John 13:25 - Ellicott's Commentary On The Whole Bible

He then lying on Jesus’ breast. — Several good authorities, including the Vatican and the Cambridge MSS., insert the word “thus.” “He then leaning thus...,” describes the action just as it took place (comp. Note on John 4:6); but the balance of authority is against the insertion. The action is, however, exactly described in the original, for the words “lying” and “breast” are both different from those in John 13:23. The English preserves this difference, but hardly conveys the full meaning. There the beloved disciple is described as reclining towards his Master’s bosom. Here he leans upon (or leans back upon, as many good authorities read), the Master’s breast, and asks Him the question, “Who is it?”