Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy and prominent member of the Jewish council (Matthew 27:57;Mark 15:43). He was a disciple of Jesus but secretly out of fear of the Jewish leaders (John 19:38). Joseph is described as a good and righteous man who had not consented to the council's decision to condemn Jesus (Luke 23:50-51). After Jesus' crucifixion, Joseph boldly asked Pilate for Jesus' body (Mark 15:43;John 19:38). He took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb, which had been cut out of rock (Matthew 27:59-60;Mark 15:46;Luke 23:53). The tomb was then sealed with a large stone (Matthew 27:60). Joseph's actions fulfilled the prophecy that the Messiah would be buried with the rich (Isaiah 53:9). His selfless act provided a proper burial for Jesus and demonstrated his devotion and respect for the Lord.
Joseph
EnglishA man living at the time of the New Testament, first mentioned at Mat.27.57.