When reading the Gospels, many people might be surprised to find that Jesus referred to His mother as “woman.” The term appears in a few different contexts in the New Testament, and for many, it may seem odd or even disrespectful. In this article, we will explore why Jesus called His mother “woman”, looking into the deeper meanings and cultural contexts that can help us understand His words better. By studying these moments, we can gain a clearer understanding of Jesus’ relationship with His mother and the significance of this term.
The Context of the First “Woman” (John 2:1-11)
The first time we see Jesus refer to His mother as “woman” is at the wedding in Cana, recorded in John 2:1-11. This is the story where Jesus performs His first miracle—turning water into wine. When the wine runs out, Mary, Jesus’ mother, tells Him about the situation, and Jesus responds by saying, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come” (John 2:4, ESV).
At first glance, Jesus’ response might seem cold or even harsh, but it is important to note the cultural and historical context of the time. In Jewish culture, it was common for a son to respectfully address his mother using a term like “woman,” which could signify respect without implying any disrespect. It was a formal and dignified address, not a dismissive one. The word “woman” here does not carry the same connotations it might in modern English, where it could be seen as impolite or harsh.
Moreover, the phrase “What does this have to do with me?” does not imply rudeness. Jesus is simply clarifying that His divine mission is governed by God‘s timing, not by human expectations or situations. His response also reveals that His ministry is beginning and that He is moving into a new phase of His relationship with His mother. While Mary is concerned about the immediate need at the wedding, Jesus is focused on fulfilling God’s purpose in His life. This moment marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and shows that His relationship with His mother is now under the authority of God’s will rather than family ties.
The Second Instance of “Woman” (John 19:25-27)
The second notable instance of Jesus calling His mother “woman” occurs during His crucifixion. In John 19:25-27, as Jesus hangs on the cross, He looks down and sees His mother standing near the apostle John. In a moment of deep suffering, Jesus says to her, “Woman, behold, your son!” and to John, “Behold, your mother!” (John 19:26-27, ESV). Jesus, in His final moments, entrusts His mother to the care of His disciple, John.
While the word “woman” is again used here, the tone and context are different from the earlier interaction in Cana. This is a moment of deep compassion and care. Jesus is making sure His mother will be looked after after His death. It is important to note that this moment is significant because Jesus, the Son of God, is concerned not only with His own suffering but also with the well-being of those He loves. By using the term “woman” here, He is demonstrating a sense of distance from earthly ties, as He is now fulfilling His mission of salvation. However, He is also showing His concern for His mother’s welfare, entrusting her to John as a new son and protector.
Understanding the Term “Woman” in Jewish Culture
In understanding why Jesus called His mother “woman,” it is essential to consider the cultural background of the term. In Jewish culture at the time, addressing a woman as “woman” was not disrespectful. It was a formal, dignified way of addressing someone. It was a term that could convey respect and was used in both ordinary and significant situations. The Bible contains other examples where the term “woman” is used in a respectful manner. For instance, when Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:7-26), He calls her “woman” without any hint of disrespect.
Furthermore, in the Old Testament, the term “woman” can also be seen in several contexts where it is used respectfully. For example, in Genesis 3:15, God speaks to the serpent, saying, “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers.” This is a prophetic reference to the coming of the Messiah through a woman, Mary. Here, the term “woman” is associated with a profound promise and is used in a respectful and dignified manner.
Why Does Jesus Use the Term “Woman” Instead of “Mother”?
One question that often arises is why Jesus does not refer to His mother as “mother” in these instances. The answer lies in the unique relationship between Jesus and His mother, Mary, especially in the context of His divine mission. Jesus’ use of the term “woman” reflects a shift in the relationship from a typical mother-son dynamic to one that is more focused on His spiritual mission and the work He was sent to accomplish.
By calling His mother “woman,” Jesus is emphasizing the larger picture of salvation and the fulfillment of God’s will. At the wedding in Cana, He is making it clear that His ministry is not governed by earthly concerns but by God’s timing. Similarly, at the cross, He is focusing on His redemptive work rather than on personal family relationships. In these moments, Jesus is demonstrating that His identity as the Savior of the world transcends His human family. His use of the term “woman” signifies a broader, universal purpose and reflects His mission as the Son of God who came to redeem all of humanity.
Jesus’ Relationship with His Mother
Despite the use of the term “woman,” it is clear from the Gospels that Jesus had a deep and loving relationship with His mother. Throughout His life, Jesus honored His mother, and He was obedient to her and Joseph during His childhood (Luke 2:51). Jesus’ concern for Mary at the cross shows His deep love for her, as He ensures that she will be cared for after His death. This act of entrusting her to John reflects Jesus’ love and care for His mother, even in the midst of His own suffering.
Furthermore, the fact that Jesus chose to reveal His first miracle to the world at the request of His mother demonstrates the unique role Mary played in His life. Even though Jesus was fully aware of His divine purpose, He still honored His mother by responding to her request. This shows that while His mission was divine, He did not neglect His earthly family responsibilities.
Lessons for Us Today
What can we learn from Jesus’ use of the term “woman”? First, we see that Jesus’ relationship with His mother was not defined by earthly attachments but by a higher calling. His actions remind us that, as followers of Christ, we are called to prioritize God’s will above all else, even above family ties. However, this does not mean that family is unimportant. Jesus still cared for His mother deeply and ensured her well-being. His example teaches us that while we are to serve God first, we are also called to honor and care for our families.
Additionally, Jesus’ words at the cross show us the importance of community and the body of Christ. By entrusting His mother to John, Jesus highlights the importance of love and care within the Christian community. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to look after one another, just as John looked after Mary. Jesus’ command to “behold your mother” is a reminder to all Christians to care for each other, especially in times of need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the times when Jesus calls His mother “woman” in the Gospels are moments that invite us to reflect on His divine mission and the nature of His relationship with Mary. These instances are not intended to show disrespect but to highlight Jesus’ focus on His greater purpose: the salvation of the world. At the same time, Jesus’ actions reveal His love and care for His mother, demonstrating that His divine mission did not eliminate His earthly responsibilities. By understanding these passages in context, we can appreciate the profound meaning behind Jesus’ words and the lessons they offer for our lives today.
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