John 11:1

A certain man. [The Raising of Lazarus, John 11:1-45. See Closing Peraean Ministry; The Ministry of Our Lord; on miracles pp. 208-213.] For the chronology of this event see on Matt. 19:1; Luke 17:1, 11.

Lazarus. This name is derived from the Heb. ’EVazar, signifying probably “whom God helps,” “whose help is God,” or “God helps.” Lazarus is not mentioned in the Synoptic Gospels, though Luke refers to the visit of Jesus to the home of Mary and Martha (ch. 10:38-42). Luke, however, takes no note of the fact that these sisters had a brother who was greatly beloved by Jesus. The beggar in the parable of Luke 16:19-31 was named Lazarus. Some see a possible connection between the present incident and the choice of the name for the beggar (see on Luke 16:20).

Bethany. A village about 15 furlongs (about 1.7 mi., or 2.7 km.) from Jerusalem (see v. 18), on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. The place is generally identified with the modern el-‘Azariyeh, meaning “Lazarus’ [village].”

Mary. For the identification of Mary see Additional Note on Luke 7.

Martha. For a character sketch of Martha see on Luke 10:41.