Lazarus

Who is Lazarus? Lazarus is the New Testament figure from Bethany, known as the brother of Martha and Mary and remembered especially in John's Gospel when Jesus raises him from the dead.

Lazarus is a New Testament figure seen most clearly in the Gospel of John and associated with Bethany. He is introduced as the brother of Martha and Mary, and his sickness, death, and later being raised by Jesus form the center of the narrative. This event matters not only for Lazarus himself but also for themes of Jesus' identity, God's glory, and hope in the face of death. Lazarus appears again afterward, and his continued presence adds to the growing reactions around Jesus. To explore Lazarus more closely, see the chapters and FAQs below.

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Why is Lazarus important in the Bible?

Lazarus is tied to one of the most striking events in Jesus' ministry. His being raised makes themes of grief and hope visible in the narrative and intensifies discussion about Jesus' authority.

What is Lazarus's relationship to Martha and Mary?

Lazarus is introduced as the brother of Martha and Mary, and the family is associated together with Bethany. That family setting gives the story much of its emotional weight and highlights their close relationship with Jesus.