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John 20:1

The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.

John 20:1 · King James Version

Meaning

On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene arrived at the tomb where Jesus had been laid to rest. It was still dark when she approached, only to find that the stone covering the entrance had been rolled away. This moment is significant in the biblical narrative because it marks the beginning of a series of events that would ultimately lead to the discovery of Jesus' resurrection. Mary Magdalene's early morning visit to the sepulchre showcases her deep devotion to Jesus and her eagerness to honor Him even in his death. The stone being removed from the tomb symbolizes the defeat of death and the fulfillment of the prophecy of Jesus' resurrection. This pivotal moment sets the stage for the miraculous events that would soon unfold, shaping the foundation of the Christian faith.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see Mary Magdalene visiting the tomb of Jesus early on the first day of the week. The fact that she came when it was still dark adds to the somber and mysterious atmosphere of the moment. The mention of the stone being taken away from the sepulchre is significant, as it symbolizes the defeat of death and the victory of Jesus over the grave. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of resurrection and the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to rise again on the third day. Mary Magdalene's presence at the empty tomb also underscores the important role of women in the early Christian movement and their eyewitness account of the resurrection. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the meaning of terms like "sepulchre" and "taken away," shedding light on the cultural and historical context of the events described in the verse.

John 20:1 in other translations

American Standard Version

Now on the first [day] of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, while it was yet dark, unto the tomb, and seeth the stone taken away from the tomb.

World English Bible

Now on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene went early, while it was still dark, to the tomb, and saw the stone taken away from the tomb.

Douay-Rheims

And on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalen cometh early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre: and she saw the stone taken away from the sepulchre.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Nowe the first day of the weeke came Marie Magdalene, early when it was yet darke, vnto the sepulchre, and sawe the stone taken away from the tombe.