New Testament
Mark 16:8
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Mark 16:8, the women who discovered the empty tomb of Jesus were filled with fear and astonishment.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
They went out quickly and fled from the tomb, trembling and amazed. They didn't say anything to anyone, because they were afraid.
And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Mark 16:8, the women who discovered the empty tomb of Jesus were filled with fear and astonishment. They had just encountered an angel who announced that Jesus had risen from the dead. Their immediate reaction was to flee from the tomb, overwhelmed by the miraculous event they had witnessed. Despite the incredible news, they chose not to share it with anyone at that moment due to their fear. This highlights the profound impact of the resurrection on their hearts and minds, as they grappled with the reality of what had happened. Their silence reflects a common human response to overwhelming experiences, where fear can sometimes inhibit our ability to act or speak. This moment sets the stage for the eventual spread of the resurrection message, as the women would later share the news with the disciples, transforming their fear into a powerful testimony of faith.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 16:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge our feelings of fear and amazement in the face of God's work in our lives. It reminds us that even in moments of uncertainty, we can find strength in faith. Sharing our experiences, even when we feel afraid, can lead to powerful testimonies that inspire others.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 16:8 mean?
Mark 16:8 describes the reaction of the women who found Jesus' empty tomb. They were filled with fear and amazement after encountering an angel who announced His resurrection, leading them to flee in silence.
What is the significance of fear in Mark 16:8?
The fear experienced by the women in Mark 16:8 highlights the overwhelming nature of witnessing a miraculous event. Their fear reflects a common human response to the unknown and the divine.
Why did the women remain silent in Mark 16:8?
The women chose not to speak to anyone after discovering the empty tomb due to their fear and astonishment. This silence emphasizes the profound impact of the resurrection on their hearts.
What themes are present in Mark 16:8?
Key themes in Mark 16:8 include resurrection, fear, amazement, and the struggle to witness. The verse illustrates how powerful experiences can lead to silence and contemplation.

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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