John 19:40

KJV

Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G3767} took they {G2983} the body {G4983} of Jesus {G2424}, and {G2532} wound {G1210} it {G846} in linen clothes {G3608} with {G3326} the spices {G759}, as {G2531} the manner {G1485} of the Jews {G2453} is {G2076} to bury {G1779}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They took Yeshua’s body and wrapped it up in linen sheets with the spices, in keeping with Judean burial practice.

Berean Standard Bible

So they took the body of Jesus and wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom.

American Standard Version

So they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 19:40 meticulously records the solemn and significant act of preparing Jesus' body for burial following His crucifixion. This verse highlights the courageous devotion of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who, despite the immense risk, carefully wrapped Jesus' body in linen cloths with a substantial quantity of spices, adhering to the established Jewish customs for interment. This act of reverence underscores the reality of Jesus' death while subtly setting the stage for the miraculous events of the resurrection.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** John 19:40 immediately follows the account of Jesus' death on the cross and the subsequent request by the Jewish authorities for the bodies to be removed before the Sabbath, as detailed in [John 19:31](/john/19-31 "John 19:31 - Request to Remove Bodies"). Joseph of Arimathea, a secret disciple, boldly approaches Pilate to request Jesus' body, an act of remarkable courage given the political climate and the stigma associated with Jesus' execution ([John 19:38](/john/19-38 "John 19:38 - Joseph of Arimathea Asks for Jesus' Body")). He is then joined by Nicodemus, who had previously visited Jesus under the cover of night ([John 3:1-2](/john/3-1-2 "John 3:1-2 - Nicodemus's Night Visit to Jesus")) and now brings a lavish amount of myrrh and aloes for the burial ([John 19:39](/john/19-39 "John 19:39 - Nicodemus Brings Spices")). Verse 40 describes the culmination of their joint effort, detailing the specific actions taken to prepare Jesus' body according to traditional Jewish customs. This careful preparation is crucial, as it provides a tangible backdrop against which the later discovery of the empty tomb and the undisturbed grave cloths will be understood.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jewish burial practices in the 1st century AD were distinct from Egyptian mummification. The primary aim was not preservation for eternity but respectful interment, typically within 24 hours of death, especially before the Sabbath or a major feast. The body would be washed, anointed with aromatic spices (often a mixture of myrrh and aloes, as mentioned in [John 19:39](/john/19-39 "John 19:39 - Nicodemus's Spices")), and then wrapped tightly in strips of linen cloth. The spices served not only to honor the deceased but also to mitigate the odor of decomposition, though they were not embalming agents in the modern sense. The haste described in the narrative ([John 19:31](/john/19-31 "John 19:31 - Bodies Removed Before Sabbath")) was due to the approaching Sabbath, which began at sundown on Friday, making any work, including burial preparations, forbidden. The large quantity of spices brought by Nicodemus (about a hundred pounds) was extraordinarily generous, indicating profound respect and love for Jesus, far exceeding what was typical for an ordinary burial.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several key themes within John's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes the **reality of Jesus' death**, a foundational truth for the Christian faith, demonstrating that His body was truly lifeless and required burial. Secondly, it highlights the **courageous devotion of disciples** like Joseph and Nicodemus, who moved from secret admiration to open, costly acts of service in Jesus' darkest hour, illustrating the transformative power of faith even in the face of immense social and political pressure. Thirdly, the meticulous nature of the burial, particularly the use of linen cloths and spices, subtly **foreshadows the resurrection**. The very wrappings that secure Jesus' body in the tomb will later become evidence of His miraculous departure, as seen when Peter and John find them undisturbed but empty in [John 20:6-7](/john/20-6-7 "John 20:6-7 - Peter and John at the Empty Tomb"). Finally, the burial by a rich man in a new tomb, involving costly spices, aligns with Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's death and burial, such as [Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Isaiah 53:9 - The Messiah's Burial with the Rich").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **wound (Greek, _déō'_):** From G1210, a primary verb meaning "to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):--bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind." In this context, it specifically refers to the act of wrapping or binding Jesus' body tightly with the linen cloths, a common practice in Jewish burial to secure the body and the spices within the wrappings.
* **linen clothes (Greek, _othónion'_):** From G3608, a neuter noun referring to "a linen bandage." This term denotes strips of linen cloth, rather than a single shroud, which were used to wrap the body. This specific detail becomes crucial evidence later, as the disciples observe these strips lying undisturbed in the empty tomb, distinct from a single, collapsed shroud.
* **manner (Greek, _éthos'_):** From G1485, meaning "a usage (prescribed by habit or law):--custom, manner, be wont." This word emphasizes that Joseph and Nicodemus were meticulously adhering to the established and respected Jewish burial traditions, even under duress and in haste. Their actions were not arbitrary but followed a prescribed cultural and religious custom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then took they the body of Jesus":** This phrase immediately follows the granting of permission by Pilate to Joseph of Arimathea. "They" refers to Joseph and Nicodemus, who together undertake the solemn task. The act of "taking the body" signifies their ownership of the responsibility and their deep reverence for Jesus, contrasting sharply with the public rejection and execution He had just endured. It underscores the physical reality of Jesus' death.
* **"and wound it in linen clothes with the spices":** This describes the core action of the burial preparation. The body was carefully wrapped in strips of linen, and the spices (a mixture of myrrh and aloes, as specified in [John 19:39](/john/19-39 "John 19:39 - Nicodemus's Spices")) were applied between the layers of cloth. This was not for mummification but to honor the deceased and to help mitigate the odor of decay, a common practice in Jewish burials. The significant quantity of spices brought by Nicodemus highlights the profound respect and devotion shown to Jesus.
* **"as the manner of the Jews is to bury":** This concluding clause confirms that the actions taken were in full accordance with the established Jewish burial customs of the time. It emphasizes the cultural and religious context of the burial, ensuring that Jesus received a proper, albeit hasty, interment according to His people's traditions. This detail further grounds the narrative in historical reality and reinforces the authenticity of the event.

