The Four Marys: Unveiling the Women at the Heart of the Gospel

The Gospels introduce us to a number of remarkable women, but four figures named Mary stand out. Understanding their individual roles sheds light on the social context and theological depth of the early Christian narrative. These Marys, while sharing a name, each contribute uniquely to the tapestry of the New Testament.

Identifying the Four Marys

A fragment preserved in the Bodleian Library, attributed to Papias, helps distinguish these important women (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). It lists them as follows:

1. Mary, the mother of the Lord.
2. Mary, the wife of Cleophas or Alphaeus.
3. Mary Salome, the wife of Zebedee.
4. Mary Magdalene.

This list provides a foundation for understanding their relationships and individual significance.

Mary, Mother of the Lord

As the mother of Jesus, Mary occupies a central role in Christian theology and history. Her acceptance of the divine call and her unwavering faith have made her an enduring symbol of devotion. While the Papias fragment focuses on distinguishing her from the other Marys, her importance is foundational to the entire narrative.

Mary, Wife of Cleophas or Alphaeus

This Mary is identified as the mother of James the bishop and apostle, Simon, Thaddeus, and Joseph (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). The fragment notes the possibility that she was the sister of Mary, the mother of the Lord, whom John refers to as Mary of Cleophas. The text suggests that "of Cleophas" could refer to her father, family, or another unknown reason. This Mary's role as the mother of prominent figures in the early church highlights the importance of family and lineage in the spread of Christianity.

Mary Salome, Wife of Zebedee

Mary Salome is identified as the mother of John the Evangelist and James (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). The fragment notes that she might be the same as Mary of Cleophas, suggesting she may have had two husbands. Her sons, John and James, were among Jesus' closest disciples, further emphasizing her role in the inner circle of the early Christian movement.

Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene is perhaps the most well-known of the Marys besides the mother of Jesus. The Papias fragment simply identifies her as Mary Magdalene, but her role in the Gospels is significant. She is often depicted as a devoted follower of Jesus and a key witness to his crucifixion and resurrection.

Conclusion

The four Marys, as identified by the Papias fragment, offer a valuable glimpse into the roles women played in the early Christian movement. While their individual stories and relationships are complex, understanding their distinct identities enriches our appreciation of the Gospel narratives and the diverse group of people who contributed to the birth of Christianity.