Book of John - Chapter 11 - Verse 39

When Jesus instructed Martha to have the stone rolled away from the tomb of her deceased brother, she hesitated, explaining that her brother had been dead for four days and that his body would by then emit a foul odor. This reaction from Martha reveals a common cultural belief during that time that after three days, decay would set in, and the body would begin to decompose, leading to an unpleasant smell. By specifically mentioning the duration of her brother's death and the potential odor, Martha emphasizes the finality and physical reality of death, which was a stark reminder of the limitations of human understanding and power. Jesus' response to Martha's concern serves to highlight his own authority over death and his ability to perform a miraculous resurrection, demonstrating his power as the Son of God and offering hope in the face of death and decay.