Definition: And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Matthew 27:55. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious part of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says: “Many women were watching Jesus from a distance, as if he was somewhere far away.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Matthew 27:55” : This is the verse itself – a specific section of a book in the Bible. “And many women…” : This tells us there were a lot of people present. It wasn't just a few. “…were beholding afar off” : "Beholding" means watching or observing. “Afar off” suggests they were looking very far away, like they were seeing something distant – maybe in the distance, or even beyond the horizon. So, what does it mean ? The most common interpretation is that these women were witnessing Jesus’s death and resurrection. They weren't necessarily cheering him on or celebrating; they were observing a pivotal moment of history. It suggests: A Sense of Foreboding: They were watching something significant happening, perhaps with a sense of sadness or concern. A Spiritual Connection: The act of “beholding” implies a deeper connection – perhaps a feeling that this event was important for the future. Important Note: The Bible doesn't give us a detailed explanation of why they were watching. It’s open to interpretation, but it points to something momentous and significant. Does this mean Jesus is dead? While the exact details are debated among scholars, the text strongly suggests that Jesus was crucified. It's a crucial part of the narrative leading up to his arrest and trial. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore different interpretations of what the women were observing?