New International VersionMany women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs.
New Living TranslationAnd many women who had come from Galilee with Jesus to care for him were watching from a distance.
English Standard VersionThere were also many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him,
Berean Standard BibleAnd many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to minister to Him.
Berean Literal BibleAnd many women were there, looking on from afar off, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him--
King James BibleAnd many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
New King James VersionAnd many women who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him, were there looking on from afar,
New American Standard BibleAnd many women were there watching from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee while caring for Him.
NASB 1995Many women were there looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee while ministering to Him.
NASB 1977And many women were there looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him,
Legacy Standard BibleAnd many women were there looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee while ministering to Him.
Amplified BibleThere were also many women there looking on from a distance, who had accompanied Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him.
Christian Standard BibleMany women who had followed Jesus from Galilee and looked after him were there, watching from a distance.
Holman Christian Standard BibleMany women who had followed Jesus from Galilee and ministered to Him were there, looking on from a distance.
American Standard VersionAnd many women were there beholding from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
Contemporary English VersionMany women had come with Jesus from Galilee to be of help to him, and they were there, looking on at a distance.
English Revised VersionAnd many women were there beholding from afar, which had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
GOD'S WORD® TranslationMany women were there watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee and had always supported him.
Good News TranslationThere were many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee and helped him.
International Standard VersionNow many women were also there, watching from a distance. They had accompanied Jesus from Galilee and had ministered to him.
NET BibleMany women who had followed Jesus from Galilee and given him support were also there, watching from a distance.
New Heart English BibleMany women were there watching from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, serving him.
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd many women were there (beholding at a distance) who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him:
Weymouth New TestamentAnd there were a number of women there looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee ministering to His necessities; Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleAnd many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to minister to Him.
World English BibleMany women were there watching from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, serving him. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd there were there many women beholding from afar, who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him,
Berean Literal BibleAnd many women were there, looking on from afar off, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him--
Young's Literal Translation And there were there many women beholding from afar, who did follow Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him,
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd many women were there, beholding from far off, who followed Jesus out of Galilee, serving him: Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd there were there many women afar off, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
Catholic Public Domain VersionAnd in that place, there were many women, at a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him.
New American BibleThere were many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him.
New Revised Standard VersionMany women were also there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had provided for him. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleThere were also many women there, who were looking from afar, those who had followed Jesus from Galilee, and who used to minister to him.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishBut there were also many women there who had seen from a distance, these who had come after Yeshua from Galilee and had ministered to him. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentMany women that had followed Jesus from Galilee, and had ministered to him, were there, looking on from a distance.
Godbey New TestamentAnd many women were there looking on from a distance, who followed Jesus from Galilee to minister unto Him,
Haweis New TestamentNow there were many women on the spot, looking on at a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
Mace New TestamentAnd several women were there who look'd on at a distance, and had followed Jesus from Galilee, to assist him with their service.
Weymouth New TestamentAnd there were a number of women there looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee ministering to His necessities;
Worrell New TestamentAnd many women were there, beholding from afar, who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him;
Worsley New TestamentAnd several women were there looking on at a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministring unto Him:
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Death of Jesus… 54When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified and said, “Truly this was the Son of God.” 55Andmanywomenwerethere,watchingfroma distance.Theyhad followedJesusfromGalileeto ministerto Him.56Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.…
Cross References Mark 15:40-41And there were also women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. / These women had followed Jesus and ministered to Him while He was in Galilee, and there were many other women who had come up to Jerusalem with Him.
Luke 23:49But all those who knew Jesus, including the women who had followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching these things.
John 19:25Near the cross of Jesus stood His mother and her sister, as well as Mary the wife of Clopas and Mary Magdalene.
Matthew 28:1After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.
Mark 16:1When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so they could go and anoint the body of Jesus.
Luke 24:10It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles.
John 20:1Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.
Acts 1:14With one accord they all continued in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.
Acts 9:36-39In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated as Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity. / At that time, however, she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upper room. / Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to urge him, “Come to us without delay.” ...
Romans 16:1-2I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. / Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her with anything she may need from you. For she has been a great help to many people, including me.
1 Timothy 5:10and well known for good deeds such as bringing up children, entertaining strangers, washing the feet of the saints, imparting relief to the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work.
Exodus 15:20Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing.
Judges 4:4Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.
2 Kings 22:14So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District.
Nehemiah 7:67in addition to their 7,337 menservants and maidservants, as well as their 245 male and female singers.
