New Testament
John 11:35
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In John 11:35, the phrase "Jesus wept" is the shortest verse in the Bible, yet it carries profound meaning.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Jesus wept.
Jesus wept.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In John 11:35, the phrase "Jesus wept" is the shortest verse in the Bible, yet it carries profound meaning. This moment occurs when Jesus arrives at the tomb of Lazarus, His friend who has died. Despite knowing He would soon raise Lazarus from the dead, Jesus is deeply moved by the sorrow of those around Him. His tears reflect His compassion and empathy for human suffering. This verse highlights the humanity of Jesus, showing that He experiences grief and pain just like us. It also emphasizes the importance of mourning and the emotional connections we share with others. Jesus' tears remind us that it is okay to express our emotions and that God cares about our pain. This moment serves as a powerful reminder that even in times of sorrow, we are not alone; God is with us in our grief, sharing in our struggles and offering comfort.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 11:35 to your life
When faced with loss or sadness, remember that it is okay to grieve. Jesus wept, showing us that expressing our emotions is a natural part of being human. Allow yourself to feel and share your pain with others, knowing that God understands and cares.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 11:35 mean?
John 11:35, which simply states 'Jesus wept,' signifies Jesus' deep compassion and empathy for those mourning the death of Lazarus. Despite knowing He would raise Lazarus, He was moved by the grief of others, highlighting His humanity.
What is the significance of Jesus weeping in John 11:35?
The significance of Jesus weeping in John 11:35 lies in His demonstration of genuine human emotion. It shows that Jesus understands our pain and sorrow, reminding us that it is natural to grieve.
Why did Jesus cry in John 11:35?
Jesus cried in John 11:35 because He was deeply affected by the sorrow of those around Him mourning Lazarus. His tears reflect His compassion and connection to human suffering.
What does the phrase 'Jesus wept' teach us?
The phrase 'Jesus wept' teaches us that expressing emotions is a natural part of being human. It encourages us to acknowledge our grief and reminds us that God cares about our struggles.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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