Historical background
The New Testament has twelve references to Mary Magdalene, although very little is known about her. Given that “Mary” was a popular name at the time, it is likely that she was given the name “Magdalene” to set her apart from other women. She was most likely from Magdala, a hamlet in northern Israel on the western coast of the Sea of Galilee, based on the addition to her given name. Furthermore, the Gospels demonstrate that Mary lived in the first century A.D. and was a contemporary of Jesus.
Mary Magdalene was a follower of Jesus
According to Luke 8:2, Jesus exorcised Mary of seven spirits. That must have had a profound impact on her life! She belonged to the group of ladies who looked out for and followed Jesus. She witnessed Jesus’ burial after witnessing him die on the cross. She hurried to anoint Jesus’ body on the first day of the week, but since His body was absent from the tomb, she waited there in tears. She was the first to see Jesus alive upon His resurrection (John 20:1–18). Additionally, she was tasked with informing the disciples that Jesus had risen from the dead (John 20:18 and Mark 16:9-11).
Rumors about Mary Magdalene
Tradition has characterized Mary Magdalene as a prostitute because of the teaching of Pope Gregory 1 in 591 AD. This is based on the belief that the unnamed woman in Luke 7:36-39 who anointed Jesus’ feet, (and who is named “Mary” in the similar account in John 12:1-3) was a prostitute, because in the version given by Luke Simon calls her a sinner. This has led some to believe that this meant that Mary was a prostitute. Additionally, given that Jesus healed Mary Magdalene of seven demons, it is also assumed that before meeting Jesus she must have had a wayward life.
Calling Mary Magdalene a prostitute is now believed to be unfounded, and an unfair judgement on someone who proved to be more of a friend to Jesus in His hour of need than his closest disciples.
Many more stories about Mary Magdalene exist, none of which are supported by trustworthy historical accounts. The Bible gives no reason to believe the rumors that she was a visionary and a leader of the early church, or that she was married to Him or had a very close personal contact with Him.
Some lessons for us
- A prime illustration of [Jesus’ ability to save] is Mary Magdalene. It may seem hopeless to be afflicted by seven devils, but Jesus was able to purify her.
- The prevalent belief during Jesus’ time was that women were inferior to men and could not be trusted as witnesses. Jesus demonstrates his disagreement with this theory by designating Mary Magdalene and other women as the first witnesses of the resurrection.
- It is evident from the Gospels that Mary cherished Jesus. Even during the darkest hours of his crucifixion, she stayed by His side. For her, he was important in life. Which begs the question, what is the status of your connection with Jesus? Do you too have a great affection for Him?
Thanks to Gospel Images for the painting.
