What does Matthew 27:60 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 27:60 details an episode immediately following the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, where Joseph of Arimathea, a disciple of Jesus, takes responsibility for Jesus' burial.

According to the text, Joseph placed Jesus' body in his own tomb, which would have been a significant gesture, both because it provided a proper and immediate burial for the body and because tombs were expensive and often family property.

The "new tomb" indicates this was a tomb hewn out of rock for the first time, signifying nobody had been laid there before.

By rolling a great stone to seal the entrance of the tomb, Joseph further ensured that the body was secured and honored.

This act fulfilled Jewish burial customs of the time.

Historical Context

In the historical setting of 1st-century Judea, tombs cut out of rock were common for the wealthy.

Joseph of Arimathea is described in the Gospels as a rich man and a member of the Sanhedrin, who had become a follower of Jesus.

His role in the burial was an important one, both fulfilling Jewish burial customs and the prophecies regarding Jesus' burial in a rich man's tomb (as echoed in Isaiah 53:9).

The act of sealing the tomb with a large stone also fits with the era's practices meant to protect the body from grave robbers and animals, and to maintain religious purity.

Theological Insights

From a theological viewpoint, Joseph of Arimathea's actions are seen as a fulfillment of prophecy and an expression of devotion and respect towards Jesus.

It also highlights Jesus’ death and the reality of his physical body being laid in the tomb, which is central to Christian claims of his physical resurrection.

Some theological interpretations see the new, unused tomb as a symbol of Christ's purity and the novelty of the salvation he brought.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of this verse largely revolve around the themes of respect for the dead, honoring one’s commitments, charity, and humility.

Joseph's selfless act of giving up his own tomb for Jesus reflects a call for believers to honor their commitments and to serve those in need.

In a broader sense, the practice of self-sacrifice and humble service to others is a key teaching that can be drawn from this passage.

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."
• Matthew 27:57-59: "When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.

Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.

And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,"

• John 19:38-42: "...Joseph of Arimathaea ... besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave.

He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus."

Language Study

Key words to consider in the original Greek language include:

• "hewn out" (λαξευτός, lexevtos): indicates that the tomb was directly cut from the rock, highlighting the permanence and effort involved.
• "rock" (πέτρα, petra): signifies strength and durability.
• "rolled" (προσκυλίω, proskulio): this action of rolling the stone implies significant effort and intention.
• "door" (θύρα, thura) of the "sepulchre" (μνημεῖον, mnemeion): 'Door' is used metaphorically for the opening, and 'sepulchre' specifically refers to a burial place hewn from the rock.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient cultures, rock-cut tombs were not unique to ancient Jewish practices. The Egyptians, for instance, also created tombs hewn out of rock, such as in the Valley of the Kings.

However, religiously speaking, Joseph of Arimathea's act of using his own tomb for Jesus differs from the traditional view of preserving family burial places for biological kin.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the practice of securing a tomb with a large stone was practical and served as a form of security against the desecration of bodies, which aligned with the public health and sanitization practices of the time.

Moreover, archaeological studies of tombs from that era provide insights into burial customs and the socio-economic status of the individuals involved.

Commentaries

Commentaries from scholars and theologians offer various perspectives on Matthew 27:60.

Some emphasize Joseph's courage in seeking Pilate's permission to bury Jesus, others dwell on the significance of the burial in a new tomb. They also discuss the role of prophecy and the theological implications of the actions leading up to the resurrection narrative.

Commentators often highlight that the burial in a tomb confirms the death of Jesus as a real, historical event, which sets the stage for the claims of his subsequent resurrection.