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Mark the Evangelist Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: The Life and Traditions of Mark the Evangelist

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The Life and Traditions of Mark the Evangelist Study Guide

Mark the Evangelist: Identity and Associations

Early Christian tradition posits that Mark the Evangelist is identical with the figure known as John Mark.

Answer: True

Explanation: Early Christian tradition widely identifies Mark the Evangelist with John Mark, a figure mentioned in the New Testament.

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According to tradition, Barnabas was the cousin of Mark the Evangelist.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tradition holds that Barnabas was the cousin of Mark the Evangelist (also known as John Mark).

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Tradition suggests Mark the Evangelist served as a scribe for the Apostle Paul, recording his epistles.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Mark was associated with Paul, tradition primarily links him as a scribe and interpreter for Peter, not as a recorder of Paul's epistles.

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The Four Evangelists are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Paul.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Four Evangelists traditionally recognized are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Paul is an Apostle but not considered one of the four canonical Gospel authors.

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What is the primary role traditionally attributed to Mark the Evangelist within Christian tradition?

Answer: Author of the Gospel of Mark

Explanation: Within Christian tradition, Mark the Evangelist is principally recognized as the author of the Gospel of Mark, one of the four canonical accounts detailing the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

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In early Christian tradition, with which biblical figure is Mark the Evangelist frequently identified?

Answer: John Mark

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is frequently identified with John Mark, a figure mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles and various Epistles. This identification is widely supported by early Christian tradition.

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According to tradition, what was the familial relationship between Mark the Evangelist and Barnabas?

Answer: Barnabas was Mark's cousin.

Explanation: Tradition holds that Barnabas was the cousin of Mark the Evangelist (also known as John Mark). Barnabas was a significant early Christian missionary and a companion of the Apostle Paul.

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Within tradition, what specific role is attributed to Mark the Evangelist in his association with the Apostle Peter?

Answer: He was Peter's traveling companion and interpreter.

Explanation: According to tradition, Mark the Evangelist served as an interpreter and close companion to the Apostle Peter. It is believed he transcribed Peter's sermons, thereby composing the Gospel according to Mark. This intimate association is central to the traditional attribution.

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The traditional designation of the 'Four Evangelists' who authored the canonical Gospels includes Matthew, Mark, Luke, and whom?

Answer: John

Explanation: The 'Four Evangelists'—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are the figures traditionally credited with authoring the four canonical Gospels. They hold central importance in Christian theology, with their writings forming the foundational narrative of Jesus' life and teachings within the New Testament.

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The Gospel of Mark: Authorship and Scholarship

Tradition attributes the authorship of the Gospel of John to Mark the Evangelist.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tradition attributes the authorship of the Gospel of Mark to Mark the Evangelist, not the Gospel of John.

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The consensus among the majority of modern scholars is that the traditional attribution of the Gospel of Mark to Mark the Evangelist is definitively accepted.

Answer: False

Explanation: The majority of modern scholars express doubt regarding the traditional attribution of the Gospel of Mark to Mark the Evangelist, often considering the Gospel anonymous.

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Scholars questioning Mark's authorship argue that the Gospel shows deep familiarity with specific Palestinian agricultural practices.

Answer: False

Explanation: Scholars questioning authorship often argue the opposite: that the Gospel shows *unfamiliarity* with Palestinian practices or geography, not deep familiarity.

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'Marcan priority' is a hypothesis suggesting that the Gospel of Matthew was the first Synoptic Gospel written.

Answer: False

Explanation: 'Marcan priority' is the hypothesis that the Gospel of Mark was the first Synoptic Gospel written, serving as a source for Matthew and Luke.

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The 'Messianic Secret' in Mark's Gospel refers to Jesus' public proclamation of his divine identity.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'Messianic Secret' in Mark's Gospel refers to Jesus' commands for silence about his identity and miracles, not his public proclamation.

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The Gospel of Mark is considered anonymous by most modern scholars.

Answer: True

Explanation: The prevailing view among most modern scholars is that the Gospel of Mark is anonymous, with traditional authorship being debated.

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Some scholars suggest the author of the Gospel of Mark was a native Palestinian Jew.

Answer: False

Explanation: While some scholars debate the author's background, many suggest the author was a Hellenized Jew living outside Palestine, citing perceived unfamiliarity with local customs and geography.

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Scholars who defend Mark's familiarity with Palestine argue that the Gospel contains numerous geographical inaccuracies.

Answer: False

Explanation: Scholars who defend Mark's familiarity with Palestine argue *against* the presence of numerous geographical inaccuracies, countering claims of the author's ignorance.

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The navbox for the Gospel of Mark lists the 'Anointing' and 'Last Supper' as key events.

