Bethany is a small town in the Bible where Jesus spent time with friends. It's located about two miles (3 km) east of Jerusalem. The name of the town means “house of dates” and it was known for its gardens of olive trees and palm trees.
Bethany is where the Bible says Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, which is recorded in John 11:1-44. This event showed that Jesus had the power to conquer death and caused many people to believe in him.
Friends Mary and Martha
Jesus also stayed in Bethany at the home of two sisters named Martha and Mary. In Luke 10:38-42, Martha is shown to be busy with preparations while Mary sat listening to Jesus. Jesus praised Mary for choosing to spend time with him.
Bethany was also the place where Jesus ascended into heaven. In Luke 24:50-53, Jesus led his disciples as far as Bethany. Then he raised his hands and blessed them. And as he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.
Restful town for Jesus
The Casual English Bible, a version of the Bible that is easy to read, describes Bethany as a peaceful and quiet town. It's a place where Jesus could rest and spend time with his friends.
Critics in Bethany
However, not everyone in Bethany believed in Jesus. In Matthew 26:6-13, a woman poured expensive perfume on Jesus’s feet while he was at Simon the Leper's house. But some of the disciples criticized her for wasting the perfume which could have been sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus defended the woman and said that she had done a beautiful thing for him.
Bethany is a significant town in the Bible because it was a place where Jesus performed miracles, spent time with his friends, and ascended into heaven. It's a reminder that even in small and quiet places, amazing things can happen.
