Salome: Present at the Crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth
Jump to: Nave'sLibrarySubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Salome is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, recognized for her presence during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Her role and identity have been subjects of interest and discussion among biblical scholars and theologians. Salome is often identified as a devoted follower of Jesus, and her presence at critical moments in the Gospel narratives highlights her significance in the early Christian community.

Biblical References

Salome is explicitly mentioned in the Gospel of Mark. In Mark 15:40 , it is recorded: "And 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 places Salome at the scene of the crucifixion, observing from afar as Jesus endured His final moments on the cross. Her presence alongside other women who were close to Jesus underscores her dedication and loyalty.

Further, in Mark 16:1 , Salome is mentioned again: "When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so they could go and anoint the body of Jesus." This verse highlights her role in the events following the crucifixion, as she, along with other women, prepared to anoint Jesus' body, demonstrating her continued devotion even after His death.

Identity and Role

Salome's identity is not extensively detailed in the Scriptures, leading to various interpretations and traditions regarding her background. Some traditions suggest that she may have been the mother of the sons of Zebedee, James and John, two of Jesus' apostles. This connection is drawn from a comparison of the Gospel accounts, particularly when considering Matthew 27:56, which mentions "the mother of the sons of Zebedee" in a similar context.

Salome's role as a witness to the crucifixion and her participation in the preparation of Jesus' body for burial reflect her deep commitment to Jesus and His ministry. Her actions are emblematic of the faith and courage exhibited by the women who followed Jesus, often serving as key witnesses to His life, death, and resurrection.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Salome's presence at the crucifixion and her subsequent actions are significant for several reasons. Firstly, her inclusion in the Gospel narratives highlights the important role women played in the early Christian community. Despite the cultural norms of the time, women like Salome were entrusted with critical tasks and were among the first to witness the resurrection, as indicated in the Gospel accounts.

Secondly, Salome's actions exemplify the virtues of faithfulness and service. Her willingness to care for Jesus' body, even in the face of danger and uncertainty, serves as a model of devotion and love for Christ. Her account encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even during times of trial and suffering.

In summary, Salome's presence at the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth and her subsequent actions underscore her role as a devoted follower of Christ. Her account, though briefly mentioned in the Scriptures, offers valuable insights into the faith and dedication of the women who played a crucial part in the life and ministry of Jesus.
Nave's Topical Index
Mark 15:40
There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Crucified, Dead, and Buried. '
... be with her: her own sister Salome, the sister ... Christ - its reception, alike in the
present and in ... the strange historical occurence at His Crucifixion once more ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter xv crucified dead and.htm

John.
... keenest critics, from Origen down to the present time, have ... from the body of Jesus
at his crucifixion (John 19 ... his brother James, nor his mother Salome, but he ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 83 john.htm

Extracts No. vi.
... only to reconcile man to his present state efexistence. ... and Mary the mother of James,
and Salome, had brought ... who had been accessary to the crucifixion of Jesus ...
/.../ballou/a series of letters in defence of divine revelation/extracts no vi.htm

John the Baptist's Person and Preaching.
... He married Salome, who obtained John the Baptist's head for ... from the earliest period
to the present time ... of the nation, and accomplished the crucifixion of the ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/xvii john the baptists person.htm

The Gospel According to St. Mark
... tenses of the Greek verb"present, perfect, imperfect ... of Simon of Cyrene (xv.21);
Salome, the mother of ... Jesus and Barabbas, the mockery, crucifixion, burial by ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter iv the gospel according.htm

Index i. Of Subjects
... Crucifixion of Christ, preparations for, and procession to, ii.582-586; ... is
present at the feast of Bethany, 358. ... marries Salome, 673. ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/index i of subjects.htm

John i. 1
... how we shall rightly direct this present life also. ... had hired servants, that his
mother Salome aided in ... mother of our Saviour after the crucifixion, prove that ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily ii john i 1.htm

Resources
Who was Salome in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What was the significance of anointing spices in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the Brotherhood of Light? | GotQuestions.org

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Salome: Mother of James and John
Top of Page
Top of Page