Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.

JOHN 20:16KJV
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John 20:16 (KJV)

What does John 20:16 mean?

John 20:16 shows Jesus speaking directly to Mary Magdalene after His resurrection, calling her by name. When Mary hears Jesus say "Mary," she immediately recognizes Him and responds by calling Him "Rabboni," a term of deep respect that means "Master."

In this scene, Mary Magdalene is at the empty tomb, grieving and confused, not realizing at first that she is speaking with Jesus. The moment Jesus calls her by her name, Mary recognizes Him, highlighting the personal relationship between them. Her response, "Rabboni," uses an Aramaic word that expresses both recognition and reverence, showing her devotion and the significance of this encounter.

The Greek behind John 20:16

  • Ῥαββουνί (Rabboni; transliteration: Rabboni): This Aramaic word is explained in the text as meaning "Master." It is a more personal or respectful form than the more common "Rabbi," and its use here shows Mary's deep respect and affection for Jesus.
  • διδάσκαλε (didaskale; translated here as "Master"): This Greek word means "teacher" or "master." The explanation in the verse helps readers unfamiliar with Aramaic understand the significance of Mary's address.
  • Μαρία (Maria; transliteration: Mary): Jesus calls Mary by her name, which is a simple but powerful moment. The use of her name signals recognition and a personal relationship, which is central to the emotional impact of the verse.

Why John 20:16 matters

  • John 20:16 clears up that Mary did not recognize Jesus until He called her by name, emphasizing the personal nature of Jesus' relationship with His followers.
  • The verse highlights the importance of personal recognition and connection in faith, showing that Jesus knows and calls each person individually.
  • This moment marks the turning point in the resurrection narrative, as Mary becomes the first to recognize and respond to the risen Jesus, setting the stage for her to share this news with others.

Where else these words appear

“Rabboni” Greek G4462 · used in 2 verses

  • Mark 10:51 And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight.

“turned” Greek G4762 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 5:39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
  • Luke 7:44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.
  • John 1:38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi,(which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?

“Mary” Greek G3137 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
  • Luke 1:34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
  • John 11:2 (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)

“Master” Greek G1320 · used in 57 verses

  • Matthew 8:19 And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
  • Mark 12:14 And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?
  • Luke 21:7 And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?