Topical Encyclopedia The event known as the Marriage at Cana is a significant moment in the New Testament, recorded exclusively in the Gospel of John. This event marks the first public miracle performed by Jesus Christ, showcasing His divine authority and foreshadowing His future ministry. The account is found in John 2:1-11.Biblical Account The narrative begins with Jesus, His mother Mary, and His disciples attending a wedding in Cana of Galilee. The text states, "On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and His disciples had also been invited to the wedding" (John 2:1-2). The presence of Jesus and His disciples at this social event underscores the importance of community and celebration in Jewish culture. During the festivities, a problem arises: the wine supply runs out. Mary, aware of the situation, approaches Jesus and informs Him, "They have no more wine" (John 2:3). Jesus responds, "Woman, why does this concern us? My hour has not yet come" (John 2:4). Despite this initial response, Mary instructs the servants, "Do whatever He tells you" (John 2:5), demonstrating her faith in Jesus' ability to address the issue. Jesus then instructs the servants to fill six stone water jars, used for ceremonial washing, with water. After they fill the jars to the brim, He tells them, "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet" (John 2:8). When the master of the banquet tastes the water that has been turned into wine, he is astonished by its quality, remarking to the bridegroom, "Everyone serves the fine wine first, and then the cheap wine after the guests are drunk. But you have saved the fine wine until now" (John 2:10). Theological Significance The miracle at Cana is rich with theological implications. It is the first of the "signs" in John's Gospel, which are intended to reveal Jesus' glory and lead His disciples to believe in Him. John 2:11 states, "This, the first of His signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and He manifested His glory, and His disciples believed in Him" . This miracle signifies the inauguration of Jesus' public ministry and His divine authority over creation. The transformation of water into wine also holds symbolic meaning. Wine, in biblical literature, often represents joy and abundance. By providing an abundance of superior wine, Jesus not only meets a physical need but also symbolizes the new covenant and the joy and fulfillment found in Him. The use of ceremonial jars for this miracle further emphasizes the transition from the old covenant, represented by Jewish purification rituals, to the new covenant of grace and truth through Jesus Christ. Cultural Context Weddings in first-century Jewish culture were significant social events, often lasting several days. The running out of wine would have been a social embarrassment for the host family, highlighting the importance of Jesus' intervention. His presence at the wedding also affirms the sanctity of marriage and the value of communal celebrations. Location Cana of Galilee is identified as the setting for this miracle. While the exact location of Cana is debated among scholars, it is traditionally associated with the modern village of Kafr Kanna, located in northern Israel. This geographical setting situates the miracle within the broader context of Jesus' Galilean ministry. In summary, the Marriage at Cana is a foundational event in the Gospel of John, illustrating Jesus' divine power, the inauguration of His public ministry, and the transformative nature of His work. The miracle serves as a testament to His glory and a call to faith for His followers. Nave's Topical Index John 2:1-11And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: Nave's Topical Index Library The Marriage of Cana The First Sign --The Marriage in Cana. The Marriage Feast in Cana of Galilee - the Miracle that is a Sign ... Jesus Works his First Miracle at Cana in Galilee. The First Miracle in Cana --The Water Made Wine At the Marriage Feast More and More Whether Christ Began to Work Miracles when He Changed Water into ... Lord, who at Cana's Wedding Feast Jesus the Joy-Bringer Resources How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened to Mary? | GotQuestions.org What were the miracles of Jesus? What miracles did Jesus perform? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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