What Is Golgotha?
What Is Golgotha? Golgotha is the Aramaic name for the hill where Jesus was crucified — the 'place of a skull' that became the site of the world's redemption.
Key verse: Matthew 27:33 (KJV)
Golgotha is the Aramaic name for the hill where Jesus was crucified — the 'place of a skull' that became the site of the world's redemption.
Golgotha is the Aramaic name for the hill where Jesus was crucified — the 'place of a skull' that became the site of the world's redemption.
"And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull." — Matthew 27:33 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
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The Biblical Answer
Golgotha (גָּלְגֹּתָא) is the Aramaic name used by the Gospel writers for the crucifixion site. John translates it for his readers: 'the place of a skull.' The Latin equivalent is Calvary. It was located outside Jerusalem, likely along a main road where passersby could see and mock the condemned. The Romans crucified Jesus there, along with two criminals, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy that He was 'numbered with the transgressors.' At Golgotha, the Roman soldiers divided His garments, the religious leaders mocked Him, the sky turned dark for three hours, the temple veil tore from top to bottom, and Jesus cried out 'It is finished' and gave up His spirit. The place of skulls became the place of life. What was intended as humiliation became exaltation; what was meant for death became the gateway to resurrection.
Key Scripture References
"And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull."
"And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull."
"When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost."
Frequently asked questions
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Related Questions
What Is Calvary?
Calvary is the Latin name for the place where Jesus was crucified — also called Golgotha, meaning 'the place of a skull.'
What Is the Passion of Christ?
The Passion of Christ refers to the suffering, crucifixion, and death of Jesus — the events that secured salvation for all who believe.
What is the significance of the cross?
The cross is the central symbol of Christianity, representing Jesus' sacrificial death for humanity's sins and God's ultimate demonstration of love, justice, and redemption.
What Is the Significance of the Mount of Olives?
The Mount of Olives is a ridge east of Jerusalem deeply tied to Jesus' final week, His ascension, and His promised return.
What Is Gethsemane?
Gethsemane is the garden at the foot of the Mount of Olives where Jesus prayed in agony the night before His crucifixion and was betrayed by Judas.
Deep Dive Commentary
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Golgotha (Calvary) in the Bible
The hill outside Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified for the sins of the world.
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The answer above sits inside Matthew. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Matthew on day 284 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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