John 10:40
And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀπῆλθεν
went away
G565
ἀπῆλθεν
went away
Strong's:
G565
Word #:
2 of 18
to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively
πάλιν
again
G3825
πάλιν
again
Strong's:
G3825
Word #:
3 of 18
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
7 of 18
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τόπον
the place
G5117
τόπον
the place
Strong's:
G5117
Word #:
9 of 18
a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βαπτίζων
baptized
G907
βαπτίζων
baptized
Strong's:
G907
Word #:
15 of 18
to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
16 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Bethany beyond Jordan (or Bethabara) was in Perea, territory ruled by Herod Antipas rather than the Judean authorities who sought Jesus's death. This provided temporary sanctuary. John had baptized there approximately two years earlier, and people still remembered his testimony about Jesus.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is it significant that Jesus returned to where John first testified about Him—what does this 'full circle' movement signify?
- How does Jesus's strategic withdrawal demonstrate wisdom in ministry—knowing when to confront and when to retreat?
- What does Jesus's return to John's baptismal site teach about the importance of testimony and witness in preparing hearts for Christ?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode (καὶ ἀπῆλθεν πάλιν πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου εἰς τὸν τόπον ὅπου ἦν Ἰωάννης τὸ πρῶτον βαπτίζων, καὶ ἔμεινεν ἐκεῖ, kai apēlthen palin peran tou Iordanou eis ton topon hopou ēn Iōannēs to prōton baptizōn, kai emeinen ekei)—Jesus returns to where His public ministry began, the site of John's testimony (John 1:28-34). The phrase πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου (peran tou Iordanou, 'beyond the Jordan') places Him outside Judean jurisdiction, providing temporary safety. ἔμεινεν (emeinen, 'He abode, remained') suggests extended stay, not mere passing through.
This strategic withdrawal serves multiple purposes: escaping immediate danger, allowing time for His message to resonate, and geographically connecting back to John's witness. Jesus returns to the beginning, where John testified 'Behold the Lamb of God' (John 1:29)—preparing for His journey back to Jerusalem for Passover sacrifice.