In the Hebrew language, Lazarus is a shortened form of Eleazar, which means "God helps." In the first century, it was the fourth most common name for Jewish men (see also Luke 16:19–31).
Bethany was a small village east of Jerusalem, just past the Mount of Olives (John 11:18). Jesus often stayed there when he visited Jerusalem. He likely traveled through Bethany on his way to Jerusalem. This was because most Jews from Galilee took a route going south to Jericho, then west to Jerusalem.
Mary and Martha were sisters (see Luke 10:38–42). Martha was probably older. She was the host in Luke’s Gospel and represented the family. Mary later anointed Jesus with perfume (John 12:1–8).