John 7:22

Moses therefore gave Better, For this cause (John 12:18; John 12:27) Moses hath given. Comp. John 8:47.

of Moses … of the fathers -Originating with Moses … originating with the fathers." Circumcision originated with the Patriarchs, and was a more ancient institution than the Sabbath. When, therefore, the two ordinances clashed, the younger had to give place; it was more fit that the Sabbath should be broken, than that circumcision should be administered on the wrong day. If then the Sabbath could give way to a mere ceremonial observance, how much more might it give way to a work of mercy? The law of charity is older and higher than any ceremonial law.

on the sabbath Rather, on a Sabbath; so also in John 7:23.