Mark 16:9

¶ Now when [Jesus] was risen early the first [day] of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.

Now {G1161} when Jesus was risen {G450} early {G4404} the first {G4413} day of the week {G4521}, he appeared {G5316} first {G4412} to Mary {G3137} Magdalene {G3094}, out of {G575} whom {G3739} he had cast {G1544} seven {G2033} devils {G1140}.

When Yeshua rose early Sunday, he appeared first to Miryam of Magdala, from whom he had expelled seven demons.

Early on the first day of the week, after Jesus had risen, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had driven out seven demons.

Now when he was risen early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons.

Commentary

Context

Mark 16:9 is part of what is traditionally known as the "longer ending" of the Gospel of Mark (verses 9-20). While some ancient manuscripts omit these verses, they have been widely accepted and used throughout church history, providing crucial details about Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and the Great Commission. This verse immediately follows the account of the empty tomb and the angelic message to the women. It sets the scene for the first appearance of the resurrected Jesus, establishing the pivotal moment of His victory over death.

Key Themes

  • The Reality of the Resurrection: The verse emphatically states that Jesus "was risen early the first day of the week," underscoring the literal and historical truth of Christ's resurrection. This event is the cornerstone of Christian faith and the foundation of hope.
  • Jesus' Compassion and Grace: It is highly significant that Jesus' first post-resurrection appearance was to Mary Magdalene. Despite her past affliction of having "seven devils" cast out of her, Jesus chose her as the initial witness. This highlights His profound compassion, grace, and willingness to elevate those who have been deeply transformed by His power, regardless of their past.
  • Mary Magdalene's Pivotal Role: Mary Magdalene, often misunderstood, is presented here as a central figure in the resurrection narrative. Her devotion and past healing made her a uniquely prepared and faithful witness, chosen by God to bear the most important news. Her example shows that God uses those whom He has redeemed.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "risen early the first day of the week" emphasizes the specific timing of Jesus' resurrection, aligning with the prophetic understanding of Him rising on the third day (as hinted in Matthew 12:40). The "first day of the week" also signifies the beginning of a new creation, a new era inaugurated by Christ's victory over sin and death.

The description of Mary Magdalene as one "out of whom he had cast seven devils" (Greek: hepta daimonia) serves as a potent reminder of Jesus' transformative power. It highlights the profound change Jesus brought into her life, making her a living testament to His ability to deliver from severe spiritual bondage and affliction. This detail underscores why she, of all people, was chosen for such a monumental revelation and mission.

Related Scriptures

Practical Application

Mark 16:9 offers powerful encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

  1. Transformation is Real: Just as Jesus delivered Mary Magdalene from severe spiritual bondage, He has the power to transform any life, offering new creation and freedom from past struggles or sins.
  2. God Uses the Transformed: Our past does not disqualify us from being used by God. In fact, our personal testimony of His deliverance can make us powerful witnesses to His grace and power.
  3. The Gospel is for All: Jesus' first appearance was not to a prominent leader or disciple, but to a woman with a troubled past, emphasizing that the good news of the resurrection is for everyone, especially those who feel overlooked or burdened.
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Cross-References

  • John 20:14 (7 votes)

    And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.

  • John 20:19 (7 votes)

    ¶ Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace [be] unto you.

  • Luke 8:2 (6 votes)

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

  • John 20:12 (5 votes)

    And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.

  • Mark 15:47 (5 votes)

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

  • Matthew 27:56 (4 votes)

    Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.

  • Luke 24:10 (4 votes)

    It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary [the mother] of James, and other [women that were] with them, which told these things unto the apostles.