This verse from Matthew 27:60 describes the burial of Jesus Christ by Joseph of Arimathea. Let's break it down:
"and laid it in his own new tomb": Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy disciple of Jesus, took Jesus' body and placed it in a tomb that belonged to him. The tomb was "new," meaning it hadn't been used for any other burial yet. This is important because it underscores the uniqueness of Jesus' burial and resurrection.
"which he had cut out in the rock": Tombs in that region were often carved into rock formations. This indicates a secure and permanent place for burial. The fact that it was "cut out in the rock" suggests a significant undertaking and a valuable burial site.
"and he rolled a great stone against the door of the tomb": A large stone was rolled in front of the entrance to seal it. This was a common practice to protect the body from animals, grave robbers, and to ensure the sanctity of the burial place. The size of the stone would have made it difficult to move.
"and departed.": After completing the burial process, Joseph of Arimathea left the tomb. This signifies the end of the burial procedures and sets the stage for what would happen later – the resurrection.
In summary, the verse is important because it:
Highlights the respect and care given to Jesus' body, despite the circumstances of his death. Joseph of Arimathea, a follower of Jesus, provided a proper burial in his own tomb.
Emphasizes the security of the tomb, making the subsequent resurrection all the more remarkable. The newness of the tomb and the large stone covering the entrance suggest that Jesus' body was not moved or tampered with.
Sets the stage for the central event of Christian faith, the resurrection. By describing the burial in detail, the Gospel writer prepares the reader for the extraordinary event to come.
This verse from Matthew 27:60 describes the burial of Jesus Christ by Joseph of Arimathea. Let's break it down:
"and laid it in his own new tomb": Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy disciple of Jesus, took Jesus' body and placed it in a tomb that belonged to him. The tomb was "new," meaning it hadn't been used for any other burial yet. This is important because it underscores the uniqueness of Jesus' burial and resurrection.
"which he had cut out in the rock": Tombs in that region were often carved into rock formations. This indicates a secure and permanent place for burial. The fact that it was "cut out in the rock" suggests a significant undertaking and a valuable burial site.
"and he rolled a great stone against the door of the tomb": A large stone was rolled in front of the entrance to seal it. This was a common practice to protect the body from animals, grave robbers, and to ensure the sanctity of the burial place. The size of the stone would have made it difficult to move.
"and departed.": After completing the burial process, Joseph of Arimathea left the tomb. This signifies the end of the burial procedures and sets the stage for what would happen later – the resurrection.
In summary, the verse is important because it:
Highlights the respect and care given to Jesus' body, despite the circumstances of his death. Joseph of Arimathea, a follower of Jesus, provided a proper burial in his own tomb.
Emphasizes the security of the tomb, making the subsequent resurrection all the more remarkable. The newness of the tomb and the large stone covering the entrance suggest that Jesus' body was not moved or tampered with.
Sets the stage for the central event of Christian faith, the resurrection. By describing the burial in detail, the Gospel writer prepares the reader for the extraordinary event to come.