Matthew 27:61 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:61 mean?

Matthew 27:61 describes Mary Magdalene and another woman named Mary sitting across from the tomb where Jesus had just been buried, watching what was happening. This verse shows that these two women were present and attentive at the burial site after Jesus’s crucifixion.

The scene takes place just after Jesus’s body has been placed in the tomb by Joseph of Arimathea. Matthew is careful to name Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” (likely the mother of James and Joseph) as witnesses, highlighting their presence and attention. The verse sets up their later role as the first to discover the empty tomb, emphasizing their faithfulness and involvement in these key moments.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:61

• The word “sitting” (καθεζόμεναι, kathezomenai) means to be seated or to remain in place. The Greek here suggests the women were not just passing by but were deliberately staying and watching, showing their commitment.
• The phrase “over against” (ἀπέναντι, apenanti) means directly opposite or facing. This detail shows the women had a clear view of the tomb, making them reliable witnesses to what happened.
• “Sepulchre” (τάφος, taphos) means a tomb or burial place. The use of this word makes clear that this was a real, physical location, not a symbolic one.

Why Matthew 27:61 matters

• This verse clears up any question about whether Jesus’s followers knew where he was buried, since Matthew names specific women who witnessed the location.
• By highlighting the women’s presence, Matthew shows their importance as witnesses to both Jesus’s burial and, later, his resurrection.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by setting up the narrative for the discovery of the empty tomb, emphasizing continuity and reliability in the story.