What does John 20:7 mean?

Explanation

The verse John 20:7 describes a specific scene during the discovery of Jesus's empty tomb by his followers after his crucifixion.

When they entered the tomb, they noticed that the grave clothes that had been wrapped around Jesus's body were left behind.

Notably, the cloth that had been around Jesus's head was not just thrown aside but was neatly rolled up in a place separate from the linen.

This verse suggests that the removal of Jesus's body from the tomb was not done in haste or by grave robbers, since they wouldn't have taken the time to neatly arrange the clothes.

It also serves to emphasize the miraculous nature of the resurrection, noting that Jesus had risen and left behind the trappings of death.

Historical Context

John 20:7 is part of the New Testament narrative found in the Gospel of John, believed to have been written between AD 90 and AD 110.

The scene takes place on the first day of the week following Jesus's crucifixion, a period which corresponds with the Jewish festival of Passover.

The Jewish burial practices involved wrapping the body in linen cloth and anointing it with spices.

The separate treatment of the head wrapping in this account may reflect actual burial customs of the time or could be a literary device used by the author to convey a deeper message.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse is seen as evidence of the physical resurrection of Jesus, which is central to Christian faith.

The neat arrangement of the grave clothes can also be interpreted as symbolic of Jesus's victory over death and his divine nature; God in human form would not leave in disarray but with order even in the resurrection.

Some theological viewpoints might suggest this passage illustrates that in Christ's resurrection, there is a transformation from the old order (as symbolized by the burial linens) to a new creation.

The resurrection, therefore, is not just a reanimation of a corpse, but a transformation into a glorified, resurrected body.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Christians can take the description of the neatly wrapped head cloth as a call to live a life of order and intention, following the example set by Christ even in the details of the resurrection.

It can also be seen as a reminder to approach their faith and the teaching of the scripture not in a hurried or careless manner, but with reflection and respect for the sacred.

Cross-References

• Luke 24:12: "Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word used for "napkin" is "soudarion," which refers to a small towel or cloth used to wipe sweat from the face, and in this context, the cloth used to cover the face of the deceased.

The phrase "wrapped together" comes from "entulisso," which implies that it was not just folded but rolled or twisted in a particular manner. This attention to detail underscores the careful and deliberate nature of the scene described.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the cultural and religious context of Jewish burial practices at the time, the body was prepared for burial with great respect and care, including the use of spices and cloths.

The act of wrapping the body and the face separately was also a sign of honor.

Comparatively, in other ancient near-eastern death and burial traditions, preparation of the body and its accouterments often had ritual significance, symbolizing beliefs about the afterlife and respect for the deceased.

Scientific Perspectives

While scientific perspectives generally do not affirm supernatural events like resurrection, forensic science does acknowledge that the state in which a body is found can provide clues about the circumstances surrounding death or post-mortem events.

In this context, a neatly arranged burial cloth could suggest an event that is out of the ordinary, as it would be unusual for grave robbers or anyone removing a body quickly to take such care.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have various interpretations of this verse.

Some focus on the fact that the discovery of the neatly arranged grave clothes helped to convince the disciples of Jesus's resurrection.

Others look at the symbolic meaning behind the separation of the linen and the head cloth; it represents that Jesus's divinity and humanity were distinct yet united in his resurrection form.

Renowned biblical commentator Matthew Henry notes that Christ's power in resurrection was such that he could overcome death without disturbing the linen clothes, symbolizing the ease with which He triumphed over grave circumstances.