Animating the Tomb of Lazarus
RevelationMedia is bringing Scripture to life through carefully crafted 3D animations. Explore the latest installment of iBIBLE, the world’s first fully animated journey through the Divine Narrative, from Genesis to Revelation. Join families worldwide and watch now at www.i.BIBLE!
This week, step into the garden near Bethany where the body of Lazarus rested and where his life was restored. Discover how the animators at RevelationMedia are reconstructing this intimate, faith-invoking scene for the upcoming episodes of iBIBLE.
There are no recorded references describing the outside of Lazarus’ tomb. However, based on its location, cultural context, and comparisons with other tombs from this era, the animators are carefully crafting an informed and historically appropriate exterior for the miracle of Lazarus’ resurrection. Below, you can see their current progress in the reconstruction.
The town of Bethany was located about two miles (3.2 km) east of Jerusalem, on the southeast slope of the Mount of Olives.
In John 11, Lazarus of Bethany fell ill and, after his death, was laid in a tomb for four days. His sisters, Mary and Martha, were deeply grieved, struggling to understand why Jesus, who loved them dearly, had not come sooner to heal their brother.
In Jewish thought at the time, it was believed that a person’s soul remained near the body for three days, hoping to return. By the fourth day, however, the body would begin to decay and all hope of resuscitation was gone. Thus, when Jesus arrived four days after Lazarus’ death, it was unmistakable to everyone that Lazarus was truly dead.
Jesus wept at the tomb, sharing in the sorrow of those who mourned. Then, in a powerful display of God’s glory, He commanded Lazarus to rise, revealing His authority even over death itself.
Below are visuals the animators used to help them depict the exterior and entrance of the tomb, incorporating geological features typical of the region.
Through research and prayerful attention to detail, the iBIBLE team ensures every scene not only reflects historical context but also magnifies the power of God’s Word. Lazarus’ episode will invite viewers to witness anew the glory of Christ as He declared, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25a, ESV).
Inside, the tomb included a vestibule and small burial chamber with niches, recesses for oil lamps, and an arcosolium—an arched recess used for placing bodies. Steps led down into the chamber, and according to early tradition, it was here that Jesus stood when He called Lazarus forth. At the sound of the Savior’s voice, Lazarus emerged, still bound in his grave clothes.
While much of the iBIBLE site is based on research, certain details are artistically interpreted. The collage shown here is guiding the animators’ reconstruction as they continue production on this episode.
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