feminine of a derivative of Μαγδαλά; a female Magdalene, i.e. inhabitant of Magdala:--Magdalene.
Transliteration:Magdalēnḗ
Pronunciation:mag-dal-ay-nay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Magdalēnḗ (`{{G3094}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a feminine adjective derived from the place name Magdala (Μαγδαλά). Its base definition indicates "a female Magdalene, i.e., inhabitant of Magdala." Therefore, its core meaning is "from Magdala" or "of Magdala," serving as a geographical identifier. The town of Magdala, located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, was known for its fishing industry. The semantic range of Magdalēnḗ is quite narrow, functioning exclusively as an epithet or surname to denote a person's origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Magdalēnḗ (`{{G3094}}`) appears 12 times in the New Testament, exclusively referring to Mary Magdalene, distinguishing her from other women named Mary in the Gospels. Her identification by this epithet underscores her distinct identity and significant role in the Gospel narratives.
* **Introduction and Healing:** In [[Luke 8:2]], Mary Magdalene is introduced as one of the women who accompanied Jesus and the disciples, providing for them out of their own means. Crucially, Luke notes that "seven demons had gone out of her," a detail reiterated in [[Mark 16:9]]. This highlights a profound spiritual healing and liberation she experienced through Jesus, making her a testament to His power over evil.
* **Presence at the Crucifixion:** She is consistently listed among the women who observed Jesus' crucifixion from a distance in [[Matthew 27:56]], [[Mark 15:40]], and [[John 19:25]]. Her unwavering presence at this traumatic event demonstrates deep loyalty and devotion to Christ.
* **Witness to the Burial:** Mary Magdalene also witnessed Jesus' burial, noting the location of the tomb in [[Matthew 27:61]] and [[Mark 15:47]]. This detail is critical for her subsequent role as a witness to the resurrection.
* **First Witness to the Resurrection:** Her most prominent role is as the first person to encounter the resurrected Christ. She goes to the tomb early on the first day of the week in [[Matthew 28:1]], [[Mark 16:1]], and [[John 20:1]]. In [[John 20:11-18]], she has a personal encounter with the risen Jesus, who commissions her to go and tell the disciples. This makes her the first to proclaim the good news of the resurrection, effectively an "apostle to the apostles." Her initial grief and confusion turning into joyous recognition and obedience underscore the transformative power of the resurrection.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Geographical Identity:** The word's primary connection is to the place name Magdala (Μαγδαλά), similar to how Nazarenos (`{{G3478}}`) identifies Jesus as "from Nazareth." This practice of identifying individuals by their place of origin was common in the ancient world.
* **Demonic Possession and Exorcism:** The mention of "seven demons" (`{{G1140}}` daimonion) connects Mary Magdalene to the broader biblical theme of spiritual bondage and Christ's power to ekballo (`{{G1544}}`, "cast out") evil spirits. Her healing serves as a powerful example of Christ's redemptive work.
* **Discipleship and Service:** Her inclusion among the women who ministered to Jesus (Luke 8:2-3) links her to the concept of active diakonia (`{{G1248}}`, "service") and financial support for the nascent Christian movement.
* **Witness and Proclamation:** Her pivotal role as the first witness to the resurrection connects her fundamentally to the concept of martyria (`{{G3141}}`, "witness" or "testimony") and the proclamation of the Gospel.
### Theological Significance
Mary Magdalene's character and experiences, identified by the epithet Magdalēnḗ (`{{G3094}}`), carry profound theological significance:
* **Transformation and Redemption:** Her past, marked by the presence of "seven demons," serves as a powerful testament to the transformative and redemptive power of Jesus Christ. Her story underscores that no one is beyond the reach of divine grace, and that God uses those who have experienced deep healing for His purposes. She embodies the radical change that occurs when one encounters the Lord.
* **The Role of Women in God's Kingdom:** Mary Magdalene's prominent and active role as a disciple, a witness to the crucifixion and burial, and especially as the first witness and messenger of the resurrection, profoundly challenges the patriarchal norms of her time. Her commissioning by Jesus to announce His resurrection to the male disciples elevates her status and demonstrates God's valuing of women for crucial roles in His redemptive plan, foreshadowing the New Testament emphasis on spiritual equality in Christ (cf. [[Galatians 3:28]]).
* **The Centrality of the Resurrection:** Her encounter with the risen Christ and subsequent proclamation are central to the Christian faith. The resurrection is the cornerstone of the Gospel, and Mary Magdalene's eyewitness account provides foundational testimony to this truth. Her personal experience of grief turning to joy and belief is a model for all who seek the living Christ.
* **Devotion and Faithfulness:** Her unwavering presence at the most difficult moments of Jesus' ministry—His death, burial, and the empty tomb—illustrates deep faith, profound love, and steadfast devotion. She represents the earnest seeker who is rewarded with the revelation of God's glory.
### Summary
The Greek word Magdalēnḗ (`{{G3094}}`) is a proper noun serving as an epithet, meaning "of Magdala," identifying Mary Magdalene as originating from the town of Magdala. Biblically, Mary Magdalene is a foundational figure in the Gospel narratives. Introduced as one from whom "seven demons had gone out," she exemplifies the transformative power of Christ's grace. Her unwavering devotion is evident in her presence at the crucifixion and burial. Most significantly, she is the first eyewitness to the resurrected Christ, commissioned by Him to announce this pivotal truth to the disciples. Theologically, Mary Magdalene's story highlights the profound themes of divine redemption and transformation, the significant and often overlooked role of women in God's redemptive plan, and the absolute centrality of the resurrection to Christian faith. Her life stands as a testament to deep faith, persistent seeking, and the glorious encounter with the risen Lord.
TRV