Mary Magdalene is perhaps the most misunderstood person in the Bible. Many people are taught that she was a prostitute that Jesus took pity upon. Others confuse her with Mary of Bethany who anointed Jesus with costly ointment. But the New Testament tells a very different story.
Mary Magdalene was in fact a central member of Jesus’ inner circle of followers. Her real name was not Mary, but the Hebrew “Miriam,” one of the most common female names in first century Jewish society. Magdalene was not her family name, however, but the place where she lived -- Magdala, a fishing village on the western shores of the Sea of Galilee. The name means “tower” (migdal) in Hebrew, a reference to a prominent monument in the town.
The idea that Mary was a prostitute forgiven by Jesus is pure legend, developed centuries after Christ. In fact, Mary was likely a respected member of the Jewish upper class. The fishing industry had made Magdala rich, and Mary probably belonged to this aristocracy. The Bible says she was one of several wealthy women who used her wealth to “provide for [Jesus’s ministry] out of their own resources” (Luke 8:3).
Why did this noblewoman become a follower of Jesus? Perhaps because Jesus saved her life by casting “seven demons” out of her (Luke 8:2). Mary became so important that Jesus appeared to her first after his resurrection (John 20). She is mentioned by name 12 times in the Gospels, more than most of the disciples!
Mary Magdalene was in fact a central member of Jesus’ inner circle of followers. Her real name was not Mary, but the Hebrew “Miriam,” one of the most common female names in first century Jewish society. Magdalene was not her family name, however, but the place where she lived -- Magdala, a fishing village on the western shores of the Sea of Galilee. The name means “tower” (migdal) in Hebrew, a reference to a prominent monument in the town.
The idea that Mary was a prostitute forgiven by Jesus is pure legend, developed centuries after Christ. In fact, Mary was likely a respected member of the Jewish upper class. The fishing industry had made Magdala rich, and Mary probably belonged to this aristocracy. The Bible says she was one of several wealthy women who used her wealth to “provide for [Jesus’s ministry] out of their own resources” (Luke 8:3).
Why did this noblewoman become a follower of Jesus? Perhaps because Jesus saved her life by casting “seven demons” out of her (Luke 8:2). Mary became so important that Jesus appeared to her first after his resurrection (John 20). She is mentioned by name 12 times in the Gospels, more than most of the disciples!
1 comment:
Interesting. I have heard that some think she was Jesus’ partner or wife. Will we ever know for sure?
Post a Comment