New Testament
John 11:31
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The Jews who were with her in the house comforting her saw Mary get up quickly and go out. They followed her, assuming she was going to the tomb to weep there.
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The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grave to weep there.
What John 11:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a moment of deep sorrow and misunderstanding among the people who were comforting Mary after the death of her brother Lazarus. When they notice Mary getting up quickly and leaving the house, they assume she is going to the tomb to mourn. This reflects the customs of the time, where mourning often took place at the gravesite. The Jews' assumption highlights their concern for Mary and their desire to support her in her grief. However, they do not realize that Mary is actually going to meet Jesus, who has the power to change her situation. This moment sets the stage for the miraculous events that follow, emphasizing the themes of grief, misunderstanding, and the hope that Jesus brings even in the darkest times.
How to apply John 11:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to be sensitive to the emotions of those who are grieving. It reminds us that our assumptions about others' actions may not always be correct. Instead of jumping to conclusions, we should seek to understand and support those in need, just as the Jews tried to comfort Mary.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Raising Lazarus (John 11:1–44)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 11:31 mean?
John 11:31 describes the reaction of the Jews who were comforting Mary after Lazarus's death. They mistakenly assume she is going to the tomb to mourn, highlighting their concern for her but also their misunderstanding of her true intentions.
What is the significance of Mary rising quickly in John 11:31?
Mary's quick departure signifies her urgency and deep emotional state. It reflects the customs of mourning during that time, where going to the tomb was a common practice for expressing grief.
What does this verse reveal about the people comforting Mary?
The verse shows that the people comforting Mary are well-meaning but lack understanding of her actions. Their assumption that she is going to weep at the tomb illustrates their desire to support her, even if they misinterpret her intentions.
How does John 11:31 relate to the themes of grief and support?
John 11:31 emphasizes the themes of grief and support by showing how friends and family gather to comfort Mary. Their presence reflects the importance of community during times of sorrow, even when their understanding may be limited.
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