Mark 16:8

So the women left the tomb and ran away, trembling and bewildered. And in their fear they did not say a word to anyone.

Study Bible

So the women left the tomb
The phrase begins with the women, who are identified earlier in the chapter as Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome. These women were the first to witness the empty tomb, a significant detail that underscores the role of women in the resurrection narrative. In the cultural context of the time, women were not considered reliable witnesses, yet the Gospel of Mark highlights their pivotal role, which speaks to the authenticity and divine orchestration of the resurrection account. The Greek word for "left" (ἐξῆλθον, exēlthon) implies a departure with purpose, indicating that their leaving was not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, as they were processing the profound implications of the empty tomb.

and ran away
The act of running signifies urgency and a mix of fear and excitement. The Greek word used here (ἔφυγον, ephygon) suggests a swift departure, driven by the overwhelming nature of the event they had just witnessed. This reaction is consistent with the human response to divine encounters throughout Scripture, where the presence of God or His messengers often elicits a combination of awe and fear.

trembling and bewildered
The Greek words for "trembling" (τρέμουσαι, tremousai) and "bewildered" (ἔκστασις, ekstasis) convey a deep emotional and physical reaction. "Trembling" indicates a physical manifestation of fear and reverence, while "bewildered" suggests a state of being overwhelmed and astonished. This dual reaction reflects the profound mystery of the resurrection, which defies human understanding and logic. The women's response is emblematic of the appropriate reaction to the divine—one of reverent fear and awe.

And in their fear
The word "fear" (φόβος, phobos) in this context is not merely terror but a reverential awe. It is the same kind of fear that is the beginning of wisdom, as described in Proverbs 9:10. This fear acknowledges the power and holiness of God, recognizing the resurrection as a divine act that transcends human comprehension.

they did not tell anyone anything
This phrase highlights the initial silence of the women, which is intriguing given the angelic instruction to go and tell the disciples. The Greek construction here emphasizes their immediate reaction rather than a permanent state. Their silence can be seen as a moment of processing the divine encounter before fulfilling their commission. Historically, this detail adds to the authenticity of the account, as it reflects a genuine human reaction to an unprecedented event. Theologically, it underscores the theme of divine revelation that requires contemplation and understanding before proclamation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Women
Refers to Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, who went to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body.

2. The Tomb
The place where Jesus was laid after His crucifixion, which the women found empty.

3. The Angel
Although not mentioned in verse 8, earlier verses describe an angel who informs the women of Jesus' resurrection.

4. Fear and Silence
The women's reaction to the empty tomb and the angel's message, characterized by trembling, bewilderment, and initial silence.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Fear in Faith
Even the most faithful can experience fear and confusion. The women's initial reaction reminds us that encountering the divine can be overwhelming.

The Importance of Witness
Despite their initial silence, the women eventually became the first witnesses to the resurrection. This underscores the importance of sharing our experiences of faith, even when we are afraid.

God's Plans Surpass Human Understanding
The empty tomb was unexpected and bewildering, yet it was part of God's redemptive plan. Trusting in God's greater plan is crucial, even when we don't fully understand it.

Courage to Speak
The women's eventual decision to share the news of the resurrection encourages us to overcome fear and boldly proclaim the truth of the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the women's initial reactions of fear and silence reflect our own responses to unexpected events in our spiritual journey?

2. In what ways can we find courage to share our faith, as the women eventually did, despite initial fear or doubt?

3. How does the empty tomb challenge us to trust in God's plans, even when they defy our expectations?

4. What can we learn from the women's experience about the importance of being witnesses to the resurrection in our own lives?

5. How do other biblical accounts of the resurrection (e.g., Matthew 28, Luke 24, John 20) enhance our understanding of Mark 16:8 and its implications for our faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:8-10
Provides a parallel account where the women eventually encounter Jesus and are instructed to tell the disciples.

Luke 24:9-11
Describes the women reporting the resurrection to the apostles, highlighting their eventual courage.

John 20:1-2
Offers another perspective on the discovery of the empty tomb, focusing on Mary Magdalene's experience.

Isaiah 41:10
Encourages believers not to fear, which contrasts with the women's initial reaction.