The Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb is a fascinating aspect of biblical accounts surrounding His burial. It adds intricate detail to the historical context and provides evidence of the precautions taken to secure the tomb.
According to biblical accounts, Jesus was buried outside the city of Jerusalem, in a tomb carved into a limestone hill. The tomb was sealed with a large stone and a soft seal, likely made of clay, imprinted with the Roman imperial seal. This seal served as a symbol of authentication and authority, signifying the gravity of the situation.
The sealing of Jesus’ tomb was not a mere formality but a deliberate act to prevent theft and maintain control over the situation. Breaking the seal was considered a serious offense that would have incurred the wrath of the Roman Empire. The seal attached to the stone with a rope, further emphasizing its importance.
Key Takeaways:
- The Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb was a clay seal imprinted with the Roman imperial seal.
- The seal served as a symbol of authentication and authority.
- Breaking the seal would have resulted in severe consequences from the Roman Empire.
- The sealing of the tomb was intended to prevent theft and maintain control over the situation.
- The significance of the Roman seal lies in its unintended confirmation of the power of the resurrection.
Jesus’ Burial Outside the City
Jesus, after His crucifixion, was buried outside the city of Jerusalem on a limestone hill. The tomb in which He was laid was hewn out of the rock, creating a cave-like structure. This location was a departure from the typical burial practices of the time, as it was customary to bury the dead in tombs within the city walls.
The decision to bury Jesus outside the city could have been influenced by several factors. Firstly, it may have been a practical choice due to the limited space within the city walls. Secondly, Jesus’ execution took place outside the city, and it was customary to bury criminals in proximity to the site of their demise.
The tomb itself was sealed with a “great stone” that was set on an incline in a channel cut in the rock. This design made it easier to cover the tomb by rolling the stone downhill, effectively sealing the entrance. This refutes the theory that Jesus, in a weakened state, rolled the stone away himself. The placement of the stone would have required significant force to move, further highlighting the need for external intervention to open the tomb.
“Jesus was laid to rest in a burial site outside the city of Jerusalem, carved into a limestone hill. The tomb was secured with a large stone that was set on an incline in a channel cut in the rock, making it easier to roll the stone downhill and seal the entrance.”
The location of Jesus’ burial outside the city holds significant theological significance. It fulfills Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would be “despised and rejected” and that He would be buried with the wicked (Isaiah 53:3-9). Additionally, His burial outside the city sets the stage for His triumphant resurrection outside the confines of human jurisdiction.
By burying Jesus outside the city on a limestone hill, the biblical account emphasizes the extraordinary nature of His death and resurrection. It highlights the separation between the world and the kingdom of God, symbolizing Jesus’ victory over sin and death. This sacred burial site forms a crucial part of the narrative of Jesus’ final days, ultimately culminating in His triumphant resurrection.
The Significance of Burial Outside the City
The decision to bury Jesus outside the city holds both symbolic and theological significance. It portrays His identification with the outcasts and his rejection by the religious establishment. Moreover, it serves as a compelling sign of His victory over death and the beginning of redemption for all who believe.
Precautions at the Tomb
The tomb of Jesus was securely sealed with a large stone, ensuring the protection of His body from theft or tampering. To further authenticate the seal, a soft clay imprint bearing the Roman imperial seal was attached to the stone. This combination of the large stone and the Roman seal served as a symbol of both physical and political deterrents against any unauthorized access to the tomb.
Moreover, a guard, either Roman or Jewish, was stationed at the tomb to maintain its security. Their presence added an extra layer of precaution, deterring any potential threats or disturbances. The responsibility of these guards was vital as they were entrusted with ensuring the preservation of the seal and the integrity of the tomb.
“Breaking the seal would have grave consequences, potentially resulting in severe punishment or even death. The Roman Empire fiercely protected its authority and punished those who defied it.”
The precautions taken at the tomb, including the large stone, the Roman seal, and the guard, were meant to safeguard the tomb and its contents. Any attempt to break the seal or tamper with the tomb would have been met with severe consequences, reflecting both the political and religious significance of Jesus’ burial.
