Today we will talk about why did Jesus tell Mary not to touch him. Many Christians do not know what this means and how it fits into the greater story of His resurrection. After all, this is a significant moment where He expresses something profound about His mission and relationship with His followers. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word.
Why did Jesus tell Mary not to touch Him?
Understanding the Encounter: The Resurrection Appearance
When Jesus rose from the dead, one of the first appearances He made was to Mary Magdalene. This is beautifully described in John 20:11-17. Here we see Mary, lost in her grief and confusion, encountering the risen Lord. The greeting of “Mary!” brings her joy; she recognizes Him and wants to cling to Him. Yet, Jesus responds with, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father.” What does this mean? Is Jesus being unkind, or is there a deeper message here?
The first thing we need to consider is the Greek word used for “touch” (ἅπτομαι, hapto). This word can mean “to lay hold of” or “to fasten, adhere.” This shows us that Jesus is implying more than just a simple physical touch. It implies a grasping for connection and an attempt to stabilize oneself after an overwhelming encounter. Mary is reacting from a place of deep emotion and love. However, in doing so, she may not fully grasp the new reality of who Jesus is after resurrection.
Jesus is conveying to her that He is in a different state now. Mary’s instinct is to hold onto the familiar, but Jesus is saying that there’s something fundamentally new happening. He is transitioning from being physically present with humanity to a new phase where He will ascend to the Father, making a way for all believers to have a relationship with Him that transcends physical touch.
The Significance of Touch in Biblical Times
In understanding why Jesus told Mary not to touch Him, it’s important to consider the significance of touch in the ancient Near East. Touching someone was often a sign of intimacy, connection, and comfort. It served as a means of healing, as seen in Mark 5:27-29, where a woman touched Jesus’ garment and was healed. Touch also had cultural implications; for instance, in the context of purity laws laid out in Leviticus, certain physical contacts could render someone unclean.
When Mary reached out to Jesus, she was attempting to affirm her affection for Him. However, Jesus’ response indicates that the relationship would now expand beyond tangible touch. In the Hebrew understanding, touching often meant a form of devotion (יָד, yad, translates to hand) but also the impartation of blessing. As Jesus encourages Mary to not cling to Him, He is pointing her, and us, towards a faith that transcends the physical. He desires us to seek Him and be connected spiritually, understanding our relationship has transformed.
The Importance of Jesus’ Ascension
To further appreciate why Jesus told Mary not to touch Him, we must look at the theological implications of His ascension. After His resurrection, Jesus remained on Earth for a limited time before ascending to heaven (Acts 1:9-11). The ascension was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it signified the completion of His earthly mission. He had overcome sin and death, allowing the way for future believers to receive the Holy Spirit upon His departure (John 16:7). Without this event, the Comforter could not come effectively into the lives of His followers.
Additionally, Jesus’ ascension was a statement of His authority. As He rises to the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 1:3), it confirms that He is now the mediator for all humankind. Hence, Mary is being reminded of a new covenant, one rooted in faith rather than physical presence. Jesus emphasizes that she should recognize the broader purpose of His resurrection; it isn’t just about returning to familiar comfort but about a new relationship dynamic with Him.
Cultural and Historical Perspectives
Historically, Mary Magdalene played an essential role in the early church, being the first witness to Jesus’ resurrection. In Jewish culture, women were often overlooked in public narratives; yet, Jesus chose to reveal Himself first to Mary. This act highlights His radical love and acceptance. However, Jesus not permitting her to touch Him is layered with meaning. It wasn’t just discouraging a physical embrace, but guiding Mary to understand her place in the transformed narrative of faith.
From a cultural standpoint, Mary’s emotional response was valid. After the trauma of His crucifixion, her instinct was to cling to familiarity. This was the man who had freed her from demons (Mark 16:9); He was her teacher and friend. Yet Jesus gently directs her towards a new understanding of their relationship, one which calls for spiritual engagement as opposed to a mere physical connection. In essence, Mary’s attachment needed to evolve into an expectation of resurrection power that does not rely on touch.
Lessons for Today
When Jesus told Mary not to touch Him, He was offering a lesson for all believers. This passage challenges us to consider how we seek Jesus and what it means to have faith in Him today. The challenge is to transcend our desire for physical manifestations of His presence. In Hebrews 11:1, we learn that faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Jesus was redirecting Mary to this form of faith.
As we strive to live out our faith, we may have moments of longing for “tangible” experiences with Jesus. However, like Mary, we are invited into a relationship where the Holy Spirit dwells within us—reminding us that Jesus is always present. The message is timeless; through Him, we have access to communion with the Father irrespective of physical barriers. Let us embrace the spiritual intimacy that Jesus laid the groundwork for through His resurrection.
Final Thoughts
After reflecting on why Jesus told Mary not to touch Him, we can see the depth of meaning in this brief yet significant moment. Jesus was not dismissive; rather, He redirected Mary’s understanding of their relationship into something greater. We learn that His resurrection fundamentally changes how we connect with Him, moving from physical touch towards spiritual engagement.
As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to look for ways to experience His love that go beyond what we can see or touch. It invites us to develop a vibrant faith grounded in the knowledge of His presence through the Holy Spirit. In times of yearning or distress, let us remember Mary’s encounter and recognize that Jesus is always near, fully alive within us, leading us to a more profound relationship that transcends the physical.
So, as we navigate our journeys, let us treasure the new life Jesus has offered and seek to understand our connection with Him in fresh, exciting, and faith-driven ways.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4