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Book of John - Chapter 11 - Verse 55

11:55
And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.

Meaning

During the time of Jesus, the Jewish people were commanded to observe the Passover, a significant religious festival commemorating their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. According to the Gospel of John, it was customary for Jews to travel to Jerusalem for the Passover to purify themselves before the festival. The act of purification involved cleansing oneself spiritually and ritually before participating in the sacred events of the Passover. Jewish law required individuals to undergo this purification process in order to ensure they were in a state of holiness and readiness to observe the Passover. This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual preparation and adherence to religious customs among the Jewish community prior to celebrating the Passover in Jerusalem. It also highlights the religious devotion and commitment of many Jews who traveled from different regions to participate in this holy festival.

Theological Overview

One important theological interpretation of this verse is the emphasis on purification before the Passover. The Jewish people understood the importance of cleansing themselves physically and spiritually before participating in this significant religious festival. This act of purification symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing and renewal in preparation for approaching God in worship. The journey to Jerusalem to purify themselves before the Passover also highlights the commitment and dedication of the people to follow the religious traditions and honor God's commandments. Additionally, this verse demonstrates the significance of the Passover as a time of remembrance, reflection, and spiritual preparation for the Jewish people. Through word studies, we can see that the act of purification before the Passover is a reminder of God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence and purity of heart.

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