#### Literary Devices
John's Gospel employs several literary devices in [John 19:40](/john/19-40 "John 19:40 - Jesus' Burial Preparation") to convey deeper meaning. **Realism** is prominent, as the text provides a stark, unvarnished account of the physical preparation of a deceased body, grounding the narrative in tangible human experience. This realism underscores the undeniable fact of Jesus' death, which is crucial for the theological weight of His resurrection. There is also a subtle use of **Irony**: Jesus, condemned as a criminal and abandoned by most of His followers, is honored in death by two men who were previously secret disciples, now displaying remarkable public courage. This unexpected devotion contrasts sharply with the earlier flight of His inner circle. Furthermore, the meticulous description of the linen cloths (`othónia`) and spices functions as **Foreshadowing**. These very items, precisely because of their undisturbed state in the tomb, will later serve as key evidence for the resurrection, transforming symbols of death into silent witnesses of life. The careful adherence to **Jewish Custom** also serves as a literary device, authenticating the narrative and connecting Jesus' burial to the broader cultural and religious practices of His time, while simultaneously setting the stage for how His resurrection would defy and transcend those very customs.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 19:40 is profoundly significant as it affirms the absolute reality of Jesus' death, a cornerstone of Christian theology. Without a genuine death, there can be no resurrection, and thus no atonement for sin. The meticulous care taken by Joseph and Nicodemus, adhering to Jewish burial customs, underscores the humanity of Jesus and the finality of His earthly life. Yet, this very act of burial, seemingly an end, serves as a vital precursor to the ultimate triumph over death. The grave clothes and spices, intended to prepare a body for decay, instead become silent witnesses to the power of God to bring life from death, transforming a scene of sorrow into one of anticipation for the greatest miracle. This verse thus bridges the profound sorrow of the cross with the glorious hope of the empty tomb, emphasizing that Christ's death was real, but not His final state.

