Definition: Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:18: “Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off.” Here's a simple explanation: What it means: This verse tells us that Bethany, a woman who lived in the region of Judea (which is now part of Israel), was traveling towards Jerusalem. “Furlong” is a unit of distance used for measuring land. “Fifteen furlongs” means about 16 miles – which is a significant distance! What it's telling us about Bethany: She’s near Jerusalem: This establishes that she’s in the area where Jerusalem is located. About fifteen furlongs off: This gives us a specific, measurable distance – enough for her to travel about 16 miles. Why it’s significant (and what it might suggest): This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Jesus' crucifixion. Here's the key idea: The journey represents time: “Nigh unto Jerusalem” suggests she was traveling for a period, possibly days or weeks. The distance represents preparation: The 16 furlongs are a significant amount of travel – it’s a long and demanding journey. It signifies that Jesus was preparing for his coming. Important Note: It's important to remember this is a symbolic verse. It wasn’t meant to be taken literally about a physical journey. It foreshadowed the immense suffering and sacrifice that Jesus would make on our behalf. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further, or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: More about the historical context of this passage? How this verse relates to the story of Jesus’ death?