EXHIBIT 23(a)

                        Consent of Independent Auditors


We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the 
use of our reports dated February 7, 1997, with respect to the financial 
statements of John Hancock Variable Annuity Account JF, and February 14, 1997, 
with respect to the financial statements of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance
Company, included in the Post-Effective Amendments No. 1 to the Registration 
Statements (Form S-1 No. 33-64945 and Form N-4 No. 33-64947) and the related 
Prospectus of John Hancock Variable Annuity Account JF.

                                               ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Boston, Massachusetts
April 14, 1997