Luke 23:56

Then they returned to prepare spices and perfumes. And they rested on the Sabbath, according to the commandment.

Study Bible

Then they returned
This phrase indicates the actions of the women who had followed Jesus from Galilee. The Greek word for "returned" is "hypestrepsan," which suggests a deliberate and purposeful action. These women were not merely passive observers; they were active participants in the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion and burial. Their return signifies their commitment and devotion, even in the face of grief and uncertainty. Historically, this reflects the role of women in the early Christian community as dedicated followers and caretakers.

to prepare spices and perfumes
The preparation of spices and perfumes was a customary Jewish burial practice intended to honor the deceased and mitigate the odor of decay. The Greek word "hetoimasai" (to prepare) implies careful and respectful preparation. This act of preparing spices and perfumes demonstrates the women's love and respect for Jesus, as well as their adherence to Jewish customs. It also highlights the humanity of Jesus, who, despite being the Son of God, was given a burial according to human traditions.

And they rested
The word "rested" comes from the Greek "hesychasan," which means to be still or to cease from labor. This rest is not merely physical but also spiritual, as it aligns with the observance of the Sabbath. The women's rest is an act of obedience to God's commandment, showing their faithfulness to the Law even in their sorrow. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the Sabbath as a day of rest and reflection, a principle deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and upheld by Jesus Himself.

on the Sabbath
The Sabbath, or "Shabbat" in Hebrew, is a day of rest observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. It is a cornerstone of Jewish religious life, commemorating God's rest after creation. The observance of the Sabbath by the women underscores their piety and dedication to God's commandments. It also sets the stage for the resurrection, as the Sabbath rest precedes the new beginning of the first day of the week, symbolizing renewal and hope.

according to the commandment
This phrase emphasizes the women's adherence to the Mosaic Law, specifically the Fourth Commandment to keep the Sabbath holy. The Greek word "entolē" (commandment) signifies a divine injunction, highlighting the authority of God's law. Their obedience reflects a deep reverence for God's Word and a commitment to live according to His statutes. This obedience, even in the midst of grief, serves as an example of faithfulness and trust in God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Women
These are the women who followed Jesus from Galilee. They were devoted followers who witnessed His crucifixion and were preparing to anoint His body with spices and perfumes.

2. Sabbath
The day of rest commanded by God in the Ten Commandments. It is a day set apart for rest and worship, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening.

3. Preparation of Spices and Perfumes
This was a customary practice for honoring the deceased, showing respect and love for Jesus even after His death.

4. The Commandment
Refers to the Fourth Commandment, which instructs the observance of the Sabbath as a holy day of rest.

5. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of Jesus' crucifixion and burial.

Teaching Points

Observance of the Sabbath
The women’s actions highlight the importance of observing the Sabbath, even in times of distress. It is a reminder to prioritize God's commandments in our lives.

Devotion and Love for Jesus
Their preparation of spices and perfumes shows their deep love and respect for Jesus. We are called to show our love for Christ through our actions and dedication.

Balancing Duty and Rest
The women balanced their duty to prepare Jesus' body with the command to rest on the Sabbath. This teaches us the importance of balancing our responsibilities with spiritual rest.

Faithfulness in Grief
Even in their sorrow, the women remained faithful to their beliefs. This encourages us to hold onto our faith during difficult times.

Anticipation of Resurrection
Their actions set the stage for the resurrection, reminding us that our hope in Christ transcends death and sorrow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the observance of the Sabbath in this passage challenge or affirm your current practice of rest and worship?

2. In what ways can we show our devotion to Jesus in our daily lives, similar to how the women prepared spices and perfumes?

3. How can we balance our responsibilities with the need for spiritual rest in today's fast-paced world?

4. What can we learn from the women’s faithfulness during their time of grief, and how can it apply to our own experiences of loss?

5. How does the anticipation of Jesus' resurrection influence our understanding of hope and eternal life in the face of death?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:8-11
This passage provides the original commandment to keep the Sabbath holy, which the women observed even in their grief.

Mark 16:1
This verse describes the same women coming to the tomb after the Sabbath, showing their continued devotion and the importance of the Sabbath rest.

Genesis 2:2-3
The concept of Sabbath rest is rooted in creation, where God rested on the seventh day, setting a pattern for humanity.