Luke 23:53

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.

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}.

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.

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.

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

Luke 23:53 describes a pivotal moment following Jesus' crucifixion: His burial. This verse details the actions of Joseph of Arimathaea, a wealthy and righteous member of the Jewish council who secretly followed Jesus.

Context

Immediately after Jesus' death on the cross, as the Sabbath approached, Joseph of Arimathaea boldly approached Pontius Pilate to request Jesus' body (Luke 23:52). This act required significant courage, as it meant identifying with a condemned criminal. The swiftness of the burial was necessitated by Jewish law, which prohibited leaving a body exposed overnight, especially before the Sabbath (Deuteronomy 21:22-23).

The passage aligns with accounts in other Gospels, such as Matthew 27:59-60, Mark 15:46, and John 19:40-42, all emphasizing the respectful and proper burial of Jesus.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Dignified Burial: Despite a criminal's execution, Jesus' body was treated with honor. Joseph, a man of means, provided a new, private tomb and wrapped the body in clean linen, a customary and respectful burial practice.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: The manner of Jesus' burial, particularly being laid "in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone" and provided by a rich man, quietly fulfills Old Testament prophecy, specifically Isaiah 53:9, which states He would be "with the rich in his death."
  • Uniqueness of the Tomb: The detail "wherein never man before was laid" is profoundly significant. It ensures that when the tomb was found empty, there could be no confusion or claim that another body had risen. This singular occupancy provides undeniable evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ alone.
  • Courage and Devotion: Joseph's actions demonstrate profound love and courage. At a time when Jesus' disciples had scattered, Joseph risked his reputation and position to honor his Lord.

Linguistic Insights

The word translated "sepulchre" (Greek: mnēmeion) refers to a memorial or tomb, often carved out of rock. The phrase "hewn in stone" emphasizes its permanence and secure nature, typical of tombs for the wealthy. The "linen" (Greek: sindōn) refers to fine linen cloth, commonly used for wrapping bodies for burial, often accompanied by spices (as noted in John's account).

Practical Application

Luke 23:53 reminds us that even in apparent defeat and death, God's sovereign plan is meticulously unfolding. Joseph's courageous act serves as an example of faithfulness and devotion even when it's unpopular or dangerous. For believers today, this verse underscores the historical reality of Jesus' death and burial, setting the stage for the miraculous resurrection that is the cornerstone of Christian faith. It highlights that no detail, even in the darkest moments, is overlooked by God, and every event serves His ultimate purpose of salvation and glory.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 27:59 (6 votes)

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

  • Matthew 27:60 (6 votes)

    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 (4 votes)

    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 (4 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.