What is the meaning of Mark 16:5?

When they entered the tomb

“Entering the tomb...” (Mark 16:5a).

• The women physically step inside the rock-hewn grave, confirming that Jesus’ body had truly been placed there (Mark 15:46).

• Their entry fulfills their intent to anoint the body (Mark 16:1), underscoring that they expected a corpse, not an empty chamber (Luke 24:1–3).

• The open stone (Mark 16:4) and empty interior authenticate the bodily resurrection later proclaimed (John 20:1–2).

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they saw a young man

“They saw a young man…” (Mark 16:5b).

• Scripture elsewhere identifies this figure as an angel (Matthew 28:2–3; Luke 24:4), yet he appears in human form, reminding us that angels often manifest as ordinary men (Genesis 18:2; Hebrews 13:2).

• His youthful appearance conveys vigor and divine assignment, consistent with angelic ministry around Christ’s earthly life (Luke 1:26–28).

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dressed in a white robe

“…dressed in a white robe…” (Mark 16:5c).

• White garments signal heavenly purity and victory (Revelation 7:9, 13–14).

• Matthew records clothing “as bright as lightning” (Matthew 28:3), highlighting glory yet accessible radiance; Mark’s concise wording stresses holiness without overshadowing the resurrection itself.

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sitting on the right side

“…sitting on the right side…” (Mark 16:5d).

• The angel’s calm seated posture contrasts the women’s haste, emphasizing divine control over the scene (Psalm 11:4).

• Right-hand placement hints at favor and authority (Psalm 110:1; Acts 2:33), quietly pointing to the enthroned Christ whose tomb is now vacant.

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and they were alarmed

“…and they were alarmed.” (Mark 16:5e).

• Human fear is a natural response when finite creatures meet the supernatural (Daniel 10:7–9; Luke 1:12).

• The alarm opens hearts to the angel’s reassurance and gospel proclamation to follow (Mark 16:6), turning terror into joyful witness (Matthew 28:8).

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summary

Mark 16:5 records the women’s entrance into a real tomb, their encounter with a heaven-sent messenger, and their initial shock. Each detail—location, angelic presence, white robe, right-side position, and human fear—confirms the historical resurrection and God’s sovereign orchestration of redemption.