Bethany beyond the Jordan

Modern identification

Al-Maghtas baptism area · Jordan Valley, Jordan

Coordinates

31.8365, 35.5505

Al-Maghtas is a major traditional and archaeological candidate. The exact identification of Bethany beyond the Jordan remains debated.

What happened at Bethany beyond the Jordan

1. Jesus baptized by John in the Jordan

   Mark 1:9-11; Matthew 3:13-17; Luke 3:21-23

   The baptism area is disputed across the Jordan banks; both major traditions are retained. Al-Maghtas is a major traditional and archaeological candidate. The exact identification of Bethany beyond the Jordan remains debated.

2. The testimony of the Baptist to the committee of the Sanhedrin

   John 1:19-28

   Bethany beyond the Jordan is debated; Al-Maghtas is used as the primary candidate. Al-Maghtas is a major traditional and archaeological candidate. The exact identification of Bethany beyond the Jordan remains debated.

3. John's identification of Jesus as the Messiah

   John 1:29-34

   Bethany beyond the Jordan is debated; Al-Maghtas is used as the primary candidate. Al-Maghtas is a major traditional and archaeological candidate. The exact identification of Bethany beyond the Jordan remains debated.

4. Jesus makes his first disciples

   John 1:35-51

   Bethany beyond the Jordan is debated; Al-Maghtas is used as the primary candidate. Al-Maghtas is a major traditional and archaeological candidate. The exact identification of Bethany beyond the Jordan remains debated.

5. The withdrawal from Jerusalem to Bethany beyond Jordan

   John 10:40-42

   Al-Maghtas is a major traditional and archaeological candidate. The exact identification of Bethany beyond the Jordan remains debated.