Endnote 14 – How Mary Magdalene Became a Whore

This tradition is probably historical, despite the fact that in Luke 24:34, as in 1 Corinthians 15:5, the first appearance is said to be to Peter (Cephas). John 20:8 presents the unnamed Beloved Disciple as the first to believe. Already in the New Testament period, Magdalene’s role was in the process of being diminished and distorted. In the memories, traditions and rethinking of the Pauline and Lucan communities, her prominence was challenged by that of Peter; in Johannine circles, by that of the Beloved Disciple.