John 19:38 (KJV)

What does John 19:38 mean?

John 19:38 describes how Joseph of Arimathaea, who was a follower of Jesus but kept it secret out of fear of the Jewish authorities, asked Pilate for permission to take Jesus’ body after the crucifixion. Pilate allowed it, so Joseph came and took Jesus’ body away for burial.

Joseph of Arimathaea was a member of the Jewish council, but he believed in Jesus quietly because he was afraid of how the other Jewish leaders would react. After Jesus died, Joseph gathered his courage to approach Pilate, the Roman governor, and requested Jesus’ body—a bold act since crucified bodies were often left unburied. This moment sets the stage for Jesus’ burial and shows that even those who followed Jesus in secret could step forward at a crucial time.

The Greek behind John 19:38

• The word "secretly" (κρυπτός, kryptos) is used here to describe how Joseph followed Jesus. This word means hidden or concealed, highlighting Joseph’s fear and the risks involved in his actions.
• The word "fear" (φόβος, phobos) refers to the anxiety or dread Joseph felt regarding the Jewish authorities. This gives insight into the real social and personal danger faced by Jesus’ followers at that time.
• The phrase "besought Pilate" (ἠρώτησεν τὸν Πιλᾶτον, ērotēsen ton Pilaton) uses a word for asking or requesting, which often carries a sense of respectful or earnest pleading. This shows Joseph’s humility and the seriousness of his request.

Why John 19:38 matters

• John 19:38 clears up the idea that all of Jesus’ followers were public and outspoken; some, like Joseph, believed quietly due to real fears of persecution.
• The verse emphasizes the courage it took for Joseph to act, especially after Jesus’ death, when public association with him was risky.
• This verse connects to the wider story by showing how Jesus’ burial was handled respectfully, fulfilling Jewish customs and setting up the events of the resurrection.