New Testament
John 11:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Jesus, groaning again within himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it.
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Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.
What John 11:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus approaching the tomb of Lazarus, who has died. His groaning indicates deep emotional turmoil and compassion for the pain of death and loss. The tomb is described as a cave with a stone blocking the entrance, which symbolizes the finality of death. This moment sets the stage for the miraculous event that follows, where Jesus will demonstrate His power over death by raising Lazarus. The imagery of the cave and stone highlights the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the hopelessness that surrounds death. Jesus' emotional response shows His humanity and connection to those who mourn, reminding us that He understands our grief. This moment is pivotal in the narrative, as it leads to a profound revelation of Jesus' identity as the resurrection and the life, showcasing His authority over life and death.
How to apply John 11:38 to your life
When faced with grief or loss, remember that Jesus empathizes with our pain. His groaning reflects His understanding of our struggles. We can find comfort in knowing that He has power over death and can bring hope even in the darkest situations. Trust in His ability to transform despair into life.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Raising Lazarus (John 11:1–44)
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Jesus
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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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 11:38 mean?
John 11:38 shows Jesus approaching Lazarus' tomb, expressing deep emotional pain through His groaning. This highlights His compassion for those grieving and sets the stage for the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead.
What is the significance of the stone in John 11:38?
The stone blocking the tomb symbolizes the finality of death and the barriers that seem insurmountable in life. It emphasizes the hopelessness surrounding death, which Jesus is about to confront.
Why did Jesus groan in John 11:38?
Jesus groaned in John 11:38 as a reflection of His deep emotional turmoil and compassion for the suffering caused by death. This moment illustrates His humanity and connection to those who mourn.
What does the cave represent in John 11:38?
The cave in John 11:38 represents a place of death and finality. It serves as a powerful backdrop for the miracle that follows, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the hope Jesus brings.
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