Mary Magdalen
Proper noun * Mary Magdalen: A woman from the New Testament of the Bible. She is described as a woman from whom Jesus cast out seven demons, after which she became a devoted follower. She witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus and was the first person recorded to have seen him after his resurrection.
- The name "Mary Magdalen" is used to refer specifically to this historical and biblical figure.
- It is often used in religious, historical, and artistic contexts.
- Example:
- The Magdalene: A traditional epithet or title for Mary Magdalen.
- Example: The chapel is dedicated to the Magdalene.
- Magdalen (variant spelling): A common alternate spelling, particularly in British English (e.g., Magdalen College, Oxford).
- Example: The painting depicts the penitent Magdalen.
- Magdalene (n): Another form of the name Mary Magdalen; also used to refer to a reformed prostitute or a home for such women, stemming from a historical misinterpretation of her biblical character.
- Magdalenian (adj): Pertaining to a late Paleolithic culture in Europe, named after the type site of La Madeleine in France, which itself was named after the biblical figure.
- Mary of Magdala: A synonymous name identifying her by her hometown.
- The Apostle to the Apostles: A traditional Christian title honoring her role as the first witness to the resurrection who told the disciples.
The provided reference context uses the phrase "sinful woman," which reflects a long-standing but historically contested interpretation that conflated Mary Magdalen with other unnamed sinful women in the Gospels. Modern biblical scholarship often distinguishes her from these figures, focusing on her role as a prominent disciple and witness. The core definition emphasizes her biblical narrative: healing, discipleship, and being a primary resurrection witness.
- sinful woman Jesus healed of evil spirits; she became a follower of Jesus