What does Matthew 28:3 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 28:3 describes the appearance of the angel who rolled back the stone from Jesus' tomb following His resurrection. The description given is highly symbolic and vivid.

"His countenance was like lightning" suggests a face that was incredibly bright and awe-inspiring, radiating power and a divine presence. The comparison to lightning connotes not only brilliance but also a sense of suddenness and overwhelming force.

"His raiment white as snow" conveys purity and holiness, with the stark white color symbolizing righteousness. Together, these descriptions emphasize the heavenly and supernatural origin of the angel and underscore the significance of the event they are announcing: the resurrection of Jesus.

Historical Context

Matthew 28:3 takes place within the narrative of the four Gospels that recount Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

Written in the 1st century A.D., Matthew is traditionally ascribed to the Apostle Matthew, although the exact author remains a subject of debate among scholars.

The resurrection narratives depict the empty tomb on the third day following Jesus' crucifixion, and the appearance of angels is a common element.

In the cultural and historical context, the evangelists aimed to convey the truth of Christ's resurrection to a reader base encompassing both Jewish and Gentile audiences, each bringing their perspectives and expectations to these accounts.

Theological Insights

Different Christian traditions have interpreted the appearance of the angel in various ways. For many, the angel's appearance as described in Matthew 28:3 is a testament to the power and glory of God.

Some scholars see this as an intentional contrast to Jesus' humble life and the disgrace of the crucifixion, now replaced by the triumph of His resurrection.

Others might see the description emphasizing the truth of the supernatural occurrences, something ordinary humans would not fabricate, giving further validation to the Gospel accounts.

Practical Applications

The verse can inspire believers to reflect on the divine power at work in their lives, encouraging them to hope even in dark times. The image of purity in "raiment white as snow" may serve as a reminder of the call to lead a life of holiness and righteousness.

Furthermore, Christians might draw on the awe-inspiring imagery to renew their faith in the miraculous, recognizing that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is present in the world today.

Cross-References

• Matthew 17:2: "And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light."
• Daniel 7:9: "I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire."
• Revelation 1:14: "His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;"
• Luke 24:4: "And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:"

Language Study

The Greek word for "countenance" in Matthew 28:3 is "εἶδος" (eidos), which can be translated as "appearance" or "form." This term is used to present the angel's face as frightening and dazzling, resembling lightning, which is translated from the Greek "ἀστραπή" (astrape), suggesting a blinding, bright light.

For "raiment," the Greek word "ἔνδυμα" (endyma) is used, which refers to clothing or attire, emphasizing the appearance and possibly the status or nature of the angel.

The comparison to snow, "χιών" (chion) in Greek, exemplifies the utmost purity, and brightness, common symbolism in Jewish and Christian literature for holiness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The depiction of divine messengers or beings as radiant and clothed in white can be found in various cultures.

In Greek mythology, for example, gods were often depicted with a radiant aura.

In the Hebrew Bible, divine or heavenly beings sometimes appear in glorious, bright, and terrifying forms, similar to angelic appearances elsewhere in the Christian New Testament.

This verse's imagery reflects a broad ancient Near Eastern tradition of associating divinity with brilliance, light, and exalted purity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific perspective, the description of the angel's countenance as "like lightning" could be seen as metaphorical, expressing a phenomenon that is difficult to explain in natural terms.

Lightning itself is a sudden electrostatic discharge during a thunderstorm; it’s interesting to note how the visual and emotional impact of such a natural event is used to convey the supernatural occurrence in this verse.

The "white as snow" imagery, while certainly not as enigmatic scientifically, would appeal universally to the human recognition of snow's purity and distinctiveness.

Commentaries

Many Biblical scholars and theologians have reflected on this passage.

Matthew Henry's Commentary notes the terror that the guards felt upon seeing the angel, focusing on the power and majesty that accompanies God's messengers.

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges highlights the resemblance between the angel's appearance and the description of the glorified Christ in Revelation 1:14.

John Calvin commented on the purity symbolized by the angel's white clothing, as being appropriate for one who announces the pure and spotless resurrection of Christ.

Meanwhile, modern commentaries may focus on the symbolic and theological significance of the verse more than its historical or factual veracity.