Answer: True

Explanation: The navigational structure (navbox) for the Gospel of Mark includes 'Anointing' and 'Last Supper' among its listed key events.

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What is the prevailing scholarly perspective among most modern academics concerning the authorship of the Gospel of Mark?

Answer: It is anonymous, and the traditional attribution is doubted.

Explanation: The majority of contemporary scholars concur that the Gospel of Mark is anonymous. They express reservations about the traditional attribution to Mark the Evangelist, with ongoing scholarly debate concerning the author's precise identity.

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Which of the following represents a key argument employed by some modern scholars when questioning the traditional authorship of the Gospel of Mark?

Answer: The Gospel is anonymous and lacks direct claims of authorship.

Explanation: Modern scholars question the traditional authorship due to the gospel's anonymity and certain perceived deficiencies. Some argue the author demonstrates limited familiarity with Palestinian geography or Jewish customs, suggesting a background more aligned with Hellenistic culture and potentially a diaspora setting. These points challenge a direct link to John Mark, Peter's companion.

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The scholarly hypothesis termed 'Marcan priority' posits that the Gospel of Mark:

Answer: Was the first of the Synoptic Gospels to be written and served as a source.

Explanation: 'Marcan priority' is a scholarly hypothesis positing that the Gospel of Mark was the earliest of the Synoptic Gospels written and subsequently served as a source document for the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. This theory is fundamental to understanding the literary relationships among the Synoptic Gospels.

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What literary theme is frequently discussed in analyses of the Gospel of Mark, characterized by Jesus' frequent commands for silence regarding his identity?

Answer: The Messianic Secret

Explanation: The 'Messianic Secret' refers to a literary theme observed in the Gospel of Mark, wherein Jesus frequently instructs individuals not to disclose his identity or the miracles he performs. Scholars interpret this as a narrative device intended to build suspense and underscore the gradual revelation of Jesus' divine mission.

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What is the basis for the suggestion by some scholars that the author of the Gospel of Mark may have been a Hellenized Jew residing outside Palestine?

Answer: Perceived unfamiliarity with Palestinian geography or Jewish customs.

Explanation: According to certain scholars, the author of the Gospel of Mark was likely a 'Hellenized Jew who lived outside of Palestine.' This hypothesis is predicated on perceived unfamiliarity with specific Jewish customs and Palestinian geography, suggesting an author more integrated into Greek culture and possibly residing in the diaspora.

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Which of the following events is listed within the navigational structure (navbox) as a key event depicted in the Gospel of Mark?

Answer: The Last Supper

Explanation: Key events listed in the navigational structure (navbox) for the Gospel of Mark include the Baptism and Temptation of Jesus, his Galilean ministry, parables such as the Growing Seed, calming the storm, feeding the multitude, walking on water, cleansing a leper, the Transfiguration, the Great Commandment, the Olivet Discourse, the Anointing, Passion, Last Supper, Pilate's court, Crucifixion, Entombment, Empty tomb, and Resurrection. These events delineate the narrative structure of Mark's Gospel.

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What is the principal reason scholars engage in debate regarding the traditional authorship of the Gospel of Mark?

Answer: The Gospel is anonymous and contains elements questioning direct authorship by Peter's companion.

Explanation: The majority of modern scholars consider the Gospel of Mark to be anonymous. This anonymity, coupled with certain textual elements that scholars interpret as questioning direct authorship by Peter's companion, forms the principal basis for scholarly debate.

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Ministry, Martyrdom, and Legacy

Tradition holds that Mark the Evangelist founded the Church of Alexandria, but places this event in Rome around AD 49.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tradition states Mark the Evangelist founded the Church of Alexandria in Egypt around AD 49, not in Rome.

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The Feast of St. Mark is observed on April 25th by major Christian denominations.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Feast of St. Mark is indeed celebrated on April 25th by the Catholic, Anglican, and Eastern Orthodox Churches.

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The Coptic Orthodox Church observes the Feast of St. Mark on a date that always corresponds to May 8th on the Gregorian calendar.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Coptic Orthodox Church observes the Feast of St. Mark on 30 Parmouti (Coptic calendar), which corresponds to April 25th on the Julian calendar, equivalent to May 8th on the Gregorian calendar. The statement implies it *always* corresponds to May 8th, which is true for the Gregorian calendar, but the phrasing could be more precise.

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Mark the Evangelist is honored as the founder of the Church of Antioch.

Answer: False

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is traditionally honored as the founder of the Church of Alexandria, not Antioch.

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Coptic tradition states that Mark the Evangelist was martyred in Rome.

Answer: False

Explanation: Coptic tradition states that Mark the Evangelist was martyred in Alexandria, Egypt, not in Rome.

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Mark the Evangelist is considered the founder of Christianity in Asia.

