The name “Mary” is one of the most frequently mentioned female names in the Bible. There are several women named Mary throughout the New Testament, each playing a unique role in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
This article will explore how many Marys are in the Bible, providing a detailed examination of each one, supported by biblical references. We’ll also include an FAQ section to answer common questions about these significant biblical figures.
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Contents
1. Mary, the Mother of Jesus
Biblical References:
Luke 1:26-31: “In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.”
Matthew 1:18-25: This passage describes the birth of Jesus and Mary’s role as His mother.
Overview:
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is arguably the most well-known Mary in the Bible. She was a young Jewish woman chosen by God to bear His Son, Jesus Christ.
Her submission to God’s will is evident in Luke 1:38, where she says, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.
” Mary was present at many pivotal moments in Jesus’ life, including His crucifixion (John 19:25) and the day of Pentecost (Acts 1:14).
2. Mary Magdalene
Biblical References:
Luke 8:2-3: “And certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons.”
John 20:11-18: This passage recounts Mary Magdalene as the first person to see the resurrected Christ.
Overview:
Mary Magdalene is one of Jesus’ most devoted followers. She is often remembered for her deliverance from seven demons and her unwavering support of Jesus’ ministry.
Mary Magdalene was present at the crucifixion (Matthew 27:56) and was the first to witness the resurrected Jesus, as recorded in John 20. Her story is a powerful testament to transformation and devotion.
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3. Mary of Bethany
Biblical References:
Luke 10:38-42: This passage tells the story of Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus while her sister Martha is busy with preparations.
John 11:1-45: Mary of Bethany is featured prominently in the story of the resurrection of her brother Lazarus.
John 12:1-8: Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume.
Overview:
Mary of Bethany is the sister of Martha and Lazarus. She is known for her deep devotion to Jesus, choosing to sit at His feet and listen to His teachings rather than being preoccupied with household duties.
Her act of anointing Jesus’ feet with costly perfume (John 12:3) is one of the most intimate expressions of worship in the New Testament. Mary of Bethany’s story highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual devotion over worldly concerns.
4. Mary, the Mother of James and Joses
Biblical References:
Mark 15:40: “There were also women looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome.”
Matthew 27:56: “Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.”
Overview:
Mary, the mother of James and Joses, is another Mary mentioned in the New Testament. She was present at the crucifixion of Jesus, standing with the other women who were followers of Christ.
This Mary is sometimes confused with Mary, the mother of Jesus, but she is a different individual. Her presence at such a critical event in Christian history underscores her faithfulness.
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5. Mary, the Wife of Clopas
Biblical References:
John 19:25: “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.”
Overview:
Mary, the wife of Clopas, is mentioned briefly in the Gospel of John. She was present at the crucifixion of Jesus, alongside other devoted women.
Some scholars believe that Clopas (or Cleopas) may have been a relative of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, making Mary, the wife of Clopas, possibly related to Jesus’ family. Though not much is known about her, her presence at the crucifixion indicates her close connection to Jesus and His family.
6. Mary, the Mother of John Mark
Biblical References:
Acts 12:12: “So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying.”
Overview:
Mary, the mother of John Mark, is mentioned in the Book of Acts. She was the mother of John Mark, who is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Mark.
Her home served as a gathering place for early Christians, indicating her significant role in the early Church. This Mary’s contribution to the Christian community through her hospitality and support of the apostles is noteworthy.
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Conclusion
There are six Marys mentioned in the New Testament, each with a unique role in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and the early Church.
These women were all pivotal in their ways, from being the mother of Jesus to being the first to witness His resurrection. Understanding the different Marys in the Bible enriches our comprehension of the New Testament and the powerful impact these women had on Christian history.
FAQ
1. How many Marys are there in the Bible?
There are six Marys mentioned in the New Testament: Mary, the mother of Jesus; Mary Magdalene; Mary of Bethany; Mary, the mother of James and Joses; Mary, the wife of Clopas; and Mary, the mother of John Mark.
2. Are all the Marys in the Bible the same person?
No, each Mary mentioned in the Bible is a distinct individual, though they all played significant roles in the life of Jesus and the early Church.
3. Why is Mary, the mother of Jesus, so important?
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is important because she was chosen by God to bear His Son. She is revered for her obedience, faith, and pivotal role in the story of Jesus Christ.
4. What is Mary Magdalene known for?
Mary Magdalene is known for being delivered from seven demons by Jesus, her unwavering support of His ministry, and being the first person to witness the resurrected Christ.
5. What can we learn from the different Marys in the Bible?
The different Marys in the Bible teach us about faith, devotion, hospitality, and the importance of being present in significant moments of spiritual history. Each Mary’s story offers lessons in trust, worship, and service to God.