This verse, John 11:19, provides crucial context to the story of Lazarus' resurrection. Let's break down what it means:
"Many of the Jews..." This indicates that a significant number of Jewish people, likely from the surrounding area of Bethany (where Martha and Mary lived), had come to visit.
"...had joined the women..." "The women" refers specifically to Martha and Mary, the sisters of Lazarus. The verb "joined" tells us that people had gathered with them, forming a group.
"...around Martha and Mary..." They were physically present with Martha and Mary, offering their support and condolences in person.
"...to console them concerning their brother." This is the reason for their presence. They were there to offer comfort and sympathy to Martha and Mary because their brother, Lazarus, had died. The word "console" means to alleviate grief, sorrow, or disappointment.
In summary, the verse means:
A large number of Jewish people had gathered at Martha and Mary's home to express their sympathy and provide comfort to the sisters in their grief over the death of their brother, Lazarus.
Significance in the wider context of the story:
Demonstrates the social importance of community: In Jewish culture (and many cultures), it was (and often still is) considered a social and religious obligation to mourn with those who mourn. This verse highlights that aspect.
Sets the stage for Jesus' arrival: The presence of so many people creates a wider audience for the miracle that Jesus is about to perform. It ensures that more witnesses will see Lazarus' resurrection, lending greater weight to the event.
Emphasizes the depth of grief: The fact that so many people felt the need to come and console the sisters underscores the significant loss that Lazarus' death represented. It highlights the emotional weight of the situation.
Creates tension and conflict: As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that some of these "Jews" are skeptical or even hostile towards Jesus. Their presence sets up the conflict that will eventually lead to Jesus' crucifixion.
This verse, John 11:19, provides crucial context to the story of Lazarus' resurrection. Let's break down what it means:
"Many of the Jews..." This indicates that a significant number of Jewish people, likely from the surrounding area of Bethany (where Martha and Mary lived), had come to visit.
"...had joined the women..." "The women" refers specifically to Martha and Mary, the sisters of Lazarus. The verb "joined" tells us that people had gathered with them, forming a group.
"...around Martha and Mary..." They were physically present with Martha and Mary, offering their support and condolences in person.
"...to console them concerning their brother." This is the reason for their presence. They were there to offer comfort and sympathy to Martha and Mary because their brother, Lazarus, had died. The word "console" means to alleviate grief, sorrow, or disappointment.
In summary, the verse means:
A large number of Jewish people had gathered at Martha and Mary's home to express their sympathy and provide comfort to the sisters in their grief over the death of their brother, Lazarus.
Significance in the wider context of the story:
Demonstrates the social importance of community: In Jewish culture (and many cultures), it was (and often still is) considered a social and religious obligation to mourn with those who mourn. This verse highlights that aspect.
Sets the stage for Jesus' arrival: The presence of so many people creates a wider audience for the miracle that Jesus is about to perform. It ensures that more witnesses will see Lazarus' resurrection, lending greater weight to the event.
Emphasizes the depth of grief: The fact that so many people felt the need to come and console the sisters underscores the significant loss that Lazarus' death represented. It highlights the emotional weight of the situation.
Creates tension and conflict: As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that some of these "Jews" are skeptical or even hostile towards Jesus. Their presence sets up the conflict that will eventually lead to Jesus' crucifixion.
