What is…
Cana
Meaning: reedy
This is an ancient town in Galilee, near Capernaum.
It is here that our Lord did his 1st miracle, the turning of water into wine (John 2:1-11; 4:46).
This town is not noted in the Old Testament, but only in the New Testament, where it is also mentioned as the birthplace of the Apostle Nathanael (21:2).
It is called “Cana of Galilee,” to distinguish it from Cana of the Tribe of Asher (Joshua 19:28).
It has been identified with the modern Kana el-Jelil, also called Khurbet Kana, a place 8 or 9 miles north of Nazareth.
Others have identified it with Kafr Kanna (Kefr Kenna), which lies on the direct road to the Sea of Galilee, about 5 miles northeast of Nazareth, and 12 in a direct course from Tiberias.
Modern Kafar Kanna—satellite view
Q & A
- Nathanael—a disciple
- What is Galilee?
- What is a Galilean?
- What is Capernaum? —significance, archaeology, biblical references
What is the Sea of Galilee? and what is its significance in the Bible?- What’s special about the Sea of Galilee?
- What miracles are mentioned in the Bible?
- Christ’s miracles—Has science disproved the miracles associated with Jesus?
- Is it logical to believe that the biblical miracles really happened?
- “Miracles are not possible,” some claim. Is this true?
- Answers about wine in the Bible
- What is Nazareth?
- What is the Sea of Galilee? and what is its significance in the Bible?
Article Version: September 18, 2026