What does John 20:11 mean?

Explanation

John 20:11 captures a poignant moment in the Christian narrative of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In this verse, Mary Magdalene stands outside the tomb where Jesus had been buried, after finding the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. She is weeping, both out of grief and confusion at the disappearance of Jesus' body.

The verse suggests a deep level of personal sorrow as Mary peers into the tomb, trying to understand what has happened.

The verse highlights Mary's devotion and her state of mourning.

Despite the other disciples returning to their homes, Mary remains at the tomb, indicating her dedication and love for Jesus.

Her weeping underscores the depth of her despair but also sets the stage for the revelation that is about to occur - the appearance of angels and the risen Christ.

This moment is also significant as it accentuates the importance of Mary Magdalene in the resurrection story.

It is she who first witnesses the resurrection, an honor and a testament to her place among Jesus' followers.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John is traditionally believed to have been written towards the end of the first century.

The account of Mary Magdalene at the tomb takes place on the first day of the week following Jesus' crucifixion, which is now celebrated as Easter Sunday in the Christian tradition.

The inclusion of women in crucial roles, as in the case of Mary Magdalene as the first witness to the resurrection, was somewhat counter-cultural in a time when women's testimony was not highly regarded in legal or religious spheres.

Theological Insights

The verse offers deep theological insights.

From a Christian perspective, Mary's encounter with the empty tomb is symbolic of the transition from despair to hope, signifying the core Christian belief in the resurrection and eternal life.

From a Catholic standpoint, Mary Magdalene is often honored as a paradigm of penitence and devotion. In Eastern Orthodoxy, she is likewise revered, being termed "Equal to the Apostles" for her role in the resurrection story.

Protestant interpretations may place less emphasis on Mary Magdalene's sainthood but still acknowledge her crucial role in witnessing and proclaiming the resurrection.

Practical Applications

This verse teaches the value of steadfast love and faithfulness. Mary’s unwavering devotion to Jesus, even in the face of despair, can be seen as an exemplar for how individuals might maintain hope and continue to seek truth amidst challenging circumstances.

Additionally, it reflects the importance of processing one’s grief and allowing oneself to confront painful situations to find resolution and understanding.

Cross-References

• John 20:1 - “The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.”
• John 20:18 - “Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.”
• Luke 24:10 - “It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.”
• Mark 16:9 - “Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words stand out:

• "stoi" (στήκω) implies that Mary “stood” or “remained” steadfastly.
• "klaio" (κλαίω) refers to Mary "weeping" intensely, not merely shedding tears.
• "parakupto" (παρακύπτω) suggests that she “stooped down” or "bent over" to look inside, indicating both physical and emotional posture.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the Graeco-Roman world, myths of gods dying and being reborn were somewhat common, such as the myth of Persephone and Demeter. Yet, the Christian narrative distinguishes itself by historicizing the resurrection in a singular, transformative event with a real person, Jesus, at its core.

The prominence of Mary Magdalene can also be compared to the roles of women in other religious traditions, in which they are often the first to witness and spread news of divine events, despite their marginal status in society.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, claims of resurrection defy natural laws and are thus typically viewed metaphorically or with skepticism. The prevailing scientific view holds that once biological death occurs, it is irreversible.

However, this verse and the events it describes are matters of faith, not empirical investigation.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentaries have interpreted John 20:11 as a testament to Mary Magdalene's deep love and loyalty to Jesus.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary notes her "affectionate concern" for Christ even after his death.

The Pulpit Commentary remarks on the intensity of her grief that kept her at the graveside when others had left.

Others, like William Barclay, stress the significance of Jesus revealing Himself first to Mary, demonstrating that in the Kingdom of God, there is complete equality and that often the last shall be first.