Joseph of Arimathea
- ANCIENT SOURCES: see Joseph of Arimathea (sources)
- SCHOLARLY AND FICTIONAL WORKS: see Category:Joseph of Arimathea (subject)
Joseph of Arimathea was, according to Christian tradition, a wealthy sympathizer of Jesus of Nazareth, who provided for his burial after his crucifixion. See Burial of Jesus.
Overview
In the gospel narratives, Joseph of Arimathea is introduced as "a respected member of the council," a rich man, a disciple of Jesus, though in secret. After the crucifixion it was him who asked Pilate permission to bury Jesus. According to the Gospel of John, he did it with the assistance of Nicodemus.
Joseph of Arimathea is mentioned only in Christian sources. A 9th-century legend (The Life of Mary Magdalene by Rabanus Maurus) connected Joseph of Arimathea with Lazarus and his sisters, Mary Magdalene, and other early Christian figures, and make them the first missionaries to France and England.