- Born into a wealthy and influential priestly family in Jerusalem.
- His father, Zechariah, was a priest who served in the temple.
- His mother, Elizabeth, was a close relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Education and upbringing:
- Received a traditional Jewish education, likely studying the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings.
- May have also studied under the Pharisees, a prominent religious sect of the time.
- Grew up in a devout and religious household, immersed in Jewish customs and traditions.
Occupation:
- Before becoming a prophet, John was a preacher or a teacher of religious law.
- He traveled throughout the region of Judea and the Jordan River, preaching about repentance and preparing people for the coming of the Messiah.
Baptist:
- John was known as "John the Baptist" because of his practice of baptizing people in the Jordan River as a symbol of repentance and cleansing.
- His baptism was seen as a sign of spiritual purification and preparation for the arrival of the Messiah.