Easter, Empty Tomb
JESUS MAFA, 1973

My dear friends,

The story of the Resurrection in Mark 16:1-8 concludes in a manner that has intrigued scholars and spiritual seekers for centuries. This section details the discovery of Jesus' empty tomb by Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, and their encounter with an angel who announces Jesus' resurrection. The narrative ends with the women fleeing from the tomb in fear and astonishment, without telling anyone what they had seen.

Why the Abrupt Ending?

• Historical and Textual Analysis: Scholars theorize that the original ending may have been lost or that Mark intended to end his gospel abruptly to engage the reader more directly in the Resurrection's mystery.

• Spiritual Significance: The sudden ending invites readers to confront the divine mystery of the Resurrection, reminiscent of the profound and often bewildering experiences encountered on the Bodhisattva path.

The Women's Fear

• Human Reaction: The fear experienced by the women can be viewed as a natural response to their miraculous and divine encounter, symbolizing the initial shock in the face of the divine.

• Spiritual Awakening: Similar to the challenges faced on the spiritual path, the women's fear reflects the early stages of spiritual awakening, where existing perceptions are dramatically challenged.

The Addition of Alternative Endings

• Need for Closure: The original ending's abrupt nature may have left early Christians seeking more clarity and closure, prompting later editors to add further details about Jesus' post-Resurrection appearances.

• Consistency with Other Gospels: The additional endings help align Mark's Gospel with the other Gospels, offering a more consistent narrative of the Resurrection's aftermath.

The conclusion of Mark's Gospel, both in its original and extended versions, mirrors the journey of the Bodhisattva, where encounters with the true nature of existence challenge, transform, and ultimately lead to liberation.