New Testament
Mark 16:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They stepped inside the tomb and saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a long white robe. They were terrified.
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And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
What Mark 16:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Mark 16:5, the scene unfolds as the women enter the tomb where Jesus was buried. They encounter a young man, described as an angel, who is sitting on the right side. His appearance is striking, as he is dressed in a long white robe, symbolizing purity and divine presence. The women are filled with fear upon seeing him, which is a common reaction in biblical accounts when individuals encounter heavenly beings. This moment signifies the transition from death to resurrection, as the angel is there to announce that Jesus has risen. The fear they experience reflects the gravity of the situation and the miraculous event that has just occurred. This encounter serves as a pivotal moment in the resurrection narrative, emphasizing the importance of faith and the fulfillment of Jesus' promises. The angel's presence reassures the women, guiding them to understand the significance of the empty tomb and the hope it brings to believers.
How to apply Mark 16:5 to your life
This passage encourages us to confront our fears with faith. Just as the women were reassured by the angel, we can find comfort in God's promises during uncertain times. Embracing the hope of resurrection can transform our perspective on life's challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Empty Tomb (Mark 16:1–8)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 16:5 say about the young man in the tomb?
In Mark 16:5, the women who visit the tomb find a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a long white robe. This young man is often interpreted as an angel, symbolizing purity and the divine presence of God. His appearance signifies the miraculous event of Jesus' resurrection, and the women's reaction of terror highlights the awe and fear that often accompany encounters with heavenly beings.
Why were the women terrified in Mark 16:5?
The women were terrified upon seeing the young man in the tomb because encounters with angels or divine beings often evoke fear in biblical narratives. This fear reflects the gravity of the situation—they are witnessing a miraculous event, the resurrection of Jesus. Their terror also underscores the significance of the moment, as they are confronted with the reality of Jesus' victory over death.
What is the significance of the angel's message in Mark 16:5?
The angel's presence in Mark 16:5 is significant as it marks the announcement of Jesus' resurrection. The angel reassures the women, guiding them to understand that Jesus has risen, fulfilling His promise of eternal life. This moment is pivotal in the resurrection narrative, emphasizing hope and faith for believers, as it signifies the transition from death to life and the assurance of salvation.
How can Mark 16:5 inspire us today?
Mark 16:5 can inspire us to confront our fears with faith. Just as the women were reassured by the angel's message, we can find comfort in God's promises during uncertain times. The passage encourages us to embrace the hope of resurrection, reminding us that even in challenging situations, there is a greater purpose and the possibility of new beginnings through faith.
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