The phrase "do not cling to me" or "do not touch me," attributed to Jesus in the Gospel of John (John 20:17), occurs after His resurrection when Mary Magdalene encounters Him in the garden. The full context of this passage is significant: Jesus has just risen from the dead, and Mary is overjoyed to see Him, wanting to hold onto Him.
The meaning behind Jesus' instruction can be interpreted in several ways:
1. **Transition to a New