Devine Scripture

Mark 15:44

What does Mark 15:44 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 15:44 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 15:44 means

Pilate is surprised to learn Jesus is already dead and calls the centurion to confirm. His surprise suggests that crucifixion victims sometimes linger, and he wants confirmation before releasing the body. The verse shows the Roman procedure and Pilate’s continuing involvement. It also demonstrates the unexpected swiftness or certainty of Jesus’ death, which will be testified by a Roman officer, adding weight to the claim that Jesus truly died—a crucial point for burial and later resurrection narratives.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Pilate was surprised that he was dead; and, sending for the captain, he put a question to see if he had been dead for long.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Pilate wondered if he were already dead, and having called near the centurion, did question him if he were long dead,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But Pilate wondered that he should be already dead. And sending for the centurion, he asked him if he were already dead.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Pilate wondered if he were already dead; and having called to [him] the centurion, he inquired of him if he had long died.

Context

This follows Joseph’s bold request. Pilate’s marveling and seeking confirmation reveal normal Roman caution in death cases. The centurion’s input will determine whether Pilate can legally grant the body. This procedural pause highlights the official recognition of Jesus’ death, paving the way for Joseph to receive the body for burial.

v.43there came Joseph of Arimathæa, a councillor of honorable estate, who also himself was looking for the kingdom of God; and he boldly went in unto Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus.

v.44This passage

v.45And when he learned it of the centurion, he granted the corpse to Joseph.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • John 19:31

    The Jews therefore, because it was the Preparation, that the bodies should not remain on the cross upon the sabbath (for the day of that sabbath was a high day), asked of Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.

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