What does Mark 15:46 mean?

Explanation

The verse Mark 15:46 recounts the actions of Joseph of Arimathea following the death of Jesus Christ.

It describes Joseph's care in preparing Jesus' body for burial according to Jewish burial customs of the time.

Joseph bought fine linen, a material considered appropriate for wrapping the body of a deceased.

He then took Jesus' body down from the cross, wrapped it in this linen, and laid it in a sepulchre, a rock-hewn tomb.

The verse concludes by mentioning that a stone was rolled to seal the entrance of the tomb. On a more profound level, this verse highlights Joseph's devotion and respect for Jesus, as well as the fulfillment of prophecies regarding the Messiah's burial among the rich.

Historical Context

This verse is set in the context of 1st-century Judea under Roman occupation.

Jewish burial customs involved a timely burial, preferably before sundown on the day of death, and included washing the body, anointing it with spices, and wrapping it in a shroud.

The tomb used for Jesus' burial, provided by Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy and influential member of the Sanhedrin who had become a secret disciple of Jesus, was, according to the Gospels, a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid.

This event took place shortly after Jesus' crucifixion and just before the Jewish Sabbath, when all work, including burial preparations, would have to cease.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse is significant because it shows that Jesus was buried in a manner fitting the Jewish laws and customs, which confirms His messianic role and adherence to the Law.

Additionally, the fact that Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Jewish council, cared for Jesus' body may suggest a subtle recognition of Jesus' innocence.

Theologians also see the rich man's tomb as fulfilling Isaiah 53:9 which prophesied that the suffering servant would be with the rich in his death. This event also underlines the importance of Jesus' death and sets the stage for the belief in his subsequent resurrection.

Practical Applications

Mark 15:46 teaches various practical applications, such as the importance of respect and proper care for the deceased, reflecting the dignity accorded to human beings even in death.

It also implies the virtue of courage and devotion, as Joseph of Arimathea risks his reputation and safety to honor Jesus.

Additionally, Christians might find inspiration in Joseph's actions to publicly live out their faith, despite possible repercussions, and to show compassion and care for others in times of suffering and loss.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 53:9 – "And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth."
• John 19:38-42 – Another account of Jesus' burial by Joseph of Arimathea, detailing the involvement of Nicodemus and the use of spices prepared for Jesus' body according to Jewish custom.
• Matthew 27:57-60 – Describes Joseph as a rich man and Jesus' burial in his own new tomb, which he had cut out in the rock.
• Luke 23:50-53 – Mentions that Joseph was a counsellor, was a good and just man, and had not consented to the counsel and deed of the others in the Sanhedrin.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key words can be examined for more profound meanings:

• "ἐνείλησεν" (eneilēsen) – Translated as "wrapped," it implies a careful and ceremonial wrapping procedure.
• "σινδόνι" (sindoni) – Referring to "fine linen," indicating a cloth of high quality, befitting an honorable burial.
• "μνημεῖον" (mnēmeion) – Translated as "sepulchre" or "tomb," often a chamber cut from rock, typically used by those with considerable wealth.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, burials were often conducted with rites and rituals reflective of the person's social status.

In Egypt, pharaohs were buried in elaborate tombs with goods for the afterlife.

In Greco-Roman practices, tombs also signified status.

In Jewish custom, the act of burial was a significant ritual, and the use of a rock-hewn tomb by someone like Joseph of Arimathea echoes the practices for individuals with high social status.

Scientific Perspectives

From an archaeological and scientific standpoint, the mention of a rock-hewn tomb is consistent with findings from 1st-century Judea, where such tombs have been discovered.

Environmental conditions in the area have also allowed for the preservation of ancient linens, providing insights into textile-making practices of the time and correlating with the biblical description of "fine linen."

Commentaries

Various expert commentaries on Mark 15:46 offer insights into this verse:

• William Barclay notes the significance of Joseph's actions and how they reflect great courage and loyalty to Jesus.
• John MacArthur emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and details the careful observance of the Sabbath laws.
• The New Cambridge Bible Commentary discusses the ritualistic and symbolic aspects of the burial and Joseph's prominent role in the narrative, highlighting his bravery and secret discipleship.