Matthew 27:60
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 27:60
60 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.
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, righteousness, mercy. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
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 21-66: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 27:60
60 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.
Analysis
Laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock—Joseph gave Jesus his personal burial plot, a costly sacrifice as tombs took months to carve and represented family inheritance. The new tomb meant no other body had occupied it, emphasizing Christ's uniqueness and ensuring no confusion about whose body rose. He rolled a great stone to the door (προσεκύλισεν λίθον μέγαν)—circular stones weighing 1-2 tons secured wealthy tombs.
This detail becomes crucial: the massive stone required multiple men to roll uphill into sealing position. The mega lithon (great stone) made theft humanly impossible without detection. The sealed tomb became evidence—not a prison but a testimony. The same stone meant to keep Jesus in would prove he rose through it, not by human rolling away.
Historical Context
Rock-hewn tombs near Jerusalem were expensive, owned by wealthy families. They featured a small entrance sealed by a rolling stone in a groove. Some had antechambers for mourning. The tomb was near Golgotha (John 19:41-42), providentially located for quick burial before Sabbath. The location also fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy of burial 'with the rich.'
Reflection
- What did it cost Joseph to give up his family tomb for Jesus' burial?
- How does the secured tomb strengthen rather than weaken the resurrection evidence?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 27:66, 28:2, Isaiah 53:9