Luke 23:55

And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.

And {G1161} the women {G1135} also {G2532}, which {G3748} came {G2258}{G4905} with him {G846} from {G1537} Galilee {G1056}, followed after {G2628}, and beheld {G2300} the sepulchre {G3419}, and {G2532} how {G5613} his {G846} body {G4983} was laid {G5087}.

The women who had come with Yeshua from the Galil followed; they saw the tomb and how his body was placed in it.

The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how His body was placed.

And the women, who had come with him out of Galilee, followed after, and beheld the tomb, and how his body was laid.

Commentary

Luke 23:55 provides a poignant detail in the immediate aftermath of Jesus' crucifixion and burial. It highlights the unwavering devotion of the women who had followed Him from Galilee, emphasizing their role as crucial eyewitnesses to the reality of His death and the manner of His interment. Their careful observation sets the stage for the dramatic events of the resurrection.

Context

This verse follows the account of Jesus' death on the cross and the compassionate act of Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member, who bravely requested Jesus' body from Pilate. Joseph then wrapped the body in linen and laid it in a new tomb, hewn out of rock. Luke 23:55 focuses on the women, often identified as Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and others, who had been part of Jesus' inner circle of followers and supporters, even ministering to Him out of their own substance. Their presence here underscores their deep loyalty and commitment, even in the face of profound grief and despair. The immediacy of the burial was also influenced by the approaching Sabbath, which began at sunset (John 19:42).

Key Themes

  • Faithful Witness: The women's presence and careful observation were not accidental. They served as vital eyewitnesses to the burial, ensuring that there could be no doubt about the fact that Jesus had truly died and was placed in a specific tomb. This detail becomes paramount when they later discover the empty tomb.
  • Unwavering Devotion: Even in the darkest hour, when most male disciples had scattered, these women remained. Their loyalty to Jesus extended beyond His public ministry, persisting through His suffering and death, and culminating in their presence at His burial.
  • Preparation for Resurrection: By "beholding the sepulchre, and how his body was laid," the women gained precise knowledge of Jesus' burial site. This knowledge was essential for their subsequent visit to the tomb on the first day of the week, where they would become the first to witness the empty tomb and hear the news of the resurrection (Luke 24:1-10).
  • The Reality of Death: The verse firmly establishes the reality of Jesus' physical death and burial, counteracting any later claims that He merely swooned or that His body was not truly interred.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "beheld" comes from the Greek verb theaomai (θεάομαι), which implies more than a casual glance. It suggests a deliberate, careful, and attentive observation, to "gaze upon" or "contemplate." This choice of word reinforces the idea that the women were not just passing by; they were intently watching and noting the details of the burial, which would be crucial for their later testimony.

Practical Application

Luke 23:55 reminds us of the profound value of faithful presence, even in times of sorrow and uncertainty. The women exemplify true discipleship, remaining steadfast when circumstances were bleakest. Their careful observation teaches us the importance of being attentive witnesses to God's work, even when it unfolds in unexpected or painful ways. Just as their witness prepared them for the joy of the resurrection, our faithful endurance and observation can prepare us to see God's purposes fulfilled, even beyond our current understanding. It encourages us to remain devoted, trusting that God's plan is always at work, even when it appears to be hidden in darkness.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 23:49 (6 votes)

    And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

  • Luke 8:2 (3 votes)

    And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,

  • Matthew 27:61 (3 votes)

    And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre.

  • Mark 15:47 (3 votes)

    And Mary Magdalene and Mary [the mother] of Joses beheld where he was laid.