Bethany

Bethany was a village near Jerusalem, known as the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, where Jesus often visited and performed miracles. (Multiple references, see article for details)

Bethany was a village located about two miles east of Jerusalem, on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. It is mentioned frequently in the Gospels, particularly in connection with Jesus' ministry and the family of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, who were close friends of Jesus.

Jesus often visited Bethany and stayed with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (Luke 10:38-42; Jhn.12.1-3). It was in Bethany that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, performing one of His most significant miracles (Jhn.11.1-44). This event took place shortly before Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Jhn.12.1, 9-11).

Bethany was also the place where Jesus was anointed by Mary, who poured expensive perfume on His feet and wiped them with her hair (Matthew 26:6-13; Mrk.14.3-9; Jhn.12.1-8). This act of devotion took place in the house of Simon the leper, and it was criticized by Judas Iscariot as a waste of money.

In the Synoptic Gospels, Bethany is mentioned in connection with Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1, 17; Mrk.11.1, 11-12; Luke 19:29). Jesus sent two of His disciples to Bethany to find a colt for Him to ride into Jerusalem, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9.

After His resurrection, Jesus led His disciples out as far as Bethany before ascending into heaven (Luke 24:50-51). The village held a special place in Jesus' ministry, serving as a place of rest, friendship, and significant events.

A village on the south-eastern slope of the Mount of Olives (Mark 11:1), about 2 miles east of Jerusalem, on the road to Jericho. It derived its name from the number of palm-trees which grew there. It was the residence of Lazarus and his sisters. It is frequently mentioned in connection with memorable incidents in the life of our Lord (Matt. 21:17; 26:6; Mark 11:11, 12; 14:3; Luke 24:50; John 11:1; 12:1). It is now known by the name of el-Azariyeh, i.e., “place of Lazarus,” or simply Lazariyeh. Seen from a distance, the village has been described as “remarkably beautiful, the perfection of retirement and repose, of seclusion and lovely peace.” Now a mean village, containing about twenty families.