Luke 23:53

KJV

And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he took {G2507} it {G846} down {G2507}, and wrapped {G1794} it {G846} in linen {G4616}, and {G2532} laid {G5087} it {G846} in {G1722} a sepulchre {G3418} that was hewn in stone {G2991}, wherein {G3757} never {G3756} man {G3764} before {G3762} was {G2258} laid {G2749}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He took it down, wrapped it in a linen sheet, and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, that had never been used.

Berean Standard Bible

Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had yet been laid.

American Standard Version

And he took it down, and wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid him in a tomb that was hewn in stone, where never man had yet lain.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 23:53 meticulously describes the respectful burial of Jesus Christ by Joseph of Arimathaea, a prominent member of the Jewish council. Following Jesus' death on the cross, Joseph courageously obtained permission from Pilate to take the body, which he then carefully took down, wrapped in fine linen, and laid in a newly hewn tomb, a sepulchre never before used. This precise account underscores the historical reality of Jesus' death and burial, setting the stage for the miraculous resurrection and subtly fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the immediate follow-up to Jesus' death on the cross, detailed in [Luke 23:44-49](/luke/23-44-49 "Luke 23:44-49 - The Death of Jesus"). The narrative quickly shifts from the public spectacle of crucifixion to the private, solemn act of burial. Joseph of Arimathaea's bold request for Jesus' body, recorded in [Luke 23:50-52](/luke/23-50-52 "Luke 23:50-52 - Joseph of Arimathaea's Request"), precedes this verse, highlighting his unexpected courage and devotion amidst the disciples' scattering. The meticulous description of the tomb's unused state in [Luke 23:53](/luke/23-53 "Luke 23:53 - Jesus' Burial") directly anticipates the discovery of the empty tomb on the third day, as recounted in [Luke 24:1-12](/luke/24-1-12 "Luke 24:1-12 - The Empty Tomb"). This detailed account of the burial ensures that the subsequent resurrection could not be dismissed as a misunderstanding of which body was missing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jewish burial practices in the 1st century AD were deeply rooted in religious law and custom. Bodies of the deceased, especially those executed, were typically to be buried before nightfall, particularly if the Sabbath was approaching, to avoid defilement of the land (cf. [Deuteronomy 21:22-23](/deuteronomy/21-22-23 "Deuteronomy 21:22-23 - Law Concerning Executed Criminals")). Crucified individuals were often left on the cross or buried in common graves, making Joseph's request for a private burial a remarkable and risky act. Wealthier individuals, like Joseph, would typically own family tombs, often carved out of rock, providing a secure and permanent resting place. The wrapping of the body in linen (often with spices, as noted in [John 19:40](/john/19-40 "John 19:40 - Nicodemus and Joseph Prepare Jesus' Body")) was a standard part of preparing the deceased for burial, signifying respect and adherence to custom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes the **historical veracity of Jesus' death and burial**, grounding the subsequent resurrection in verifiable events. The specific details of the tomb—being "hewn in stone" and "wherein never man before was laid"—serve to underscore the **uniqueness and integrity of the resurrection**; there could be no confusion with another body. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **divine sovereignty and prophecy fulfillment**, particularly the quiet fulfillment of [Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Isaiah 53:9 - Prophecy of the Suffering Servant's Burial"), which foretold the Messiah's burial with the rich. Lastly, Joseph of Arimathaea's actions exemplify **courageous devotion and faithfulness** even in the face of immense pressure and danger, contrasting with the fear-driven scattering of many of Jesus' disciples following His arrest and crucifixion (see [Luke 23:49](/luke/23-49 "Luke 23:49 - Women and Acquaintances Watch from Afar")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **took down (Greek, _kathairéō'_):** From κατά (down) and αἱρέομαι (to take, choose), this verb signifies a deliberate act of lowering or removing, often with force or demolition. Here, it describes the careful but decisive action of Joseph in taking Jesus' body from the cross, an act requiring both physical effort and moral courage, given the public nature of the execution and the stigma associated with the crucified.
* **wrapped (Greek, _entylíssō'_):** Derived from ἐν (in) and a root meaning "to twist," this word means to entwine or wind up in. It describes the process of wrapping the body tightly in the linen cloth, a customary and respectful preparation for burial. This action speaks to the care and dignity afforded to Jesus' body, despite His death as a condemned criminal.
* **hewn in stone (Greek, _laxeutós'_):** A compound word from λᾶς (stone) and a base related to scraping, this adjective specifically denotes something quarried or carved out of rock. It emphasizes the solid, permanent, and often costly nature of the tomb provided by Joseph, distinguishing it from a simple grave dug in the earth. This detail reinforces the quality and security of the burial place.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he took it down,"**: This refers to Joseph of Arimathaea, who, having received permission from Pilate, personally or with assistance, removed Jesus' body from the cross. This was a task typically performed by Roman soldiers or servants, making Joseph's involvement a profound act of reverence and risk.
* **"and wrapped it in linen,"**: Following the removal, Joseph meticulously prepared the body for burial. The "linen" (Greek: _sindṓn_) was a fine, clean cloth used for wrapping the deceased, often accompanied by burial spices (as noted in John's account). This action signifies a dignified and customary burial, despite the circumstances of Jesus' death.
* **"and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone,"**: The act of laying the body implies careful placement. The tomb is described as a "sepulchre" (Greek: _mnēma_), a memorial or burial monument, and specifically "hewn in stone" (Greek: _laxeutós_), indicating it was carved directly out of rock. This detail points to a secure, permanent, and likely expensive tomb, typical of those owned by wealthy individuals like Joseph.
* **"wherein never man before was laid."**: This crucial detail emphasizes the tomb's pristine and unused nature. Its significance lies in ensuring that when the tomb was found empty, there could be no ambiguity or claim that another body had been removed or had risen. This singular occupancy provides undeniable evidence for the unique event of Jesus' resurrection.

