John 19:42

There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation [day]; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.

There {G1563} laid they {G5087} Jesus {G2424} therefore {G3767} because {G1223} of the Jews {G2453}' preparation {G3904} day; for {G3754} the sepulchre {G3419} was {G2258} nigh at hand {G1451}.

So, because it was Preparation Day for the Judeans, and because the tomb was close by, that is where they buried Yeshua.

And because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and the tomb was nearby, they placed Jesus there.

There then because of the Jews’ Preparation (for the tomb was nigh at hand) they laid Jesus.

Commentary

John 19:42 describes the solemn and swift burial of Jesus following His crucifixion. This verse highlights the immediate circumstances surrounding His interment, emphasizing the urgency driven by Jewish custom and the convenience of the tomb's location.

Context

The phrase "Jews' preparation day" (Greek: paraskeuē) refers to the day before the Sabbath, which in this crucial instance was the day before the special Passover Sabbath. According to Jewish law, particularly as seen in Deuteronomy 21:23, the bodies of those executed had to be taken down and buried before nightfall, which marked the beginning of the Sabbath (from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset). This pressing timeframe explains why Jesus was laid in a new tomb that was "nigh at hand," or very close by, in the garden where He was crucified.

This final act of caring for Jesus' body was undertaken by Joseph of Arimathaea, a secret disciple, and Nicodemus, who brought a lavish mixture of myrrh and aloes for the burial.

Key Themes

  • Urgency and Observance: The verse underscores the Jewish people's strict adherence to Sabbath laws, even in extraordinary circumstances. The burial had to be completed before the sacred day began, preventing the body from remaining exposed.
  • Providential Convenience: The proximity of the tomb was not accidental but part of God's sovereign plan. This convenient location facilitated the quick burial required by custom, ensuring the proper handling of Jesus' body and fulfilling prophecies.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: Though seemingly a practical detail, the burial of Jesus in a new, rich man's tomb (owned by Joseph of Arimathaea) aligns with Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53:9, which states He would be "with the rich in his death."
  • Quiet Devotion: The actions of Joseph and Nicodemus, who risked their reputations and safety to honor Jesus' body, highlight a profound yet understated faith. Their courageous devotion emerged at a time when most disciples had fled.

Linguistic Insights

The term "preparation day" (Greek: paraskeuē) literally means "preparation" and was the common Jewish designation for Friday, the day before the Sabbath. It signifies the time when all necessary tasks, including cooking and burials, had to be completed before the Sabbath rest began at sunset.

Practical Application

John 19:42, though brief, is a foundational verse. It solidifies the historical reality of Jesus' death and burial, which is a crucial precursor to the resurrection on the third day. It reminds believers that even in moments of profound sorrow or perceived defeat, God's meticulous plan is unfolding, ensuring every detail serves His ultimate purpose.

Furthermore, it highlights the significance of faithful acts, even those done in quiet or seemingly insignificant ways. The devotion of Joseph and Nicodemus, who stepped forward when others faltered, provides an enduring example of courage and love for Christ.

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Cross-References

  • John 19:31 (5 votes)

    ¶ The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and [that] they might be taken away.

  • John 19:14 (5 votes)

    And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!

  • John 19:41 (3 votes)

    Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.

  • Isaiah 53:9 (3 votes)

    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.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:4 (2 votes)

    And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

  • John 19:20 (2 votes)

    This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, [and] Greek, [and] Latin.

  • Psalms 22:15 (2 votes)

    My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.