John 11:5
Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
4 of 13
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτῆς
her
G846
αὐτῆς
her
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
10 of 13
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
11 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
The mention of all three family members suggests their prominence in the early church. Martha and Mary represent different temperaments both beloved by Christ, affirming diverse personalities in Christian community.
Questions for Reflection
- How does knowing Christ's love for this family help us interpret His delay?
- What does Jesus' love for people of different temperaments teach about Christian community?
- How can we trust God's love when His timing differs from our desires?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
John carefully documents Jesus' love for all three siblings, establishing the personal nature of His relationships. The Greek 'agapao' denotes divine, covenant love, not merely emotional affection. This love makes His delay (v. 6) more mysterious, teaching that divine love operates according to perfect wisdom, not human expectations. Christ's love does not guarantee immediate relief but ultimate good.