Symbolism. Another means for expressing such thought is symbolism, which is found throughout this Gospel. Its symbolism comes from within Judaism, especially from the Old Testament, but most of it also reflects non-Jewish traditions: for example, the use of logos or “word” (see comment on 1:1). John’s use of symbols suggests he is not trying merely to label or describe Jesus. They are textured so that layer upon layer of meaning is found as one reflects on the associations conveyed by the symbol.