Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 28:9

"And behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and took hold of his feet, and worshipped him." — Matthew 28:9 (ASV)

All hail—Literally, rejoice. The word was probably our Lord’s usual greeting to the company of devout women. Though used in homage, whether real or mocking, as in Matthew 27:29 and John 19:3, it did not necessarily have the solemnity that modern usage has attached to "hail." We may believe it was by that familiar word and tone that the other women first recognized their Lord, just as Mary Magdalene had recognized Him by His utterance of her own name.

Held him by the feet—Better, clasped His feet. We must remember that Mary Magdalene had already heard the words Touch Me not (John 20:17), but if we suppose she had rejoined the other women, passionate and joyful love carried her, as it did the others, beyond the limits of reverential obedience.

Worshipped him—The word does not necessarily imply a new form of homage. The prostration it indicates had been practiced before (Matthew 8:2; Matthew 9:18), although it is right to add that it was also practiced by many people not connected with the apostolic company who came with specific requests. It was the natural posture of a servant pleading before his master (Matthew 18:26). Perhaps it was not until later that the disciples were led to feel that this posture was due to God and to the Man Christ Jesus, and to no other human being (Acts 10:26) or angel (Revelation 22:9). (See the note on Matthew 28:17).