What does Mark 16:5 mean?

Explanation

[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.] Mark 16:5 depicts a scene where women, who according to the preceding verses are Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, enter the tomb where Jesus was buried following His crucifixion.

When they arrive, instead of finding the body of Jesus, they are met with a young man dressed in white.

This individual is commonly interpreted as an angel, whose white garment symbolizes purity and heavenly origin.

The reaction of fear or awe is a common response to angelic encounters in biblical narratives.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the Gospel of Mark, which is generally believed to have been written around 60-75 AD.

It forms part of the resurrection narrative and is significant as it is one of the earliest written accounts of the resurrection of Jesus.

The presence of the women at the tomb reflects the cultural-historical context where women were often tasked with the care of the body after death for burial preparations.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, the young man in the tomb is seen as a messenger from God, affirming the resurrection of Jesus to the women and providing instructions for the disciples.

The resurrection is a central tenet of Christian theology indicating victory over death and the promise of eternal life.

The white garment can also be seen as an allusion to the righteousness of the saints and the purity of Jesus Christ.

Practical Applications

This Bible verse can inspire faith and hope among believers in the face of death and adversity, reinforcing the message that death is not the end.

It also serves as a reminder to not seek the living among the dead, encouraging believers to look for spiritual encounters that uplift and guide them through life's challenges.

Cross-References

• Matthew 28:5 - "And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified."
• Luke 24:4 - "And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:"
• John 20:12 - "And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain."

Language Study

"Sepulchre" is derived from the Greek word "mnemeion" which means a monument to the dead (tomb or grave).

The term "young man" is from the Greek "neaniskos," which could either literally mean a young male or figuratively an angel.

The phrase "clothed in a long white garment" uses the Greek "stolēn leukēn," indicating a long, elegant robe typically worn on festive occasions, symbolizing purity and righteousness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, white is a color symbolizing purity, divinity, and the supernatural.

Angels or divine messengers in white can be found in various religious traditions.

For example, in Greco-Roman mythology, gods would often appear in white.

In parallel, the figures in the Hebrew Bible, such as the "men in white" who appeared at the ascension, are thought to be angels.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science does not provide evidence for supernatural encounters such as angelic visitations.

However, discussions around near-death experiences and encounters with seemingly angelic beings touch on similar themes. These experiences on occasion are studied within the realms of psychology and neurology.

Commentaries

Commentators often focus on the symbolic meaning of the white garment and the angelic figure as a herald of the Resurrection.

They elaborate on the significance of the women’s role as the first witnesses and evangelists of the Resurrection.

For instance, John Calvin commented on the awe and fear that the women experienced as an appropriate reaction to a divine revelation, indicating the majesty of God.

Matthew Henry highlights the emotional state of the women who had come expecting to anoint a dead body and were instead met with the glory of the Resurrection.