Lazarus, the man Jesus famously brought back to life, is a central figure in the New Testament. His story is a beacon of hope, a testament to Jesus’s power over death, and a cornerstone of Christian faith. But have you ever wondered what happened to Lazarus after his resurrection?
The Bible tells us about his miraculous return to life, but it remains silent on the details of his second, and final, death. This leaves us with a fascinating question: How did Lazarus die the second time?
While the Bible doesn’t explicitly state how Lazarus died, we can piece together information from historical context, scriptural interpretations, and traditions to understand the possibilities surrounding his second death. This article will examine those possibilities, exploring various perspectives and shedding light on this often-overlooked aspect of Lazarus’s story.
The Resurrection of Lazarus: Setting the Stage
Before we explore Lazarus’s second death, let’s revisit his resurrection. This event, recounted in the Gospel of John, is one of the most dramatic miracles of Jesus. Lazarus, a resident of Bethany and brother to Mary and Martha, falls ill and dies. Jesus, upon hearing the news, arrives four days after Lazarus’s burial. He orders the stone covering the tomb to be removed and calls out to Lazarus, who emerges, still wrapped in burial cloths.
This miracle is pivotal in John’s Gospel. It not only demonstrates Jesus’s power over death but also foreshadows his own resurrection. The raising of Lazarus solidifies Jesus’s identity as the Messiah and intensifies the conflict with the religious authorities, ultimately leading to his crucifixion.
How Did Lazarus Die the Second Time? Exploring the Possibilities
The Bible offers no specific details about Lazarus’s life after his resurrection or the circumstances of his second death. This silence has led to much speculation and a variety of interpretations. Here are some of the most common theories:
Natural Causes
The most straightforward answer is that Lazarus, like all humans, eventually succumbed to natural causes. Having been resurrected, he continued to live until old age or illness finally claimed his life.
This view emphasizes that while Jesus restored Lazarus to life, he did not grant him immortality. Lazarus remained subject to the natural human lifecycle, eventually experiencing death again.
Martyrdom
Another prevalent theory suggests that Lazarus was martyred for his faith. His resurrection was a public event, a powerful testament to Jesus’s divine authority.
This would have made Lazarus a prominent figure in the early Christian community and potentially a target for persecution. Some traditions suggest that Lazarus fled to Cyprus after his resurrection and became a bishop there, eventually facing martyrdom.
The “Second Death” as a Metaphor
Some theological interpretations view Lazarus’s “second death” metaphorically. They argue that the resurrection signifies a spiritual rebirth, a liberation from the bondage of sin.
In this context, the “second death” could represent the inevitable struggles and challenges that believers face in their earthly lives, even after experiencing spiritual renewal. This interpretation focuses on the ongoing battle between the spirit and the flesh, highlighting the continuous need for faith and reliance on God.
Historical Context and Traditions
To better understand the possibilities surrounding Lazarus’s second death, it’s crucial to consider the historical context and traditions associated with his story.
Lazarus in Bethany
The Gospel of John places Lazarus in the village of Bethany, near Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence confirms the existence of Bethany in the first century, lending historical credibility to the biblical account.
While the Bible doesn’t mention Lazarus’s profession or social status, some traditions suggest he may have been a wealthy man, given that Jesus and his disciples were frequent guests at his home.
Lazarus in Cyprus
Several traditions link Lazarus to the island of Cyprus. According to these accounts, Lazarus, along with Mary and Martha, fled Judea to escape persecution and settled in Larnaca, Cyprus.
There, Lazarus is said to have become the first bishop of Kition (present-day Larnaca). The Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca is believed to be built over his tomb, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Christians.8
The Golden Legend
The “Golden Legend,” a collection of saints’ lives compiled in the 13th century, provides a detailed account of Lazarus’s life after his resurrection. It supports the tradition of Lazarus’s episcopacy in Cyprus and his eventual martyrdom.
While the historical accuracy of the “Golden Legend” is debated, it reflects the enduring fascination with Lazarus’s story and the desire to fill the gaps left by the biblical narrative.
Lazarus’s Story: A Legacy of Faith and Hope
Regardless of how Lazarus ultimately died the second time, his story continues to resonate with believers across centuries. His resurrection stands as a powerful symbol of Jesus’s power over death and the promise of eternal life.
| Themes in the Story of Lazarus | Biblical Significance |
|---|---|
| Resurrection | Demonstrates Jesus’s power over death; foreshadows his own resurrection and the hope of eternal life for believers |
| Faith | Highlights the importance of faith in Jesus, even in the face of death and despair |
| Love and Compassion | Shows Jesus’s deep love for Lazarus and his family; emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy |
| Possible Causes of Lazarus’s Second Death | Supporting Evidence |
|---|---|
| Natural Causes | The natural human lifecycle; Lazarus’s resurrected life was not explicitly stated to be immortal |
| Martyrdom | Persecution of early Christians; traditions linking Lazarus to Cyprus and his role as a bishop |
| Metaphorical Interpretation | Focus on spiritual rebirth and the ongoing struggles of the Christian life |
Lazarus’s story reminds us that even in the face of death, hope and faith can prevail. Whether he died of natural causes, faced martyrdom, or his second death is interpreted metaphorically, his legacy continues to inspire and offer comfort to those who believe.
FAQs
How long did Lazarus live after Jesus resurrected him?
The Bible doesn’t specify how long Lazarus lived after his resurrection.
Is there any archaeological evidence related to Lazarus?
Yes, archaeological excavations have confirmed the existence of Bethany, the village where Lazarus lived. Additionally, the Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, Cyprus, is believed to be built over his tomb.10
Why doesn’t the Bible tell us how Lazarus died the second time?
The Bible focuses primarily on Jesus’s ministry and the events leading to his crucifixion and resurrection. The details of Lazarus’s later life and death were likely not considered central to this narrative.
What is the significance of Lazarus’s resurrection in Christian theology?
Lazarus’s resurrection is a powerful symbol of Jesus’s power over death and the promise of eternal life for believers.11 It also foreshadows Jesus’s own resurrection and reinforces his identity as the Messiah.12
Where can I find more information about Lazarus’s story?
The primary source for Lazarus’s story is the Gospel of John (Chapter 11).13 You can also find information in historical and theological texts, commentaries, and online resources.