THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW - Chapter 28 - Verse 9

Verse 9. And as they went -- Jesus met them. This was when they left the sepulchre the second time. Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene, when alone, John 20:14. Afterwards he appeared to the other women, as related by Matthew. See the accounts of the resurrection harmonized, at the end of this chapter.

All hail. This is a term of salutation. The word "all" has been supplied by the translators. It is not in the original. The meaning of the world "hail" here, is rejoice; a term of salutation connected with the idea of joy -- joy at his resurrection, and at meeting them again.

Held him by the feet. Or threw themselves prostrate before him. This was the usual posture of supplication. See 2 Ki 4:37. It does not mean that they took hold of his feet, but only that they cast themselves down before him.

And worshipped him. See Barnes "Mt 8:2".

In this place the word worship seems to denote the homage due to the Messiah risen from the dead; regarded by them now in a proper light, and entitled to the honour which was due to God, agreeably to John 5:23.

{l} "All hail" John 20:19