Matthew 27:51 Meaning and Explanation
“And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →At Jesus' death the temple veil tears, the earth quakes, and rocks split.
What Does Matthew 27:51 Mean?
At the moment of Jesus' death the great curtain of the temple is torn from top to bottom, the earth shakes, and rocks are split. Creation itself responds to the death of its Maker with these signs.
The veil that closed off the holiest place is torn in two, and the tearing comes from above, the work of God. The way into His presence, once guarded and restricted, is opened wide by the death of Christ. The quaking earth and splitting rocks proclaim that something world-changing has occurred. Through the cross the barrier between God and humanity is removed, and access to the Father is opened to all who come through the Son.
Matthew 27:51 in the Original Language
katapetasma (καταπέτασμα), 'veil' -- the curtain that closed off the holiest place in the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 27:51
What does Matthew 27:51 mean?
At Jesus' death the temple veil tears, the earth quakes, and rocks split.