#### Literary Devices
Luke's account in [Luke 23:53](/luke/23-53 "Luke 23:53 - Jesus' Burial") employs several literary devices. The **Emphasis** on specific details, such as the "linen" and the tomb being "hewn in stone" and "wherein never man before was laid," serves to underscore the historical reality and the unique nature of Jesus' burial. This meticulous detailing lends credibility to the narrative. There is also a subtle **Irony** at play: Jesus, executed as a common criminal, receives a burial typically reserved for the wealthy and respected, provided by a member of the very council that condemned Him. This dignified burial, provided by Joseph, also serves as **Foreshadowing** for the resurrection. The unused tomb ensures that the subsequent empty tomb could only be attributed to Jesus' unique rising, eliminating any possibility of confusion with other burials. Finally, the narrative employs **Understatement** regarding Joseph's courage; his actions are presented factually, but the implicit risk and devotion are powerfully conveyed.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 23:53 is a pivotal verse that bridges the crucifixion and the resurrection, affirming the historical reality of Jesus' death and burial as foundational to Christian theology. The careful, dignified burial in a new, unused tomb, provided by a righteous and wealthy man, serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign plan unfolding even in apparent defeat. This act ensures the distinctness of Jesus' body and the undeniable nature of His subsequent resurrection, making it impossible to confuse His rising with any other. It also highlights the unexpected ways God works through individuals like Joseph of Arimathaea, who, despite their social standing or previous secrecy, step forward in faith and devotion at a critical moment.

* [Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Prophecy of the Suffering Servant's Burial")
* [Matthew 27:59-60](/matthew/27-59-60 "Matthew's Account of Jesus' Burial")
* [John 19:41-42](/john/19-41-42 "John's Account of Jesus' Burial and the New Tomb")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 23:53, though seemingly a simple account of a burial, is rich with profound implications for our faith. It reminds us that even in moments of profound grief, loss, and apparent defeat, God's meticulous plan is at work. Joseph of Arimathaea's courageous act of identifying with a condemned criminal and providing a dignified burial challenges us to consider our own willingness to stand for Christ, especially when it is unpopular, inconvenient, or costly. His quiet devotion, contrasting with the fear and scattering of others, serves as a powerful example of faithfulness in adversity. For believers today, this verse solidifies the historical bedrock of our faith: Jesus truly died, was truly buried, and therefore, His resurrection from that very tomb is a verifiable, unique event. It encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that even the darkest moments are part of His redemptive design, leading to ultimate victory and glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does Joseph of Arimathaea's courage in requesting Jesus' body teach us about discipleship, especially in difficult times?**
* **How does the detail of the "sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid" strengthen your faith in the historical reality of Jesus' resurrection?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to act with quiet courage and devotion, even when it feels risky or unpopular?**

### FAQ

**Why was it important that the tomb was "hewn in stone" and "wherein never man before was laid"?**

Answer: The details about the tomb are critically important for several reasons. Being "hewn in stone" (Greek: _laxeutós_) indicates a permanent, secure, and typically costly tomb, often owned by wealthy individuals. This detail reinforces the dignity of Jesus' burial, fulfilling the prophecy of [Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Prophecy of the Suffering Servant's Burial") that the Messiah would be "with the rich in his death." More significantly, the fact that "never man before was laid" in this specific tomb (Greek: _oudépō...keîmai_) eliminates any possibility of confusion regarding the resurrection. When the tomb was found empty on the third day, there could be no claim that another body had been removed, or that Jesus' body was mistaken for someone else's. This singular occupancy provides undeniable evidence that the one who rose from that tomb was Jesus Christ alone, thereby validating the uniqueness and integrity of His resurrection (cf. [Luke 24:1-3](/luke/24-1-3 "The Empty Tomb Discovered")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 23:53, while describing the burial of Jesus, is profoundly Christ-centered in its implications, serving as the crucial bridge between the cross and the empty tomb. The meticulous care taken in Jesus' burial, particularly the detail of the unused tomb, underscores the historical reality of His death, which is essential for the efficacy of His sacrifice as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). This dignified burial, provided by Joseph of Arimathaea, a righteous and wealthy man, quietly fulfills the Old Testament prophecy in [Isaiah 53:9](/isaiah/53-9 "Prophecy of the Suffering Servant's Burial") that the Suffering Servant would be "with the rich in his death." Most importantly, the virgin tomb ensures that when the stone was rolled away and the tomb found empty, the subsequent resurrection of Jesus Christ was undeniably His alone, with no possibility of confusion or misidentification. This historical fact of His burial sets the stage for the triumphant resurrection, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith (cf. [1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel Message")). Jesus' descent into the grave, though seemingly a moment of defeat, was a necessary step in His victory over death and the grave, foreshadowing His ultimate triumph and the promise of resurrection for all who believe in Him (cf. [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")).

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

Matthew 27:59

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

Matthew 27:60

And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

Mark 15:46

And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.

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.