The answer is: True

Matt 27:52-53 - The believers were raised either at his death or his resurrection (we can't know for sure from scripture as it doesn't make it clear - maybe after if you consider Jesus was the firstfruits), but they didn't come out of the graves until after the resurrection, so either they sat alive in the tombs for three days, or they were resurrected at the time of Jesus' resurrection, we don't know.

In the Easter story, there's a fascinating twist detailed in the opening chapters of Matthew—specifically, Matthew 27:52-53. The snippet unveils a remarkable event where, following Jesus' resurrection, holy bodies emerge from their tombs. This event adds layers of complexity and intrigue, making it one of the more curious moments of the gospels.

Traditionally, this can be interpreted in various ways. Were these beings caught in a limbo? Did they chill in their graves waiting for a divine cue, or did they experience a kind of resurrection that remains directly connected to Jesus' pivotal moment? These mysteries elicit contemplative pondering. The phrase "firstfruits" often thrown around in this context refers to the initial offering of a harvest; linking it to Jesus is profound—but what of these saints rising from the dead?

Interestingly, the widespread belief in life after death isn't solely a Christian concept. Ancient Egyptians, for example, mummified their dead, believing they were preparing for eternal life with an explicit afterlife. And Jewish traditions surrounding resurrection can be seen threaded throughout, reflected in various texts that pre-date the New Testament.

This moment encourages us not only to consider the resurrection of Jesus but invites contemplation about how these ancient stories intersect with our own thoughts on life, mortality, and the possibilities that exist beyond death. It's a compelling blend of hope, mystery, and theological exploration! What does that say about our quest for understanding life's ultimate purpose?