Topical Encyclopedia Bethesda, a term meaning "house of mercy" or "house of grace," refers to a pool in Jerusalem mentioned in the New Testament. This site holds significant importance due to its association with one of Jesus Christ's miraculous healings, as recorded in the Gospel of John.Biblical Account: The Pool of Bethesda is prominently featured in John 5:1-15. According to the narrative, Jesus visits Jerusalem during a Jewish feast and encounters a multitude of disabled individuals lying by the pool, which is located near the Sheep Gate. The pool is described as having five covered colonnades. The text notes that these individuals were waiting for the moving of the waters, as it was believed that an angel would occasionally stir the water, and the first person to enter the pool after this stirring would be healed of their ailments. In John 5:5-9 , the account focuses on a man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. Jesus, seeing him lying there and knowing his long-term condition, asks, "Do you want to get well?" The man replies, expressing his inability to reach the pool in time due to his infirmity. Jesus then commands him, "Get up, pick up your mat, and walk." Immediately, the man is healed, picks up his mat, and walks, signifying the miraculous power of Jesus' word. Historical and Archaeological Context: The Pool of Bethesda is believed to have been located in the northeastern part of the Old City of Jerusalem. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a site that aligns with the biblical description, featuring a series of pools and structures that suggest a place of healing and ritual purification. The presence of five porticoes, as mentioned in the Gospel, has been corroborated by these findings, lending historical credibility to the biblical account. Theological Significance: The healing at Bethesda underscores several key theological themes. Firstly, it highlights Jesus' compassion and divine authority over physical ailments, demonstrating His power to heal and restore. Secondly, the event serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and obedience to Christ's command. The man's healing, despite his initial lack of understanding, illustrates the grace and mercy extended by Jesus to those in need. Furthermore, the narrative emphasizes the contrast between the old covenant rituals, symbolized by the pool and its associated beliefs, and the new covenant brought by Jesus, who offers direct and immediate healing. This transition from ritualistic practices to a personal relationship with Christ is a central theme in the New Testament. Controversy and Interpretation: The account of the Pool of Bethesda has been subject to various interpretations and debates, particularly concerning the authenticity of the angelic stirring of the waters. Some manuscripts include this detail, while others omit it, leading to discussions about its textual reliability. Nevertheless, the core message of Jesus' miraculous healing remains undisputed within the Christian tradition. In summary, the Pool of Bethesda serves as a powerful symbol of Jesus' healing ministry and the new life offered through Him. It stands as a testament to His compassion and the fulfillment of messianic prophecies, inviting believers to seek spiritual and physical restoration through faith in Christ. Nave's Topical Index John 5:24Truly, truly, I say to you, He that hears my word, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death to life. Nave's Topical Index Greek 964. Bethesda -- Bethesda, a pool in Jer. ... 963, 964. Bethesda. 965 . Bethesda, a pool in Jer. ... Word Origin probably of Aramaic origin Definition Bethesda, a pool in Jer. NASB Word Usage Bethesda (1). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/964.htm - 6k Library The Pool of Bethesda. The Pool of Bethesda. Jn 5:2-4 The Pool of Bethesda. Jn 5:2-4 CM Bulfinch. The Pool of Bethesda. The Miracle at the Pool of Bethesda. --The Words of Christ in The Jesus at Bethesda. At the Unknown' Feast in Jerusalem, and by the Pool of Bethesda. Bethesda and the Sanhedrin Sabbath Cure at Bethesda. LMEH Chapin. For a Charitable Occasion. Resources Questions about John | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He told people, “Your faith has made you well”? | GotQuestions.org What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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