Bible Question: I'm looking for information on the meaning of "Gethsemane" as in The Garden of Gethsemane found in John 20:15. I would like to know the history of the garden and the meaning of the name. |
Bible Answer: Gethsemane is of Aramaic origin and means "oil-press". In Matt. 26:36 it was called a "place" or farm (Greek word "choorion") to which probably the "garden" was attached. It was the favorite resort of our Lord with His disciples (John 18:2), the shade of its trees affording shelter from the heat and the privacy so congenial to Him. Gethsemane was situated on the Mount of Olives just east of Jerusalem, across the Kidron Valley and opposite the Temple (Mark 13:3; John 18:1). From its name scholars conclude that the garden was situated in an olive grove that contained an olive press. Attempts to locate the exact site of the garden have been unsuccessful. Many Christians have agreed on one site-the place which Constantine's mother Helena designated about A.D. 325. But at least two other sites are also defended by tradition and have their supporters. The gospel accounts do not provide enough details to show the exact site of the garden. (Taken from Fausset's Bible Dictionary and Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary) Hope this helps. |