The New Testament provides limited information about the family of Jesus, including His sisters. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark mention Jesus' siblings, indicating that He had sisters, though their names and specific details about their lives are not provided.

Biblical References

The primary references to Jesus' sisters are found in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. In Matthew 13:55-56 , the people of Nazareth express their astonishment at Jesus' wisdom and miraculous powers, questioning, "Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary, and His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Are not all His sisters with us as well? Where then did this man get all these things?" Similarly, Mark 6:3 records the townspeople's reaction: "Is this not the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Are not His sisters here with us?" These passages confirm that Jesus had multiple sisters, though they remain unnamed.

Cultural and Familial Context

In the Jewish culture of the first century, families were typically large, and it was common for siblings to live in close proximity. The mention of Jesus' sisters alongside His brothers suggests that they were part of the same household in Nazareth. The fact that the sisters are mentioned in the context of the townspeople's familiarity with Jesus' family indicates that they were well-known members of the community.

Theological Considerations

The mention of Jesus' sisters has been a point of discussion among theologians and scholars, particularly concerning the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary. Some traditions, such as the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches, interpret these references as indicating that the term "sisters" could refer to close relatives or kin, rather than biological sisters. This interpretation aligns with the belief in Mary's perpetual virginity, suggesting that these sisters could be cousins or other relatives.

In contrast, other Christian traditions, including many Protestant denominations, interpret these passages more literally, accepting that Mary and Joseph had other children after Jesus, thus making these sisters His biological siblings.

Role and Significance

While the Gospels do not provide specific details about the lives or roles of Jesus' sisters, their mention highlights the humanity and familial connections of Jesus. They serve as a reminder of His upbringing in a typical Jewish family, experiencing the dynamics and relationships common to human life. The presence of His sisters, along with His brothers, underscores the reality of Jesus' incarnation, living fully as a human being within a family structure.

Conclusion

The sisters of Jesus, though not named or detailed in the biblical texts, are an integral part of His earthly family. Their mention in the Gospels provides insight into the familial and cultural context of Jesus' life, contributing to the understanding of His humanity and the environment in which He was raised.