For just as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for three days and three nights, so also the Son of Man will be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights.
In this saying, Jesus connects the story of the prophet Jonah with his future death, burial, and resurrection. Jonah, who remained three days in the belly of a great fish (Jonah 1:17), symbolizes the period during which Jesus will remain in the tomb. This comparison shows that Jonah’s story was foretelling Jesus’ saving work. The “heart” of the earth refers to the tomb, where Jesus will be after his crucifixion. His being in the tomb for three days and three nights is not only a chronological fact, but also symbolizes his complete death as the work by which the sin of the world is atoned for. Jesus’ resurrection will be the greatest sign that will confirm his words and his messianic calling. This saying both deepens faith and inspires hope: it reminds us that Jesus’ death and resurrection are the central part of God’s plan of salvation. Jonah’s experience, which was temporary and ended with deliverance, is a prototype of Jesus’ death and resurrection, symbolizing that death has been overcome and God’s salvation is real.