Bethany
Bethany was a small village located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives about two miles east of Jerusalem, serving as the home of Mary, Martha, and their brother Lazarus. It was the site of Jesus' miracle in which he raised Lazarus from the dead after four days in the tomb, an event recorded in John 11 that prompted many witnesses to believe in him. This demonstration of power over death also intensified opposition from the religious authorities, accelerating plans that led to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. The village further appears in Scripture as a frequent place of lodging for Jesus and the location of Mary's anointing of his feet prior to his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
Details
- Region
- Canaan
- Modern Location
- Al-Eizariya, Palestinian Territories (West Bank)
Key Passages
Raising of Lazarus
John 11:1-44
Jesus raises His friend from four days dead at Bethany - His greatest miracle before His own resurrection, demonstrating absolute authority over death.
1ow a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.
Mary Anoints Jesus
John 12:1-8
Mary pours expensive perfume on Jesus at Bethany - an act of extravagant worship that Jesus interprets as preparation for His burial.
1hen Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.
Did You Know?
Bethany was only 2 miles from Jerusalem. A short walk over the Mount of Olives.
Jesus raised Lazarus here after he had been dead four days.
The ascension of Jesus took place near Bethany according to Luke 24:50.