There is so much symbolism in Christ’s death and resurrection. The account of John specifies a curious detail in the resurrection. When John arrived at the tomb and went inside, he noted that the cloth covering Jesus’ head was not piled with the burial cloths, but folded and set aside, John 20:7. Why is this an important detail?
According to Father Chrystian Shankar, the rolling up and placement of this cloth hearkened to a Jewish custom of the time. It is related to a common practice used by servants and masters of this era. (There is controversy over this Jewish custom only becoming “known” in 2007 and not a ritual throughout the centuries. From Aleteia – published on 07/26/18)
When the master was finished, he would rise, clean his fingers, mouth, and beard, and leave the “napkin” crumpled in a ball on the table. The wrinkled, discarded napkin indicated “I have finished.” However, if, for whatever reason, the master left the table with the intention of returning, he would fold the napkin and leave it beside his dishes. This was a message for the servant that he was not to disturb the table, given that the master had indicated, “I am returning.”
John 14:27-28 says Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. You heard me tell you, “I am going away, and I will come back for you.”
Be of good cheer, Jesus is coming back!
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