Published by In the Bible, the probably most familiar set of sisters are Mary and Martha. They, together with their brother, Lazarus, are friends of Jesus. More than this information, can we know more about them specifically on their sisterly relationship?
Well, the Gospels of Luke and John provide a rather complex source of information on the two sisters. Luke is shorter, with only four verses specifically on the sisters. John has more or less seventy verses. At the outset, too, let us clarify that current scholarship holds that Mary of Bethany is a different personality from, say, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary’s (for instance, in Luke 7:35-50).
Since this serves just a cursory look at Mary and Martha, it suffices that we limit our materials only with the story of Luke (10:38-42). According to the Lucan material, Martha is the head of the household; thus, she welcomes Jesus into their home. Most likely, Mary is younger.
Of the two, Martha is obviously the “homemaker” type of woman. Her concern is restricted to household details. She may be viewed as hospitable – a trait that was highly esteemed during the patriarchal years of Jesus.
For her part, Mary appears to be more scholarly or spiritual woman – with probably a feminist personality. This is typified by Tintoretto’s painting, depicting Mary as a student at Jesus’ feet. This is very significant especially in consideration of the Jewish culture during Mary and Martha’s time which had forbidden women to learn the Torah.
Evidently, too, the two sisters seem to have conflicts emerging from their personality differences, roles and – if we may hypothesize – sibling rivalry.
It is a Biblical example of sibling rivalry, I think so, too.
Very interesting, I liked it!
if there was sibling rivalry between Martha and Mary, they have also shown great tolerance to each other’s personality and perhaps acceptance.
That was controversial…
Nice write!
thanks. indeed it is helpful in my probe to sister relationship. I am trying to connect feminism into sisterhood (blood sisters). And so far, the story of martha and mary actually inspires me to do the research.