Cana of Galilee is best known as the location of Jesus’ first recorded miracle. In John 2:1–11, Jesus, His mother Mary, and His disciples were invited to a wedding in Cana. When the wine ran out, Mary informed Jesus, and though He initially responded, “My hour has not yet come,” she instructed the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”
Jesus told the servants to fill six stone waterpots with water, each holding twenty to thirty gallons. After they were filled to the brim, He instructed them to draw some out and take it to the master of the feast. When the master tasted it, he remarked that the bridegroom had saved the best wine for last, not knowing where it came from. This miracle was the beginning of Jesus’ signs, manifesting His glory, and His disciples believed in Him (John 2:11).
Cana is mentioned again in John 4:46, where Jesus returned and healed the son of a nobleman who came to Him in faith. Though the nobleman asked Jesus to come down and heal his son, Jesus simply said, “Go your way; your son lives.” The man believed, and later found his son had recovered at the exact hour Jesus spoke.
Cana is also referenced in John 21:2, where Nathanael is described as being from Cana of Galilee.
Cana signifies the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and His divine power to transform. His first miracle not only met a physical need but also symbolized the greater spiritual reality of the new covenant. His presence at a wedding also affirms the goodness of marriage and points to the joy found in His kingdom.