Treasury of Scripture And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him: many. Luke 23:27,28,48,49 And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him… John 19:25-27 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary thewife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene… ministering. Luke 8:2,3 And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, … Jump to Previous AfarBeholdingCareDistanceFollowFollowedGalileeJesusMinisteringNecessitiesNeedsServingWaitingWatchingWomenJump to Next AfarBeholdingCareDistanceFollowFollowedGalileeJesusMinisteringNecessitiesNeedsServingWaitingWatchingWomenMatthew 27 1.Jesus is delivered bound to Pilate.3.Judas hangs himself.19.Pilate, admonished of his wife,20.and being urged by the multitude, washes his hands, and releases Barabbas.27.Jesus is mocked and crowned with thorns;33.crucified;39.reviled;50.dies, and is buried;62.his tomb is sealed and watched.And many women were there,This phrase highlights the presence of women at the crucifixion, which is significant given the cultural context of the time. Women were often marginalized in ancient Jewish society, yet they played a crucial role in Jesus' ministry. Their presence at such a critical moment underscores their faithfulness and courage. This also contrasts with the absence of most of the male disciples, who had fled. watching from a distance.
The women observed from afar, possibly due to the danger and fear associated with being too close to the crucifixion site. This distance could also reflect the Roman practice of keeping onlookers at bay during executions. Despite the physical distance, their emotional and spiritual proximity to Jesus is evident, showcasing their unwavering support. They had followed Jesus from Galilee
This indicates the long-term commitment and dedication of these women to Jesus' ministry. Galilee was the region where Jesus began His public ministry, and these women had been with Him since then, suggesting they were eyewitnesses to His teachings and miracles. Their journey from Galilee to Jerusalem reflects their loyalty and the significant role they played in supporting Jesus. to minister to Him.
The term "minister" implies service and care, which these women provided throughout Jesus' ministry. This service could have included financial support, preparing meals, and other acts of hospitality. Their ministry to Jesus fulfills the biblical principle of serving others, as seen in passages likeMatthew 20:28, where Jesus speaks of serving rather than being served. Their actions exemplify true discipleship and devotion. Persons / Places / Events 1. Women FollowersThese women had been following Jesus from Galilee, demonstrating their commitment and dedication to His ministry. They were present at the crucifixion, showing their loyalty even in the face of danger and despair. 2. GalileeThis region is significant as the starting point of Jesus' ministry and the place where these women began their journey with Him. It represents the beginning of their discipleship and service. 3. CrucifixionThe event of Jesus' crucifixion is central to the Christian faith, marking the moment of His sacrificial death for humanity's sins. The presence of these women highlights their courage and faithfulness during this pivotal moment. Teaching Points Faithful ServiceThe women’s dedication to Jesus, even in His darkest hour, serves as a powerful example of faithful service. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ, regardless of circumstances. Role of Women in MinistryThis passage highlights the significant role women played in Jesus' ministry. It challenges modern believers to recognize and value the contributions of women in the church today. Courage in AdversityThe courage of these women to be present at the crucifixion, despite the potential danger, inspires believers to stand firm in their faith, even when it is unpopular or risky. Witnessing from a DistanceThe women watched from a distance, yet their presence was impactful. This teaches that one can be a witness for Christ in various ways, sometimes quietly and from afar, yet still effectively. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Matthew 27:55?
2.How can we emulate the women's dedication in Matthew 27:55 in our lives?
3.What does Matthew 27:55 reveal about the role of women in Jesus' ministry?
4.How does Matthew 27:55 connect with Proverbs 31:30 on women's faithfulness?
5.Why is it important to support ministry work as the women did in Matthew 27:55?
6.How can we support those who serve in ministry, inspired by Matthew 27:55?
7.Why were many women present at the crucifixion according to Matthew 27:55?
8.What role did women play in Jesus' ministry as seen in Matthew 27:55?
9.How does Matthew 27:55 challenge traditional gender roles in biblical times?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 27?
11.Why do different Gospel accounts have conflicting reports on who was at Jesus' tomb?
12.Who was Mary Magdalene in the Bible?
13.Who was Salome in the Bible?
