John 20:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 20:5
5 And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.
Chapter Context
John 20 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, righteousness, obedience. 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 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 20:5
5 And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.
Analysis
He stooping down, and looking in (παράκυψας, parakypsas)—the participle suggests careful, cautious examination, bending to peer through the low tomb entrance. John saw the linen clothes lying (βλέπει κείμενα τὰ ὀθόνια, blepei keimena ta othonia)—'linen clothes' (ὀθόνια, othonia) refers to the strips used in burial, distinct from the face cloth (σουδάριον, soudarion) mentioned in v.7.
Yet went he not in (οὐ μέντοι εἰσῆλθεν, ou mentoi eisēlthen)—John's hesitation contrasts with Peter's boldness (v.6) but shows reverence, not cowardice. The beloved disciple looks (βλέπει, blepei—physical sight) but reserves judgment until fuller evidence. This restraint before entering a tomb may also reflect purity concerns, though John doesn't specify this.
Historical Context
Jewish tombs typically had a low entrance requiring stooping, opening into a larger chamber. The linen wrappings would have been expensive—Joseph of Arimathea's wealth provided proper burial. Ritual purity laws made entering tombs defiling (Numbers 19:14), though the resurrection morning's urgency may have overridden such concerns. John's hesitation could be reverence, caution, or awaiting Peter as the group's recognized leader.
Reflection
- What is the difference between looking at evidence and entering into its implications?
- Why does seeing the grave clothes 'lying' matter—what would disorderly wrappings have suggested?
- When has reverent hesitation before mystery been wiser than rushing to conclusions?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 19:40