And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,

MATTHEW 27:33KJV
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Matthew 27:33 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:33 mean?

Matthew 27:33 describes how Jesus and those with him arrived at a place called Golgotha, which means "the place of a skull." The verse sets the physical location where the crucifixion is about to take place, highlighting its grim and foreboding name.

In this part of the story, the Gospel writer Matthew is narrating the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. The people present include Roman soldiers, Jesus, and others following the procession. By naming the place "Golgotha" and explaining its meaning, Matthew draws attention to the stark and somber setting where the execution will occur.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:33

  • Γολγοθᾶ (Golgotha, transliterated "Golgotha"): This is a transliteration of an Aramaic word meaning "skull." The Greek text keeps the original name, which would have been familiar to local people, and then explains it for readers who might not know the meaning.
  • κρανίου (kraniou, transliterated "kraniou"): This word means "skull." The Greek here makes it clear that the place’s name refers to a skull, not just a random location, but a spot associated with death or execution.

Why Matthew 27:33 matters

  • Matthew 27:33 clarifies that Golgotha is not just a geographical location but a place with a name that evokes death, setting a somber tone for what follows.
  • By explaining the meaning of "Golgotha," the verse helps readers unfamiliar with local languages or customs understand the significance of the site.
  • This detail connects the narrative to the physical reality of crucifixion, grounding the story in a real, recognizable place known for executions.

Where else these words appear

“Golgotha” Greek G1115 · used in 3 verses

  • Mark 15:22 And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.
  • John 19:17 And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:

“skull” Greek G2898 · used in 4 verses

  • Mark 15:22 And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.
  • Luke 23:33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
  • John 19:17 And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:

“place” Greek G5117 · used in 88 verses

  • Matthew 12:43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
  • Luke 14:22 And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.
  • Acts 12:17 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.