* [Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Isaiah 53:9 - The Messiah's Burial with the Rich")
* [Matthew 27:59-60](/matthew/27-59-60 "Matthew 27:59-60 - Joseph of Arimathea Buries Jesus")
* [Luke 23:53](/luke/23-53 "Luke 23:53 - Jesus Laid in a New Tomb")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 19:40 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us of the quiet courage often required in discipleship. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, once hesitant, stepped forward in Jesus' darkest hour, risking their reputations and safety to honor Him. Their actions challenge us to consider whether our faith is merely private or if we are willing to act boldly and sacrificially when it truly matters, especially when it is unpopular or costly. This verse also underscores the reality of Jesus' humanity and His genuine death, which is foundational to the gospel. It was a real death, a real burial, which makes the subsequent resurrection all the more miraculous and powerful. For us, this means that the victory over sin and death is not a myth but a historical reality, offering genuine hope for our own mortality and the promise of new life. The loving care shown to Jesus' body also prompts us to reflect on how we honor the deceased and treat the bodies of those we love, recognizing the inherent dignity of human life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the courage of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus challenge your own willingness to openly identify with Christ, especially in difficult circumstances?**
* **What significance does the meticulous preparation of Jesus' body for burial hold for your understanding of His death and resurrection?**
* **In what ways can we, like Joseph and Nicodemus, offer acts of sacrificial love and service to Christ, even when it requires personal cost?**

### FAQ
**Why were so many spices used for Jesus' burial, as mentioned in the preceding verse (John 19:39)?**

Answer: The "about a hundred pounds weight" of myrrh and aloes brought by Nicodemus ([John 19:39](/john/19-39 "John 19:39 - Nicodemus's Spices")) was an extraordinary amount, far exceeding what was typical for an ordinary burial. This lavish quantity signifies the immense respect, honor, and love that Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus had for Jesus. It was a kingly amount, anointing Him posthumously in a manner befitting His true identity, even though He died as a condemned criminal. While the spices would have helped mitigate the odor of decomposition, their primary purpose in such abundance was an act of profound devotion and reverence, akin to an expensive anointing, rather than a form of embalming in the Egyptian sense.

**Who were Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, and why are their roles in Jesus' burial significant?**

Answer: Joseph of Arimathea was a rich and prominent member of the Sanhedrin, described as a "secret disciple" of Jesus "for fear of the Jews" ([John 19:38](/john/19-38 "John 19:38 - Joseph of Arimathea")). Nicodemus was also a leading Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council, who had previously visited Jesus by night ([John 3:1-2](/john/3-1-2 "John 3:1-2 - Nicodemus's Night Visit to Jesus")). Their roles are highly significant because, despite their initial secrecy and high social standing which put them at great risk, they publicly stepped forward to honor Jesus' body when His other disciples had scattered. Their courageous actions ensured Jesus received a proper, dignified burial according to Jewish custom, fulfilling prophecy ([Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Isaiah 53:9 - The Messiah's Burial with the Rich")) and providing a historical anchor for the subsequent resurrection narrative. They represent a powerful example of faith moving from hidden conviction to open, costly devotion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 19:40, depicting the burial of Jesus, is not merely a historical detail but a crucial component of the Christ-centered narrative of redemption. The meticulous preparation of Jesus' body, wrapped in linen cloths with spices, underscores the undeniable reality of His death—a death that was necessary for the atonement of sins. This physical death on the cross, followed by burial, is the very foundation upon which the resurrection stands. As Paul emphatically declares in [1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel Message"), the gospel is 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." The grave clothes, carefully applied by Joseph and Nicodemus, later become silent, yet powerful, witnesses to the empty tomb, serving as tangible proof that the body was no longer there ([John 20:6-7](/john/20-6-7 "John 20:6-7 - Peter and John at the Empty Tomb")). Thus, the burial is not the end of the story, but the penultimate act before God's ultimate victory over death through Christ's resurrection, securing eternal life for all who believe ([Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Buried with Christ in Baptism")). Jesus' burial, therefore, is a vital link in the chain of events that confirms His triumph over sin and death, providing the assurance of our own future resurrection and new life in Him ([Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship in Heaven")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 11:44

And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.

Acts 5:6

And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried [him] out, and buried [him].

John 20:5

And he stooping down, [and looking in], saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.

John 20:7

And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.

Matthew 26:12

For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did [it] for my burial.

Luke 24:12

Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.