Martha

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: From Aramaic mартā’ (“lady” or “mistress”), a title-like personal name.
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period (Roman Imperial Context).
• Main References: Luke 10:38–42; John 11; John 12:1–8.
• Key Connections: Sister of Mary and Lazarus; associated with Bethany near Jerusalem; linked to Jesus’ public ministry.

Who was Martha?

Martha was a woman of Bethany who welcomed Jesus into her home and is portrayed as active in hospitality.
She appears in Gospel narratives as a recognizable disciple within Jesus’ circle of followers.
John presents her as speaking directly with Jesus during the death of her brother Lazarus.
Her confession about Jesus’ identity is recorded in the context of grief and hope.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: She hosted Jesus in her house and spoke with him about divided attention between service and listening (Luke 10:38–42).
• Event 2: She met Jesus before Lazarus was raised and confessed, “You are the Messiah, the Son of God” (John 11:20–27).
• Event 3: She served at a meal honoring Jesus in Bethany shortly before the Passover week (John 12:1–2).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Martha’s story depicts discipleship that holds together practical service and explicit trust in Jesus amid personal loss.

Key Verse

"Yes, Lord," she replied, "I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world." — John 11:27, NIV