Matthew 27:56

Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.

Among {G1722} which {G3739} was {G2258} Mary {G3137} Magdalene {G3094}, and {G2532} Mary {G3137} the mother {G3384} of James {G2385} and {G2532} Joses {G2500}, and {G2532} the mother {G3384} of Zebedee's {G2199} children {G5207}.

Among them were Miryam from Magdala, Miryam the mother of Ya`akov and Yosef, and the mother of Zavdai's sons.

Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.

among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.

Commentary

Matthew 27:56 KJV introduces us to three specific women who were present at the crucifixion of Jesus, observing the harrowing event from a distance. This verse immediately follows the account of Jesus' death and the dramatic signs that accompanied it, highlighting the steadfast devotion of these women.

Context

Following the traumatic events of Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion, many of His male disciples had scattered (Matthew 26:56). However, a group of women who had followed Jesus from Galilee and ministered to Him remained. This verse specifically names three prominent figures among them: Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children (identified as Salome in Mark's parallel account). Their presence underscores their unwavering loyalty and serves as a powerful testament to their commitment even in the face of immense sorrow and danger.

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Devotion: The primary theme is the remarkable faithfulness of these women. While others fled, they remained at the cross, demonstrating profound loyalty to Jesus even in His moment of ultimate suffering. Their presence signifies a deep, personal commitment that transcended fear.
  • Eyewitness Testimony: These women were crucial eyewitnesses to Jesus' crucifixion and subsequent burial, playing a vital role in the early Christian narrative. Their testimony would later be significant, especially as Mary Magdalene was the first to witness the resurrection of Jesus.
  • The Role of Women in Ministry: This verse, along with others, highlights the significant and often understated role of women in Jesus' earthly ministry. They were not merely passive observers but active supporters and devoted followers, providing for Jesus and His disciples (Luke 8:2-3).

Linguistic Insights

While this verse is primarily a list of names, the identification of "Mary the mother of James and Joses" is notable. She is often considered to be the same Mary mentioned in John 19:25 as "Mary the wife of Cleophas," though this identification is debated. The "mother of Zebedee's children" is known as Salome from parallel accounts (e.g., Mark 15:40), who was the mother of the apostles James and John.

Practical Application

Matthew 27:56 reminds believers of the importance of steadfast devotion, especially during times of adversity. It challenges us to consider:

  • Faithfulness in Crisis: Are we willing to stand with Christ and His truth even when it is unpopular, dangerous, or causes us great sorrow?
  • Compassionate Presence: The women's presence was a powerful act of compassion. We are called to be present for those who suffer, offering comfort and solidarity.
  • Valuing All Contributions: The passage underscores that all who genuinely follow Christ have a vital role to play in His kingdom, regardless of gender or societal status. Their quiet, yet profound, act of witnessing the crucifixion is a testament to their enduring legacy.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • John 19:25

    Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the [wife] of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.

  • Mark 16:9

    ¶ Now when [Jesus] was risen early the first [day] of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.

  • Mark 15:47

    And Mary Magdalene and Mary [the mother] of Joses beheld where he was laid.

  • Mark 16:1

    ¶ And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the [mother] of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.

  • Matthew 28:1

    ¶ In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first [day] of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

  • John 20:18

    Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and [that] he had spoken these things unto her.

  • John 20:1

    ¶ The first [day] of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.
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