Bible Figure
Mary of Clopas
one of the women present at the crucifixion of Jesus
Mary of Clopas was one of the women standing near the cross of Jesus according to John 19:25. She is identified in relation to Clopas and appears within the small group of women who remained present during the crucifixion.
Biography
John names Mary of Clopas among the women near Jesus' cross, together with Jesus' mother and Mary Magdalene. The Greek wording can be understood as identifying her as the wife of Clopas, although the exact family relationship is not elaborated. Attempts have often been made to identify her with Mary the mother of James and Joses in the Synoptic Gospels, and Clopas has sometimes been connected with other figures in early Christian tradition. The New Testament itself, however, does not provide enough information to establish all of these identifications with certainty. What can be said securely is that Mary of Clopas was present at the crucifixion and belonged to the circle of women associated with Jesus.
Biblical Significance
Mary of Clopas is significant as an eyewitness associated with the crucifixion. Her presence with the other women highlights the faithfulness of Jesus' female followers during the Passion and contributes to the named witness tradition surrounding His death.