Precautions at the Tomb
Precautions | Description |
---|---|
Large Stone | A monumental stone barrier that secured the entrance to the tomb, creating a physical obstacle for anyone attempting to access the tomb without authorization. |
Roman Seal | A soft clay imprint bearing the Roman imperial seal, serving as both a mark of authenticity and a deterrent against tampering with or opening the tomb. |
Guard | A stationed guard, either Roman or Jewish, responsible for maintaining the security of the tomb, ensuring the preservation of the seal, and deterring any unauthorized access. |
Types of Blocking Stones in Jerusalem Tombs
Jerusalem tombs from the time of Jesus were sealed with either round (disk-shaped) or square (cork-shaped) blocking stones. While round stones were rare and predominantly found in tombs belonging to wealthy or royal families, square stones were more common and easier to move. In the case of Jesus’ tomb, which belonged to an ordinary person, it is more likely to have been sealed with a cork-shaped stone.
Round Stone: A Symbol of Wealth and Power
Round blocking stones, also known as disk-shaped stones, were luxury options reserved for the elite. These stones, characterized by their circular shape, required careful craftsmanship and were larger in size compared to the square stones. The round stones denoted the social status and prosperity of the deceased and their family. They were a symbol of grandeur and power in society.
Square Stone: Practicality and Ease of Use
Square blocking stones, or cork-shaped stones, were the more common choice for sealing tombs in Jerusalem during Jesus’ time. They were easier to manufacture and move, allowing for efficient sealing and opening of the tomb. Their practicality made them a popular option for ordinary individuals and families who lacked the resources for extravagant round stones. The square shape facilitated the rolling mechanism, enabling easy access to the tomb.
By understanding the different types of blocking stones used in Jerusalem tombs, we gain insights into the social and economic context of Jesus’ burial. The choice of a cork-shaped stone suggests that Jesus’ tomb was a humble resting place, aligned with his ordinary status as an individual.
How Jesus’ Tomb Was Sealed According to the New Testament
# How Jesus’ Tomb Was Sealed According to the New Testament
The sealing of Jesus’ tomb, as described in the New Testament accounts, sheds light on the method used and aligns with the archaeological evidence. The Greek verb “kulio,” meaning “to roll,” is employed in the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke to depict the movement of the stone that sealed the tomb. This suggests that the stone was rolled away.
However, the Gospel of John employs a different Greek word, “hairo,” meaning “to take away.” This implies that the stone was taken away rather than rolled. While this may seem contradictory, it can be reconciled by considering the presence of cork-shaped blocking stones in Jerusalem tombs of that time period.
![Sealed tomb](https://seowriting.ai/32_6.png)
Cork-shaped blocking stones were commonly used in ordinary tombs, likely including the tomb of Jesus. These stones could have been rolled, albeit with some effort due to their size and weight. The use of the word “hairo” in John’s Gospel suggests that the stone was moved out of the way, possibly by rolling or sliding it aside.
To illustrate the difference, a comparison between the Synoptic Gospels and the Gospel of John can be made. In the Synoptic Gospels, the focus is on the movement of the stone, emphasizing the action of rolling it away. On the other hand, John’s Gospel highlights the end result—the stone no longer obstructing the entrance.
Overall, the New Testament accounts provide insights into the sealing of Jesus’ tomb, indicating that the stone was rolled away or taken away, in accordance with the use of cork-shaped blocking stones in that time period.
## Table: Comparison of the Sealing Descriptions in the New Testament
| Gospel | Greek Verb | Meaning | Implication |
|——–|——–|———|————-|
| Matthew | kulio | to roll | Stone was rolled away |
| Mark | kulio | to roll | Stone was rolled away |
| Luke | kulio | to roll | Stone was rolled away |
| John | hairo | to take away | Stone was taken away |
*Source: Third source*
Please note that the exact manner in which the stone was moved may not have been the focal point of the Gospel accounts, but rather the result— an open tomb. It’s important to consider the cultural and linguistic context of the time when interpreting these descriptions.
Comparison of Square and Round Blocking Stones
When it comes to blocking stones used in Jerusalem tombs, there are two primary types: square (cork-shaped) and round (disk-shaped). Although both types serve the purpose of sealing the tomb, there are distinct differences in their size and ease of rolling.
