The Place of True Humility

Two Bethanies

Bethany is actually the name of two different places in the Gospels. The first is “Bethany beyond the Jordan,” a river crossing where Jesus was baptized by John at the beginning of his public ministry (John 1:28). The second is a village atop the Mount of Olives. This is the hometown of Mary and Martha and was used by Jesus as his headquarters in Jerusalem during the last week of his life (Mark 11:1). 

The House of Affliction

Bethany comes from two Hebrew words: Beit-Anya (בית עניה), meaning “the house of the poor.” This is a fitting name for the points marking the beginning and end of Jesus’ career as a preacher. First, Jesus lowered himself before John, showing humility before becoming exalted. At the end, after he was known throughout the country, Jesus again lowered himself, choosing to live in modest conditions, rather than a palace fit for the Messiah. 

Seek Out the Hebrew Roots

It is perhaps unsurprising that Jesus – who was known to associate with lepers and outcasts – sought a life of utmost simplicity in these two “houses of affliction.” What is surprising is that there is evidence of this concealed in the Hebrew name Beit-Anya. Your ability to see these deep connections is enhanced by Hebrew. Enroll in our live online Biblical Hebrew course and let the Hebrew roots shed light on the Scripture.