The answer is: An Angel

Matt 28:2

In the thrilling narrative of Jesus’ resurrection, the rolling away of the stone is more than a mere detail—it’s a divine intervention and a sign of the power behind the resurrection itself. In Matthew 28:2, it’s not simply an angel but "an angel of the Lord" that causes the earthquake and rolls back the stone. This angelic figure signifies the breaking of earthly bounds—a heavenly messenger convincing the world that death is not the end.

Fun trivia: Angels in the Bible often appear at significant moments. For example, an angel announced the virgin birth to Mary, showing that they frequently serve as bearers of momentous news. In masterpiece literature, angels frequently represent transition or change—moving from life to death, or in this case, death to life.

Furthermore, in the wider context, the earthquake—and thus the stone’s rolling away—speaks to the shaking nature of the very foundations of reality brought about by Jesus’ resurrection. It's as if creation itself acknowledges the momentous event! Additionally, the rolled stone symbolizes that Jesus broke free from death’s grip, offering eternal life to all beyond just a resurrection of one.

Last but certainly not least, many find parallels in ancient traditions regarding the resurrection themes found in various cultures. The moment invites not just awe, but lively exploration of what renewal and hope mean across history and humanity’s quest for meaning beyond mortality.