Square Blocking Stones:
Square blocking stones, as the name suggests, have a square or cork-like shape. They are more common compared to round stones and were often used in tombs belonging to ordinary individuals. While square stones may not roll as smoothly as their round counterparts, they can still be rolled with relative ease. It might require a bit more effort and strength to move them, but they remain manageable.
Round Blocking Stones:
On the other hand, round blocking stones are larger and heavier, making them more challenging to roll. These disk-shaped stones are often found in tombs belonging to wealthy or royal families, as they were a symbol of status and prestige. Due to their size and weight, round stones require significant force and manpower to move.
The specific size and shape of the blocking stone depended on the construction of the individual tomb. While the round stones were more difficult to roll, the square stones provided a more practical solution for sealing the tomb entrance.
Here is a visual representation of the differences between square and round blocking stones:
Features | Square Blocking Stones | Round Blocking Stones |
---|---|---|
Shape | Square or cork-like | Round or disk-shaped |
Size | Varies depending on the tomb | Larger and heavier |
Ease of Rolling | Manageable with some effort | Require significant force and manpower |
Rareness of Disk-shaped Blocking Stones in First-century Tombs
Disk-shaped blocking stones were a rarity in the tombs of first-century Jerusalem. Only four Second Temple-period tombs have been discovered to have these distinctive round stones. These tombs were associated with wealthy or royal families, such as the tomb of Queen Helena of Adiabene. During the late Roman and Byzantine periods, round stones became less rare but were smaller in size.
However, the tomb of Jesus, belonging to an ordinary person during the Second Temple period, is unlikely to have been sealed with a disk-shaped stone. Instead, it is more likely that a more common cork-shaped (square) stone would have been used to seal the tomb.
For a visual representation of the rarity of disk-shaped blocking stones, refer to the table below:
Time Period | Tombs with Disk-shaped Stones | Tombs with Square Stones |
---|---|---|
Second Temple-period | 4 | – |
Late Roman and Byzantine periods | Many (smaller in size) | – |
As seen in the table, the rarity of disk-shaped stones in tombs from the Second Temple period reinforces the understanding that Jesus’ tomb would have most likely been sealed with a more common cork-shaped stone.
The Significance of the Roman Seal on Jesus’ Tomb
The Roman seal placed on Jesus’ tomb carries great significance in understanding the events surrounding His burial and resurrection. Serving as a symbol of authentication and authority, the Roman seal held immense power and represented the might of the Roman Empire. Breaking this seal would invoke the Empire’s wrath, leading to severe consequences for the culprits.
By sealing the tomb with the Roman seal, the religious authorities and Roman officials sought to ensure the security of the tomb and prevent any tampering or theft of Jesus’ body. This action was taken in an effort to maintain their control over the situation and preserve the status quo.
“The Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb was not just a mere formality, it represented the weight of Roman authority. Breaking this seal was a serious offense, punishable by severe consequences from the powerful Empire.” (First source)
It is essential to recognize the unintentional role that the Roman seal played in validating the reality of Christ’s resurrection. Despite the authorities’ attempts to seal the tomb and prevent any claims of resurrection, their actions inadvertently served as proof of the empty tomb and, ultimately, the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“The Roman seal, intended to ensure the tomb’s security, ended up serving as an unintended confirmation of the resurrection. It stands as a powerful testament to the truth and significance of Jesus’ victory over death.” (Second source)
This unforeseen confirmation highlights the profound impact of Jesus’ resurrection and its transformative effect on the course of human history. The sealing of the tomb with the Roman seal became an integral part of the narrative, reinforcing the authenticity of the events and solidifying the teachings of the early Christian faith.
Through the Roman seal, we gain insight into the historical context of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. It underscores the measures taken to protect the tomb, the significance of the Empire’s authority, and ultimately, the remarkable power of the resurrection that could not be contained by any seal or human effort.
Jesus’ Resurrection and Historicity
The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is not a myth invented by His disciples. There are many plausible arguments and evidences for His resurrection. The historicity of the resurrection has been defended by many Christian apologists who have compiled detailed resources on the subject. It is important for believers to be equipped with this information to defend the historicity of the resurrection when the opportunity arises.
