Definition: And the Jewsâ passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from John 11:55. It’s a little mysterious, but it speaks about a significant event in early Christian history. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a group of people leaving the country to focus on a religious cleansing – essentially, they were trying to get rid of something or someone that was bothering them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “John 11:55” : This is the specific part we're focusing on. “And the Jewsâ passover was nigh at hand…” : This refers to Passover, a very important Jewish holiday that commemorates the liberation of Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It was happening soon. “…and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover…” : Many Jewish people – likely a large group – decided to leave their homes and travel to Jerusalem. “to purify themselves.” : This is the key part. They were leaving, not necessarily for a religious reason, but because they felt they needed to get rid of something that was causing them problems or tension. It suggests a desire for renewal, cleansing, and perhaps a break from a difficult situation. Why is this important? This story is significant in early Christianity because it's often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ arrival and the coming of the Kingdom of God. It shows that people were seeking a spiritual purification before accepting Jesus as their Messiah. In short, it tells us about a group of Jewish people leaving to cleanse themselves before the Passover festival – a symbolic act that foreshadowed the coming of Jesus. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage?