Definition: Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been [dead] four days.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 11:39 together. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage in the Bible! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus is visiting Martha, who is grieving over her deceased brother. Martha is very distressed because she senses something isn’t right – that her brother has been dead for four days. What Jesus Says: Jesus responds to Martha’s worry with a direct question: “Take ye away the stone.” The Key Meaning - It's About a Stone! This is where it gets interesting. Jesus isn't saying he's going to magically remove the stone himself. He’s pointing out that the stone is causing the smell. “He hath been dead four days” This means that his brother has been deceased for four days. What’s Happening? The stone is a symbol of something – perhaps a barrier, a problem, or a hindrance – that is preventing the body from resting peacefully. It's a physical obstruction to the natural process of death and rest. Why is this significant? Jesus' Role: This verse highlights Jesus’ power over death itself. He isn't just comforting Martha; he's actively intervening to clear the way for his brother’s final rest. The Importance of God’s Care: It shows that God cares about our loved ones and wants to ensure they find peace after they die. In short, Jesus is saying that the stone is a physical obstacle preventing the body from returning to its rest, and he is taking action to remove it. --- Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what “stone” might represent in a broader context? Discuss why this verse is considered important in the Bible?