Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.

MARK 15:43KJV
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Mark 15:43 (KJV)

What does Mark 15:43 mean?

Mark 15:43 describes Joseph of Arimathaea, a respected member of the Jewish council, who courageously approached Pilate to ask for Jesus’ body after the crucifixion. The verse highlights Joseph’s honorable position and his hope for God’s kingdom, as well as his boldness in taking this risky step.

Joseph was not one of Jesus’ public followers during his ministry, but Mark notes that he was “an honourable counsellor” and someone who “waited for the kingdom of God.” The situation takes place just after Jesus’ death, when most of his disciples had fled. Joseph’s request to Pilate was unusual and brave, since claiming the body of a crucified man could bring suspicion or danger, especially for someone of his status.

The Greek behind Mark 15:43

  • ἐντόλμως (entolmos, “boldly”): The Greek word for “boldly” carries the sense of acting with courage or daring, suggesting Joseph’s action was not just a formality but involved real risk and bravery.
  • προσδέχομαι (prosdéchomai, “waited for”): This word means more than just waiting; it often implies active expectation or longing. Joseph was not passively hoping for God’s kingdom but was looking for it with anticipation.
  • βουλευτής (bouleutēs, “counsellor”): This term refers to a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Mark’s use of this word emphasizes Joseph’s high social and religious standing, making his actions even more striking.

Why Mark 15:43 matters

  • Mark 15:43 clarifies that not all members of the Jewish council were opposed to Jesus; Joseph’s honorable actions show diversity within the leadership.
  • The verse emphasizes the courage required to associate with Jesus after his execution, especially for someone in Joseph’s position.
  • Mark’s mention that Joseph “waited for the kingdom of God” connects him to the hopes of faithful Jews and sets the stage for the burial and resurrection narrative that follows.

Where else these words appear

“counsellor” Greek G1010 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 23:50 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:

“Arimathaea” Greek G707 · used in 4 verses

  • Matthew 27:57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:
  • Luke 23:51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.
  • John 19:38 And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.

“honourable” Greek G2158 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 13:50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.
  • Acts 17:12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:35 And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

“waited” Greek G4327 · used in 14 verses

  • Luke 2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
  • Luke 23:51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.
  • Philippians 2:29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: