John 1:28
These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing.
Original Language Analysis
Βηθαβαρᾶ
Bethabara
G962
Βηθαβαρᾶ
Bethabara
Strong's:
G962
Word #:
3 of 11
ferry-house; bethabara (i.e., bethabarah), a place on the jordan
ἐγένετο
were done
G1096
ἐγένετο
were done
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
4 of 11
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
John 10:40And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode.John 3:23And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.Judges 7:24And Gideon sent messengers throughout all mount Ephraim, saying, Come down against the Midianites, and take before them the waters unto Beth-barah and Jordan. Then all the men of Ephraim gathered themselves together, and took the waters unto Beth-barah and Jordan.
Historical Context
Bethabara (meaning 'house of the ford') was likely on the eastern side of the Jordan River in Perea. John's choice of this location may echo Joshua's crossing and Elijah's ministry, connecting his work to Israel's redemptive history.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does God often initiate spiritual renewal outside established religious centers?
- How does geography sometimes reflect theological and spiritual realities in Scripture?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The geographical note 'Bethabara beyond Jordan' (some manuscripts read 'Bethany') situates John's ministry in the wilderness, fulfilling Isaiah 40:3. This location outside Judea's religious establishment symbolizes the radical nature of his message. God often works at the margins, calling His people away from human institutions to encounter Him directly.