nuts, used for writing on papyrus or parchment.
to speak:The word translated 'to speak' often implies informal conversation or chatter, sometimes contrasting with more formal or deliberate speech.
completed:The word translated 'completed' carries the sense of filling something to its full capacity or bringing something to its intended end or fulfillment.