The name Mary appears many times in the Bible, especially in the New Testament. It was one of the most common names for Jewish women during Jesus’ time. But each woman named Mary had a unique role in God’s plan. This article explores all the Marys in the Bible, what Scripture tells us about them, and what we can learn from their lives of faith.
1. Mary, the Mother of Jesus
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is the most well-known woman in the Bible. She was a young virgin from Nazareth who found favor with God and was chosen to carry the Messiah.
Luke 1:30-31 (KJV)
“And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.”
She showed great trust in God’s word. Her response to the angel’s message still inspires believers today:
Luke 1:38 (KJV)
“Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.”
Mary was with Jesus throughout His life—from His first miracle in Cana (John 2:1–11), to the crucifixion (John 19:25), and in the upper room with the early church (Acts 1:14).
2. Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene was a faithful follower of Jesus. Jesus delivered her from demonic possession.
Luke 8:2 (KJV)
“Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils.”
After her healing, she followed Jesus, supported His ministry, and stayed close even at the cross.
John 19:25 (KJV)
“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus… Mary Magdalene.”
She was the first person to see the risen Lord.
John 20:16 (KJV)
“Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.”
3. Mary of Bethany
Mary of Bethany was the sister of Martha and Lazarus. She loved to be near Jesus, choosing time with Him over household duties.
Luke 10:39 (KJV)
“And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.”
She also anointed Jesus with expensive oil, a deep act of worship and preparation for His burial.
John 12:3 (KJV)
“Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly… and wiped his feet with her hair.”
Jesus praised her insight and devotion, saying she had done a “good work” (Matthew 26:10).
4. Mary, Wife of Cleophas
Mary, the wife of Cleophas (also spelled Clopas), stood near Jesus during His crucifixion.
John 19:25 (KJV)
“There stood by the cross of Jesus… Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.”
She was likely the mother of James the Less and Joses (Mark 15:40) and went to the tomb early on the third day (Mark 16:1).
5. Mary, the Mother of John Mark
This Mary opened her home for early Christian believers. After Peter was freed from prison, he went to her house.
Acts 12:12 (KJV)
“He came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.”
She is remembered for her hospitality and support of the early church.
6. Mary of Rome
Paul wrote about a Mary in his letter to the Romans. He honored her for her hard work in the ministry.
Romans 16:6 (KJV)
“Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.”
Though little else is said, her service mattered enough to be recorded in Scripture.
Summary Table: Marys in the Bible
| Name | Description | Key Scriptures | Role in the New Testament |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mary, Mother of Jesus | Mother of the Messiah | Luke 1, John 2, Acts 1:14 | Obedient, faithful, honored by God |
| Mary Magdalene | Delivered and devoted follower | Luke 8:2, John 20:16 | First to see the risen Jesus |
| Mary of Bethany | Sister of Martha and Lazarus | Luke 10:39, John 12:3 | Worshiper with deep understanding |
| Mary, Wife of Cleophas | Witness at the crucifixion | John 19:25, Mark 16:1 | Faithful at the tomb and cross |
| Mary, Mother of John Mark | Early church supporter | Acts 12:12 | Provided a home for believers |
| Mary of Rome | Praised by Paul | Romans 16:6 | Hard worker in the ministry |
Why Mary Matters in the Bible
Each Mary in the Bible gives us a picture of faithful living:
- Some were mothers.
- Some were worshipers.
- Some served quietly.
- All followed God's call.
Together, their stories show how God uses faithful women to do great things—in public and in private, in suffering and in strength.