Answer: False

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is traditionally considered the founder of Christianity in Africa (through the Church of Alexandria), not Asia.

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According to tradition, in which city and country did Mark the Evangelist establish the Church of Alexandria?

Answer: Alexandria, Egypt

Explanation: Tradition indicates that Mark the Evangelist founded the Church of Alexandria in Egypt around AD 49, approximately sixteen years subsequent to Jesus' Ascension. This event is considered the commencement of Christianity in Africa according to Coptic historical accounts.

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The Feast of St. Mark is observed on what date by the Catholic, Anglican, and Eastern Orthodox Churches?

Answer: April 25th

Explanation: The Feast of St. Mark is observed on April 25th by the Catholic, Anglican, and Eastern Orthodox Churches. For adherents using the Julian calendar, this date corresponds to May 8th on the Gregorian calendar.

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Mark the Evangelist is traditionally honored as the founder of Christianity in which continent?

Answer: Africa

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is recognized as the founder of Christianity in Africa due to his traditional establishment of the Church of Alexandria, the continent's first Christian community. This designation positions him as a pivotal figure in the propagation of Christianity beyond the Middle East.

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According to Coptic tradition, what was the manner of Mark the Evangelist's death?

Answer: Dragged through the streets of Alexandria by pagans until death.

Explanation: According to Coptic tradition, Mark the Evangelist suffered martyrdom in Alexandria in AD 68. This account states that local pagans, angered by his evangelistic activities, dragged him through the city streets until his death.

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Mark the Evangelist is primarily recognized as a foundational figure for Christianity in Africa due to which action?

Answer: Established the Church of Alexandria.

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is recognized as the founder of Christianity in Africa due to his traditional establishment of the Church of Alexandria, the continent's first Christian community. This designation positions him as a pivotal figure in the propagation of Christianity beyond the Middle East.

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According to the provided text, what is the significance of Mark the Evangelist's association with Alexandria?

Answer: He was martyred there after founding the Church.

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is revered as the founder of the Church of Alexandria and its first bishop. This establishes him as a pivotal figure in the introduction and establishment of Christianity in Egypt and the broader African continent, with aspects of the Coptic liturgy tracing their origins to him. Coptic tradition also states he was martyred there.

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The Feast of St. Mark, as observed by the Coptic Orthodox Church on its liturgical calendar, corresponds to which date on the Julian calendar?

Answer: April 25th

Explanation: The Feast of St. Mark is observed on April 25th by the Catholic, Anglican, and Eastern Orthodox Churches. For adherents using the Julian calendar, this date corresponds to May 8th on the Gregorian calendar. The Coptic Orthodox Church observes it on 30 Parmouti (Coptic calendar), which aligns with April 25th Julian.

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Iconography, Symbols, and Patronage

The traditional symbolic representation of Mark the Evangelist is a dove.

Answer: False

Explanation: The traditional symbol associated with Mark the Evangelist is the winged lion, not a dove.

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In Christian art, Mark the Evangelist is frequently depicted holding a book or writing his Gospel.

Answer: True

Explanation: Christian art commonly depicts Mark the Evangelist engaged in the act of writing his Gospel or holding a book representing it.

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The winged lion symbol associated with Mark the Evangelist represents his role as a fierce warrior defending the faith.

Answer: False

Explanation: While the winged lion is Mark's symbol, it more commonly represents his Gospel's message, Christ's resurrection, or royalty and vigilance, rather than a fierce warrior role.

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The inscription 'PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS' is associated with the patronage of Alexandria.

Answer: False

Explanation: The inscription 'PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS' is famously associated with the city of Venice, where Mark is the patron saint, not Alexandria.

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St. Mark's Basilica in Venice is a major shrine dedicated to Mark the Evangelist.

Answer: True

Explanation: St. Mark's Basilica in Venice is indeed a principal shrine dedicated to Mark the Evangelist, reflecting his patronage of the city.

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Mark the Evangelist is the patron saint of Venice because his relics were brought to the city.

Answer: True

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist's patronage of Venice is attributed to the tradition that his relics were transported to the city, leading to the construction of St. Mark's Basilica.

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What is the principal traditional symbol associated with Mark the Evangelist?

Answer: A winged lion

Explanation: The traditional symbol associated with Mark the Evangelist is the winged lion. This emblem is frequently incorporated into his iconography.

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In Christian artistic representations, how is Mark the Evangelist frequently depicted?

Answer: Writing his Gospel or holding it

Explanation: Mark the Evangelist is commonly depicted in Christian art either in the act of writing his Gospel or holding it. He is often accompanied by his symbolic representation, the winged lion, or featured in scenes related to his life and ministry.

