1 John 2:11

He that hateth. Such a man is a complete contrast to the loving one (v. 10). Instead of abiding, or dwelling, in God’s life-giving light he dwells in spiritual darkness.

Walketh. See on v. 6. The act of hating his brother has affected other areas of the man’s life to the extent that his life is altogether dark.

Whither he goeth. The complete expression is a quotation from Christ’s own words (John 12:35). It would be strange if the beloved disciple did not echo some of his Master’s sayings. The hater doubtless thinks he knows where he is going, but he is deluded. He is unaware of his ultimate destination. Were he aware of it he would probably change his manner of life. See Prov. 14:12.

Darkness hath blinded. Blindness has already occurred. Light is essential to sight, and he who rejects light loses the ability to see. The idea that the rejection of light leads to spiritual blindness is also found in the OT (cf. Ps. 82:5; Eccl. 2:14; Isa. 6:10). On the other hand, the man who chooses to dwell in light receives further illumination and guidance (Prov. 4:18, 19).

No metaphor can adequately picture the condition of those who hate their brethren. The blind man dwells in darkness and knows he is blind, but those whom Satan has blinded think they see when they do not. They see themselves as superior beings walking an enlightened road to a delectable end (see on Gen. 3:6).