Now there were six stone waterpots set there for the Jewish custom of purification (ceremonial washing), containing twenty or thirty gallons each.

Later on there was a Jewish feast (festival), and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.

Now the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles (Booths) was approaching.

Now the Passover of the Jews was approaching, and many from the country went up to Jerusalem before Passover to purify themselves [ceremonially, so that they would be able to participate in the feast].

Therefore, because of the Jewish day of Preparation, and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.