Topical Encyclopedia Linen, a fine textile made from the fibers of the flax plant, holds significant importance in biblical narratives, particularly in the context of burial practices during the time of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, linen is notably mentioned in the account of Jesus' burial, where it serves as a symbol of purity and respect.Biblical Account of Jesus' Burial The Gospels provide a detailed account of the burial of Jesus, emphasizing the use of linen cloth. After Jesus' crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the Council and a secret disciple of Jesus, requested permission from Pontius Pilate to take Jesus' body for burial. Pilate granted this request, and Joseph, along with Nicodemus, prepared Jesus' body according to Jewish customs. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded: "So Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance of the tomb and went away" (Matthew 27:59-60). This passage highlights the use of a "clean linen cloth," underscoring the care and reverence with which Jesus' body was treated. Similarly, the Gospel of Mark states: "So Joseph bought a linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance to the tomb" (Mark 15:46). The purchase of the linen cloth by Joseph indicates the importance of using a material that was both appropriate and honorable for the burial of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke also affirms this practice: "Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth, and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had yet been laid" (Luke 23:53). The mention of a tomb "where no one had yet been laid" further emphasizes the sanctity and uniqueness of Jesus' burial. In the Gospel of John, Nicodemus is mentioned as bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds, to anoint Jesus' body. "So they took the body of Jesus and wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom" (John 19:40). This passage highlights the Jewish burial customs, which included wrapping the body in linen along with spices, signifying both respect and adherence to tradition. Symbolism and Significance Linen, in biblical times, was a symbol of purity and righteousness. Its use in the burial of Jesus is significant, as it reflects the honor and dignity accorded to Him even in death. The clean and fine quality of linen underscores the sinless nature of Christ, who, though crucified as a criminal, was buried with the utmost respect and care. The use of linen in Jesus' burial also fulfills the prophetic and typological elements found in the Old Testament. Linen garments were worn by priests during their service in the Tabernacle and Temple, symbolizing holiness and separation unto God (Exodus 28:39-42). In this way, the linen burial cloth of Jesus can be seen as a continuation of His role as the ultimate High Priest, who offered Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Conclusion The linen cloth used in the burial of Jesus is a profound element within the Gospel narratives, rich with symbolic meaning and theological significance. It serves as a testament to the reverence shown to Jesus in His death and the fulfillment of His role as the sinless Savior and High Priest. Nave's Topical Index Mark 15:46And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulcher which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone to the door of the sepulcher. Nave's Topical Index John 20:5 Library The Death of Jesus The Crucifixion. The Resurrection Morning The Crucifixion. The Suffering Servant-ii For whom did Christ Die? Alive or Dead --Which? Apostolic Exhortation The Genuine Acts of Peter. On the Words, and Rose Again from the Dead on the Third Day, and ... Resources How do the elements of the Passover Seder point to Christ? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the tabernacle of Moses? | GotQuestions.org Did David dance naked (2 Samuel 6:14)? | GotQuestions.org Linen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Linen: Curtains of the Tabernacle Made of Linen: Garments for Men Made of Linen: Garments for Women Made of Linen: Livery of Royal Households Made of Linen: Mosaic Law Forbade Its Being Interwoven With Wool Linen: Pure and White, of Righteousness Linen: The Corpse of Jesus Was Wrapped In Linen: Vestments of Priests Made of Related Terms |
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