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1
A Tale of Two Bethanys
Scholars explain that the author specifies "Bethany beyond the Jordan" to distinguish it from the more famous Bethany near Jerusalem. While some older translations say "Bethabara," most commentators affirm that the best and oldest manuscripts read "Bethany." This geographical detail grounds John's testimony in a real, specific place, adding to the account's credibility as an eyewitness report.
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John
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Commentaries
13
Albert Barnes
On John 1:28
18th Century
Theologian
In Bethabara—Almost all the ancient manuscripts and versions, instead of “Bethabara” here, have “Bethany,” and this is doubtless the true …
AT Robertson
On John 1:28
In Bethany beyond Jordan (εν Βηθανια περαν του Ιορδανου). Undoubtedly the correct text, not "in Bethabara" as Origen suggested ins…
Charles Ellicott
On John 1:28
19th Century
Bishop
Bethabara beyond Jordan should be, Bethany beyond Jordan. Origen found “Bethany” in “almost all the copies,” but not bein…
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Charles Spurgeon
On John 1:23–37
19th Century
Preacher
Of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.…
Expositor's Bible Commentary
On John 1:28
“Bethany on the other side of Jordan” was so named to distinguish it from the Bethany near Jerusalem (). Its exact site is unknown.
John Calvin
On John 1:28
16th Century
Theologian
These things were done in Bethabara. The place is mentioned not only to authenticate the narrative but also to inform us that this answer …
John Gill
On John 1:28
17th Century
Pastor
These things were done in Bethabara
That is, this testimony was borne by John; and this discourse passed between him…
Matthew Henry
On John 1:19–28
17th Century
Minister
John denies being the Christ, who was then expected and waited for. He came in the spirit and power of Elias, but he was not the person of Elias. J…