The preparation for Jesus' burial is a significant event in the New Testament, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy and the devotion of His followers. This event is recorded in the Gospels and is a pivotal moment leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Anointing at Bethany

One of the key moments in the preparation for Jesus' burial is the anointing at Bethany. This event is recorded in Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, and John 12:1-8. In these accounts, a woman, identified as Mary, the sister of Lazarus, in John's Gospel, anoints Jesus with expensive perfume. The Berean Standard Bible records in John 12:3, "Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume."

This act of anointing is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates Mary's deep love and reverence for Jesus. Secondly, Jesus Himself interprets this act as preparation for His burial. In Matthew 26:12 , Jesus says, "When she poured this perfume on My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial." This prophetic act foreshadows His imminent death and burial.

The Role of Joseph of Arimathea

Joseph of Arimathea plays a crucial role in the preparation for Jesus' burial. After Jesus' crucifixion, Joseph, a respected member of the Council and a secret disciple of Jesus, courageously requests Pilate for the body of Jesus. In Mark 15:43 , it is noted, "Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent Council member who himself was waiting for the kingdom of God, boldly went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus."

Joseph's actions fulfill the prophecy found in Isaiah 53:9, which states that the Messiah would be with a rich man in His death. Joseph, being a wealthy man, provides his own new tomb for Jesus' burial, as recorded in Matthew 27:59-60 : "So Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance of the tomb and went away."

The Involvement of Nicodemus

Nicodemus, another member of the Jewish ruling council, also participates in the burial preparations. He brings a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds, to anoint Jesus' body. John 19:39-40 states, "Nicodemus, who had previously come to Jesus at night, also brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. So they took the body of Jesus and wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom."

Nicodemus' involvement signifies his faith and respect for Jesus, as well as adherence to Jewish burial customs, which included the use of spices to honor the deceased and mitigate the odor of decay.

The Women at the Tomb

The women who followed Jesus from Galilee also play a vital role in the preparation for His burial. They witness where Jesus is laid and prepare spices and perfumes to anoint His body after the Sabbath. Luke 23:55-56 records, "The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how His body was placed. Then they returned to prepare spices and perfumes. And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment."

These women, including Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James, demonstrate their devotion and love for Jesus by planning to care for His body, even after His death.

Significance

The preparation for Jesus' burial is a testament to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the unwavering faith of His followers. It underscores the reverence and honor given to Jesus by those who believed in Him, even in the face of His death. This preparation sets the stage for the resurrection, a cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God.