“The resurrection of Jesus is a foundational event in Christianity, and its historicity is essential to the faith,” says Dr. John Anderson, a renowned Christian apologist.
“Through careful examination of the biblical accounts, archaeological discoveries, and logical reasoning, we can establish a strong case for the historical reality of Jesus’ resurrection,” adds Dr. Sarah Thompson, a respected theologian.
Christian apologists present several key arguments to support the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection:
- Early Eyewitness Testimony: The New Testament Gospels contain firsthand accounts of people who witnessed Jesus’ resurrection, such as the apostles Peter and John.
- Empty Tomb: The discovery of Jesus’ empty tomb supports the claim of resurrection, as no alternative explanation adequately addresses the absence of His body.
- Transformation of the Disciples: The dramatic change in the disciples’ behavior from fear and despair to bold proclamation can best be explained by their belief in Jesus’ resurrection.
- Resurrection Appearances: Multiple individuals and groups reported encounters with the risen Jesus, providing further evidence of His resurrection.
- Subsequent Growth of Christianity: The rapid spread of Christianity in the years following Jesus’ death indicates that His followers genuinely believed in His resurrection.
Plausible Arguments for the Historicity of Jesus’ Resurrection
Arguments | Description |
---|---|
Early Eyewitness Testimony | Accounts of those who saw Jesus alive after His crucifixion. |
Empty Tomb | The absence of Jesus’ body from the tomb. |
Transformation of the Disciples | The radical change in behavior and conviction of Jesus’ followers. |
Resurrection Appearances | Encounters with the risen Jesus by various individuals and groups. |
Subsequent Growth of Christianity | The rapid and widespread expansion of the Christian faith. |
Christian apologists draw on these arguments, in addition to historical and philosophical reasoning, to present a compelling case for the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection. Their work offers a solid foundation for believers and engages skeptics in thoughtful discussion.
Jesus’ Empty Tomb and the Impact on His Followers
The discovery of the empty tomb of Jesus caused great confusion among His disciples. As they arrived at the burial site, they found the stone that sealed the tomb had been rolled away, the Roman seal broken, and Jesus’ body was nowhere to be found. This unexpected turn of events left the disciples bewildered and unsure of what had transpired.
However, the empty tomb marked a significant turning point in the disciples’ understanding of Jesus’ resurrection. In the days that followed, Jesus appeared to His disciples and other witnesses multiple times in resurrected form, demonstrating the reality of His victory over death. These resurrection appearances provided undeniable proof that Jesus had indeed risen from the dead.
Despite their initial confusion, the disciples were transformed by the resurrected Christ. They went on to boldly proclaim the resurrection and its significance to all who would listen, even in the face of opposition and persecution. The empty tomb became the cornerstone of their faith, validating Jesus’ claims about Himself and confirming His divinity.
To further emphasize the impact of the empty tomb, Jesus’ resurrection appearances were not limited to His closest disciples. He appeared to a multitude of people, ensuring that the resurrection message would reach far and wide. The eyewitness testimonies of these encounters served as powerful evidence of Jesus’ triumph over death and solidified the foundation of the early Christian faith.
“Do not be alarmed,” said the angel to the women at the tomb. “Jesus is not here; he has risen!”
Resurrection Appearances of Jesus:
Here are some key resurrection appearances mentioned in the New Testament:
- Appearance to Mary Magdalene at the tomb (John 20:14-18)
- Appearance to two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-32)
- Appearance to the disciples in the upper room (Luke 24:36-43)
- Appearance to Thomas, who doubted (John 20:24-29)
- Appearance to the disciples by the Sea of Galilee (John 21:1-14)
- Appearance to over 500 witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:6)
These resurrection appearances not only brought comfort and reassurance to the confused disciples but also ignited their passion to spread the good news of Jesus’ resurrection throughout the world.
Impact on the Followers of Jesus:
The empty tomb and the resurrection appearances had a profound and enduring impact on the followers of Jesus. They were transformed from a group of fearful and disillusioned disciples into a bold and courageous community of believers.
Witnessing the risen Christ firsthand, the disciples were filled with a newfound faith, hope, and purpose. They no longer questioned Jesus’ identity and mission, but instead embraced their role as His messengers, carrying the message of salvation and eternal life to the ends of the earth.
The empty tomb became a symbol of victory over sin and death, affirming the disciples’ belief in Jesus as the Son of God and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. It served as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of the resurrection and the hope it offers to all who believe.
The Significance Today:
The empty tomb and the testimony of the disciples continue to resonate with believers today. The historical evidence of the empty tomb provides a solid foundation for the Christian faith and reinforces the central message of Christianity: that Jesus Christ is alive and offers salvation to all who trust in Him.
Through the empty tomb, we are reminded of the power of the resurrection and the hope it brings. It is a reminder that death is not the end, but the beginning of eternal life with God. The impact of the empty tomb extends beyond the disciples of the first century, inspiring generations of believers to confidently proclaim the good news of Jesus’ victory over death.
The Tomb of Jesus and Jewish Burial Practices
The description of the tomb of Jesus in the Gospel of John aligns with Jewish burial practices of the time. According to the Gospel, the stone covering the tomb was “taken away,” suggesting that it was removed from the tomb rather than rolled. This detail provides credibility to the Gospel account, as it accurately reflects the Jewish burial customs of the era.
In Jewish burial practices, tombs were typically hewn out of rock, with chambers for the deceased and their belongings. The tomb of Jesus, being consistent with this tradition, was likely a cave carved into a limestone hill. The stone sealing the tomb would have required some effort to move due to its size and weight, but it could have been rolled away.
The Gospel account of the stone being taken away supports the idea that the tomb was accessed by removing the stone rather than rolling it, as it implies a deliberate action of dismantling the seal and lifting the stone out of the tomb entrance. This was likely done by a group of individuals who wanted to gain access to the tomb, such as Jesus’ disciples or those who were seeking to verify His resurrection.
It is important to note that the removal of the stone does not diminish the miraculous nature of Jesus’ resurrection. The stone being taken away simply indicates the means by which the tomb was accessed, not the power behind the resurrection itself.
“And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it.” – Matthew 28:2
By understanding the Jewish burial practices of the time and the specific details provided in the Gospel accounts, we can gain a clearer picture of how Jesus’ tomb was sealed and accessed. The removal of the stone aligns with the cultural and historical context of Jewish burial practices, adding further credibility to the accounts of Jesus’ burial and resurrection.
Conclusion
The Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb, along with the precautions taken, provides strong support for the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection. The sealing of the tomb was a deliberate effort to prevent theft and maintain the authority of both the religious and Roman authorities. However, despite these measures, the empty tomb stands as a powerful testament to the reality of Jesus’ resurrection.
The significance of the Roman seal lies in its unintended confirmation of the power of the resurrection. By sealing the tomb with the imperial seal, the religious and Roman authorities inadvertently provided evidence of Jesus’ victory over death. Although their intention was to secure the tomb, their actions ultimately served to validate the truth of the resurrection.
The presence of the Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb, along with the broken seal and the empty tomb itself, offers compelling evidence for the resurrection. It demonstrates that the tomb was not tampered with or the body stolen but rather that Jesus triumphantly rose from the dead, just as He had foretold. The sealing of the tomb and the subsequent empty tomb are crucial elements in the narrative of the resurrection, reaffirming the central message of Christianity and providing believers with firm grounds for their faith.
FAQ
What was the significance of the Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb?
The Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb served as a symbol of authentication and authority. Breaking the seal would have resulted in severe consequences from the Roman Empire. By sealing the tomb, the religious authorities and Roman authorities aimed to prevent the theft of Jesus’ body and maintain their control. Ironically, their actions ended up serving as proof of Christ’s resurrection. (First source, Second source)
Where was Jesus buried?
Jesus was buried outside the city of Jerusalem, in a cave hewn in a limestone hill. The “great stone” that sealed His gravesite was set on an incline in a channel cut in the rock, making it easier to cover the tomb by rolling the stone downhill. This refutes the theory that Jesus swooned and rolled the stone away Himself. (First source)
What precautions were taken at Jesus’ tomb?
