John 11:31 Meaning and Explanation
“The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grave to weep there.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The mourners in the house, seeing Mary rise and hurry out, follow her, supposing she is going to the tomb to weep.
What Does John 11:31 Mean?
Comforters did not leave a bereaved woman to weep alone; when Mary bolts from the house, kindness and custom send the whole company after her. They assume the only destination grief knows — the grave.
They are wrong about where she is going and right about where they will all end up. Mary runs to Jesus, and the mourners trailing her are gathered, unawares, into the audience of a resurrection. So God weaves ordinary kindness into his providence: people who set out merely to share tears will go home as witnesses that Christ has power over death.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 11:31
What does John 11:31 mean?
The mourners in the house, seeing Mary rise and hurry out, follow her, supposing she is going to the tomb to weep.