Verse 39
Only John mentioned that Nicodemus also played a part in burying Jesus (cf. John 3:1-15). He was also probably a member of the Sanhedrin (cf. John 3:1). He, too, was now taking a more visible position as a disciple of Jesus (cf. John 7:50-52). Nicodemus brought about 65 pounds (100 litrai, cf. John 12:3) of spices with which to prepare Jesus’ body for burial. This was a large quantity and reflected Nicodemus’ great respect for Jesus. Evidently these two wealthy rulers decided to honor Jesus together. They apparently divided their responsibilities, with Joseph securing Pilate’s permission and Nicodemus preparing the spices.
Myrrh was a fragrant resin that the Jews turned into powder and mixed with aloes, which was powdered sandalwood. [Note: Ibid., p. 630.] The purpose of covering a corpse with this aromatic powder was to dry it out and to lessen the foul odor that putrefaction caused.
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