EXHIBIT 23(a)

               Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts and Financial
Statements"  and to the use of our reports dated February 6, 1998,  with respect
to the financial  statements of John Hancock  Variable  Annuity  Account JF, and
February 18,  1998,  with respect to the  financial  statements  of John Hancock
Variable Life Insurance Company,  included in the Post-Effective Amendment No. 2
to the Form S-1  Registration  Statement  (File No.  33-64945)  and the  related
Prospectus of John Hancock Variable Annuity Account JF.



                                                  ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Boston, Massachusetts
April 22, 1998