There are various different interpretations of the meaning of peace in John’s gospel and,

moreover, the meaning of peace within the context of John 14:27. C. K Barrett understands
the word peace in this passage to mean “the absence of fear and a perturbation of heart.”
Marianne Meye Thompson suggests that Jesus' promise to give his disciples peace is
“coupled with the promise of his ongoing presence.” It is her understanding that Jesus is
comforting the disciples by alluding to the fact that he will remain with them in the upcoming
times of persecution through the Holy Spirit despite ‘appearing’ absent. Peace the early
Christains would have, in his presence. Craig Keener seems to see the meaning of peace as
being multifaceted. The New Testament scholar notes how on one level peace refers to
“tranquillity in the midst of hardship or to the bliss of the righteous after death.” I am
particularly interested in the way in which Keener sees how peace in this passage applies to
an “eschatological hope for Israel” despite Jesus saying that he “leaves” it with them.