Topical Encyclopedia Beth-zatha, also known as Bethesda, is a location mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of John. It is described as a pool in Jerusalem, situated near the Sheep Gate, and is notable for its association with a miraculous healing event performed by Jesus Christ.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Beth-zatha is found in John 5:1-9 : "Some time later there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda, and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, He asked him, 'Do you want to get well?' 'Sir,' the invalid replied, 'I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.' Then Jesus said to him, 'Get up, pick up your mat, and walk.' Immediately the man was made well, and he picked up his mat and began to walk." Historical and Archaeological Context: Beth-zatha, or Bethesda, is believed to have been a pool used for ritual purification by the Jews, located in the northeastern part of the Old City of Jerusalem. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a site that matches the description given in the Gospel of John, with evidence of a pool and surrounding structures that could correspond to the five colonnades mentioned in the text. The name "Beth-zatha" is derived from Aramaic, meaning "House of Mercy" or "House of Grace," which is fitting given the healing that took place there. The pool was likely fed by a natural spring, and it was a place where many sought healing, believing that an angel would occasionally stir the waters, granting healing to the first person who entered thereafter. Theological Significance: The account of the healing at Beth-zatha highlights several key theological themes. First, it underscores the compassion and authority of Jesus Christ, who heals the man despite the latter's inability to reach the pool on his own. This act of healing is a demonstration of Jesus' divine power and His role as the Great Physician, who brings physical and spiritual restoration. Additionally, the narrative emphasizes the concept of grace. The man at the pool had been suffering for thirty-eight years, and his healing was not dependent on his own efforts or merit but was a gift from Jesus. This reflects the broader Christian doctrine of salvation by grace through faith, rather than by works. Cultural and Religious Impact: Beth-zatha has been a site of interest for Christian pilgrims throughout history, symbolizing hope and divine intervention. The account of the healing at the pool serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the transformative power of faith in Christ. It also challenges believers to trust in God's timing and provision, even in seemingly hopeless situations. In summary, Beth-zatha is a significant biblical location that illustrates the miraculous works of Jesus and the profound themes of grace, healing, and divine compassion. Its historical and theological implications continue to inspire and encourage believers in their faith journey. Greek 964. Bethesda -- Bethesda, a pool in Jer. ... Jerusalem -- Bethesda. see HEBREW bayith. see HEBREW checed. (bethzatha) -- 1 Occurrence. 963, 964. Bethesda. 965 . Strong's Numbers. //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/964.htm - 6k Library At the Unknown' Feast in Jerusalem, and by the Pool of Bethesda. Thesaurus Beth-zatha (1 Occurrence)Beth-zatha. Beth-zacharias, Beth-zatha. Beth-za'tha . Multi-Version Concordance Beth-zatha (1 Occurrence). John 5:2 ... /b/beth-zatha.htm - 6k Bethesda (1 Occurrence) Doorways (26 Occurrences) Public (99 Occurrences) Beth-zacharias Beth-za'tha (1 Occurrence) Sheep-market (1 Occurrence) Bath (13 Occurrences) Named (428 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible say anything about Russia in relation to the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Naphtali? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Bethel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Beth-zatha (1 Occurrence)John 5:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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