Jesus’s vs. Jesus’ – Which Possessive Form is Correct?
Navigating the waters of English possessives can sometimes lead to tricky situations, especially with proper nouns ending in ‘s’. One of the most debated examples is the possessive form of “Jesus.”
Let’s dive into the distinction between “Jesus’s” and “Jesus'” and see how different style manuals address this conundrum.
Quick Summary
Both “Jesus’s” and “Jesus'” are possessive forms of the proper noun “Jesus.” The choice between them is often dictated by stylistic guidelines. Some prefer “Jesus’s” to indicate possession, while others opt for the simpler “Jesus’.”
Jesus’s vs. Jesus’ – Which is Correct?
Both “Jesus’s” and “Jesus'” can be used to denote possession for the name “Jesus.” Their use often hinges on specific style guidelines or personal preferences.
| Word | When to Use | Example | Style Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jesus’s | Possessive form of “Jesus” (common style) | Jesus’s teachings are central to Christianity. | The Chicago Manual of Style, among others |
| Jesus’ | Alternate possessive form of “Jesus” | Jesus’ disciples followed him faithfully. | Associated Press (AP) Style, among others |
How to Use Jesus’s
Many style guides, including the Chicago Manual of Style, suggest adding ‘s to the singular form of proper nouns ending in ‘s’ to form the possessive.
- Example: Jesus’s parables are well-known. In this context, the parables belonging to Jesus are the subject, and the possession is indicated by ‘s.
How to Use Jesus’
Other style guides, such as Associated Press (AP) style, recommend using just an apostrophe for biblical or classical names ending in ‘s’ to indicate possession.
- Example: Jesus’ miracles were recorded in the Gospels. Here, the miracles performed by Jesus are the focus, with possession denoted by the apostrophe.
Conclusion
The choice between “Jesus’s” and “Jesus'” often comes down to style guidelines or personal preference. Both forms have been used historically and are grammatically acceptable. When writing, it’s advisable to stick to one form for consistency.
If you’re unsure, consult your chosen style guide or refer back to this guide for clarity on the possessive form of “Jesus.”
You have it backwards! AP requires Jesus’ for the possessive of Jesus. CMOS requires Jesus’s.
You are right, good catch! I’ve made the change.