Definition: And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave [him] leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 19:38. It’s a really important part of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion. Here's what it means in simple terms: Essentially, this verse tells us that after Jesus was arrested and put on trial, a man named Joseph of Arimathaea – who was a close follower of Jesus – pleaded with the Roman officials (Pilate) to let him take Jesus’ body away. Here's a breakdown of what’s happening: “And Joseph of Arimathaea”: This is just a name, it doesn’t mean anything specific. It’s simply referring to a man who was very devoted to Jesus and lived a quiet, secretive life. “being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews…” This tells us Joseph wasn't openly worshipping or advocating for Jesus like other followers. He was keeping a low profile because he worried about the Jewish authorities who were angry at him for being with Jesus. “…besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus”: This is the key part! Joseph was asking the Roman officials – the leader of the police – to remove Jesus’ body from the cross. He wasn't asking for a lenient trial; he was asking for it to be stopped completely. “Pilate gave [him] leave.” This is a bit tricky. It means that Pilate, the Roman official, allowed Joseph to take Jesus’ body away. He didn’t stop him from pleading. What's the big deal? This verse shows a few things: Jesus was being treated unfairly: The Jewish authorities were angry and wanted to get rid of Jesus. Joseph’s bravery: Joseph risked his own safety by trying to help Jesus. Pilate’s role: Pilate was in a difficult position – he needed to balance the needs of the Jewish people (who were demanding Jesus be punished) with the needs of Christianity (Jesus' followers). It’s a pivotal moment in the story. It shows that Jesus was being treated differently than other people, and it highlights the tension between different groups. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the significance of this verse within the context of the Bible?