New Testament
John 2:1
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On the third day, a wedding took place in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there.
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And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:
What John 2:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse introduces a significant event in the life of Jesus, marking the beginning of His public ministry. The mention of a wedding in Cana of Galilee sets the stage for a miracle that will reveal Jesus' divine nature. Weddings in Jewish culture are joyous occasions, symbolizing love and commitment. The presence of Jesus' mother indicates her close relationship with Him and her role in the events that follow. This moment is not just about a social gathering; it foreshadows the transformative power of Jesus, as He will soon perform His first miracle by turning water into wine. This act will not only demonstrate His authority over nature but also signify the joy and abundance that He brings into the lives of those who believe in Him. The setting in Cana, a small town, emphasizes that Jesus' ministry begins in humble circumstances, highlighting that His message is for everyone, regardless of status or location.
How to apply John 2:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the significance of everyday events in our lives. Just as Jesus attended a wedding, He is present in our celebrations and challenges. We can invite Him into our lives, trusting that He can bring joy and transformation to our situations.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Water into Wine at Cana (John 2:1–11)
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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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Key themes
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 2:1 mean?
John 2:1 introduces the wedding at Cana, where Jesus' mother is present. This event marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and sets the stage for His first miracle, highlighting themes of joy and transformation.
What is the significance of the wedding in John 2:1?
The wedding in John 2:1 symbolizes joy and commitment, reflecting the importance of relationships in Jewish culture. It also foreshadows Jesus' miraculous ability to transform situations, as He will soon turn water into wine.
Who is mentioned in John 2:1?
In John 2:1, the mother of Jesus is specifically mentioned, indicating her close relationship with Him and her involvement in the events that follow at the wedding.
What does the phrase 'third day' in John 2:1 refer to?
The 'third day' in John 2:1 refers to the timeline of events leading up to the wedding, suggesting a significant moment in Jesus' ministry as it follows His calling of the first disciples.
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