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What is one of the symbolic meanings sometimes attributed to the winged lion associated with Mark the Evangelist?

Answer: The resurrection of Jesus Christ

Explanation: The winged lion symbolizes Mark the Evangelist and his Gospel's message. It is also sometimes interpreted as representing Christ's resurrection, drawing a parallel between the lion's vigilance and Christ's state in the tomb, signifying royalty and watchfulness.

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The inscription 'PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS' is famously associated with which city, venerating Mark as its patron saint?

Answer: Venice

Explanation: The phrase 'PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS,' translating to 'Peace be upon you, Mark, my evangelist,' is inscribed on the book held by the winged lion, the symbol of Venice. This inscription signifies Saint Mark's connection to the city, which venerates him as its patron saint.

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Which of the following is identified as a significant shrine dedicated to Mark the Evangelist?

Answer: St. Mark's Basilica in Venice

Explanation: Prominent shrines dedicated to Mark the Evangelist include St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy, and Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Alexandria, Egypt. Other significant sites are found in Belgrade, Cairo, and New York City.

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Which of the following is NOT typically depicted as a symbolic representation or action associated with Mark the Evangelist in Christian art?

Answer: Leading the Apostles in prayer at Pentecost

Explanation: Artistic representations of Mark the Evangelist include him holding a book, being depicted as a bishop, rescuing slaves, or associated with Venice. Leading the Apostles in prayer at Pentecost is not a typical depiction associated with him.

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What is the English translation of the Latin phrase 'PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS'?

Answer: Peace be with you, Mark, my evangelist.

Explanation: The phrase 'PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS,' translating to 'Peace be upon you, Mark, my evangelist,' is inscribed on the book held by the winged lion, the symbol of Venice. This inscription signifies Saint Mark's connection to the city, which venerates him as its patron saint.

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Early Christian Sources and Traditions

Papias of Hierapolis, an early Christian writer, attributed the Gospel of Mark to John, the son of Zebedee.

Answer: False

Explanation: Papias of Hierapolis attributed the Gospel of Mark to John Mark, Peter's interpreter, not to John, the son of Zebedee.

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Hippolytus of Rome suggested that Mark the Evangelist may have been one of the 'Seventy Disciples' sent out by Jesus.

Answer: True

Explanation: Hippolytus of Rome did suggest that Mark the Evangelist might have been among the 'Seventy Disciples' commissioned by Jesus.

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Eusebius recounts that Peter met Mark and he became his companion after Peter's escape from prison in Jerusalem.

Answer: False

Explanation: Eusebius recounts Peter meeting Mark after escaping from Herod Agrippa I, not from prison in Jerusalem. This encounter occurred in Rome.

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As recorded by Papias of Hierapolis, who is identified as the source for the Gospel of Mark?

Answer: Peter, through his interpreter John Mark

Explanation: The early Christian writer Papias of Hierapolis, in his work dating from approximately 120-130 AD, attributed the Gospel of Mark to John Mark, who functioned as Peter's interpreter. While modern scholars debate this attribution, Papias's account remains a foundational piece of evidence for the tradition.

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According to the writings of Hippolytus of Rome, Mark the Evangelist may have belonged to which group commissioned by Jesus?

Answer: The Seventy Disciples

Explanation: According to Hippolytus of Rome, Mark the Evangelist, along with John Mark and Mark the cousin of Barnabas, may have been part of the 'Seventy Disciples' commissioned by Jesus to spread the gospel. This tradition links him to a broader cohort of Jesus' early followers.

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Eusebius of Caesarea recounts that Peter encountered Mark and he became his companion following Peter's escape from which historical figure?

Answer: Herod Agrippa I

Explanation: Eusebius recounts Peter's miraculous escape from Herod Agrippa I, after which Peter journeyed through Asia Minor and arrived in Rome in AD 42. During this period, Peter encountered Mark, who subsequently became his companion and interpreter.

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Geographical and Cultural Context

The navbox mentions 'Zealots' as one of the groups of people featured in the New Testament.

Answer: True

Explanation: The navigational structures (navboxes) associated with New Testament content list 'Zealots' among the various groups of people mentioned.

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The navigational structures (navboxes) pertaining to the Gospel of Mark enumerate various prominent individuals. Which of the following figures is included in this enumeration?

Answer: Pontius Pilate

Explanation: Prominent individuals enumerated in the navigational structures (navboxes) associated with the Gospel of Mark include Andrew, Caiaphas, Herod Antipas, Jesus Christ, John the Baptist, Joseph of Arimathea, Judas Iscariot, Mary mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, Pontius Pilate, Rufus, Salome, Simon of Cyrene, Simon Peter, Thomas, and Zebedee. These figures play significant roles within the Gospel's narrative.

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