What does John 20:13 mean?

Explanation

John 20:13 recounts a moment of profound grief and confusion experienced by Mary Magdalene.

In this verse, two angels in white, sitting at where Jesus' body had been placed, address her sorrow by asking, "Woman, why weepest thou?" Mary responds with despair, acknowledging that her Lord's body has been taken, and she does not know where it has been laid.

This verse captures the distress she feels at the loss of Jesus and the disruption of the expected process of mourning and honoring the dead.

On a deeper level, her response highlights the human feeling of loss and the yearning for closure which is interrupted when one does not fully understand the situation they're facing.

Historical Context

The verse is set shortly after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, during the first century in the complex religious and socio-political landscape of Judea under Roman occupation. Women during that time typically took on the role of mourning and preparing the body for burial.

Therefore, Mary's presence at the tomb aligns with cultural practices of the period.

The mention of angels reflects the Jewish belief in supernatural messengers of God.

What Mary did not understand at the time, was that she was about to become the first witness to the resurrected Christ, a pivotal event in Christian theology.

Theological Insights

This verse is rich with theological implications.

From a Christian perspective, Mary's lack of understanding sets the stage for the manifestation of Jesus' victory over death. It also presents the angels as intermediaries, gently prompting Mary's realization of the resurrection.

Some theological interpretations also see this as a moment emphasizing the human condition in relation to the divine: Mary represents humanity searching for Christ, and the angels are there to guide that search toward understanding and belief.

Practical Applications

This verse can serve as a reminder of the importance of staying steadfast in faith during times of uncertainty and distress.

It teaches compassion for those who are grieving and underscores the value of seeking understanding through faith.

For modern believers, acknowledging one's emotions and still maintaining hope and trust in God's plan is a practical takeaway from Mary's experience at the tomb.

Cross-References

• Luke 24:4-5 - And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:
• Mark 16:5-6 - And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
• Matthew 28:5-6 - And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

Language Study

In the original Greek, the word for "weepest" is "κλαίεις" (klaieis), which implies not just crying, but an audible weeping or lamentation, indicating a deep emotional expression.

The term "Lord" (κύριος - kyrios) is a title of respect, acknowledging Jesus' authority and divinity.

The phrase "I know not" (οὐκ οἶδα - ouk oida) reflects Mary's state of not just ignorance but of perplexity and helplessness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient myths, individuals are faced with loss and the quest for understanding, such as the Sumerian goddess Inanna's descent into the underworld or Orpheus's journey into Hades in Greek mythology.

Unlike these myths, where the protagonist actively embarks on a quest, in John 20:13, Mary's quest is one of passive bewilderment, which is resolved by divine revelation rather than by her own actions.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings of grief and psychology might analyze Mary's weeping as a natural, emotional response to death and loss.

Her experience at the tomb can be viewed through the lens of bereavement and the search for closure.

Scientific studies recognize that resolution of grief often requires facing the reality of loss and beginning to understand its impact, a process that Mary is in the midst of.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators interpret this verse as capturing a moment of deep human emotion as well as divine revelation.

Some emphasize the historical and factual aspects of the resurrection account, while others focus more on the symbolic and representative nature of Mary Magdalene's encounter with the angels.

Renowned commentaries like Matthew Henry's or the MacArthur Study Bible underscore the significance of Mary being chosen as the first to witness the empty tomb and later Jesus' resurrection, reflecting on the depth of her devotion and her role in the gospel narrative.