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These things were done in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
Verse Takeaways
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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14
18th Century
Presbyterian
In Bethabara—Almost all the ancient manuscripts and versions, instead of “Bethabara” here, have “Bethany,” and this is doubtless the true …
In Bethany beyond Jordan (εν Βηθανια περαν του Ιορδανου). Undoubtedly the correct text, not "in Bethabara" as Origen suggested ins…
19th Century
Anglican
Bethabara beyond Jordan should be, Bethany beyond Jordan. Origen found “Bethany” in “almost all the copies,” but not bein…
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Baptist
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.…
“Bethany on the other side of Jordan” was so named to distinguish it from the Bethany near Jerusalem (). Its exact site is unknown.
16th Century
Protestant
These things were done in Bethabara. The place is mentioned not only to authenticate the narrative but also to inform us that this answer …
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17th Century
Reformed Baptist
These things were done in Bethabara That is, this testimony was borne by John; and this discourse passed between him…
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…
13th Century
Catholic
Above, we saw John bear witness to Christ when he was questioned about matters concerning himself; here, he is questioned about matters concerning …
