Lazarus of Bethany

Biblical figure described as being raised from the dead by Jesus

Lazarus of Bethany is a biblical figure described in the New Testament of the Bible. He is the subject of a prominent miracle attributed to Jesus in the Gospel of John, in which Jesus restores him to life four days after his death. This event is known as the Raising of Lazarus.

Biblical Account

The story of Lazarus is found in John 11:1-44. According to the narrative, Lazarus and his sisters, Mary and Martha, were close friends of Jesus. When Lazarus fell ill, his sisters sent a message to Jesus, but Jesus delayed his visit. By the time Jesus arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had been dead and buried for four days. Jesus went to the tomb, prayed, and then called Lazarus to come out. Lazarus emerged from the tomb, still wrapped in his burial cloths, alive.

Significance

The raising of Lazarus is one of the most significant miracles in the Gospel of John and is seen as a powerful demonstration of Jesus' power over death. It is also a prelude to Jesus' own resurrection, which is central to Christian belief. The event is celebrated in the Eastern Orthodox Church on Lazarus Saturday, the day before Palm Sunday.

Cultural Impact

The story of Lazarus has had a profound impact on Christian art, literature, and theology. It has been depicted in numerous works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows. The phrase "Lazarus syndrome" is used in modern medicine to describe the spontaneous return of circulation after failed attempts at resuscitation.

Lazarus in Other Traditions

In addition to the New Testament account, Lazarus is also mentioned in various Christian traditions. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, he is venerated as a saint and is believed to have become the first bishop of Kition (modern-day Larnaca, Cyprus). According to tradition, he lived for another 30 years after his resurrection and was buried in Larnaca, where a church was built in his honor.

See Also

• Raising of Lazarus
• Mary of Bethany
• Martha
• Bethany
• Jesus
• Gospel of John
• Resurrection

External Links

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