As a scholar in biblical studies, I am well-versed in the narratives and accounts surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The event is pivotal in Christian theology and is chronicled in all four canonical Gospels of the New Testament. When examining who was present at the crucifixion, it's important to cross-reference the accounts provided by the Gospel writers, as each may offer unique insights or mention different individuals.

According to the Gospel of Matthew (27:55-56), there were several women present at the crucifixion. These included Mary Magdalene, a woman from whom Jesus had cast out seven demons, and it is said that she followed and watched from a distance as Jesus was crucified. Additionally, Matthew mentions "the other Mary", which is often interpreted to mean Mary, the mother of James and Joseph.

The Gospel of Mark (15:40-41) echoes this, with Mary Magdalene and **Mary the mother of James the Less and of Joses** (sometimes referred to as Joseph) being present at the crucifixion.

The Gospel of Luke (23:49) provides a slightly different perspective, noting that **"all his acquaintances, including the women who had accompanied him from Galilee, stood at a distance"** watching these events unfold. However, Luke does not specifically name the women present.

The Gospel of John (19:25) offers a more detailed account, mentioning Mary, the mother of Jesus, standing by the cross. This is a significant detail as it places Jesus' own mother at the scene of his crucifixion. John also mentions Mary Magdalene and identifies another woman present as "the wife of Clopas", often interpreted as Mary of Clopas or Mary the mother of the sons of Zebedee. Additionally, John mentions Salome, who is sometimes identified as a sister of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

It is important to note that the Gospels do not always agree on the specifics, and the lists of individuals present can vary. The accounts are written from different perspectives and for different audiences, which may account for the discrepancies.

The presence of women at the crucifixion is significant for several reasons. Women were often marginalized in the society of that time, yet they are depicted as steadfast followers and supporters of Jesus. Their presence at the crucifixion and subsequent role in the discovery of the empty tomb underscore their importance in the early Christian narrative.

In conclusion, while the Gospels provide varying accounts, the consensus is that several women were present at the crucifixion of Jesus, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and Mary, the mother of Jesus. Other figures such as Salome and Mary of Clopas are also mentioned, but their presence is less consistently reported across the Gospels.

read more >>

Mary, mother of James and Joseph/Joses is mentioned by Matthew and Mark. The others are mentioned by one evangelist only: Mary, the mother of Jesus; Mary, the mother of the sons of Zebedee; Salome; a sister of Mary, mother of Jesus; Mary of Clopas.read more >>