When Jesus died, an earthquake opened the tombs around Jerusalem. When He rose from the dead, another occurred and the saints of old walked out of them. Matthew connects the cross and the grave with these earthquakes and the women who were near for both.

For years, Jesus had told them that this day was coming, but when it did, they still looked for Him in the tomb. But just as He said, Jesus had raised from the grave on the third day. And as He went to Hades and declared victory over the last enemy, He brought back up the souls of many believers who had previously died, whose bodies were animated and walked back into the Holy city.