The Mystery of the Third Day: How Long was Jesus in the Tomb?

Introduction

The resurrection of Jesus on the third day is a pivotal event in Christian history. But how accurate is the timing of this event? Some argue that Jesus died on Thursday, not Friday, and that the days leading up to this day are crucial to understanding the fulfillment of prophecies. Let's delve into the details.

Counting Days in Biblical Context

In the ancient Middle East, days were often counted from the time an event began, even if part of the day had already passed. This means that the day of the crucifixion was counted as the first day, even though the actual crucifixion happened later in the day. According to the Jewish calendar, the preparation day for the Sabbath would be significant:

1. Preparation Day for the Sabbath:
VaYikra 23:11 (Leviticus 23:11) states that 'from the day on which it is brought, it shall be kept for seven days.' This indicates that the preparation day (Yom Tov) could be the day before the weekly Sabbath.

Contradictions in Dating the Crucifixion

Some claim that Jesus died on Thursday, not Friday. This interpretation is based on the assumption that the preparation day (Yom Tov) for the weekly Sabbath was the preparation day for the High Sabbath of Passover as well. However, let’s dissect this claim in detail:

2. The Role of the High Sabbath:
In the Jewish calendar, Passover has its own High Sabbath, which occurs on the 14th day of Nisan (March–April). This day begins on the evening of the 14th and ends at sundown on the 15th of Nisan. The regular weekly Sabbath is on the 7th day of the lunar month.

3. Time of Crucifixion:
According to the Gospel of John, the trial and crucifixion occurred on the day before the preparation day for the High Sabbath of Passover:

John 18:28 states: 'It was the preparation day of the Passover, and it was about the sixth hour.'
John 19:14 states: 'It was Preparation Day of the Passover, and it was about the sixth hour.'

4. Resurrection Timing:
The disputed point is whether Jesus was resurrected at sunset on Saturday (the 7th day) or early Sunday morning (the first day of the new week). The Gospel of Mark (16:9) indicates that 'Jesus rose early on the first day of the week':

Mark 16:9 states: 'When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week.'
John 20:1 states: 'The first day of the week (Sunday) Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early in the morning.'

Resolution and Interpretation

According to the Jewish calendar and the Bible, the timing aligns precisely with Jesus being crucified on the preparation day for Passover, dying before sundown, and being resurrected at sunset on the 7th day (Saturday). This matches the prophecy that Jesus would be in the earth for three days and three nights:

Matthew 12:40 states: 'For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly, shall the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.'

5. Early Church Interpretations:
The correct interpretation of this event is often overlooked due to the early Church fathers' interpretations. However, as the church matured, some discrepancies were recognized, but the stubbornness of the Church in admitting errors has persisted.

6. Conclusion:
From a biblical and historical perspective, it is clear that Jesus died on Wednesday (the preparation day for Passover) and was resurrected at sunset on Saturday, fulfilling the prophecy of three days and three nights in the tomb. This understanding is crucial for interpreting the prophecies and events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.

Key Takeaways:

Days in the Crucifixion: The preparation day for the High Sabbath of Passover was Wednesday, and Jesus died on that day. Resurrection Timing: Jesus was resurrected at sunset on Saturday, matching the prophecy of being in the earth for three days and three nights. Early Church Interpretations: The Church's interpretations have sometimes been flawed or stubbornly adhered to, leading to confusion.

Understanding these details helps contextualize Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection, providing a clearer picture of the biblical events.