New Testament
John 20:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. As she wept, she bent down and looked into the tomb.
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But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
What John 20:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Mary Magdalene is depicted as standing outside the tomb of Jesus, filled with sorrow. Her tears reflect her deep grief over the loss of Jesus, whom she loved and followed. As she weeps, she bends down to look into the tomb, indicating her desire to understand what has happened. This moment captures the raw emotion of loss and the longing for connection with the deceased. Mary's actions symbolize the human experience of mourning and the search for answers in times of despair. The tomb, a place of death, becomes a focal point for her grief, and her willingness to look inside suggests a hope for something beyond the immediate sorrow. This scene sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus' resurrection, highlighting the transition from despair to hope. Mary's encounter with the empty tomb is pivotal, as it leads to the discovery of the risen Christ, transforming her sorrow into joy and marking a significant moment in the Christian faith.
How to apply John 20:11 to your life
When faced with grief or loss, like Mary, we may feel overwhelmed by our emotions. It's important to allow ourselves to grieve while also seeking understanding and hope. Remember that even in our darkest moments, there can be a path to healing and renewal.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (John 20:11–18)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 20:11 mean?
John 20:11 describes Mary Magdalene's deep sorrow as she stands outside Jesus' tomb, weeping. Her actions reflect her grief and desire to understand the situation after Jesus' death.
What is the significance of Mary weeping in John 20:11?
Mary's weeping signifies her profound loss and emotional pain following Jesus' crucifixion. It highlights the human experience of mourning and the longing for connection with loved ones.
What does Mary looking into the tomb represent in John 20:11?
Mary looking into the tomb represents her search for answers and hope amidst her grief. It symbolizes the transition from despair to the possibility of new life, which is revealed later in the chapter.
What themes are present in John 20:11?
Key themes in John 20:11 include grief, loss, hope, and the search for understanding. This verse sets the stage for the resurrection, emphasizing the journey from sorrow to joy.
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