John 20:2 (KJV)

What does John 20:2 mean?

John 20:2 describes Mary Magdalene running to tell Simon Peter and another disciple that Jesus’ body is missing from the tomb, and she does not know where it has been taken. Mary is alarmed and reports this discovery, believing someone has removed Jesus’ body.

Mary Magdalene is the first to find the empty tomb early on the first day of the week. She immediately seeks out Simon Peter and “the other disciple, whom Jesus loved” (traditionally understood as John), sharing her distress and confusion. The verse captures the urgency and shock of the moment, setting the stage for the disciples’ own discovery and the unfolding events of the resurrection morning.

The Greek behind John 20:2

• The word “run” (τρέχω, trechō) is used here (“runneth,” G5143), showing Mary’s haste and emotional urgency. This is not a casual walk but a hurried, anxious movement.
• The phrase “the other disciple, whom Jesus loved” uses the Greek verb ἀγαπάω (phileō, G5368), which means “to love.” This highlights a special relationship between Jesus and this disciple, often understood as John.
• The word for “taken away” (αἴρω, airō, G142) can mean to lift up or remove. Mary assumes the body has been physically removed, not that Jesus has risen.

Why John 20:2 matters

• John 20:2 shows Mary Magdalene’s immediate response to the empty tomb, emphasizing her devotion and the shock of the first witnesses.
• The verse highlights the confusion and lack of understanding among Jesus’ followers before they grasp the reality of the resurrection.
• This moment sets up the investigation by Peter and the other disciple, leading to their own encounter with the empty tomb and the evidence left behind.