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Μάρθα (Martha)

Martha

Martha

G3136 · Greek · New Testament · 12 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
12 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The name Martha appears twelve times in the New Testament, primarily within the Gospels of Luke and John. It is an Aramaic word meaning "mistress" or "lady," reflecting a role of domestic authority and responsibility. In the biblical narrative, she is identified as the sister of Mary and Lazarus of Bethany.

Her most prominent appearance occurs in Luke 10:38-41, where Jesus visits her home. Martha is described as being "distracted by much serving," a concern that leads to a gentle correction from Jesus regarding priorities. This account highlights her character as one deeply engaged in practical hospitality and household management.

Martha also plays a key role in John 11, particularly in the story of Lazarus’ resurrection. Here, she engages Jesus in a significant theological conversation, declaring her faith in Him as "the Messiah, the Son of God" (John 11:27). This moment distinguishes her from her more contemplative sister Mary, showcasing Martha’s active and declarative faith.

Translators consistently retain the name Martha without attempting to translate its meaning, preserving the personal identity of this early follower. Her story provides a window into the daily life of Jesus’ circle, illustrating how service and spiritual insight coexisted in the lives of those who followed Him.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Martha means "mistress" or "lady," pointing to a life of practical care and domestic responsibility. In the Gospels, she is often busy with hospitality, worrying that everything must be done perfectly for her guests. This familiar scene reminds us that serving others is a noble calling, even when it feels overwhelming or thankless.

Jesus did not dismiss her hard work, but He gently reminded her that being present with Him matters more than the tasks themselves. Her story invites you to look at your own busy days with kindness. It is okay to feel stretched thin, and it is okay to ask for help when the load feels too heavy.

Martha also shows a deep, courageous faith. When her brother died, she did not hide her grief or doubt. She spoke honestly to Jesus about her pain while still trusting in His power. You can bring your own worries, your busy schedule, and your honest questions to God. He hears you, and He values your heart more than your performance.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 12 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Martha8×
  • Martha;2×
  • Martha,2×
  • Martha.1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • Μάρθα5×
  • Μάρθαν2×
  • Μάρθα·2×
  • Μάρθα,2×
  • Μάρθας1×
  • Μάρθα.¶1×

Key Verses

  • Luke 10:41
    Jesus answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,

    Jesus uses this moment to gently correct Martha's anxiety, showing that her worry about many things was distracting her from what truly mattered.

  • Luke 10:40
    But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she came up to him, and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister left me to serve alone? Ask her therefore to help me.”

    Martha’s complaint reveals how easily service can turn into resentment when we feel unsupported or unappreciated by those around us.

  • John 11:21
    Therefore Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you would have been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.

    Here Martha expresses her honest grief and disappointment, showing that faith does not require hiding our pain from Jesus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Martha mean?

The name Martha comes from an Aramaic word meaning "mistress" or "lady." It reflects a role of authority and responsibility within the household, which aligns with her biblical portrayal as the one managing hospitality and daily needs.

Why did Jesus correct Martha in Luke 10?

Jesus corrected Martha not because serving is wrong, but because she was "anxious and troubled about many things." He wanted her to know that being present with Him was more important than the tasks she was rushing to complete.

How does Martha show faith in John 11?

In John 11, Martha declares her belief that Jesus is "the Messiah, the Son of God." Even though she did not fully understand how He would raise Lazarus, she trusted in His power and identity, showing a strong and active faith.

What can we learn from Martha's story?

Martha’s story teaches us that it is okay to be busy and to feel overwhelmed. It also shows that Jesus values our honest feelings and our desire to serve, while gently reminding us to keep our focus on Him.

Every Occurrence (12 verses across 2 books)

Luke 3 verses
Luke 10:38

As they went on their way, he entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha received him into her…

Luke 10:40

But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she came up to him, and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister…

Luke 10:41

Jesus answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,

John 9 verses