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Book of Matthew - Chapter 27 - Verse 33

27:33
And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,

Meaning

When the Bible mentions a place called Golgotha, it is referring to a location outside the walls of Jerusalem where Jesus Christ was crucified. The name "Golgotha" is derived from the Aramaic word for skull, which is "Gûlgaltâ". This name likely refers to the appearance of the hill itself, which may have had a skull-like shape or contained a rock formation resembling a skull. The significance of Golgotha in Christianity lies in the fact that it is where Jesus, the Son of God, sacrificed himself for the sins of humanity. The crucifixion at Golgotha is a central event in Christian theology, symbolizing Jesus' ultimate act of love and redemption. By dying on the cross at Golgotha, Jesus offered salvation and forgiveness to all who believe in him.

Theological Overview

The verse "And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull," has significant theological implications and interesting word studies. The name Golgotha is derived from the Aramaic word "Gûlgaltâ," which means "skull." This name is often interpreted as representing death and the place of suffering, reflecting the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The imagery of a skull is also symbolic of mortality and the reminder of physical death. Some scholars believe that Golgotha may have been named after the shape of the hill where crucifixions took place, resembling a skull. This verse highlights the location where Jesus was crucified, emphasizing the significance of the sacrifice and redemption accomplished on the cross. The theological interpretation of Golgotha as the place of the skull serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's ultimate victory over death and sin, providing hope and salvation for believers.

American Standard Version

And they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, The place of a skull,
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