John 19:39
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John 19:39
39 And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight.
Chapter Context
John 19 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, truth, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 19:39
39 And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight.
Analysis
And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight (ἦλθεν δὲ καὶ Νικόδημος, ὁ ἐλθὼν πρὸς αὐτὸν νυκτὸς τὸ πρῶτον, φέρων μίγμα σμύρνης καὶ ἀλόης ὡς λίτρας ἑκατόν, ēlthen de kai Nikodēmos, ho elthōn pros auton nyktos to prōton, pherōn migma smyrnēs kai aloēs hōs litras hekaton)—Nicodemus, introduced in John 3 as the nighttime visitor, now comes publicly with extravagant burial spices: σμύρνης καὶ ἀλόης (smyrnēs kai aloēs, 'myrrh and aloes') weighing ὡς λίτρας ἑκατόν (hōs litras hekaton, 'about 100 pounds/75 lbs modern weight'). This enormous quantity—appropriate for kings (2 Chronicles 16:14)—demonstrates both wealth and devotion.
Nicodemus's progression tracks spiritual growth: first, fearful nighttime inquiry (John 3:1-21); second, tepid defense of Jesus (John 7:50-51); finally, public identification with the crucified Christ. The 'hundred pounds' of spices is lavish—far exceeding normal burial practices. This act of worship echoes Mary's anointing (John 12:3): when you love Jesus, no gift is excessive. Both Joseph and Nicodemus gave treasures to honor the One religious leaders dishonored.
Historical Context
Roman custom was cremation; Jewish custom required quick burial with spices to offset decomposition in warm climate. Nicodemus's quantity suggested expectation of extended burial. Myrrh and aloes were aromatic resins mixed and applied between linen wrappings. The expense indicated royal burial—ironically for the 'King of the Jews' mocked hours earlier.
Reflection
- How does Nicodemus's spiritual journey from secret seeker to public confessor encourage gradual growth in faith?
- What does the extravagant quantity of burial spices teach about appropriate worship—is anything 'too much' for Jesus?
- How do Joseph and Nicodemus's actions demonstrate that true faith eventually requires public identification with Christ regardless of cost?
Cross-References
- Related: Song of Solomon 4:14