Joseph of Arimathea

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Joseph of Arimathea was a figure mentioned in the New Testament who, according to all four Canonical gospels, was responsible for the burial of Jesus after his crucifixion. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and some Protestant denominations.

Biblical Account

Joseph of Arimathea is described as a wealthy man and a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council in Jerusalem. He is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew, the Gospel of Mark, the Gospel of Luke, and the Gospel of John. According to the gospels, Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus, who did not consent to the council's decision to condemn Jesus. After the crucifixion, he went to Pontius Pilate to request the body of Jesus. Pilate granted his request, and Joseph, along with Nicodemus, took Jesus' body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in a new tomb that had been carved out of rock.

Role in Christian Tradition

Joseph of Arimathea's role in the burial of Jesus has made him an important figure in Christianity. His actions fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 53:9, which stated that the Messiah would be buried in a rich man's tomb. In some traditions, Joseph is also associated with the Holy Grail and is said to have brought it to Britain.

Veneration

Joseph of Arimathea is venerated as a saint in various Christian traditions. His feast day is celebrated on different dates in different denominations. In the Roman Catholic Church, his feast day is on March 17, while in the Eastern Orthodox Church, it is celebrated on July 31.

Legends and Apocryphal Accounts

Several legends and apocryphal accounts have grown around the figure of Joseph of Arimathea. One of the most famous is the story that he traveled to Britain and established the first Christian church at Glastonbury. This legend is part of the Arthurian tradition and has been popularized in various literary works.

Related Pages

• Jesus
• Crucifixion of Jesus
• Sanhedrin
• Pontius Pilate
• Nicodemus
• Holy Grail
• Glastonbury