How to Pronounce Martha

What does Martha mean?

Martha means “who becomes bitter; provoking”.

Hitchcock’s Bible Names (1869), public domain.

Who was Martha?

Bitterness, the sister of Lazarus and Mary, and probably the eldest of the family, who all resided at Bethany (Luke 10:38, 40, 41; John 11:1-39). From the residence being called “her house,” some have supposed that she was a widow, and that her brother and sister lodged with her. She seems to have been of an anxious, bustling spirit, anxious to be helpful in providing the best things for the Master’s use, in contrast to the quiet earnestness of Mary, who was more concerned to avail herself of the opportunity of sitting at his feet and learning of him. Afterwards at a supper given to Christ and his disciples in her house “Martha served.” Nothing further is known of her.

Adapted from Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897), public domain.

Found in Scripture

Other names from Luke

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