John 9:6

Spat on the ground. The ancients believed that saliva contained healing properties (see, for example, Talmud Baba Bathra 126b, Soncino ed., p. 526). However, a supposed healing virtue in saliva was not the reason Jesus made use of the agency, unless simply to strengthen the man’s faith. In two other miracles the use of saliva is mentioned (see on Mark 7:33; cf. ch. 8:23).

The preparation of the clay doubtless came within the restrictions of rabbinical laws with regard to the Sabbath (see ch. 9:14; see on chs. 5:10, 16; 7:22-24). Kneading was specifically forbidden (see Mishnah Shabbath 7.2, Soncino ed. of the Talmud, p. 349). For example, men were permitted to pour water on bran in preparation as feed for animals, but they were not permitted to “mix it” (Mishnah Shabbath 24.3, Soncino ed. of the Talmud, p. 794). See on chs. 5:16; 9:16.

Anointed the eyes. Here also (see above under “Spat on the ground”) Jesus transgressed rabbinical tradition, which permitted only such anointing as was normally conducted on other days. Any unusual anointing was forbidden. For example, the ancients used vinegar for the relief of toothache. A man with a pain in his teeth could not suck vinegar through them on the Sabbath, but he could take vinegar in the usual fashion at mealtime and obtain relief in that way (Mishnah Shabbath 14.4, Soncino ed. of the Talmud, p. 539).