Mark 16:5 (KJV)

What does Mark 16:5 mean?

Mark 16:5 describes how the women who came to Jesus’ tomb entered and saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a long white robe, which frightened them. The verse sets the scene for the discovery that Jesus’ body is not in the tomb, highlighting the women’s surprise and fear at seeing this unexpected figure.

The setting is early Sunday morning after Jesus’ crucifixion. Several women, including Mary Magdalene, have come to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. Instead of finding the body, they see a young man in white clothing sitting inside. The verse emphasizes their shock and fear, preparing the reader for the announcement that Jesus has risen.

The Greek behind Mark 16:5

• The word for "sepulchre" is τάφος (taphos, G3419), meaning a tomb or burial place. This clarifies that the women are entering an actual burial chamber, not just approaching a grave.
• The word for "young man" is νεανίσκος (neaniskos, G3495), often used for a young adult male. The description does not call him an angel here, but the white garment and the context suggest something supernatural or extraordinary.
• The word for "affrighted" is ἐκθαμβέω (ekthambeō, G1568), which means to be greatly amazed or alarmed, not just mildly surprised. This word choice shows the women’s intense emotional reaction to what they saw.

Why Mark 16:5 matters

• Mark 16:5 highlights the women’s initial reaction of fear and astonishment, which is a common response in the Bible when people encounter the divine or the unexpected.
• The verse sets up the dramatic revelation that Jesus is no longer in the tomb, making the resurrection announcement more striking.
• By describing the young man in a white robe, Mark hints at a heavenly messenger, even before any words are spoken, inviting the reader to pay close attention to what follows.