New Testament
Luke 24:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the women who came to Jesus' tomb were filled with fear and confusion upon discovering that the stone had been rolled away and the body of Jesus was missing.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
The women were afraid and bowed their faces to the ground. The men said to them, "Why are you looking for the living among the dead?"
And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the women who came to Jesus' tomb were filled with fear and confusion upon discovering that the stone had been rolled away and the body of Jesus was missing. They bowed down, showing their reverence and shock. The two men, likely angels, asked them why they were searching for Jesus, who was alive, in a place meant for the dead. This question highlights the misunderstanding of the women regarding Jesus' resurrection. It emphasizes the contrast between life and death, urging them to recognize that Jesus had risen as He promised. The message is clear: Jesus is not among the dead; He is alive, fulfilling His role as the Savior. This moment marks a pivotal point in the Christian faith, as it confirms the resurrection, which is central to the belief in eternal life and hope for believers.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 24:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek the living presence of Jesus in our lives rather than dwelling on past disappointments or losses. It reminds us that Jesus is alive and active, offering hope and guidance. We should approach Him with reverence and openness, ready to embrace the new life He offers.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 24:5 mean about seeking the living among the dead?
In Luke 24:5, the question posed by the men at the tomb emphasizes the misunderstanding of the women regarding Jesus' resurrection. They were looking for Jesus, who had risen from the dead, in a tomb, a place for the deceased. This highlights the contrast between life and death, urging believers to recognize that Jesus is alive and no longer among the dead. It serves as a reminder that we should seek the living presence of Christ in our lives.
Why were the women afraid in Luke 24:5?
The women were afraid because they encountered an empty tomb and two men, likely angels, who appeared suddenly. This unexpected situation, combined with the realization that Jesus had risen, filled them with fear and confusion. Their fear reflects the natural human response to the miraculous and the unknown, especially in a moment that signifies a profound change in their understanding of Jesus' mission and the promise of resurrection.
What is the significance of Jesus' resurrection in Luke 24:5?
The resurrection of Jesus, as highlighted in Luke 24:5, is central to Christian faith. It confirms Jesus as the Savior and affirms the promise of eternal life for believers. This moment marks the victory over death and sin, offering hope and assurance that Jesus is alive and present in the lives of His followers. The resurrection is a pivotal event that transforms despair into hope, encouraging believers to live in the light of this truth.
How can Luke 24:5 inspire my faith today?
Luke 24:5 can inspire your faith by reminding you to seek the living presence of Jesus in your daily life. Instead of focusing on past disappointments or losses, this verse encourages you to embrace the hope and new life that Jesus offers. It calls for a reverent approach to faith, urging you to recognize that Jesus is actively involved in your life, guiding and supporting you through challenges.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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