The Widow of Nain

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek text does not name her; described as “a widow” (χήρα), marking her social vulnerability.
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period
• Main References: Luke 7:11–17
• Key Connections: Her only son; Jesus; the funeral crowd in Nain

Who was The Widow of Nain?

The Widow of Nain is an unnamed woman encountered by Jesus in the town of Nain.
She is identified as a widow whose only son had died, leaving her without immediate family support.
She appears in Luke’s narrative as the central figure in a public funeral procession.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: She is met by Jesus at the city gate during her son’s funeral procession in Nain.
• Event 2: Jesus halts the procession and restores her son to life, returning him to her.
• Event 3: The event leads the crowd to glorify God and spread the report throughout Judea and the surrounding region.

Life Lesson & Legacy

Her account highlights Jesus’ compassion expressed through restoring life and strengthening public witness to God’s saving work.

Key Verse

"Then he went up and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” And the dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother." — Luke 7:14–15, ESV