New Testament
Mark 15:33
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Mark 15:33, the narrative describes a significant event during the crucifixion of Jesus.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
And when the sixth hour came, darkness covered the whole land until the ninth hour.
And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Mark 15:33, the narrative describes a significant event during the crucifixion of Jesus. The sixth hour refers to noon, a time typically associated with brightness and activity. However, an unexpected darkness enveloped the land from noon until three o'clock, symbolizing a profound spiritual and cosmic disturbance. This darkness can be interpreted as a sign of God's judgment or sorrow over the sin that led to Jesus' crucifixion. It emphasizes the gravity of the moment, as the Son of God was bearing the weight of humanity's sins. The darkness serves as a backdrop to the suffering of Christ, highlighting the seriousness of His sacrifice. This event is not just a physical phenomenon but carries deep theological implications, indicating that something monumental was occurring in the spiritual realm as Jesus fulfilled His mission of redemption. Explore related despair.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 15:33 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the cost of redemption. In our lives, we should reflect on the gravity of our actions and the importance of seeking forgiveness. Just as darkness fell during Jesus' suffering, we can find hope in His sacrifice and the light that follows.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 15:33 mean?
Mark 15:33 describes the moment of Jesus' crucifixion when darkness covered the land from noon until three o'clock. This darkness symbolizes a significant spiritual event, indicating God's judgment or sorrow over the sin that led to Jesus' sacrifice.
What is the significance of darkness in Mark 15:33?
The darkness in Mark 15:33 represents a profound spiritual disturbance during Jesus' crucifixion. It highlights the seriousness of the moment as Jesus bore the weight of humanity's sins, emphasizing the gravity of His sacrifice.
Why did darkness cover the land in Mark 15:33?
The darkness that covered the land in Mark 15:33 is interpreted as a sign of God's judgment or sorrow during the crucifixion of Jesus. It serves to underscore the weight of sin and the importance of the sacrifice being made.
How does Mark 15:33 relate to the themes of sacrifice and redemption?
Mark 15:33 illustrates the moment of Jesus' suffering, where darkness symbolizes the gravity of His sacrifice. This event emphasizes the cost of redemption and the significance of Jesus bearing humanity's sins.

The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
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