Mark 15:22 (KJV)

What does Mark 15:22 mean?

Mark 15:22 says that Jesus was brought to a place called Golgotha, which means "The place of a skull." This verse simply describes the location where Jesus was taken to be crucified, giving both the original name and its meaning for readers who might not know the local language.

The verse is part of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion, as told by Mark. Roman soldiers are leading Jesus out of Jerusalem to the execution site. By explaining the name "Golgotha" (an Aramaic word) and its meaning, Mark helps his readers—many of whom were likely not from the area—understand where these events took place and sets the scene for what follows.

The Greek behind Mark 15:22

• Γολγοθᾶ (Golgotha, G1115): This is a transliteration of the Aramaic name for the site. Mark keeps the original word, then explains it for his audience.
• κρανίου (kraniou, G2898): This Greek word means "skull." Mark uses it to translate the meaning of Golgotha, making the location’s name clear to Greek-speaking readers.
• μεθερμηνευόμενον (methermēneuomenon, G3177): This word means "being interpreted" or "translated." Mark signals that he is explaining the local term, showing his care to make the story understandable to outsiders.

Why Mark 15:22 matters

• Mark’s explanation of "Golgotha" as "The place of a skull" helps readers from outside Judea understand the significance of the location, showing that the Gospel was meant for a broad audience.
• By naming the place so specifically, Mark roots the crucifixion in a real, physical location, emphasizing that these events happened in history, not just in legend or symbol.
• The detail about the name prepares readers for the solemn events that follow, marking a turning point in the narrative as Jesus arrives at the site of his crucifixion.