Mark 15:38 (KJV)

What does Mark 15:38 mean?

Mark 15:38 describes how, at the moment of Jesus’ death, the veil in the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. This event is presented as a dramatic sign, showing that something significant has changed in the relationship between God and people.

The verse is part of Mark’s account of Jesus’ crucifixion. The “veil of the temple” was a large curtain that separated the most sacred part of the Jewish temple (the Holy of Holies) from the rest. The tearing of the veil is described as happening from the top down, which suggests it was not done by human hands. The detail is meant to show that Jesus’ death had a profound impact, marking a turning point in the story.

The Greek behind Mark 15:38

• “veil” (καταπέτασμα, katapetasma): This word refers specifically to the inner curtain in the temple, which separated the Holy of Holies from the rest of the sanctuary. Its tearing would have been shocking to anyone familiar with temple worship.
• “rent” (σχίζω, schizō): This verb means to split or tear apart. The use of this word emphasizes a sudden, forceful action, not a gradual or accidental event.
• “from the top (ἄνωθεν, anōthen) to the bottom (κάτω, katō)”: The Greek makes clear the direction of the tear, highlighting that it began at the top, which would be out of reach for ordinary people, suggesting divine action.

Why Mark 15:38 matters

• Mark 15:38 clarifies that the tearing of the veil was a supernatural event, not caused by people, which signals a major shift in how people could approach God.
• The verse connects to the wider narrative by showing that Jesus’ death had immediate and visible effects, not just spiritual or symbolic ones.
• This detail helps readers understand the significance of the crucifixion in the context of Jewish worship, where the veil represented separation between God and humanity.