14.When Jesus said My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken Me ? in what language did he speak? Hebrew: the words are Eloi, Eloi ..(Matthew 27:46) Aramaic: the words are Eloi, Eloi .. (Mark 15:34)What Does Matthew 27:55 Mean And many women- Scripture highlights the presence of “many women,” underscoring that faithful female disciples were numerous, not rare (cf.Luke 8:2–3;Acts 1:14). - Their inclusion in the Passion narrative demonstrates God’s valuing of both men and women in His redemptive story (Genesis 1:27;Galatians 3:28). - While the male disciples largely fled (Matthew 26:56), these women remained, exemplifying courage and steadfast love (Proverbs 17:17).
were there- “There” is Calvary, the place of Jesus’ crucifixion (John 19:17–18). - Their physical presence testifies as eyewitnesses to the historical reality of the event, later contributing to the credibility of the resurrection accounts (Matthew 28:1–10;1 Corinthians 15:3–8). - God often plants faithful witnesses right where His greatest works unfold (Ruth 4:11;Acts 2:32).
watching from a distance- Roman execution sites were guarded; a respectful distance kept them safe yet present (Luke 23:35, 49). - Distance did not equal detachment; their hearts were near, mirroringPsalm 34:18—“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” - This posture recallsPsalm 22:17, a messianic prophecy: “I can count all my bones; they look and stare at me”—even in pain, Jesus is observed and honored.
They had followed Jesus from Galilee- Their discipleship was not sudden; it began in Galilee, the region of Jesus’ public ministry (Matthew 4:23;Mark 1:39). - Following implies intentional, ongoing commitment—echoing Jesus’ call inMatthew 16:24. - The journey from Galilee to Jerusalem spans roughly 80–90 miles, illustrating perseverance (Hebrews 10:36).
to minister to Him- “Minister” translates practical service: funding, food, care (Luke 8:3). - Their service mirrors the actions of angels who “ministered to Him” after the wilderness temptation (Matthew 4:11), showing continuity of divine provision. - Serving Christ personally fulfillsDeuteronomy 10:12: “What does the LORD your God require of you but to fear the LORD…to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart.”
summaryMatthew 27:55 spotlights a company of devoted women who remained near the cross, eyewitnesses to Jesus’ suffering. Their longstanding discipleship from Galilee and practical ministry to the Lord demonstrate steadfast faith, courage, and love in action. Their example encourages modern believers to stay close to Christ, serve Him wholeheartedly, and testify to His saving work, even when circumstances press us to stand “at a distance.” (55) Many women were there beholding.--The group was obviously distinct from that of "the daughters of Jerusalem," of Luke 23:28, but was probably identical with that mentioned in Luke 8:2-3, as accompanying our Lord in many of His journeyings. Verse 55. - Many women. These are mentioned as witnesses of all these events which the apostles are not recorded to have seen. Courageous and loving, they had followed the procession to Calvary, and at a distance watched the woeful proceedings there. Some, we know, had ventured to come closer to their dying Lord (see John 19:25). Which followed (equivalent to had followed) Jesus from Galilee,ministering unto him. They had accompanied Jesus on his last journey to the Passover at Jerusalem, tending him during all the time, and of their substance ministering to his wants ( Luke 8:3).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Andδὲ(de)Conjunction
Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.manyπολλαὶ(pollai)Adjective - Nominative Feminine Plural
Strong's 4183:Much, many; often.womenγυναῖκες(gynaikes)Noun - Nominative Feminine Plural
Strong's 1135:A woman, wife, my lady. Probably from the base of ginomai; a woman; specially, a wife.wereἮσαν(Ēsan)Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.there,ἐκεῖ(ekei)Adverb
Strong's 1563:(a) there, yonder, in that place, (b) thither, there. Of uncertain affinity; there; by extension, thither.watchingθεωροῦσαι(theōrousai)Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Feminine Plural
Strong's 2334:From a derivative of theaomai; to be a spectator of, i.e. Discern, (experience) or intensively (acknowledge).fromἀπὸ(apo)Preposition
Strong's 575:From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses.a distance.μακρόθεν(makrothen)Adverb
Strong's 3113:From a (long) distance, afar. Adverb from makros; from a distance or afar.[They]αἵτινες(haitines)Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Feminine Plural
Strong's 3748:Whosoever, whichsoever, whatsoever.had followedἠκολούθησαν(ēkolouthēsan)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 190:To accompany, attend, follow. Properly, to be in the same way with, i.e. To accompany.JesusἸησοῦ(Iēsou)Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2424:Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.fromἀπὸ(apo)Preposition
Strong's 575:From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses.GalileeΓαλιλαίας(Galilaias)Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 1056:Of Hebrew origin; Galiloea, a region of Palestine.to ministerδιακονοῦσαι(diakonousai)Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Feminine Plural
Strong's 1247:From diakonos; to be an attendant, i.e. Wait upon (figuratively) teacher; technically, to act as a Christian deacon.to Him.αὐτῷ(autō)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.
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NT Gospels: Matthew 27:55 Many women were there watching from afar (Matt. Mat Mt) |
