And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.
MATTHEW 27:60KJVWhat does Matthew 27:60 mean?
Matthew 27:60 describes how Jesus’ body was placed in a new tomb, carved out of rock, and a large stone was rolled in front of the entrance before the person who buried him left. This verse shows the care taken in Jesus’ burial and the secure way the tomb was closed.
Joseph of Arimathea, a follower of Jesus, is the one who takes Jesus’ body and lays it in his own unused tomb. The scene happens after Jesus’ crucifixion, and the details about the tomb being new and cut from rock, as well as the stone being rolled to the entrance, emphasize that the burial was deliberate, respectful, and meant to be secure.
The Greek behind Matthew 27:60
- The word for "tomb" is τάφος (taphos), which means a burial place or grave. The use of this word highlights that Jesus was given a proper burial, not just left exposed.
- The phrase "hewn out in the rock" uses πέτρα (petra), meaning solid rock. This detail shows the tomb was not a simple pit but a carefully prepared, permanent resting place, often reserved for the wealthy.
- The word for "great stone" is λίθος μέγας (lithos megas). The emphasis on the stone’s size underlines how the tomb was securely sealed, making it clear that entry would be difficult.
Why Matthew 27:60 matters
- Matthew 27:60 shows that Jesus’ burial was handled with dignity and intention, countering any idea that his body was discarded or treated carelessly.
- The description of the new, rock-cut tomb and the large stone sets up the later account of the resurrection, making it clear that the tomb was secure and not easily tampered with.
- This verse connects to prophecies and expectations about the Messiah’s burial, and it helps readers understand the historical and cultural context of Jewish burial practices at the time.