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    In Context

    What Is Golgotha — In Biblical Context

    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.

    Quick Answer

    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)

    The Biblical Context

    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.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Matthew 27:33, sits inside Matthew 27. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull."
    — Matthew 27:33 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Mark 15:22
    "And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull."
    John 19:30
    "When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost."

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    Meaning

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    Location

    Golgotha (Calvary) in the Bible

    The hill outside Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified for the sins of the world.

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