What does John 20:9 mean?

Explanation

John 20:9 addresses a pivotal moment in Christian narrative: the realization of Jesus' resurrection.

This verse is situated just after Mary Magdalene, Peter, and another disciple discover the empty tomb.

The verse highlights that, at this point, the disciples had not understood biblical prophecy regarding Jesus rising from the dead.

It points to a literal lack of realization, that the events unfolding were fulfillment of scripture.

On a deeper level, this lack of recognition speaks to the human condition, understanding, and faith.

It illustrates the journey from confusion to eventual understanding of divine purposes and prophecies.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John is generally believed to have been written towards the end of the first century, perhaps around 90-100 AD.

It was a time when early Christians were trying to make sense of Jesus' death and reported resurrection, amidst societal pressure and persecution.

The Gospel itself serves to provide theological explanations about who Jesus was, and to reassure believers of Jesus' divine nature and the verification of prophecies from the Hebrew scriptures (the Old Testament).

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives can draw varied insights from this verse.

Traditional Christian theology views this as a cornerstone of faith – that Jesus' resurrection was a fulfillment of prophecy and a cornerstone of salvation.

More critical scholars may suggest this verse indicates a retrospective interpretation by the early church, framed to fit Jesus' life into the expectations of Jewish Messianic prophecy.

Meanwhile, some liberation theologians might emphasize the verse as encouragement for perseverance, even when immediate circumstances might cloud the larger divine purpose.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can be used to teach the importance of understanding and perseverance through doubt. Just as the disciples' understanding was incomplete, believers today are reminded that their own comprehension of spiritual matters may grow with time and study.

The verse could also be seen as a call to engage more deeply with scriptural study, to better understand the promises and teachings within one's faith tradition.

Cross-References

• Luke 24:45-46: "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:"
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:"

Language Study

The key phrase in this verse, "they knew not the scripture," involves a few significant words in the original Greek:

• "εγνωσαν" (Ginosko): Often translated as "knew," this Greek word has a depth of meaning that extends to perceptive understanding or acknowledgement.
• "γραφη" (Graphē): While literally meaning "writing," it's often used to reference the sacred texts, or the Holy Scriptures.
• "δει" (Dei): This term translated as "must" suggests a binding necessity, often used to refer to divine mandates or requirements.

Understanding these words enriches the comprehension of how the disciples lacked awareness of the necessity and significance of the resurrection as foretold in scripture.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn between this Christian account and other ancient myths where resurrection or return from the dead is a theme, such as the Egyptian myth of Osiris or the Sumerian tale of Inanna.

However, within Christian interpretation, Jesus' resurrection is unique in its nature and purpose, signifying not just rebirth but the defeat of sin and death.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the concept of resurrection is not supported as a biological phenomenon. Resurrection as described in the Bible is considered a miracle, an event that defies natural explanation and is understood as an act of divine intervention.

Commentaries

Various commentaries interpret this verse in multiple ways:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary notes the gradual understanding of Christ's followers, emphasizing that faith and understanding are progressive.
• The Pulpit Commentary touches on the idea that the disciples had trouble comprehending Scripture because they had not seen its fulfillment.

Thus, once Jesus rose and appeared, their understanding grew.

• William Barclay's Daily Study Bible series suggests that the followers of Jesus had interpreted prophecy metaphorically or spiritually, not expecting a literal bodily resurrection, hence their initial confusion at the empty tomb.