What is the meaning of Mark 16:1? When the Sabbath was over “When the Sabbath was over” (Mark 16:1) signals that the women waited until sunset on Saturday before acting. • The Sabbath command (Exodus 20:8-10) required complete rest; their obedience shows devotion to God’s law even in grief. • Luke notes they “rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment” (Luke 23:56), confirming the timeline. • Sunset ended the restrictions, freeing them to purchase and prepare what love compelled them to do next. Mary Magdalene Mary Magdalene is listed first, reflecting prominent devotion. • Jesus had cast seven demons out of her (Luke 8:2); gratitude fueled unwavering loyalty. • She had watched the crucifixion (Mark 15:40) and noted where He was buried (Mark 15:47), so she knew exactly where to return. • Her presence fulfills Jesus’ promise that the one forgiven much loves much (cf. Luke 7:47). Mary the mother of James This Mary is the mother of James the Less and Joses (Mark 15:40). • She also saw the crucifixion and burial (Mark 15:40, 47), standing firm when many fled. • Alongside the other Mary, she represents faithful discipleship across generations, echoing earlier women of faith such as Hannah (1 Samuel 1:26-28). Salome Salome, the mother of James and John (Matthew 27:56), rounds out the trio. • Earlier, she asked Jesus to seat her sons at His right and left (Matthew 20:20-21). Now she learns true greatness comes through humble service. • Together, these women embody love that “never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8). bought spices After sunset they “bought spices,” practical items for honoring the dead. • Nicodemus had already brought a significant amount of myrrh and aloes (John 19:39-40), yet the women wanted to add their own offering. Love finds a way to give more. • Spices in burial were customary (2 Chronicles 16:14), masking decay and expressing respect. so they could go and anoint the body of Jesus Their goal was clear: to anoint the body they believed still lay in the tomb. • This act parallels Mary of Bethany’s earlier anointing, which Jesus said prepared Him for burial (John 12:3-8). • They expected to find a sealed tomb (Mark 16:3), not an empty one. Their sincere intentions set the stage for the resurrection revelation (Mark 16:6). • Their actions show that faithfulness means doing the next right thing, even when hope seems lost (Psalm 31:24). summary Mark 16:1 captures obedient, courageous love in action. After honoring the Sabbath, three devoted women—Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome—purchased spices to anoint Jesus’ body. Their determination, shaped by prior encounters with Christ and steadfast adherence to God’s commands, becomes the backdrop for the greatest surprise in history: an empty tomb and a risen Savior. |
    |