Myrrhbearers

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Myrrhbearers on the Holy Week in Christianity, refers to the women who visited Jesus' tomb early on the Sunday morning following his crucifixion, specifically mentioned in the New Testament. They went to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body with spices and myrrh, a traditional Jewish burial practice to honor the deceased. The term "Myrrhbearer" has been traditionally used in Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, and some branches of Eastern Catholicism, highlighting the significant role these women played in the events surrounding the resurrection of Jesus.

Biblical Accounts

The accounts of the Myrrhbearers are found in all four Gospels (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-10, and John 20:1-18), although the lists of women vary slightly in each account. Commonly mentioned are Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome. In the Gospel of John, Mary Magdalene appears alone at the tomb, but the other Gospels mention various groups of women.

Significance

The Myrrhbearers are celebrated for their faithfulness and love towards Jesus. Their actions are seen as a testament to their unwavering devotion, as they went to the tomb despite the dangers they might face from the Roman guards or Jewish authorities. Their role is especially highlighted in the context of the resurrection of Jesus, as they were the first to witness the empty tomb and, in some accounts, the first to see the risen Christ.

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Myrrhbearers are commemorated on the second Sunday of Pascha (Easter), known as the "Sunday of the Myrrhbearers." This day honors not only the women who went to the tomb but also other individuals associated with the burial of Jesus, such as Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus.

Cultural Impact

The Myrrhbearers have had a significant impact on Christian art and liturgy. They are frequently depicted in iconography and religious paintings, often shown carrying jars of myrrh. Their story has been a source of inspiration for sermons, hymns, and Christian reflection on themes of faith, devotion, and the resurrection.

See Also

• Resurrection of Jesus
• Holy Week
• Women in the Bible