(Hebrew: house of mercy).
(1) Ancient village of Palestine, 1.75 miles east of Jerusalem, at the base of the Mount of Olives. It was prominent as the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, and the scene of the raising of Lazarus to life (John 11). From Bethany Our Lord sent two of His disciples to find the ass that was to bear Him on His triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Luke 19) and near this village. He ascended into heaven (Luke 24).
(2) Bethany beyond the Jordan, mentioned as the place of Our Lord's baptism (John 1), is of doubtful location.