John 11:1
Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.
Original Language Analysis
Λάζαρος
named Lazarus
G2976
Λάζαρος
named Lazarus
Strong's:
G2976
Word #:
5 of 16
lazarus (i.e., elazar), the name of two israelites
ἀπὸ
of
G575
ἀπὸ
of
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
6 of 16
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
ἐκ
G1537
ἐκ
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
8 of 16
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Μαρίας
of Mary
G3137
Μαρίας
of Mary
Strong's:
G3137
Word #:
11 of 16
maria or mariam (i.e., mirjam), the name of six christian females
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
12 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
John 12:17The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.Matthew 21:17And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.John 11:11These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.John 12:9Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.Acts 9:37And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.Mark 11:1And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples,John 11:3Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
Historical Context
Bethany was about two miles from Jerusalem, a small village on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. This proximity to Jerusalem meant many Jews came to mourn, providing many witnesses to the miracle. Archaeological evidence suggests a first-century tomb there.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Lazarus's resurrection preview Christ's power over death in your life?
- What 'deaths' in your life need Christ's resurrection power?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This verse introduces the greatest sign in John's Gospel, foreshadowing Christ's own resurrection. Lazarus's name means 'God has helped', prophetically fitting. His identification through his sisters (Mary and Martha) shows the family's prominence in the believing community. Bethany, meaning 'house of affliction', becomes the place where Christ's glory triumphs over death itself, demonstrating His power over humanity's greatest enemy.