Who was Joseph of Arimathea and why did he bury Jesus?

Joseph of Arimathea played a pivotal role in the burial of Jesus as he stepped forward to ask Pilate for Jesus' body. Described in the Gospels as a good, just man who awaited the Kingdom of God, Joseph was initially a secret disciple due to fear of the Jewish leaders. However, witnessing the crucifixion spurred him to act courageously, demonstrating his faith. His actions fulfill God's sovereign plan as he provides a prominent burial in a tomb that had never been used, thus fulfilling Isaiah 53:9 which states He would be buried with the rich.