What is the meaning of Matthew 27:56?

Among them

“Among them were …” (Matthew 27:56)

• Matthew has just noted “Many women were there, watching from a distance” (v. 55). This phrase zooms in on a representative trio.

• The wording underscores that these women were eyewitnesses of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial (v. 61), and resurrection morning (28:1). Their presence fulfills Proverbs 18:24—“there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

• Cross references: Mark 15:40–41 and Luke 23:49 list the same faithful group; John 19:25 adds more detail, showing the consistency of the Gospel accounts.

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Mary Magdalene

• First in the list, she is highlighted elsewhere as the one from whom Jesus cast seven demons (Luke 8:2).

• Her early, grateful devotion explains why she remained when most disciples fled (Matthew 26:56).

• She will be the first to witness the empty tomb and the risen Lord (John 20:1, 14–18), illustrating James 4:8—“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”

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Mary the mother of James and Joseph

• Mark 15:40 identifies her as “Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses,” confirming this is the same woman.

• John 19:25 likely calls her “Mary the wife of Clopas,” suggesting she was part of Jesus’ earthly relatives (cf. Matthew 13:55).

• Her quiet faithfulness models 1 Thessalonians 4:11—“make it your ambition to lead a quiet life.”

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The mother of Zebedee’s sons

• Matthew previously introduced her when she requested places of honor for James and John (Matthew 20:20–23). Mark 15:40 names her Salome.

• Her presence at the cross shows deep repentance and maturation; she is no longer focused on status but on her Savior.

• After the crucifixion she will join Mary Magdalene in preparing spices (Mark 16:1), living out Galatians 5:13—“serve one another in love.”

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summary

Matthew 27:56 highlights three steadfast women who refused to abandon Jesus in His darkest hour. Their eyewitness testimony anchors the historical reliability of the crucifixion and resurrection narratives. Each woman’s story—Mary Magdalene’s delivered devotion, Mary of Clopas’s quiet loyalty, and Salome’s humbled service—encourages believers today to remain near the cross, confident that the Lord remembers and rewards every act of faithful love.