Matthew 27:56

Among which was Mary Magdalene, & Mary the mother of Iames and Ioses, and the mother of Zebedees children. Matthew 27:56 (KJV)

Matthew 27:56 is situated within the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial and offers a concise record of several women who were present at these pivotal events. Though the verse itself is brief, it introduces three distinct women whose faithful presence underscores the vital role women played in the ministry of Christ.

Mary Magdalene is named first. She is consistently portrayed in the Gospels as a devoted follower of Jesus, one who accompanied Him throughout His public ministry and remained at the foot of the cross. The Scriptures also record her presence at the burial and, most dramatically, at the empty tomb, where she becomes the first witness to the resurrection. Her inclusion in this verse highlights her unwavering commitment even in the darkest moments of the Gospel story.

The second woman is identified as “the mother of James and Joses.” This Mary is generally understood to be the mother of James the Less, one of the twelve apostles, and of Joses, a figure mentioned in the Gospels but not described as a disciple. Her mention signals the involvement of the families of the apostles in the events surrounding the crucifixion, and it reflects the broader network of believers who stood by Jesus.

The third reference, “the mother of Zebedee’s children,” points to the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee. Tradition identifies her as Salome, a woman who appears alongside her sons in the Gospel accounts. By naming her, the text acknowledges the maternal figures behind two of the most prominent disciples.

Collectively, these brief references serve a theological purpose:they demonstrate that women were not peripheral observers but active participants in the salvific work of Christ. Their courage and devotion, remaining with Him until the very end, provide a powerful testimony to the inclusive nature of God’s redemptive plan. The verse therefore reminds readers to honor the contributions of women throughout Scripture and to recognize their indispensable witness in the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection.