Topical Encyclopedia Salome is a significant yet somewhat understated figure in the New Testament, known primarily as the mother of the apostles James and John. Her presence in the Gospels provides insight into her character and her role in the early Christian community.Biblical References Salome is mentioned in the Synoptic Gospels, though not always by name. In Matthew 27:56, she is identified as "the mother of the sons of Zebedee," who were among Jesus' closest disciples. Mark 15:40 explicitly names her: "There were also women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, and Salome." This passage highlights her presence at the crucifixion of Jesus, demonstrating her dedication and loyalty. In Mark 16:1, Salome is again mentioned as one of the women who went to anoint Jesus' body after the Sabbath: "When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so they could go and anoint Him." This act of devotion underscores her commitment to Jesus and her role in the events following His death. Role and Character Salome's request to Jesus on behalf of her sons is a notable episode that reveals her ambition and maternal concern. In Matthew 20:20-21, she approaches Jesus with a bold request: "Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and knelt down to make a request of Him. 'What do you want?' He inquired. She answered, 'Declare that in Your kingdom one of these two sons of mine may sit at Your right hand and the other at Your left.'" This request, while ambitious, reflects her belief in Jesus' messianic mission and her desire for her sons to have prominent roles in His kingdom. Despite the rebuke that follows from Jesus, who emphasizes servanthood over status (Matthew 20:25-28), Salome's actions demonstrate her faith in Jesus' authority and her hope for the future He promised. Family and Legacy Salome was married to Zebedee, a fisherman, and together they had two sons, James and John, who were among the first disciples called by Jesus (Matthew 4:21-22). Her sons became prominent figures in the early Church, with James being one of the first apostles to be martyred (Acts 12:2) and John traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation. Salome's influence on her sons is evident in their dedication to Jesus and their significant contributions to the spread of the Gospel. Her faith and actions, as recorded in the Gospels, provide a model of devotion and service within the Christian tradition. Conclusion Salome's presence in the New Testament, though not extensive, is marked by her faithfulness and her role as a mother to two of Jesus' closest disciples. Her account is a testament to the important role women played in the life and ministry of Jesus and the early Church. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 27:56Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedees children. Nave's Topical Index Mark 15:40 Mark 16:1 Greek 4539. Salome -- Salome, the mother of the apostles James and John ... Salome, the mother of the apostles James and John. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: Salome Phonetic Spelling: (sal-o'-may) Short Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4539.htm - 6k Library After Prayer Jesus Selects Twelve Apostles. Fragment X. The Author's Life. The Request of Salome. --The Ambition of the Disciples Rebuked. ... Christianity in Individuals. And Joseph Having Come to a Feast with his Sons... Of the Women who were Standing There, and of the Question Whether ... Love and Life. A Friend for the Sorrowful The Disciples of Jesus. Resources Why was John the Baptist beheaded? | GotQuestions.orgCan the various resurrection accounts from the four Gospels be harmonized? | GotQuestions.org Who was Herodias in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |