New Testament
John 11:44
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see the dramatic moment when Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, comes back to life after Jesus calls him out of the tomb.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him and let him go."
And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the dramatic moment when Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, comes back to life after Jesus calls him out of the tomb. He emerges still wrapped in burial cloths, which signifies his previous state of death. Jesus instructs those present to unbind Lazarus, symbolizing the removal of the constraints of death and the beginning of a new life. This act not only demonstrates Jesus' power over death but also emphasizes the importance of community in the process of healing and restoration. The command to 'unbind him' suggests that while Jesus can bring life, the support of others is necessary to help someone fully embrace their new life. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of hope and the transformative power of faith in Jesus, who can bring life from death and freedom from bondage. Explore related resurrection.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 11:44 to your life
This verse encourages us to support those who are struggling or recovering from difficult situations. Just as Lazarus needed help to be unbound, we should be ready to assist others in their journey towards healing and new beginnings, fostering a spirit of compassion and community.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 11:44 teach about resurrection?
John 11:44 illustrates the power of Jesus over death through the resurrection of Lazarus. It shows that Jesus can bring life back to those who are dead, symbolizing hope for eternal life and the belief that death is not the end. This event serves as a precursor to Jesus' own resurrection, reinforcing the Christian faith in life after death.
Why did Jesus tell others to unbind Lazarus?
Jesus instructed those present to unbind Lazarus to emphasize the role of community in healing and restoration. While Jesus has the power to give life, the act of unbinding signifies the importance of support from others in helping someone transition into a new life. It highlights that recovery often requires assistance from friends and family.
What is the significance of Lazarus being wrapped in burial cloths?
Lazarus being wrapped in burial cloths signifies his previous state of death and the reality of his resurrection. It symbolizes the constraints of death and the transformation that occurs when Jesus intervenes. The burial cloths represent the old life that must be shed to embrace the new life that Jesus offers.
How can we apply John 11:44 in our lives today?
John 11:44 encourages us to actively support those who are struggling or recovering from difficult situations. Just as Lazarus needed help to be unbound, we are called to assist others in their journeys towards healing and new beginnings. This verse inspires compassion, community involvement, and the importance of being there for one another.

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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