Why Did Jesus Stay for 40 Days After His Death?
The Bible is replete with fascinating and often enigmatic details that have intrigued scholars and believers alike. One such detail is the mention of Jesus staying on Earth for 40 days after His resurrection. This period of 40 days is not merely a numerical coincidence but carries profound theological significance.
Theological Significance of 40 Days
The number 40 is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often symbolizing a period of testing, transformation, or preparation. For instance, it is mentioned in the story of the Great Flood, where Noah and his family spent 40 days and 40 nights in the ark, and in the case of Jesus, He spent 40 days in the wilderness undergoing temptation.
During these 40 days, Jesus appeared to His disciples, ensuring they understood and believed in His resurrection. This period is significant for several reasons:
Instruction and Commissioning
Before ascending to heaven, Jesus spoke to His disciples: “Stay in Jerusalem until you receive the promise of my Father. You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This instruction emphasized the importance of staying in Jerusalem to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit and to prepare to spread the message of Christ to the world.
Additionally, Jesus told them, “You are to preach about me to the most distant parts of the earth.” This call to mission is echoed in other biblical passages, such as Acts 1:8, which states, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Theological Consistency and Number Fixation
While the gospel writers are not wholly in agreement on the exact duration of Jesus' time with the disciples, the number 40 appears multiple times in both the Old and New Testaments. For instance, in the Old Testament, it is said, “It rained on the earth forty days and forty nights,” and in the wilderness, Jesus fasted for forty days and nights (Matthew 4:2).
The use of the number 40 in the Bible often symbolizes a significant number of days that represent a period of testing, revelation, or preparation. This numerical fixation is not without deeper theological meaning, often reflecting God's plan and timing.
Depth of Interpretation
Understanding the significance of the 40-day period requires delving into various levels of biblical interpretation:
Peshat: The Plain Meaning
The plain or simple meaning of the text is the most straightforward interpretation. In the case of Jesus staying for 40 days, it can be seen as a period of preparation and instruction for the disciples to spread the message of Christ.
Remez: The Hints or Allegorical Meaning
The allegorical or symbolic interpretation suggests that the 40 days also represent a greater spiritual journey or period of testing and growth. This could be related to the 40 years of testing the Israelites endured in the wilderness before entering the Promised Land.
Derash: The Comparative Midrashic Meaning
The comparative midrashic meaning involves looking at similar occurrences of the number 40 throughout the Bible to find deeper connections. For example, the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness could be connected to the 40 days and nights of rain during the flood, symbolizing both judgment and purification.
Sod: The Esoteric or Mystical Meaning
The esoteric or mystical interpretation involves exploring the hidden, deeper meanings of the number 40. This could include the number 40 days and nights representing the 40-year period between the first and second coming of Christ, highlighting the mystery of His return.
Conclusion
The 40-day period following Jesus' resurrection is a rich tapestry of symbolic and theological significance. It represents a time of instruction, preparation, and mission for the disciples, as well as a deeper indication of God's plan for the world. By understanding the 40 days from different biblical perspectives, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate and profound nature of God's work in the world.
May we seek to understand and apply this profound teaching in our own lives, as we strive to spread the message of Christ and fulfill the mission that Jesus entrusted to us.