Definition: There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews’ preparation [day]; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 19:42. It's a really important and complex passage in the Bible, and it’s often misunderstood. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes what happened right before Jesus was crucified. It tells us that Jesus was placed in a tomb – meaning he was being prepared for burial – because the place where he was buried was already close. Let's unpack it word by word: “There laid they Jesus” : This means Jesus was lying down (laid down) in the tomb. “Therefore because of the Jews’ preparation” : This is a key part. It means that people who had been anticipating his death – Jewish leaders and soldiers – had already arranged for his burial. They were preparing everything to make it happen. “day” : This refers to the day before Jesus' crucifixion. So, putting it all together: Jesus was placed in a tomb, and because Jewish authorities were planning his death, they had already prepared the place where he would be buried. It was almost ready! Why is this important? This verse has been interpreted in different ways throughout history, and it’s often debated. However, here are some of the main interpretations: A Pre-Planned Death: The most common understanding is that Jesus was deliberately placed there to fulfill a plan set by God. It wasn't just a random event; it was part of a larger story. A Symbolic Representation: Some believe it represents the anticipation of his death and the finality of his sacrifice. It’s a reminder of his suffering and the ultimate victory over sin. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse is still debated among theologians and biblical scholars. It's one of those passages that invites deeper reflection and interpretation. --- Would you like me to explain any of these points further, or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of the verse? For example, we could talk about: The context of the story in John 19 Different interpretations of the verse over time The symbolism behind the tomb itself