What is the meaning of Matthew 27:61?

Mary Magdalene

• “Mary Magdalene”—the first name in the verse—points to a real woman whose life had been dramatically changed by Jesus (Luke 8:2; Mark 16:9).

• Her presence fulfills Jesus’ promise that true disciples remain (John 15:4).

• By witnessing the burial events (cf. John 19:25), she becomes a credible eyewitness for the resurrection narrative in Matthew 28:1.

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and the other Mary

• Matthew already introduced this “other Mary” as the mother of James and Joseph (Matthew 27:56); Mark calls her “the mother of James the younger and of Joses” (Mark 15:40).

• Both women represent the wider band of female disciples who followed Jesus from Galilee (Luke 23:55).

• Their inclusion underscores God’s valuing of humble, often-overlooked servants (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

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were sitting there

• The phrase shows deliberate, unhurried observation. They did not flee like most male disciples (Matthew 26:56).

• Sitting implies vigil and devotion, echoing Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God,” lived out in real time.

• Their action satisfies Deuteronomy 19:15’s requirement for multiple witnesses, adding weight to the historical certainty of Jesus’ burial (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

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opposite the tomb

• By positioning themselves “opposite,” they could see Joseph of Arimathea roll the stone (Matthew 27:60; Mark 15:47).

• Their vantage point equips them to locate the tomb at dawn on the first day of the week (Matthew 28:1; Luke 24:1).

• God uses their careful attention to silence later rumors that the disciples went to the wrong grave (Matthew 28:11-15).

• The detail affirms Isaiah 53:9—Messiah’s burial “with the rich”—recorded exactly as prophesied.

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summary

Matthew 27:61 records a literal historical scene in which two devoted followers, Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, quietly watch Jesus’ burial. Their steadfast presence provides eyewitness testimony, fulfills prophecy, and prepares the stage for the joyous discovery of the empty tomb. In one brief sentence, God highlights faithfulness, fulfills His Word, and secures the factual foundation for the resurrection hope.