Mary of Clopas
April 24·1st century·Jerusalem
Mary of Clopas was one of the women present at the crucifixion of Jesus, according to the Gospel of John. She is also identified by scholars as "Mary the mother of James and Joseph/Joses," one of the brothers of Jesus, and is traditionally venerated as one of the Three Marys at the tomb. Her relics are said to be in France.
Key Facts
- ›She is explicitly mentioned in John 19:25 as standing by the cross of Jesus with his mother and Mary Magdalene.
- ›Scholars identify her with "Mary the mother of James and Joseph/Joses," mentioned in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.
- ›These James and Joseph/Joses are among the brothers of Jesus mentioned in the Gospels.
- ›She is considered one of the three Marys at the tomb of Jesus, along with Mary Magdalene and Mary Salome.
- ›Her relics are traditionally said to be located at the Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer in France.
- ›She is commemorated with Salome on April 24 in the Roman Martyrology of the Catholic Church.
Mary the mother of James and Joseph, Mary the mother of James the less, Maria Iacobi
About Mary of Clopas
Mary of Clopas is a significant figure in early Christian tradition, primarily known for her presence at the crucifixion of Jesus and her association with the discovery of his empty tomb. The Gospel of John (19:25) names her among the women who stood by the cross, alongside Jesus' mother and Mary Magdalene.
Identity and Relationships
The designation "Mary of Clopas" is understood by scholars to mean either the daughter or, more commonly, the wife of a man named Clopas. Early Christian writings, such as those referenced by Eusebius of Caesarea drawing from Hegesippus, identify Clopas as a brother of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. This familial connection would make Mary of Clopas a sister-in-law to Joseph and potentially an aunt to Jesus.
Further scholarly interpretation, based on passages in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew, identifies Mary of Clopas with "Mary the mother of James and Joseph/Joses." These James and Joseph are listed among the brothers of Jesus. This has led to theological discussions that often view these "brothers" as cousins, with Mary of Clopas being their mother and thus a relative of Jesus.
Role in the Gospels
Beyond her presence at the crucifixion, Mary of Clopas is also recognized as one of the "Three Marys" who visited Jesus' tomb on the morning of the resurrection. This group, which typically includes Mary Magdalene and Mary Salome, brought spices to anoint Jesus' body. In Matthew's Gospel, she is referred to as "the other Mary" to distinguish her from Mary Magdalene.
Veneration and Relics
Mary of Clopas is commemorated liturgically, with the Roman Martyrology of the Catholic Church listing her with Salome for April 24. Tradition holds that her relics are preserved in France at the Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer, a site historically associated with the veneration of several early Christian women.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Mary of Clopas?
Mary of Clopas was a woman present at the crucifixion of Jesus, as recorded in the Gospel of John. She is also identified by scholars as Mary, the mother of James and Joseph/Joses, who are referred to as brothers of Jesus in other Gospel accounts.
What is the meaning of "Mary of Clopas"?
The Greek expression "Mary of Clopas" is ambiguous, meaning it could indicate she was the daughter or the wife of a man named Clopas. However, exegesis commonly favors the interpretation that she was the wife of Clopas.
What is her connection to the "brothers of Jesus"?
Scholars identify Mary of Clopas with Mary, the mother of James and Joseph/Joses. These individuals are mentioned in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew as brothers of Jesus. This identification suggests they were Jesus' cousins, with Mary of Clopas being Jesus' aunt.
Is she one of the women at the tomb?
Yes, Mary of Clopas is venerated as one of the Three Marys who went to the tomb of Jesus on resurrection morning. She is mentioned alongside Mary Magdalene and Mary Salome in this context.
Where are her relics located?
According to tradition, the relics of Mary of Clopas are kept in France at the Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer.
When is her feast day?
In the latest official edition of the Roman Martyrology of the Catholic Church, Mary of Clopas is commemorated with Salome on April 24.
Related Saints
Anna the Prophetess
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Dismas
Dismas, also known as the penitent thief, is one of two unnamed thieves crucified alongside Jesus, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke. He is venerated as a saint for his plea to Jesus to "remember him" when he comes into his kingdom, a moment of faith recognized as a pivotal act of repentance.
James the Just
James the Just was a prominent early Christian leader, recognized as the brother of Jesus and the first bishop of the Church of Jerusalem. He played a crucial role in the Council of Jerusalem, advocating for a less stringent application of Mosaic Law for Gentile converts. James is primarily remembered for his virtue, his leadership in the nascent Christian community, and his martyrdom.