King James Version
What Does John 20:11 Mean?
“But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,”
Context
9
For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
10
Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.
11
But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
12
And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
13
And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **But Mary stood **(better, *was standing*) **without at the sepulchre weeping.**—She had before gone back as soon as she saw that the stone was taken away (John 20:1-2), and had told the two disciples of what she found. She was left behind by them in their haste to reach the sepulchre, but has followed them, and now that they have returned with the joy of a new and fuller faith, she remains without the sepulchre, not venturing to enter, and giving vent in tears to the sorrow that weighs upon her heart.
**She stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre.**—Comp. Note on John 20:5.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 20:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 20:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge