. they returned As the sunset was now rapidly approaching, they must have hurried home to complete their preparations before the Sabbath began.

prepared spices and ointments The spices are dry, the -perfumes" liquid. They wished to complete the imperfect embalming of the body which Joseph and Nicodemus had hastily begun. Comp. 2 Chronicles 16:14. They had to purchase the spices (Mark 16:1). St Matthew alone relates the circumstances under which the Jews obtained leave to place a watch over the sepulchre, and to seal the stone, Matthew 27:62-66.

and rested This clause is closely connected with the next chapter,

"And during the Sabbath day they rested...but on the first day of the week, &c."

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising