12 Bible Verses About Tombstones

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
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Bible verses about tombstones

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about tombstones:

1. Genesis 35:20 – “And Jacob set a pillar upon her grave: that is the pillar of Rachel’s grave unto this day.”
2. Matthew 27:60 – “And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.”
3. Mark 15:46 – “And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.”
4. John 11:38-39 – “Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.”
5. Acts 2:29 – “Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.”
6. Revelation 20:13 – “And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.”

7. Genesis 23:19 – “And after this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field of Machpelah before Mamre: the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan.”
8. 2 Kings 23:17-18 – “Then he said, What title is that that I see? And the men of the city told him, It is the sepulchre of the man of God, which came from Judah, and proclaimed these things that thou hast done against the altar of Bethel. And he said, Let him alone; let no man move his bones. So they let his bones alone, with the bones of the prophet that came out of Samaria.”
9. Matthew 23:27 – “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.”
10. Luke 11:44 – “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.”
11. John 19:41-42 – “Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews’ preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.”
12. Acts 7:16 – “And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem.”

What does the bible say about tombstones?

The Bible does not specifically mention tombstones, as the practice of using tombstones to mark graves was not common during biblical times.

However, the Bible does emphasize the importance of honoring the dead and remembering those who have passed away.

It also teaches that death is not the end, but rather a transition to eternal life.

Additionally, the Bible encourages believers to focus on the legacy and impact of the deceased, rather than material markers such as tombstones.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that our focus should be on honoring and remembering the lives of those who have passed, rather than on physical markers like tombstones.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about tombstones?

1. Matthew 27 – This chapter describes the burial of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion, including the placement of a large stone at the entrance of the tomb. This chapter is relevant to tombstones as it provides insight into the historical practice of using stones to mark burial sites.

2. John 20 – This chapter details the discovery of Jesus’ empty tomb by Mary Magdalene and the other disciples. It also mentions the presence of burial cloths and the stone that had been rolled away from the tomb. This chapter is relevant to tombstones as it highlights the importance of the physical markers of burial sites in biblical times.

3. Revelation 20 – This chapter describes the final judgment and the resurrection of the dead, including those whose names are written in the Book of Life. The concept of resurrection and eternal life is closely tied to the symbolism of tombstones, as they serve as reminders of the hope of life beyond death.

Reading these chapters can provide a deeper understanding of the significance of tombstones in biblical contexts and how they are used to commemorate the deceased and symbolize the hope of resurrection and eternal life.

Ideas and concepts related to tombstones that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Death and Resurrection: The concept of death and resurrection is a central theme in the Bible. Tombstones are often used to mark the final resting place of the deceased, symbolizing the end of their earthly life. However, the Bible also teaches about the hope of resurrection and eternal life for believers, emphasizing that death is not the end but a transition to a new and eternal existence.

2. Memorial and Remembrance: Tombstones serve as memorials to honor and remember the lives of those who have passed away. Similarly, the Bible emphasizes the importance of remembering the faithfulness of God and the actions of those who have gone before us. Tombstones can serve as physical reminders of the legacy and impact of the deceased, just as biblical stories and teachings serve as spiritual reminders for believers.

3. Judgment and Accountability: In some biblical passages, tombstones are used as symbols of judgment and accountability. They serve as a reminder that all individuals will be held accountable for their actions and will face judgment before God. This concept of judgment and accountability is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of living a righteous and faithful life in preparation for the afterlife.

4. Hope and Comfort: While tombstones may evoke feelings of grief and loss, they can also provide a sense of hope and comfort to those who visit them. The Bible offers words of comfort and hope to those who are mourning, reminding them of the promise of eternal life and the presence of God’s comfort in times of sorrow. Just as tombstones can serve as a source of comfort and remembrance, the Bible offers solace and reassurance to those who are grieving.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.