Now Bethany was near unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:
All Commentaries on John 11:18 Go To John 11
Cornelius a Lapide
AD 1637
Now Bethany was nigh, &c. A stadium is the eighth part of an Italian mile, and contains therefore125 paces. John adds this to signify that many had come to Bethany from Jerusalem, inasmuch as it was so near, that they might comfort Martha and Mary, who were sorrowing for the death of Lazarus.
And many of the Jews came, &c. Many, especially relations, connections, friends; for these sisters were rich, noble, honoured, such as are accustomed to have many, either friends or dependent followers. Besides, the grief for a brother"s death is very keen, and many, even strangers, and not known, are accustomed to assemble for the purpose of comforting persons under such a loss. For the grief for death is common to all; and in it the consolation of all is common also.