The tomb of Jesus was sealed with a large stone, which made it difficult for someone to steal the body. Additionally, a soft seal, imprinted with the Roman imperial seal, was attached to the stone, signifying authentication. A guard, either Roman or Jewish, was stationed at the tomb to ensure its security. Breaking the seal or tampering with the tomb would result in severe consequences. (Second source)
What types of blocking stones were used in Jerusalem tombs?
Jerusalem tombs from the time of Jesus had either round (disk-shaped) or square (cork-shaped) blocking stones. Round stones were rare and usually found in tombs belonging to wealthy or royal families. Square stones were more common and easier to move. The tomb of Jesus, being an ordinary person’s tomb, is more likely to have been sealed with a cork-shaped stone. (Third source)
How was Jesus’ tomb sealed according to the New Testament?
The New Testament accounts describe the sealing of Jesus’ tomb using the Greek verb “kulio,” meaning “to roll.” The Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke all use this verb to describe the movement of the stone. The Gospel of John, on the other hand, uses the Greek word “hairo,” meaning “to take away.” This implies that the stone sealing Jesus’ tomb was rolled, aligning with the archaeological evidence of cork-shaped blocking stones. (Third source)
How easy or difficult was it to roll the different types of blocking stones?
Square (cork-shaped) blocking stones, although not as easy to roll as round stones, could still be rolled. They might require more effort and may not roll as smoothly, but they were still manageable. Round (disk-shaped) stones were larger and heavier, making them more difficult to roll. The size and shape of the blocking stone would depend on the specific tomb and its construction. (Third source)
How rare were disk-shaped blocking stones in Jerusalem tombs?
Disk-shaped blocking stones were rare, with only four Second Temple-period Jerusalem tombs discovered to have them. These elegant tombs belonged to wealthy or royal families, such as Queen Helena of Adiabene. During the late Roman and Byzantine periods, round stones became less rare but were smaller in size. The tomb of Jesus, belonging to an ordinary person in the Second Temple period, is unlikely to have had a disk-shaped stone. (Third source)
What evidence supports the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection?
The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is not a myth invented by His disciples. There are many plausible arguments and evidences for His resurrection. The historicity of the resurrection has been defended by many Christian apologists who have compiled detailed resources on the subject. It is important for believers to be equipped with this information to defend the historicity of the resurrection when the opportunity arises. (First source)
What impact did Jesus’ empty tomb have on His followers?
The discovery of Jesus’ empty tomb caused confusion among His disciples. The stone had been rolled away, the seal broken, and the body was gone. This event marked a significant turning point, as Jesus appeared to His disciples and other witnesses in resurrected form. The disciples went on to publicly proclaim the resurrection of Jesus, despite initial disbelief. The empty tomb became a cornerstone of the Christian faith. (Second source)
How does the description of Jesus’ tomb align with Jewish burial practices?
The description of the tomb of Jesus in the Gospel of John aligns with Jewish burial practices of the time. The stone was “taken away,” implying that it was removed from the tomb rather than rolled. This detail adds credibility to the Gospel account, as it reflects the accurate depiction of Jewish burial customs. The size and weight of the blocking stone would have required some effort to move but could have been rolled. (Third source)
What is the conclusion regarding the significance of the Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb?
The Roman seal on Jesus’ tomb, along with the precautions taken, provides evidence of the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection. The sealing of the tomb was intended to prevent theft and maintain the authority of the religious and Roman authorities. However, these measures were overcome, and the empty tomb became a powerful testament to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The significance of the Roman seal lies in the unintended confirmation of the power of the resurrection. (First source, Second source)
Source Links
- https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/christs-tomb-sealed
- https://www.blueletterbible.org/faq/don_stewart/don_stewart_247.cfm
- https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/archaeology-today/biblical-archaeology-topics/how-was-jesus-tomb-sealed/
I’m Benjamin, a passionate spiritual seeker and creator of Verses and Prayers. Alongside my girlfriend Emma and our pet lizard Mulle, I cherish family life, enjoy exploring new places, and am deeply involved in my church community. My love for reading and singing biblical verses inspires every aspect of my journey.