John 20:7

John 20:7 refers to a specific verse in the New Testament book of John. It describes the scene inside Jesus' tomb after his resurrection was discovered by Mary Magdalene. The verse reads: "And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself."

This verse is significant because it presents a detail that some scholars believe points towards the resurrection being genuine rather than a grave robbery. The careful arrangement of the burial cloths, particularly the separate and folded napkin that covered Jesus' head, suggests a deliberate act rather than a hasty removal that would be expected in a theft. This detail has been interpreted as evidence of a controlled departure from the tomb.

Different interpretations exist regarding the meaning of this verse. Some consider it a sign intended for the "beloved disciple" (John) to understand and believe in the resurrection, as described in the following verses (John 20:8-9). Others focus on the symbolism of the neatly folded cloth, seeing it as an indication of Jesus' organized and triumphant return from death, signifying order and control even in the face of mortality. Still others argue its significance is overstated and merely describes the scene as it was found.